Walk leader - John Evenden

Distance - 13 miles.

Number on walk - 11

Weather - Rain at first fine and bright later. Very muddy underfoot.

The day started cold and miserable with light rain. however sunshine was forecast about mid day. 11 members +1 dog set off from Beetham crossing farmland, via a narrow stone stile, the first of many muddy sections, setting the theme for most of the day. We then progressed via Pye's Bridge, joining the limestone link to Holme. From there we followed the Lancaster Canal to Duke's Bridge. From Townend Farm it was up through gorse bushes, steep to Farelton Knott, then on to Holmepark Fell summit (265 m). The rain spoiled the anticipated views, so we headed off over Newbiggin Crags, again picking up the Limestone Link where, on an outcrop of rocks, we had a lunch stop. After a short road walk past Rawley Copse we turned into Pickles Wood, then down Slape Lane, by-passing the knee deep mud by taking to the adjoining field. On returning to the track we were caught by more mud, before emerging into Burton. Once through the village we rejoined the canal to bridge 149. We had a brief break at the Holme War Memorial before leaving the road at Burnside to follow Holme Beck. The footbridge leading to Fell End Farm was useable thanks to make shift recent repairs. Our walk then went through Hale and passed behind Beetham Hall crossing fields before returning to our cars. The weather did clear in the afternoon with dramatic views of the distant hills. Despite the conditions all seemed to have enjoyed the day.

John (mud skipper).

To view Shirley's pictues click 'Here' then on first picture to view and again on arrow on right to continue.