WALKING GROUP
The route of July’s walk was decided whilst waiting outside church for everybody to arrive – the hot weather prompted us to go for a shorter 4 mile walk, so off we went to the starting point at Great Longstone.
After walking through the churchyard of the 13th century St. Giles Church, we travelled along lanes and fields towards the tiny hamlet of Rowland. On the way we saw a field full of horses with their foals and also some donkeys.
We passed through Rowland then walked towards the edge of the Hassop estate. A seven foot boundary wall runs along this side of the estate which we followed before crossing a field full of sheep. On reaching the A6020 to Ashford, we crossed the road by Toll Bar House.
Soon, we joined the Monsal Trail, the former Midland Railway line, closed in 1968 and now a busy route for walkers and cyclists. After crossing over two road bridges, we left the trail and returned to Great Longstone over field paths, through pleasant meadows.
The next walk, led by Stephen Franks, will be on Sunday 4th August, leaving at 4pm, from outside the church gates. This 5 mile walk will be in the area of Chatsworth, Edensor and Calton Pastures.
If any new members would like to join us you will be made very welcome, just turn up at the church gate with your boots and a packed lunch when transport will be arranged. For more information please ring Stephen on 557059.