Where Wizards walk in Winter (25/01/2015)


Sunday dawned cold but bright with the promise of some Winter sun am, and rain late pm. 20 hardy souls met at Alderley Edge, Sth M/c regulars plus some welcome new faces, as well as visitors from Staffs and Yorkshire groups. A stiff little climb onto the Edge, with the first talk of the day from our Leader. This covered the Great Battle, involving acorns, conkers, and mucky children. Most breathed a sigh of relief when they learned the Wizard story was postponed.

Now headed for Henbury, the group passed many fine new build/rebuild sites. This culminated in having to hurdle hedges and scramble under steel fencing after a slight misjudgement, (second of the day, note). Sounds much better than getting lost! Auntie Wainwright was in the mansion next door, "stand still, don’t move, you're being watched", struck terror into those of a nervous disposition. We never worked out what was going on.

Henbury offered something for everyone, and soon the group was doing a little road walk heading for Capesthorne Hall. Pleasant going in the winter sun, and everyone was treated to the story of Lord Tim Hudson, owner of Birtles Hall and Bowl, and his misguided efforts to turn Ian Botham into a global film star! Fascinating stuff eh. Afternoonses were taken at Bate Farm, and the group listened with bated breath, as the leader delivered lecture no. whatever on the famous Wizard. Wow, they all said, honest!

Heading for home now, missing out the Nether Alderley Mill (closed) and just in time for the last yarn of the day, delivered with feeling whilst overlooking the Alderley Bypass. Apparently some daft cyclist whose name eludes me, crashed while putting his lights on, and was left in the bushes by the side of the bike path. But for the good work of a local runner, he would apparently be there still! Hmm. Base was reached @ 16.00 hours; 15 pleasant miles in very pleasant company. Hope everyone enjoyed themselves.

QB Jan 2015

Photos courtesy of John Rattray: