Sandals with socks?

This is my current dilemma. Just how bad would it be to sometimes, and only on very hot days, and only when I'm deep, deep in rural England, wear sandals with socks? This is a tricky decision. My walking shoes are a wonderful thing. Fully worn-in and sturdy enough to get me through any uneven surface or vertiginous cliff face that a stroll along the Thames is likely to throw up. But it is hardly the Himalayas, let's face it and in July it is hot, hot, hot. In the end this could be an olifactory decision rather than a sartorial or social one. But..... what is my standing likely to be on the Thames Walk Challenge if I am spotted wearing sandals and socks? Am I likely to be omitted from the usual 'ow do?' ritual from passing ramblers? (actually we are talking about Berkshire, so scotch that). Will I be completely ostracised by fellow pub lunch goers and forced to eat my egg sandwiches in splendid exile beyond the beer garden boundary? Will I be turned away from each B&B as inexplicably the 'vacancies' sign is rapidly turned around?

One of my walking partners has already made it perfectly clear that he will take the next train home if he catches a glimpse of a sandal and sock combination on my person. So I guess the message is clear. But really, how bad can it be? Your reflections, as ever, are most welcome....