The May walk was changed as the current drought had made the planned route too muddy!
Our walk started from Watchorn, Alfreton. The church, houses and park here were donated by Robert Watchorn who had left Alfreton to make his fortune in America.
We crossed the golf course into Oakerthorpe Nature Reserve where we investigated a pond full of tadpoles and later saw squirrels and a nuthatch.
The best part of the walk was in Shaw Wood, carpeted with a glorious display of bluebells. Here we sat and enjoyed the birdsong. In front of us stood Wingfield Manor where Mary Queen of Scots was held captive. We continued the walk through the churchyard of South Wingfield’s All Saints Church (13th century) to St. Martin’s Church in Alfreton finally passing the House of Confinement. This was built in 1820 with two cells – one for women and one for men. This was a very enjoyable and interesting walk combining nature and history.
The next walk on 3rd June will take in Litton and Millers Dale and will start at 5pm outside the church gates. For more information please ring Bob on 450797