Cumbrae 4 December

Alan, Allan, Davie C, Davie Mc, Gus, Jimmy, Johnny, Peter, Robert

Roadworks had delayed the Kilmarnock contingent meaning that the proposed 9.45 ferry was missed and it was not until 10.25 that we landed on Cumbrae. The forecast for the day was sunny spells with blustery showers and fortunately the showers proved to be few and far between.

No place for coffee today

Jimmy had an athletics meet that night so we targeted the 2.30 homebound ferry and set off on our more usual clockwise route from the slipway making our way up to the Glaidstone in jigtime. It was too cold and blustery up there to have coffee and, therefore, a more sheltered spot was found further down the road. Bearing in mind our time limitations, we were soon on our way again, but before reaching the cathedral we turned right and went up past the school and headed towards the bowling club which is adjacent to the road up to the golf course. Those in front turned right but were quickly corrected by the godfaither who directed us left in order to take the longer coastal route up to Fintry Bay. “I’m no gonnae trek through a glaur hole” was the reason for this unexpected deviation from the norm, but we did stop for lunch at the shelter on the esplanade.

The boys are still seeking their crock of gold

“Can we make the ferry?” was the question posed by the doubters. ”Of course we can”, said those for whom the glass is always half-full.

Not only did we make the ferry but we made the 2 o’clock one after a good step out (i.e. a forced march) along the west side of the island.

Jimmy and Peter headed off home as the remainder took FRT in McCabe’s.

This had turned out to be a much better day than we could have hoped for given the forecast and the time of year.



Blog by Allan
Additional pics below from Jimmy.

Walking up the Ferry Road away from the ferry.



The sun shines on the Arran Hills as seen from the Glaidstone.

Coming down from the Glaidstone. The sun shines after a shower had hit us on the top.

A view over the bay at Millport



Looking towards Argyll from the west side of the island.