Dean Park Circular 23 February

Allan, Davie C, Davie Mc, Dougie, Gus, Hugh, Iain, Johnny, Kenny T, Malcolm, Paul, Robert

It was cold and windy as we met in the car park at Dean Park and, with wintry showers forecast, most opted for wet weather gear from the off. We were still trying to decide which route we would take as we set off out of the estate on to Assloss Road before taking a right turn down and under the A77 and crossing the river by the footbridge at the ford, and progressing up Wardlaw Road to the junction with Grassyards Road. Right or left? Turning right we headed down towards the A77 again but veered left to follow Silverwood Road on a route well-known to the Monday walkers.

At about eleven o’clock, and just after a heavy shower, we stopped briefly for a quick break to let Killie Davie have his snack. Some others took a snack here also.

Moving on, rather than continuing up to East Raws, Derval Davie suggested we take a right turn down past Grougar Mains Cottage and then taking a right on to Milton Road, a road familiar to us, as this is part of our Hurlford to Galston walk. On the last occasion that particular walk was done, just a few weeks ago, new fencing had been erected part of which barred our path down to the river, but we noticed today that the offending piece of fence had been removed, by fair means or foul. We did not turn on to the Grougar Path but continued along Milton road, up past the old school, and over the A77 and in to New Farm Loch. Passing by the new William McIlvanney Campus, we emerged on to Grassyards Road opposite St Joseph’s and made our way up to Dean Road and back down to the cars.

Two hours and twenty-five minutes for about seven and a half miles were the stats for today. Other than a couple of showers, we had got it dry although it had been really cold at times when in the strong wind and, since we had not stopped for lunch, most took lunch in their cars before setting off for the First Edition in Kilmarnock, where we were joined by Billy. It was great to see him again and hope it will not be too long before he can get out walking once more. All the best, Billy!