Welcome!

THE FAMILY WALK MAY 2005

Awoken at 7am by the Radio 4 weather forecast, I knew that today’s walk with the Saints’ Men and their families was going to be no picnic. Not least because we took no sandwiches and wrongly assumed that a local hostelry would supply us with the sustenance that hungry families need, midway on an energetic circular walk from Monsal Head in the Peak District - Literally uphill and down dale.

The forecaster seemed reluctant to be specific, but made mention of driving rain, hail, sleet, gusty blasts bright periods and blue skies in the east, south, north and west regions of England Wales and Northern parts.

Twenty-six of us met up for an easy walk, lasting almost five hours including rests.

An impressive array of ages (from several months to numerous decades) meant that this walk had to be fine tuned, to allow everyone the chance to take part, enjoy and finish the walk without lasting damage. I caught sight of most of the partakers the next day (VE day) at the Family Communion Service at St Michaels.

Having met in Underwood at 10am on Saturday soon we were driving towards Bakewell to rendezvous at a car park. Dressed ready for action, everyone had the good sense to bring waterproofs. Some even wore shorts!

It was very muddy and slushy in parts, but the sun shone through at times and melted away the hailstones, making the wind seem like a gentle breeze.

The countryside was exquisite, breathtaking views, waterfalls, abundant wildlife and cordial conversation.

Children’s chatter, revealing conversations with people we have only exchanged polite niceties to, before today. And exercise!

The time seemed to go by in a flash. Before we knew it we were back to our starting point, a well deserved ice cream in hand, taking in the breathtaking view for a final time before we said farewell.

A few minutes in the car and two sleepy eyes were firmly closed on the back seat of our family saloon – heading towards Underwood and a warm soapy bathtub.

The Family Walk organised by Gary Wright, was a great success. I am sure there will be another quite soon.

The Saints’ Men is a social group for men living in and around Underwood and Brinsley. If you are interested in coming along to a fun function, take a look at the website. http://homepage.ntlworld.com/andrewmoss/

Speak to Robert Murray 01773-713978 or

email andrewmoss@ntlworld.com

BACK TO HOME PAGE