Reeth to Richmond

Another beautiful sunny day but a very chilly easterly wind kept us cool while we slowly climbed up on to Fremington Edge. I had decided to do the 'A' walk as it was only 12 miles and not too strenuous and it was a good clear day for getting good views from the top of the hill. April Fool's Day and Stuart had been drafted in at the last moment to cover for Steve's stubbed toe! Would it be a baptism of fire or a triumphant first time leading of an A walk for Stuart? Watch this space!

We had our lunch soon after reaching the highest point of the walk which gave us chance to recover from the climb. The 'A' walk was a popular choice this time for various reasons and it was good to see some new faces amongst the old hands. The walk itself was splendid with plenty of views and easy underfoot. If only they were all like this! We had a short break by another of Swaledale's scenic bridges before making our way to the village of Marske.

The path soon turned to a rough track and we made our way past fields full of gorse bushes. A glorious sight in the sunshine and a wonderful smell like coconut ice!

By this time we could see Richmond in the distance and we arrived there with plenty of time to eat, drink or walk around the castle walls before departing for home feeling invigorated and ready to face a new week.

And was it a triumph for Stuart? Well very nearly, the weather was perfect for walking, the walk was beautiful and most of us didn't get lost.............if only Stuart and Malcolm had managed to find the coach on time at the end!!!!