A rare linear walk saw Ron, Andrew, Norman and local Peter from Barrowford join me on the first leg of the Pendle Way. Peter obliged by donning waterproof trousers for much of the day which guaranteed dry conditions throughout!

After a short bus journey we set off from the outskirts of Colne at 0840 to join the Pendle Way at Barrowford , with the route to Blacko & Admergill accompanied by bright spring sunshine , daffodils & recently arrived lambs . Good progress was made to summit Weets Hill , where clear views of Pendle Hill , Ingleborough , Pen Y Ghent & the distant snow capped tops of the Lake District were enjoyed . The first break was taken near Folly Lane , then continuing around old Barnoldswick & passing Bancroft Engine House for a pleasant stretch along the canal . Leaving the towpath near the Rolls Royce factory the impressive Church of St Mary le Ghyll was soon passed, which a quick googling suggests was originated by monks from Fountains Abbey in around 1160 .

The final refreshment stop was had on a made to measure bench for five in a churchyard at Earby , our onward route passing the youth hostel & ascending to rejoin the uplands & more fine long distance views to reach Black Lane Ends . The final climb brought us on to the trig at Knarrs Hill then mostly downhill to reach Laneshawbridge just after three .

Perfect weather, good company & a decent route made for an excellent days walking.  21 miles & 2340 feet of ascent .

Ian