Portencross Circuit 6 March

Allan, Davie C, Davie Mc, Dougie, Gus, Ian, Jimmy, Johnny, Kenny R, Malcolm, Paul, Robert

The forecast had been poor, so we opted for the Portencross circuit rather than Knock Hill. Those arriving early at the car park stayed in their cars for as long as possible watching the rain fall, but eventually, with wet weather gear on, we decided to make a start.

Making our way in a clockwise direction, we took the path across the field to the power station. This stretch was wet and muddy, but not maybe as bad as we had anticipated. The weather was changeable, varying from wet and windy to dry and calm, depending on where we were. We reached Hunterston in no time and thereafter turned on to the track taking us on to the bridle path and the road up to the A78. On a sheltered part of this road (a place we have stopped many times before), we stopped for coffee/lunch. What was noticeable was the amount of water lying in the fields, testament to the rain that had fallen overnight.
Soon we were off again, making the main road and then turning up to Third Part. By this time, it was raining heavily, but it eased off as we headed up the unmade and pot-hole filled road towards Ardneil Cottages, and then the road back to the cars.
Those who had not taken lunch earlier did so at the picnic benches in ever improving conditions, even some sunshine. It certainly makes it easier to get changed when it’s dry.
Our sage said two hours and twenty-five minutes for a walk of nearly seven miles.
FRT was taken at the Kings in West Kilbride where we were royally entertained by Ian, the owner.
Given the dire forecast we had got off reasonably lightly and thoroughly enjoyed our hour in the pub.