ST. JOHN’S WALK – 5TH August
Sunday’s walkers were blessed with good weather despite the forecast of rain. From St. Peter and Paul’s Church, Eckington, we walked across Renishaw Golf Course, past a brick arched causeway – the remains of a horse drawn railway which carried coal from a local quarry to the canal. Crossing the river Rother we joined The Cuckoo Way, the very overgrown towpath of Chesterfield Canal. Chesterfield Canal is 46 miles long and the only part that remains to be opened is the 9 miles between Staveley and Killamarsh. Small sections were in water and amazingly still had fish in them. We joined the Trans Pennine Trail at the site of the former Renishaw Station, following this until we rejoined the canal at an area reserved for angling. We were very disappointed at the amount of litter left lying around by the anglers. After a brief rest we again crossed the Rother by a wood filled with Himalayan Balsam. Despite being attractive and having a nice fragrance this plant, also called ‘Policeman’s Helmet’ is very invasive. A short walk along the road returned us to the church after another most enjoyable walk.
Colin Hand
Eric and Helen will lead next month’s walk, of 5 miles, in the area of Wirksworth. All walks are on the first Sunday of each month and we welcome anyone who wishes to join us. We meet at 12 noon at the church gates with packed lunches and then arrange transport to our destination. For more information please ring Trish Law on 568279.