Annbank to Ayr 26 June

Alan, Allan, Andy, Davie C, Davie McM, Ian, Johnny, Malcolm, Paul, Robert

For Davie, whose battery had run out

The day was sunny, but as so often so far this year, with a wee edge to the breeze as we assembled at Annbank Bowling Club. Some, who shall remain nameless to protect the guilty, had already availed themselves of filled rolls and sausage rolls from the baker’s prior to departing on what was to be good and dry (except for sweat) day out.

Going against the usual protocol, we headed down the main street before cutting off past the fishery and making our way on the path beside the river. A short coffee stop was called for at the view point overlooking the river before proceeding to the Wallace and Burns monument for our next stop. Here those who wanted coffee, took it, those who wanted to have lunch, had it, and those who just wanted to rest, rested.

No introductions necessary

The talk was of embarrassing bodies - Robert’s, Ian’s, Davie’s,… and of how the Canigou had been conquered. Robert said it was so easy, the most frightening part being the journey up in the jeep, that next year he is going to do it carrying a 25kg bag of cement – wee hard man right enough.

All good things come to an end and soon we were off again making our way past the smallholdings and using the stepping stones to cross the river where lunch, or whatever, was called.

Walking under the A77, using the footpath obviously, we continued on the path adjacent to the river before crossing it at UWS and then walked into town where the Annbank bus had just drawn up at the stop – good planning or what?

A-maize-ing

There was a short debate about whether to go straight home (remembering tonight’s curry) or go to the Tap o’ the Brae for’ just the one’ pint. In the event there was no argument and we sat in the sit-ootery* enjoying the views and the refreshments. Just the one pint?  Some hope. Had it been not for the night out, this could have been at least a 3pd**.

P.S. The curry at the Jewel in the Crown was most successful with Peter and Rex joining us and Paul travelling up for the banter in Wetherspoon’s where, disappointingly, they had run out of the malt of the month – Lagavulin

*Where the Ooters sit oot and the dug can join us in intelligent conversation.

**Ooter-speak for a moderate libation.