Ten of us set off from the Sands but by the time we reached the Skiddaw car park our number had increased to twelve. We had young Michael who was out for the first time and thinking of joining the club. We set off on the walk but within a few hundred yards I realised I would hold everyone back as my Hip was killing me. I decided to stick to the path and not start the ascent to Lonscale Fell agreeing to meet the main party later at the far end of the valley by Skiddaw House. I set off on my own and after about a mile stopped for a coffee and chatted to two young American girls over here on holiday, Gretchin & Michelle. They had been in the Lake District for a few days and were heading off to Glasgow the following day. What sensible girls I thought, visiting the right places. I was able to advise them on the best places to visit. I decided to take an alternative route up Lonscale Fell. It might take me a while to get up but I figured I would eventually catch up with the main party as my hip was fine coming downhill or on the flat. I eventually reached the top of Lonscale Fell and could see the main group not too far ahead. I set off in hot pursuit. I caught up with Michael out on his first walk and finding it a bit tougher than he thought. The main group a little further ahead stopped for lunch. It was a glorious day and we basked in sunshine as we ate lunch. We headed off down towards Skiddaw House then turned to head back along the valley to the car park. We arrived back at the cars and nine of us decided to do the little circuit of Latrigg. The views from Latrigg were fantastic and well worth the extra effort. We all headed off for the coffee shop, at the local garden centre, to finish the day off. I was given a little lecture at the garden centre, by one of the members, on some of the items on the website. I didn’t take much notice; some people just have no sense of humour at all. A great day, a great crowd, a great walk and a big thank you to Geoff for leading. I hope young Michael enjoyed it and we see him back next week.

John McKay