This walk was significant in that this was Norman's 40th walk for the group which is a significant achievement for a group only formed 6 years ago. 

Norman is known for putting on 'Brisk' walks and the notices warning that the car park closed at dusk were not making him relaxed as we dawdled getting ready to go. 

Off he went like a cork out a bottle, uphill of course. After 200yds he was already looking round to see where we were. Not that the 9 of us who were out were known for being dilatory. Once the initial adreneline was out of his system we settled down into a good paced walk over Grains Bar before passing Hartshead Pike on our way to Portland Basin in Ashton under Lyne. Return journey was via Daisy Nook and Strinesdale. 

Many of the paths were unfamiliar to many of us even though we live within a few miles of the start. As dusk loomed and we still had a couple of miles to go the pace increased noticably. Thankfully our cars were not locked in. 23 miles in around 7.5 hours. Whilst no major ascents we contended with some very wet footpaths and slippery stiles.  

A good day out