Spooky Start to the Northern Five

It must have been four weeks to the minute since we lined up at the Top Barn to attempt the full Dozen when we lined up for this, the Northern 'Half'' and the heavens once again opened up in an identical downpour - does someone up there disapprove?

There were just eight of us this time, numbers depleted by holidays and at least one of our number saving herself for today's Horwich (no swim) Tri - is that still a Tri?

After waiting some time for the rain to abate - it didn't - we set off; Martyn and Izzy leading, Paul and his mates, Simon and No Kag Chris in hot pursuit with Gordon, Jim and yours truly trailing in their wake. Gordon and Jim had offered to keep me company at the rear and generously did so until we reached Spitlers Edge when I finally persuaded them to abandon me so Gordon could keep his appointment for a haircut, which he had optimistically made for 1:30.

I met them again at the stile below Great Hill as they headed for Round Loaf and I continued with my ascent.

No further news beyond that, other than to report that the M & I duo returned to the Barn in 2 hours 40, shortly followed by the P,S,C trio.

Gordon and Jim had to give Healey Nab a miss (hair appointment) but I staggered round the full set to arrive home just in time for tea. I was probably the only one who managed to finish in full sunshine - so the sun does shine on the righteous.

I'm told that rather than approach Old Adam's Hill in a north easterly direction, M & I carried on along Spitler's and then went due east - worth a try, as that should avoid what seems like several miles of knee high tussocks - we used to call them Turks' heads, but we're not allowed to any more.

A few piccies from Gordon:-

Great pictures Gordon, can't exactly place the two with Jim and me on, but Belmont reservoir is particularly good and from a viewpoint that few (apart from CDers) will have visited.

Thank you all - what next? - Tri Winter Hill next Saturday, email me on edswift@btinternet.com for details.