Fridays

Despite being depleted in numbers, seven group members spent an enjoyable evening at the attractively refurbished Red Bull on Hillgate. Dizzy Blonde proved popular with yours truly and Trouble & Strife was also surprisingly popular. Chairman John regaled us with tales of his recent trip to South Africa whilst Pete N lured Glenys out for a spin on his 750cc motorbike.The rest of us discussed the aches, bruises and pains lingering from last weekend's trip to Snowdonia. Unfortunately my co Soc. Sec., Wendy, & husband Chris were unable to make it down to the pub. I think all those present would agree that the revamped Red Bull deserves a future appearance on the Pub Night programme.

Well just 7 walkers came. But there was a little warning that this walk would be hard. With a sting in it's tail. The forecast was warning of wintery showers and snow. It rain heavy during the night. So what more could you ask for. 7 walkers set of from Dunsop Bridge along the track to middle knoll. Any one would have thought this was easy but it soon went up and into the wilds. the puddles started and they grew bigger and deeper as the day went on. The mud just got muddy. From here we went back down to the valley to look at a waterfall and bridge built in 1966. From this valley it was slow up to reach a romanroad. Where stopped for lunch just under half way. Along the roman road we went with the first snow shower to hit us but it did not stay long. As most track go. This went down hill with good views across the Bowland valley. This was where by now our legs were feeling the walk and you could see the track heading down to the valley floor and the sting in the tail hit you. We turned of the track onto the next one which went straight back onto the hills. Up onto Dunsop moor following the bridleway all the way up to the only twig point of the day. Near the top you would not expect it to be too wet but we had a very large bog to cross and this was knee deep if you went the wrong way. You had to find the right way first. Everyone enjoyed the tough walk of 13+miles and the mud and bogs which felt like it was a 16 mile walk.

This Sunday walk was led by Campbell and it took us through Chadkirk. We went through the woods and the mud to Woodbank Park. Then we got the choice to go down and see the one of the caves, which I have never seen and did not know was there. But unfortunately  it was too muddy  to go down to it safely. That will have to be one for another day.  we  then left Woodbank to  arrive  at Vernon park,  where some of the 13 troupe and a dog (chaz) went for a look in the museum and a coffee.  Then after being watered we head back, through the woods of Vernon park stopping to look at the running track, no one volunteered to do a lap. Then we found some fallen trees to sit on and have lunch. then head back to Chadkirk and the cars. A very enjoyable walk thank you and a very muddy dog to wash at the end!!