Refreshed, we turned right towards the village of Riber, enjoying fine views of Riber Castle along the way. Another right turn led us downhill, eventually emerging onto Carr Lane near Ox Close Farm, with wide views towards Tansley on our left. A short stretch of road walking brought us to Wood Lane. From here we went slightly left through a gate and crossed several fields and stone stiles before descending to Dethick, where we paused for lunch at the historic Dethick Church. The weather had brightened by now, making it a pleasant stop. A question was raised about the age of the church, and later research showed it was founded in 1279 by Geoffrey Dethick, with further additions made between 1530 and 1532.

After lunch, we dropped down through Swinepark Wood, crossed the footbridge, and climbed the steps into the village of Lea. Passing the children’s park, we continued uphill behind the village before emerging onto Long Lane just above Lea Gardens. Turning left, we followed Long Lane for a few hundred yards, then descended towards Holloway, where our path merged onto Chapel Lane. Crossing the road, we took Bracken Lane and then a footpath off to the right, gradually descending to Mill Lane and back to our cars.

A big thank you to all who braved the rain — as it turned out, the day only got better! Lyn.