WALKING GROUP
A glorious, warm, sunny day proved ideal for our later start on 1st June, when seven of us travelled to Curbar Gap for our walk. Fortunately the ice cream van was still available, so after some of us enjoyed this welcome refreshment, we set out.
After encountering some mud and a fairly steep ascent, we reached White Edge, where the path levelled out and was much drier, with wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding Eastern Moors and hills. The trilling and fluty sound of skylarks could be clearly heard and we were also pleased to hear a cuckoo, though naturally were not fortunate enough to see this rather elusive bird. Swifts were darting around in search of insects and we also saw meadow pipits, rooks, a herd of deer in the distance, some beetles and a very hairy caterpillar.
Our picnic was enjoyed, sitting on rocks on this section, then we descended beside a stone wall towards the Grouse Inn, on through parts of the Longshaw Estate, before crossing the road again and returning along Froggatt and Curbar Edges. There were still quite a number of people around, making the most of such a beautiful evening, and we again appreciated the lovely views from the edges towards Calver, Curbar and Chatsworth. A hot air balloon could be seen in the far distance, no doubt taking advantage of the good conditions. Although we probably covered about six miles, it seemed all too soon that we were back at the car park, which was much quieter than when we left. Altogether a lovely experience, thanks to Bob Cable for planning and leading this walk.
Pat Law
Colin Hand has kindly stepped in to lead the next walk scheduled for Sunday 6th July (Pat Law being unavailable). We will be walking in Monyash and Lathkill Dale and starting at 4pm from the church gates. Transport will be sorted out with all walkers who turn up (everyone welcome).
Please note the later time of 4pm for this walk and also that there will be no walk in the month of August.