Two walks took place today…a 12 mile canal, country and coast walk and a 5 mile walk from Rufford. The 12 milers set off from the Punch Bowl at Sefton Village, crossed Jubilee Wood, walked across the new Broom’s Cross road towards Thornton and joined the canal. Following this for a couple of miles we then crossed Rimrose Valley where we were thrilled to spot a beautiful Jay flying through the undergrowth. From here we walked to Waterloo and had a very welcome coffee at Waterloo place. After a brief rest we walked along part of the newly named Waterloo heritage trail making use of the lovely manicured gardens to emerge at Crosby Leisure centre.We then walked along the promenade where we were treated to another natural wonder…a Kestrel which appeared to be a very young bird searching for prey among the undergrowth and landing yards away from us. Leaving this behind we had a free facial microdermabrasion thanks to the wind blown sand and marvelled at the huge waves breaking over the prom. Reaching the coastguard station we saw a whole gathering of starlings begging by the parked cars. Dave (for some unknown reason) had a packet of meal worms in his backpack so treated the starlings to an unexpected treat! Continuing on towards Hall Road we passed by the for sale sign on Steven Gerrard’s house and the palatial rental accommodation of Jurgen Clopp. Having done our bit of celebrity spotting we trekked onwards towards Little Crosby, walked across open land along the side of Crosby Hall and headed back towards Thornton. Using byways and country paths we completed our 12 mile circuit and reached our start point at the Punchbowl, where the group enjoyed a very welcome drink and a late lunch.Apart from one brief shower we stayed dry and many agreed that the walk had been a personal achievement for them as they had not completed this distance before.
Meanwhile the short walk group met at Rufford, From the Hesketh Arms they walked along the Rufford canal, through countryside to Mere Sands to the visitor centre where a coffee break was taken. Returning back to the canal they completed the walk along the canal and returned to the pub (there’s a theme here!) for an enjoyable lunch. Again a great walk with good company through our lovely countryside.
The final walks of the year will be shorter due to the changing seasons. November walk will be on 2nd November at Burscough. Meet at Hopvine Pub (recurring theme!!) at 10am. parking available at Tesco. Further details will be posted on noticeboard and on website.
Well done to you all, especially the 12 mile walkers, on such a windy day. The 12 mile walk is the longest distance for the walking group to date. Sorry I couldn’t be there this time.
Ian