Diary Walk 45              Wednesday 21^st   July 2010   Weather. 21^o C

 Firestone (roadside)              Depart 10 a.m.            6 ½ miles         Leader: Gerry White

    Another one of those lovely sunny summery days, when you just feel all is right with your world, as seventeen of us set off on familiar local paths that we thought we knew well. As it turned out some of the paths chosen today were not so well known and the map had more than just a few viewings. It was good to walk on these rights of way, as some had been little used, resulting in hedge gaps and stiles becoming overgrown. We forced our way through some with the aid of poles and secateurs, trampling down thistles and nettles, whilst making a mental note to visit this way again, better prepared to improve the way for others who may wish to walk these paths unhindered.

        Our leader, ever onward map in hand, ‘pass the dead tree and –‘   

    We crossed the railway line at Hazelwood using the newly installed funnel and gates system; this allows better visibility for both walkers and train drivers. The day's walk was conducted within the confines of only two villages, Hazelwood and Windley yet we still found paths we had not trod before, adding to the fascination of the walk. One of our members, with us on the walk, lives in Windley and realising that we would eventually pass by her home, she kindly invited us into her garden for our lunch break. Chairs and benches were provided for those who wished to ‘fine dine’ and the lawn was also a more than adequate place to rest, sitting under the shade of laden fruit trees, surrounded by country style flower beds, an idyllic place to be. For those in need, the facilities of the house, were offered and accepted, an added bonus. We reluctantly dragged ourselves up and on our way, from a place where we could have spent the rest of the afternoon, onward to cross the railway once again, to ascend across meadows and farmland back to our waiting cars, that’s one problem with parking on high ground, one always has to finish going uphill.
    Another brilliant day of rambling and a reminder of places to revisit.

                      An unusual sight, amongst the blue, a white Hairbell.

Next Walks.

Sunday 25^th July 2010

Brassington Quarry CP  SK 233 547  Depart 10 a.m.  9 miles      
Leaders David and Shirley Davison

Wednesday 28^th July 2010

Alport Heights NT car park    SK 314 515  Depart 10 a.m.  6 miles       Leader: Gerry White