Hikers battle the elements on coast
Our Lady of Lourdes club head for Eyemouth
Our Lady of Lourdes Hiking Club’s outing at the end of October was to the “Far East” of Scotland.
Eyemouth and St Abbs Head were the targets and the expected weather conditions indicated a mixture of sunshine, some light rain and, above all, the cold certainty of high winds from the north.
The morning stop was at a well-known garden centre near Edinburgh and it was then on to the drop-off point at a spot on the A1107 near Coldingham.
Members formed into their normal high level and low level groups – but on this occasion both parties walked the same route with the former pressing the way ahead.
It was about five kilometres to the actual coastal path following a track through farmland, woods and skirting the south side of Coldingham Loch.
The coast was reached close to St Abbs Head and the opportunity was taken to photograph the angry sea crashing on to the rocks and producing huge areas of white foam.
This made a considerable change from the usual open hillsides and pine forests more often frequented by the club on outings.
From St Abbs Head, the path was relatively easy to follow and although it twisted and turned, climbed and descended, there was always an impressive vista of crashing seas and white foam on the east side.
And, of course, there was the wind. Fortunately, it mostly blew on the back of the walkers but it was very strong and gusting at times to quite significant strengths.
It was a relief at times when the path dipped down into a gully and temporary shelter was provided for a few minutes.
A strategically placed stone wall provided excellent shelter at St Abbs village and the opportunity was taken for a drum-up which was very welcome.
It was then a case of continuing on to the south, walking across the sands of Coldingham Bay and marvelling at the determination of a group of surfers doing battle with the wind and the waves.
Eyemouth was now getting close but the rain was gaining in intensity and, coupled with the high winds, would undoubtedly be very penetrating.
The walkers pushed on, sometimes with faltering steps, as the wind battered into them.
The shelter of Eyemouth was eventually reached, thus concluding a walk of some 13km in approximately five hours.
The bus was waiting and a quick change of clothing was completed prior to dashing off to seek shelter in the nearby pubs and coffee shops.
An interesting walk, in some ways even exciting, but certainly a change from the usual hill walks – an excursion which will probably be remembered.
The next outing will be to the Pentlands this Saturday and members are reminded to look out for a new email address being forwarded to them on which they should make their booking in future.
Other details may be found on the club website at www. ololhikingclub.co.uk and by calling (01355) 222464.