Newsletter

September 2005

Reports

Dimmingsdale         8 - 10 April                            Cycling

 

Warning: North Staffordshire is hilly.  They may not be big, but there are lots of them?

 

Bob led us up and down as many of them as he could find!  A bitter northerly gale added to the challenge, let alone the extra pressure on the pedals.

 

Was Bob’s ‘Saturday Challenge’ too great for eight cyclists?  Well, only he and I were left for the Sunday, and, by majority vote, riding again on two wheels was swapped for riding on two local steam railways!

 

We stayed at Dimmingsdale Hostel, do visit it, the location is remote and lovely.

 

Thank you Bob for leading our weekend.

 

Leader                       Bob Harris

Report                       Guy Cooper

 

 

Beer                           8 - 10 April                            Moderate

 

From Beer to Lyme Regis with an optional extension to Charmouth.

 

A party of 24 men and women, plus one dog embarked on a walk from Beer to Seaton through the Undercliff to Lyme Regis.

 

The word “arduous” was used on a sign to described the passage through the Uindercliff from Seaton to Lyme Regis.  This did not sound particularly encouraging and I was a little apprehensive about the 6 miles ahead where the only choices were to keep going or to turn back.  I would prefer to describe the passage as challenging and glorious.  There were certainly lots of ups and downs, sticky mud patches and slippery rocks, but these were balanced with amazing cliff views, spring scents and warm sunshine (fleeces on… fleeces off...etc).

 

On arriving at Lyme Regis a small group continued on to Charmouth, whilst the rest of us enjoyed relaxed cream teas.

 

This was my first experience of CRC and I was a little concerned about Chris’s (Leader) ability to direct us on the walk given that he accidentally walked into the wrong dormitory at 3am on Saturday morning (I guess he didn’t have his map with him!).  It was however superbly organised and lots of fun.

 

 

Leader                       Chris Down

Report                       Hannah Falvery

 

 

Alstonefield              13 - 15 May                           Moderate

New Members Event

 

Alstonefield is a luxurious three star barn conversion.  CRC know how to welcome the newcomers.  I can wholeheartedly recommend a stay at this venue.

 

Saturday was a perfect day for walking, sunny spells with a mild breeze to keep us cool and refreshed.  Hannah led the group down the steep Gypsy Bank to the River Dove.  Upon crossing a footbridge, we were over the county boundary into Derbyshire and conversation flowed as folk got to know one another.  Hannah’s choice of resting places was perfect.  Whether next to a stream, sitting in a meadow or being perched up on the valley shoulder, the scenery was beautiful, vibrant and full of life.  Congratulations to Heather and Ellie who managed the 11.5 miles and for one of the girls this was a personal best.

 

Saturday evening was spent eating out at the George and Dragon in Alstonefield; a fine village pub with a true community ambience and a landlady who enjoys her role.

 

Charlie led Sunday’s walk along MilIdale into Dovedale, a two mile stretch of the River Dove flowing swiftly through a richly wooded gorge.  The prominent features were 11am Rock and Pickering Torr - both pinnacles of limestone on opposing river banks.  We also passed two impressive caves, Reynards Kitchen and Reynards Cave.

 

Our young intrepid adventurers went for a paddle, crossing the river near the twenty stepping stones.  It was Frreeezzing!  Having all crossed safely, Charlie led us out of the gorge and up onto the hillside where we were treated to a paragliding display.  Once onto the valley shoulder we were able to appreciate Dovedale from another perspective.  The walk finished with us relaxing near a hamlet by a stream, here we were able to enter a little Methodist Chapel and Hannah played the organ whilst we spent time praising and thanking God for his goodness.

 

A big thank you to Hannah and Charlie for their leadership “alright!”.

 

Leader                       Charlie and Hannah Pimm

Report                       Steve Roberts

 

 

Ivinghoe                    20 - 22 May                           Easy/Moderate

Art Themed Event

 

What do umbrellas, spicy peas and Delia Smith have in common?  Well nothing really except a wet artistic weekend in lvinghoe.

 

Stephen promised us sunshine, so even after a morning of torrential rain, we eventually got our dry spell and a ‘view’ to sketch or paint.  The walking was marvellous too — through beech woods and on ridges of chalk downland.

 

Lunch was at the National Trust Ashridge Visitors’ Centre.  Luckily we were at picnic tables which were under shelter, as lunch was accompanied by extra heavy rain and a charge of hanging baskets.

