Despite the tempting offer of mince pies only six members, and sadly no guests, joined leader Derek as we left his house before sunrise. Initially Carlisle was traversed via an ingenious selection of footpaths giving little hint of the adjacent metropolis. After leaving city limits the River Petteril was followed southwards along the old (and longer) Border Reiver Trod challenge route pausing briefly for coffee before plunging under the M6.

With sub-zero temperatures the going was easy, if firm, all day on the frozen fields and riverbanks. Even the eventual company of a welcome low-in-the-sky sun did not produce the dreaded mud and sludge scenario. Direction soon changed east then north, forsaking the Petteril to join the Eden in time for lunch on its bank.

The river walk to Wetheral is always a delight and was over only too soon as the lack of riverside paths forced us onto quiet country roads and paths to Warwick Bridge and Corby Hill. After scuttling over the busy A69 peace was regained in pleasant rural surroundings as we gradually turned west to eventually rejoin the River Eden (and BRT 1) near Crosby-on-Eden.

As the sun got lower and lower to finally disappear behind the looming M6 and impending city the prospect of a night walk to finish grew ever more likely. White frosting of the ground prolonged the dusk, however, providing an interesting finish with full dark reluctant to descend. The outgoing route was rejoined at last for the final mile and the odd torch became helpful as we stumbled across the last field to be greeted by Stella and those mince pies – not to mention mulled wine!

All agreed that it had been a most enjoyable day of nearly 9 hours walking on a well-devised route of some 25 miles and Derek was soon forgiven the slight (!!) mileage underestimate as we enjoyed the excellent hospitality.