Failford to Stair 11 August

Alan McQ, Allan, Billy, Davie C, Davie Mc, Dougie, Gus, Hugh, Johnny, Robert

It was dry as we met at Failford but, with rain forecast, some of us decided to put on wet weather gear from the word go. However, it wasn’t too long before shirt sleeves became the norm as the rains stayed away and the temperature was warm. We decided not to go for another look at Peden’s pulpit but continued on our way until Davie and Billy decided to take the lower route by going down the steps whereas the rest stayed higher on the path. Meeting up further along, we had a short stop before making our way to Daldorch, eschewing the option to go up past the farm, and marching on to the dodgy bits of the trail. Thankfully these were managed without alarm, and we were at our lunch spot next to the weir at Stair by half eleven.

Deciding to return by taking the road up and around to Daldorch, the rain started, albeit lightly, but by the time we rejoined the riverside path, most had decided to don rain jackets. The rain got a bit more persistent, but we were in the shelter of the trees most of the way, so it wasn’t much of an issue. As we normally do, we took the higher path back to Failford and were back at the cars by ten past one, three hours and ten minutes for just over seven miles.

As we were going out in the evening, half decided to go straight home whilst the rest took FRT in the Failford Inn.

 

Later on, we were joined by Iain, Ian (good to see him again) and Jimmy for our long-awaited return to the Jewel for a curry. Gus proposed a toast to all who had had significant birthdays and grandchildren over the last eighteen months (504 days since the first lockdown as Johnny kept reminding us), and also to the Ooters in general for still being here. The food was excellent and the service from the staff was great. We were even coaxed to sing the Ooters’ song by the promise of a free drink! Thanks again to the staff for welcoming us so warmly. Most then adjourned to Wetherspoon’s to finish off the evening where Johnny bought the drinks to belatedly celebrate his seventieth. Thanks Johnny. A great night out!