Much comment beforehand - how is Norman going to put together a walk from the dead centre of Rochdale? We meet outside Oulder Hill school just behind Rochdale Cemetery at 8.30am, just as hundreds of children are being dropped off at school. Does no-one walk to school nowadays?

Six of us set off although for all we know another twenty could have been trying to find us among the traffic. Ian had arrived from Keighley by train and Tony, Ron (new member) and Bob had made it on time in spite of the M60 / M62.

Norman had warned of a zig zagging route and we got plenty of opportunity to see things from different aspects. Route via Bamford, Burrs Country Park to Summerseat and back via Nangreaves, Cheesden Brook, Ashworth Moor and the Naden valley. Plenty of variety with woodland, golf courses, hidden valleys and a couple of stiff climbs late in the day. Good weather and back by 3.30pm and time for a glass (or two) in the Cemetery Inn. Home in time for tea.

A good day out.

John