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News Extra !

The Long and the Short of It ! : Church Lawton - Sunday 22 January

[This was a figure of 8 walk; for anyone who wants to add some mileage there is the opportunity to complete the second loop - Bev Brady, Editor]

In the Wilbraham Arms I was ‘persuaded’ to write up this Sunday’s walk. I wish I had paid more attention along the way but as usual I followed the herd only enjoying the exercise, scenery and company. That is why I will never be asked to lead a walk. I do remember seeing the impressive Lawton Hall which has recently been turned into apartments and also some lovely properties along the canals. I believe this is also a beautiful area for wildflowers in the spring and summer. We spotted some snowdrops which is always a welcome sight in the bleak January landscape.

The walk, led by Gillian Herdman, was one of two halves, or perhaps three quarters or even another fraction. No-one was quite sure exactly how many miles it was as there was an opportunity to return to the car park at some point. Four walkers took advantage of this but 16 completed the whole walk. My legs estimated the walk to be over 8 miles.

We walked along canals, through fields, near farms, woods, roads and the salt line path. There were views of Mow Cop and the edge of the Gritstone Trail. At times the going was muddy but there were no falls in the canal and no encounters with excitable cattle.

In addition to two different canals – the Macclesfield and the Trent and Mersey - we had not one but two pub stops due to the fact that as we were about to stop at some benches along the canal for lunch, it started to rain. Most went into the Broughton Arms for protection from the rain (and to have a drink) only to discover Diane and Mary had found shelter in a nearby wood to have their sandwiches.

Pleased that the rain had stopped and after a hasty gobble of snacks and coffee, we went on. We followed a stretch along the Macclesfield Canal towpath where we were all treated to unexpected mini facials from the icy jets of rain on our faces. It was heads down and carry on till the rain stopped once more and we moved on to the Salt Line. Revitalised by the treatment, we slowed down for the flat home stretch passing many amblers and dog walkers before finally reaching our destination.
Thank you, Gillian for a very enjoyable walk.
Maggie Ashley