Lakes ready to ramble

The Monklands Ramblers enjoyed their annual trip to the Lake District.

The group had an earlier start than normal at 8am, with around 30 people taking on the weekend-long trek.

The main walk was a climb of Blencathra. It is not quite munro height but the ascent can involve a serious ridge traverse along the well-named Sharp Edge.

Six of the party successfully negotiated the narrow path in ideal conditions.

The rest of the group completed the climb up a less windy, but no less strenuous, route before joining the intrepid six at the top.

There were also easier and much flatter walks for those who did not want to try the hill.

The walks were led by Ken and Linda Paton, who had checked out the routes a few weeks before.

Club members take it in turn to lead walks and will usually do a‘recce’in advance to try and anticipate any potential hazards.

Part of the preparation involves identifying a suitable stop for the morning break.

The evening pub stop is also an important part of the day and there were plenty to choose from in Keswick.

The bus returned to Airdrie just before 9.30pm and the group thanked driver Martin.

The group charge £12 bus fare to most walks and have an introductory offer of £5 on the first walk.

The walk programme is on their website.

The Ramblers have an introductory pack with tips on what gear is required.

There are usually two walks of different difficulty levels available.

On Sunday Monklands Ramblers are going on a stunning coastal walk from Dunbar to Tantallon Castle.

The walk of 10 miles is graded C+ and places can be booked by contacting Neil on 07504715127.

First pick-up for the bus is at the Time Capsule at 8.30am, followed by Aldi car park in Airdrie at 8.40am.