Cumbrae 16 June

Allan, Billy, Davie C, Davie Mc, Dougie, Gus, Hugh, Ian, Jimmy, Malcolm, Paul, Rex, Robert

The overnight rain had gone, and the weather was picking up nicely as we boarded the 9.45am ferry to Cumbrae. After a bit of discussion, it was decided that our route today would be up to the Glaid Stone, down to Millport and then round the back of the island, thereby giving us the benefit of the breeze on our back for the long stretch on the western side.

The Glaid Stone was reached after forty-five minutes, and we took coffee here relishing the brightening skies. Next stop was the Garrison for an early lunch. As usual, some had brought their pieces whilst others chose to go inside to buy whatever took their fancy.

The final and longest leg of today’s walk was made without incident, and we were able to get the 2pm ferry back to Largs. The distance today was a tad over ten miles, and we had been blessed with excellent weather.

Ten of us took FRT in the sun trap that was the beer garden at Drouthy Neebors where Davie C was thanked for buying the first round, including chips, in honour of his 65^th birthday (a number of months ago now) and of him getting notification of his entitlement to his state pension. Gus proposed a toast to him and we all joined in. A record was set today when Ian was first to finish his pint. Mind you, only because Robert managed to spill the whole lot before Ian had a chance to drink much of it. No real damage done, the chips were not affected, and a replacement was soon in place. A very enjoyable time was spent here with the usual standard of banter. It showed us what we had missed over the last year.