ROSSENDALE RAMBLERS

WELL, there’s wet and then there is really wet, which is what 17 brave ramblers had on Wednesday, December 8.

The 10-mile walk route was a lovely one in the Middleton area, taking in Alkrington Woods and Hall, Bowlee Country Park – a former RAF barrage balloon base – and Hopwood Nature Reserve and Hall.

In a number of areas, waders would have been more appropriate than walking boots, but overall it was an excellent day out in a different area for our group.

Coming up, on Saturday, December 18, we have our final morning pub walk of the year, starting from Stacksteads at 10.30am.

Subject to weather, a feature of this walk will be a visit to Lee Quarry to view one of the most impressive pieces on the Irwell Sculpture Trail.

You will have to come along to find out which one!

After the walk there is an optional lunch at a local hostelry.

Finally, on Wednesday, December 22, we have a seven-mile local walk from Whitaker Park, which will include Crawshawbooth, Cribden Side, and the Halo Panopticon, prior to our Christmas lunch at the revamped Whitaker itself.

These walks are free, but after three walks with us we ask you to join The Ramblers, at a cost of only £3.05 per month.

Further information about Rossendale Ramblers can be found on our website at www. rossendale-ramblers. co.uk, or you can contact us via secretary Glyn on 01706 561 042, or at glynbr45@gmail.com