Cumbrae 26 February

Alan, Allan, Davie C, Dougie, Gus, Hugh, Ian, Jim, Johnny, Kenny R, Kenny T, Malcolm, Paul, Rex, Robert

Kenny was too busy with Freya

After the wet, windy and wintry conditions of the last few weeks the forecast was for a good weather window for our walk around Cumbrae. However, as we left the cars and walked to the ferry terminal the skies darkened and a heavy, sleety shower arrived, and we feared the worst. The optimists took faith in the forecast and they were proved right, as the rest of the day was bright and sunny, perfect for walking.

At the terminal we saw a sign about the ferry and thought initially there was going to be an issue but it transpired that one of the loading ramps was broken meaning that cars had to drive on and do a u-turn on board whilst larger vehicles had to reverse on, and that before reaching the slipways the ferry had to do an about turn.
No matter, we reached Cumbrae at half past ten and set off in an anti-clockwise direction in surprisingly calm conditions. Kenny T had brought Freya for a walk, or was it Freya who had brought Kenny?, as she was desperate to get off the lead.  Not all was well with our dog community however, as we commiserated with Davie over the loss of his dog at the weekend. Today, obviously, was a road walk and, given how sodden the ground is, it may be a week or two yet before we venture on paths and open country.
Fintry Bay was reached after an hour and coffee was taken at the picnic area. Ten minutes later we were on our way again with great views of Arran, resplendent in snow. We thought we could see Davie Mc and Holly half-way up Goatfell, but then again, maybe not! As we were turning towards Millport at the bottom of the island the wind suddenly increased, or maybe we had just been sheltered thus far, but within ten minutes all was calm again.
Most took lunch in the café at the Garrison where discussion took place as to what next. Kenny T and Jim decided on taking the bus back to the ferry as the wee dog had done enough for the day. A few others thought that this was a good idea but, given the good conditions, were coaxed in to walking back. Seven took Ferry Road whilst the remaining six decided to go up to the Glaid Stone and down from there.
All thirteen made it to the slip for the half past two ferry and then to a relatively quiet Wetherspoon’s for FRT and chips.
A grand day out!

Off the lead at last!

Coffee stop