True to her word Anne and co pilot Nathan arrived on cue with fresh coffee and warm mince pies no doubt disappointing the snack bar stationed in the layby who had been thinking Christmas had come early.

Suitably refreshed off we went up Shadsworth Lane to Moor Lane. A right turn this year and on to the Pennine Bridleway passing Carrbrook. Some comment that a brisk rather than a moderate pace description would be more appropriate but nobody seemed in distress and we all caught up at the morning break just before the turn for Ogden Brook. Conversation was lively which no doubt explained us missing the turn up the brook and we doubled back and discovered a new route on the East side of the brook involving plenty of heather bashing. 

Normal service was resumed however to steer us through the exceedingly boggy section of Wilderness. Dramatic views as Chew Valley opened up below us and we followed the valley edge to Alphin Pike. Down a steep descent putting strain on dodgy knees to Intake Lane. Anne clearly had not lost her sailing skills as we now tacked back along the Oldham Way around Dovestones and along the road to emerge at Tanners Business Centre. Not for us the direct route to the finish but a walk along Greenfield High St to join the Huddersfield Narrow Canal to the Mossley border.

Back at the cars by 3.30pm with over 20 miles and 3300ft ascent. Seemed a shame to go home so we adjourned to the Royal George opposite and the Plum Pudding Ale proved extremely popular. So popular in fact that Anne secured several  orders more than anticipated for equipment bearing the group logo!

John