WanderingINGS, Sunday May 31st, 20 miles, 3700ft ascent, leaders Dave & Alma Walsh

The 'stop press' regarding the possible gales was unheeded by 10 stalwarts, 9 East Lancs members and new boy Phil. The East Lancs contingent included Julie and Michael who had successfully completed the 100 only 7 days earlier and of course the rest of the party having helped out at the event.

The fears about the weather were largely unfounded and the decision was made to walk the advised route. We set off south west from Ings over farmer's fields before reaching a large house next to the railway with a beautiful garden in full bloom. The owner came out and was complemented on his horticultural skills.

Over the railway and across the A591 we made our way to Orrest Head to share the views enjoyed by Alfred Wainwright on his first visit to the Lakes many years ago. Heading north from Orrest Head we crossed fields before a morning break was taken on Allen Knott. We then continued on the long track northwards with Troutbeck to our left.

A quick refreshment stop was taken before the long 1200ft ascent of Park Fell. The wind was very strong as we approached the top but the rain stayed away. We found shelter in the lee side & the sun came out whilst we had lunch.

Battling against the severe winds we completed the summits of Froswick, Ill Bell & Yoke where we came across 2 other groups of walkers also braving the elements. All downhill now until we climbed again and took in the smaller hills of Sallows & Sour Howes.

After another short break a downhill route along the fenceline led us to a track which took us back to Ings. Unbelievely we had hardly got wet.

We all had a quick drink at the Watermill pub before our onward journey home.

Dave Walsh

Photos from Julie Spencer

The Settle Wander, May 10th, 21 miles (if ascended Pen-y-Ghent, 20 if not)

What a day, what a walk.  We have the East Lance Elite plus new faces, old faces and very old faces.  I was proud to be the leader of my gang and did they do well?! YES they did 100%.

We had no time for photos, we just got on with the walk.  We left Settle, climbed up above Settle into Langcliffe to the Hoffman Lime Kiln, one of the largest in the UK, in its past history sending lime all over the world.  We dropped into Stainforth then picking up the Ribble Way for several miles then up to the base of Pen-y-Ghent, some 12 climbed it the other 12 walked down to Horton for lunch.  We all met up again in Horton and continued up to Sulber Nick then to Moughton Scar, very dramatic limestone.  Onwards through Austwick to Feizer then the last 4 miles to Stackhouse and finally into Settle. 

Thanks to every one of the team including Neil Smith and Gordon Stone who took part in the 100 mile Marshal walk only 7 days before (well done!).  Also to Gordon’s mate, Cockney Chris, from Horwich but now living in Settle, who has only lived there 9 months and thinks he knows the area better than me!

PS I won a £1 bet from him (taking him on a path he had not been on before).

Happy Walking

Stormin Norman

Photos from Julie Spencer