 

I believe there was some reference to a football match and a penalty shoot-out later that day, but I was still up on the beacon watching the sun go down?

 

We went to church in Tring on Sunday.  In fact we went to two, an Anglican and a Baptist one, both lovely.  Then a walk; this took in the Grand Union canal and featured another sketch stop in between showers.

 

All in all despite the damp nature of the proceedings, it was a brilliant weekend; many thanks to Steve and Sarah.

 

As to the umbrellas, spicy peas and Delia Smith....  well umbrellas are now the new fashion accessory on CRC events; spicy peas are the top snack; and Delia?  Well no bachelor should be without her as David will prove to us in Hoddesdon one day.

 

 

Leaders                     Stephen David and Sarah Prentice

Report                       Susie Pavelin

 

 

Salcombe                 27 - 30 May                           Moderate

 

Sunbathing, ‘bimbling’, ice creams, seagulls, paddling, liquorice, windsurling, cream teas, wild flowers, swimming, snoring, mackerel fishing, sea tractors..Just some of the delights of the south Devon event over the late Spring Bank holiday weekend.  And, of course, some superb walking, with groups heading off in various directions to explore some of the West Country’s finest coastal scenery.

 

Our base was the idyllic Overbeck’s hostel near Salcombe, an elegant Edwardian house situated in several acres of lush, exotic gardens owned by the National Trust.  With stunning views across the estuary and out to sea, it almost felt like a holiday!  We were treated to gorgeous weather, with a strong breeze on the Saturday morning contributing to a damp ferry crossing for some Lindsay’s group was almost never seen again, having missed the last ferry at the end of the day.  Prayer, shouting and frantic hand signals resulted in rescue and a late meal.

 

We were joined on a couple of walks by a few members from the South West group, including four-legged Meisha, eager to check out the local sheep and welcome CRC newcomers.  The attractions of Salcombe were irresistible to many, with its promise of cream teas, solitary hole-in-the-wall cashpoint and subsequent maritime shopping experience.  A few of us swelled the numbers of Salcombe Christian Fellowship for their Sunday service, while in the evening Ruth Travis led a time of worship back at the hostel with the theme of Walking with God.

 

Many thanks to Lesley Belding and Arnold Cade for leading such a great event.  And yes, we did experience Inner Hope!!

 

 

Leaders                     Lesley Belding and Arnold Cade

Report                       Phil Davy

 

 

Derwentwater          27 - 30 May                           Moderate/Hard

 

Over the May bank holiday four of us stayed at Barrow House on Derwentwater.  The event leader was unable to come so Ian took over the task of planning and leading the walks, and provided us with variety, adventure, excellent walking, and fine views.

 

Saturday saw us setting out for some mountain tarns in Borrowdale, but the weather turned very wet and windy.  We had eschewed the normal path for a “more interesting” one, but lost it and found ourselves back on the normal path.  This adventure occasioned many jokes throughout the week-end about paths “being clearly visible on the map (but not on the ground)”.

 

Seeking a good place to have lunch in the wind and rain, we were thankful to come upon a “potting shed” — yes, up on the mountainside!  Inside were garden implements and grass seed.  The shed belonged to workmen restoring paths.  Thoughtfully they had posted a notice that the shed could be used for shelter by walkers.  We ended this walk with a visit to a tea shop at a farm and some very welcome warmth and refreshments.

 

Since the weather had curtailed our walk, we paid a visit to the Bowder Stone and enjoyed a short walk in the vicinity.  As there was still time for a third walk, Ian dropped the three of us off at Lodore and, after looking at the waterfall, we walked back to the hostel along the lake shore.

 

On Sunday morning we were joined by another Christian staying at the hostel for the walk into Keswick (via the waterfall behind the hostel and Ashness Bridge).  After attending morning service at The King’s Church, we circled around the lake to the north and west, climbed up Catbells, and continued south along the ridge.  We finally descended to Rosthwaite in time to catch the last bus back and reached the hostel just in time for the evening meal.  Well planned, Ian!  Just enough tension to keep us on our toes!

 

On Monday we travelled to Pooley Bridge, took the steamer on Ullswater to Howtown, climbed up to the summit of Loadpot Hill, and walked back along High Street.  There was time for another visit to a tea shop before making our way home.

 

Our thanks go to Ian for taking over the leadership and making it such an enjoyable weekend.

