Today

The depleted team today was NLN, TF and me. TF was going to a posh wedding in the afternoon and only wanted a short run. We went to the Pike where she parted company. NLN and I then went via the direct route to Winter Hill taking advantage of the dry conditions. Here NLN correctly identified a Lapwing! At the mast the road was closed again  and will be for the next two months. The usual detour took us to the ramp and from there we wanted access to Catherine Edge so down we went to Belmont Road and as the Belmont Reservoir dam is still closed we took the Amble route as far as a large signpost at a crossing which is a checkpoint on the Amble. Nic’O will know where I mean. We initially turned right as NLN wanted to see the glut of Curlews seen previously in that area but none were seen. We retraced our steps and continued past the sign to Catherine Edge and to Hollinshead Hall. At this point my old knee injury had become a problem and at NLN’s instigation we took the shortest route back to the barn which was along Belmont Road to the track giving access to Spitlers and then by her route to Ammunition Corner and in. After a break I think NLN went on to do some reps of Two Lads.

The weather was initially warm and humid and a cool breeze in the Spitlers area was very welcome. Sorry about the slow progress, particularly in the latter stages NLN.

14.26 miles. Climbing: +2,291 / –2,306.