|
March proved to be a truly balmy month with plenty of sunshine, ideal for walking but not good news for farmers and our water sources. And so it was that despite warnings of muddy stretches, Brian’s Monday walk from Belper River Gardens at the beginning of the month was enjoyed by many on a fine sunny day. A nice circular walk that passed the Wyver Nature Reserve before climbing to Belper Lane End then following the Midshires Way to Blackbrook and Farnah Green with a pleasant return by the river.
Another warm, sunny day saw John’s well attended Sunday walk from Longshaw Estate. He devised a figure-of-eight walk that took in picturesque Padley Gorge before lunch then heading onto Hathersage Moor to view Carl Wark followed by tea, or an ice cream, at the Visitor Centre.
John led the next, shorter Thursday walk that saw us on Birchen Edge with a visit to the Three Ships, Nelson’s Monument and then onto Wellington Monument. One or two tested their prowess (and imagination) on the Eagle Stone on Eaglestone Flat before lunch followed by a pleasant return through woodland. Another sunny day and walk enjoyed by a good turnout.
Another sunny day for Tony’s Monday walk starting from Etwall Church. A pleasant walk over fields soon found us at lovely Dalbury Church for coffee thence on to another fine church and lunch stop at Trusley. The return was marred by an incident when crossing a poorly maintained stile, they seem to be a feature of walking in this area. Nevertheless, a fine walk enjoyed by many.
A quiet turnout for Dennis’ Sunday walk from Codnor Park Reservoir. Sadly, I missed this one which was of particular interest since it is not an area I know well.
A sunny day gave Tom and Sue a warm welcome together with a good turnout on their inaugural led walk from Belper River Gardens. A similar route to Brians walk earlier in the year, with slight variations that kept everyone happy with extensive views over Belper area. Well done and thanks Tom and Sue.
Tom and Sue were again in action for their Monday walk from Ticknall around Calke Park. A lovely walk with extensive views over S. Derbyshire.
A wet April day for Les’ Sunday walk from Waterhouses that took in the Weaver Hills. Not a bad turnout in numbers for a pleasant walk in a seemingly forgotten but worthwhile walking area.
A traumatic experience awaited us for Kim’s inaugural led walk from Breaston. We set off in fine weather along the old Derby Canal track before turning off to skirt Draycott and climb to Hopwell for lunch. Then, just as we were crossing a field with a herd of frisky bullocks there was a flash of lightening close by followed by a thunder clap. These animals apparently disliked walkers and were not too happy with thunderstorms either. Fortunately, Kim took up the mantle of matador together with one or two other brave souls to keep the cattle away whilst a stile was safely negotiated. Well done Kim, I hope your next walk is as exciting.
Sandie is well into her series of popular short walks programme. There is one short walk a month until June when our new programme will start. So, if you fancy getting those rusty joints moving in good company and fresh air, these are for you.
Our February Wednesday evening social saw us all acting as Magistrates for the evening. Carol Burtoft, our guest speaker and a real Magistrate, gave an interesting presentation that gave all of us a chance to role play. Excellent evening!
Enjoy your walking however you participate.
|