 

Leader                       Ian Ringrose (Christine Sherriff)

Report                       Ivan Blair

 

 

Pitlochry and           28 May - 4 June                   Moderate to Very Hard

Oban

 

No report was forthcoming for this event led by George Clowes, However, it was reported, with photographic evidence that Roger compleated (sic) his Munros on Schiehallion.

Information was also provided that George completed his Munros three days later on Stob Coire Raineach.

 

 

Leader                       George Clowes

 

 

Castle                        17 - 19 June                     Easy/Moderate

Headingham

 

On the hottest weekend so far this year a few of us set out to discover this part of the Essex/Suffolk border.  On the Friday evening we checked into the hostel and realised that it would be no mean feat walking in this heat! But, we came to walk and we started with a small walk around the pretty village with its half timbered buildings, that were really beautiful in the evening sun.

 

On Saturday morning three of us set off from Long Melford, but by lunchtime at Stanstead it was 30°C.  We had a wonderful walk putting the world to rights.

 

The evening we spent in the lovely big garden at the hostel.

 

Sunday morning dawned bright and we realised that it was going to be even holler, hitting 32°C later that day.  We had a warm welcome at Clare Baptist, and as it was really too hot to do a long walk we wandered around Clare County Park and visited Cavendish in the afternoon.

 

It was a truly relaxing weekend in which we enjoyed the gentle pastoral countryside.  Thanks to Mary for organising a peaceful weekend and allowing us to talk, talk, talk!!!

 

Leader                       Mary Salter

Report                       Pat John

 

 

Jersey                       18 - 25 June                     Easy/Moderate

 

28 CRC members arrived in Jersey by various flights, and many thanks to Derek Potter who organised a car and met people at the airport.  Jersey’s first Youth Hostel is an impressive building and well fitted out.  It is reached from Gorey via a steep hill, which Robert and Wei Hei climbed carrying provisions for our packed lunches.

 

Between us we experienced a good portion of what Jersey had to offer.  We broke up into groups and on Sunday we attended various church services.

 

Each day there was a choice of two or three walks.  All in all we covered most of the south, east and north coasts, admiring magnificent scenery and flora.  We also did a stretch inland along the picturesque Waterworks Valley.  Seven people hfred bicycles and pedalled across the island twice in two days, doing 80 miles each time.

 

Those who wanted a rest had the option of visiting places of interest such as Gerald Durell’s zoo, or the German underground military hospital.  On Wednesday we sailed by hovercraft to Sark where we enjoyed strolling around this charming island without worrying about cars.

 

On Thursday evening Wei Hei led a lovely service based on Noah’s Ark, held in the hostel grounds.

 

The sun was shining everyday, we had fun swimming in Gorey Bay and we finished with a meal out at the nearby Ransome’s Garden Centre.

 

What a fantastic holiday! Many thanks to Robert and Wei Hei for organising it.

 

Leader                       Robert Kipling

Report                       Irma D’Souza

 

 

Blaxhall                     24 - 26 June                     Cycling

 

The weekend had everything: an evening walk on Friday where glow worms lit up hedgerows, a unique presentation of Danny’s video diary through which we shared his experience of cycling around the Hebrides, a Saturday late evening stroll along Aldeburgh beach, an orchestral concert at Snape (well, okay, we were in the teashop, but the arrival of many cultured guests was noted!), oh, and cycling!

 

Over the weekend we cycled 70 miles: a laudable distance when you’ve three teashops a day to fit in too! Saturday included a coffee stop at Peasenhall, and lunch at the atmospheric Dunwich Heath overlooking the beach.  The weather was ideal, with a helpful tail wind for the final part of the route.  A few technical problems occurred, but the group’s joint expertise meant these were swiftly resolved.  Thanks lads!

 

On Sunday our route wound in ever-decreasing circles towards historic Framlingham for lunch in view of the medieval castle.  In true Doctor Who fashion we then time-pedalled on to sample recent WW2 history, and mugs of tea, at the American Air Base museum in Parham.  Amy, aged 10 months, found the sleep-inducing effects of the gentle Suffolk countryside too much, and was hoisted off the back of Mum’s bike to the comfort of Dad’s van.

 

As we said goodbye, many of us felt flat - but Geoff soon realised his back tyre had a puncture! Great weekend! Thanks everyone for making it so!

 

Leader                       Geoff Spiller

Report                       Sara Cooke

 

 

St Cuthberts Way   2 - 8 July                           Moderate/Hard

 

So what can I tell you about the holiday in the Scottish Borders and Northumberland?  There are so many stories I could tell, but there isn’t space for them all so

will just give you a few of my highlights.  Suffice it to say that eight CRC pilgrims undertook to walk the St. Cuthbert’s Way from Melrose to Lindisfarne (Holy Island) over six days.  The 62.5 mile (100 km) walk created in 1996 links a number of places associated with the story of St. Cuthbert.

