Walk Leader: John Crook

Distance: 17.2 miles

Number on the walk: 16

Weather: Much better than forecast with only one heavy shower.

Despite a forecast of heavy rain showers for all day 16 walkers and 1 dog met at Bottom Barn and set off in lovely sunshine.  We walked past the Rivington reservoirs, up the moor to Wilderswood and over to Walker Fold and Barrow Bridge where we had our morning break.

Whilst we were there a carriage with 4 lovely brown horses came into the car park and the coachman asked us where we were walking to but didn’t offer any of us a lift.

The weather was still good as we passed through Horrocks Fold and down into Longworth Clough where we stopped for lunch. On the way up to Winter Hill we ran into a heavy thunder storm which luckily was short lived and soon the sun was out again. We crossed to Hordern Stoops and on down to Hempshaws for an afternoon break.

As we got to Lead Mines Clough we met a farmer herding his cattle, including a large bull, which got a bit close for comfort at one stage. Safely through the gate we made our way down by the Yarrow reservoir and arrived back at our cars just after 4.30pm with the sun still shining  after a walk of 17.2 miles. We were lucky not to be any later as on my way home the rain really came down hard.

It was nice to see 2 walkers from Leigh and 1 from Stockport who walks with the South Manchester group joining us and I am sure everyone enjoyed it. Thanks to everyone who came on the walk.

To see Ken's photos please click 'here'.

John