WALKING GROUP
We met and set off from Tapton Lock Visitors Centre walking along the canal towards Chesterfield (part of the Trans Pennine Trail). The weather was bright and sunny although there were a few remnants of snow from earlier in the week. At the end of the canal we crossed the road and followed the River Rother for a short distance, walking down country lanes before taking the bridle path through Tapton Golf course and into Tapton Park. We paused for a while in the Peace Gardens, dormant now, but showing a riot of colour in the spring, summer and autumn but always offering peace and tranquillity.
We looked at Tapton House itself a former Grammar School but now used by Chesterfield College as part of its University of Derby campus. Previous occupants of the house were the Markham Family (of Staveley Works and Markham Works and coal mines fame). They left the house, park and land (long before it became a golf course) for use for the recreation and education of the people of Chesterfield. It was home too for railway pioneer George Stephenson. Continuing through the park we walked past the Innovation Centre used by various businesses and for I.T. training. We then followed country lanes down to Tapton Lake, and whilst pausing there we noticed that several trees had fallen and in doing so had demolished the embankment adjacent to the bridge. The road had given way on one side, with large cracks looking not dissimilar to the aftermath of an earthquake. The bridge was now closed and it was difficult to see how it would ever re-open.
Following the Tinkersick stream we went along the perimeter of fields and crossed the stream, following footpaths, which were a little muddy but quite manageable, and into Brimington and towards the canal. Some inquisitive goats at a small-holding greeted us at the fence and seemed disappointed that we had nothing for them. We arrived at our starting point after enjoying an invigorating walk in the winter sunshine.
Eric & Helen
Walking Group
The next walk on Sunday March 1st will be of 5 miles from Ashford-in-the-Water to Bakewell. It will be led by Evelyn Lowe so you are advised to bring a compass with you. Please meet at the church gates at 12noon with a packed lunch, when transport will be arranged. New members are always welcome.