Durrisdeer, 25 November - Kenny R's photos

Durisdeer 25 November

Alan S, Allan, Davie Mc, Gus, Jimmy, Johnny, Kenny R, Paul, Rex, Robert

It was disappointingly wet as we met up at Cumnock but, since the forecast was good, the walk at Durisdeer was agreed on, and we made our way down there in improving conditions. Setting off from our usual parking spot in the village at 10 o’clock in dry, bright, but cool conditions we took the familiar path up to Kettleton Bothy taking delight in the kites* and buzzards that were flying above us.  The bothy was reached in thirty-five minutes, maybe a record, and maybe due to the snell wind that blew us up the track.

Time for a view stop

After coffee we continued on to the highest point where excellent views were achieved in the clear conditions. As we descended we noted Drumlanrig in the far distance and Morton Castle closer by. The leading group spotted that it would be possible to head over the hill to the castle and save some time on the walk, although this would be new ground for us. After some discussion, Alan, Jimmy, Paul, Rex and Robert, the famous five, headed off overland whilst the rest of us made our way down to the road and onwards to our lunch stop on firm ground. Davie was suffering from a sore foot, hence his decision to take the road, but speedy progress was made to meet up with the adventuresome five who had arrived at the castle some twenty minutes before and had encountered no problems on their journey.

Decision time about the direct route

The five boys, remember the chocolate?, had already had their lunch, so little time was spent here, but as we gathered ourselves together Jimmy suggested taking the Morton Nature Trail from the castle down to the road. Kenny joined the fabulous five to make the sexy six, aye right!, and they took the trail whilst the feisty four continued on the familiar road. It has to be said the Holly did not accompany Davie today but took the decision to go with the other group, much more to her liking!

Morton Castle

As the four made their way down the road, note was taken of the trees being felled leaving a lovely fresh smell of freshly cut timber. Eventually the four were joined by Holly who had no doubt sensed our presence, and had run ahead of her new chums to meet up with Davie again. By this time Davie was really struggling and was falling further and further behind, but he had now got Holly on the lead to pull him along.

Allan, Gus and Johnny were back at the cars at five minutes to two, with the group who had made the wee diversion five minutes behind.

A good walk in good conditions followed up by FRT at The Crown in Sanquhar!

*Kites, recorded by Simon Dupree and the Big Sound, made no 9 in the charts in 1967 – if anyone is interested.

Some more pictures of interest from yesterday

Some pictures from Durisdeer

Irvine 18 November

Alan, Allan, Davie C, Davie Mc, Gus, Jimmy, Johnny, Malcolm, Paul, Peter, Rex, Robert

It was raining as we took coffee and scones at Johnny’s prior to a local Irvine walk. The forecast promised a dry spell later in the morning but, as we prepared to move off, the heavens opened, so our departure was delayed for a wee while. Given the incessant rain of the last few days it had been decided to avoid the paths of Eglinton Park and go for a walk mainly on paved areas, so the route was to be down to the beach and take stock there. As we emerged from the mall the rain was easing and by the time we reached the HAC it was off. Time was taken there to inspect the exhibition of sleeve art (album covers) before having a nosey round the art studios in the nearby courtyard.

Given the improving, but bracing, weather conditions, we decided to walk along the beach to the dragon before turning off there and heading for the path through the industrial estate. In the shelter of the dunes, the conditions became remarkably pleasant and by the time we had walked up to Harry Fairbairn’s the sun was breaking through. Walking over the new ‘Bailey Bridge’ we continued straight on and continued up through the town to Johnny’s.

The walk had taken two and a half hours, there or thereabouts, and turned out to be much better than anyone could have expected given the conditions when we left.

Thanks to Gus for providing the soup and Alan for the bread, but most thanks go to Johnny for hosting us and providing the pies as well as the aforementioned coffee and scones, not to mention the array of beers.

Another good day out!