A good, scenic route in Derbyshire had been planned, but this required good visibility and no threat of rain as the route is quite exposed. Since the forecast didn’t indicate this would be the case, Richard, who had planned the walk, and Brenda, decided that it would be best to do something that would be more suitable for the potential conditions.

The good old Newstead Abbey route was quickly decided, as there would be trees etc for shelter, the café and facilities halfway round.

9 members set off from the Sherwood Ranger as the rain fell, but it soon eased, and we met 2 more members on Kighill Lane. The rain stopped and we met 3 members on the A60. We walked through the woods and contacted 2 more members who met us Papplewick where we left the road and walked down the path towards the Abbey. 16 members now to continue the route.

Some discussion took place as to which route should be taken, but we all met at the café just as the rain came down again! Brilliant timing!

Once refreshed and rain stopped, we set off again. 2 going back to Linby, 6 down the drive for a shorter route and 8 across the footpath to the Kirkby Road and complete the longer circuit!

The last person home except for the two having lunch in the Larch Farm, arrived just before the next downpour!

It was enjoyable to be out in the fresh air with good company and good exercise. The next walk should be from Tansley, postponed from August last year, when it was thought to be too hot for such a walk!