Undeterred by heavy overnight rain and the promise of high winds and showers, a record 15 walkers set out on Tony’s mystery tour from the Coledale Inn at Braithwaite. Our stalwart guests were regulars Dennis & Martyn from Geordieland and Eileen & Wendy from Scarborough.

As we traversed Barrow and Outerside the weather gradually improved with initial threatening cloud retreating to the highest tops. Even this soon disappeared to leave a day of cool fresh breezes, intermittent sunshine and superb visibility. Rain finally arrived in torrents to make the final 10 yards of the walk a trifle damp – what timing!

After Outerside it was decided not to risk the highest ground, so the main party travelled across the grain to sample the charming Knott Rigg – Ard Crags ridge with a splinter group visiting Causey Pike and Scar Crags as well. With the party reunited a descent was made into Newlands for lunch beside the beck before further unfolding of the mystery.

On reaching Skelgill time was still plentiful so most ascended Catbells to enjoy the familiar magnificent vistas over Derwent Water towards Skiddaw and Blencathra. Mutiny then ensued with the group descending South, deserting leader Tony as he dropped off North to rendezvous with Barrie & Paul.

Various return routes saw both parties arriving back at base within minutes of each other after an excellent 7-hour tour of these fine little hills. There was still time to enjoy a social hour with our guests (and push Franks’ car out of the ditch) before they left us to the important business of the AGM followed by the Annual Group Dinner.