We parked outside Wigley School and as it was raining we ate our sandwiches in the cars,before setting off in the warm sunshine along a very muddy ,ancient trackway through a wood.Unfortunately,one of our party slipped and in order to avoid a mucky mess threw himself to the side-into a bank of nettles.
We crossed Holme Brook to Cow Close Farm opposite the Gate Inn(once known as Enter Inn),a welcoming name I think, and continued to Bluster Castle.This is a farm so called because of its exposed position and it was very windy when we were in that area.We came across a picturesque cottage which necessitated the taking of photos then continued to Birley Grange Farm, originally owned by Louth Monastery.
Although parts of the walk were difficult to negotiate due to the terrain, we enjoyed delightful views – Linacre Resrvoirs were full to capacity – and passed through meadows of clover,buttercups,cow parsley,waving grasses and a big expanse of waist high barley.
The next walk will be on August 5th led by Trish Law along the Eckington and Chesterfield Canal.New walkers are welcome to join us.Please ring 568279 for further information.