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.
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