 

We set off on the Sunday morning after a short informal service in Melrose youth hostel where one of the Bible passages we looked at talked about not worrying about tomorrow and we kept this in mind throughout the week as we walked along.  We stayed in a variety of B&Bs, which enabled the majority of us to have a room on one’s own for a night, and the chance of an en-suite bathroom or shower room.  We enjoyed a marvellous selection of breakfasts with distinctly Scottish and English fare including haggis (meat or vegetarian) and black pudding as well as the ubiquitous bacon, egg, sausage, etc.

 

In terms of the walking we enjoyed good weather on all but one day and experienced some great scenery including the heights of the Eildon Hills, along the river Tweed, along the ridge near Grubbit Law, joining the Pennine Way for a brief section, climbing among the Cheviots and Northumberland moorlands before dropping down to the coast at the edge of the Holy Island with an enjoyable barefoot walk following the Pilgrim’s path across the sands.  Fortunately the tide was well out so we didn’t need to make use of the wooden refuges.  After a good look round Lindisfarne Castle and the priory we ended our walk with a visit to the little ancient church next to the priory where a group of us joined in the 5.3Opm service.  After our evening meal (enjoyed outside due to a lack of seats inside the hotel) some of us went for a further wander, and watched the sun set from St. Cuthbert’s Island and spotted seals on a sand bar.

 

Huge thanks to Geoff for all his hard work in organising this event - from the accommodation, transport and luggage carrying service through to the organising of breakfasts, packed lunches and able leading of the daily walks.

 

Leader                       Geoff Payne

Report                       Sue Bradley

 

 

KendaI                       8 -10 July                         Easy/Moderate

Ancient Stone Circles

 

Six of us plus a day guest set off to search for Neolithic Stone Circles east of Shap on Saturday.

 

The sun was relentless and exhausting, but David’s information transported us back to a time when the climate was even better.  Some searching was required as the low stones were almost lost in the long grass.  We then followed a Roman Road to visit the site of the Iron Age Settlement the headquarters of King Uren of Rheged (brother in law to King Arthur).

 

From Shap we visited three Neolithic monoliths, a stone circle and a Bronze Age barrow all in alignment and had a long discussion on the who, why, what and how of the structures.

 

Sunday blazed again and found just David and myself willing to walk, so we faced the challenge of climbing the western ridge of Kentmere up to Thornthwaite Crag and then down into the valley from Nan Bield Pass.  Our strenuous efforts were rewarded with magnificent views to the Pennines, the Lakeland fells and Morecombe Bay.  We could not but worship God our Creator.

 

Thank you David for the inspired planning and leading.  A good time was had by all - perhaps Stonehenge next year?

 

 

Leader                       David Lambert

Report                       Maureen Davies

 

 

Bala                            22 - 24 July                      Moderate

 

Thirteen people of various abilities arrived at Gala Backpackers Hostel on Friday evening, so with Stella, who runs the hostel, we were a group of fifteen.

 

Stella keeps a lovely comfortable hostel, well worthy of a visit.  We had a full days walk planned for Saturday, so we assembled early (for a Saturday) to make our way to the bus stop, for a pretty ride to our destination, where we began our walk up Cwmy Dolau to Aran Fawddwy (907m).  This seemed a tough trek and an achievement in itself, however we then walked along a ridge to reach another peak, Aran Benllyn (885m).

 

The views were spectacular, the weather was perfect, the company was pleasant and the encouragement offered to everyone enhanced the walk - there was even a ‘musical interlude’ by Olive!

 

From the second peak we descended a long ridge to Llanuwchllyn, finally returning to the hostel in small groups - some had spent 9 hours out!!

 

In the evening we enjoyed a meal at Gala Lake Hotel, a small hotel with wonderful views of the lake, and a range of meals to suit all tastes and all pockets!

 

On Sunday we had an easier day, despite constant rain we walked the ridge above Gala Lake to Llangdwer from where we returned by steam train, (with a friendly driver whom we had met briefly earlier in the day) to the hostel to enjoy hot drinks and home-made cake - thank-you Stella.

 

 

Leaders                     Steven and Charlotte Graham and Stella Shaw

Report                       Anne Humphreys

 

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