Allan, Davie Mc, Dougie, Graham, Gus, Hugh, Jimmy, Malcolm, Paul, Robert
The forecast for the coast was that there would be very strong winds, so today’s walk was changed from Croy to Maidens to our familiar Sorn to Ballochmyle Viaduct trek.
The weather was fine and dry, but with heavy showers forecast, we were well-prepared for the rain as we set off over the old Sorn bridge and up the path towards the river and then following the riverside path to Catrine. Given the recent rain, the river was roaring as it came over the dam, but we didn’t delay to admire it, as we made our way to visit Peter. It was good to see him again and it is a pity that circumstances prevent him from joining us.
Having left Peter, we made our way to the Howford Bridge where the backmarkers were expecting to find the rest having coffee. However, they had continued to the old bridge where coffee was had in pleasant conditions. Twenty minutes or so later, and with the group well strung out, the Ballochmyle Viaduct was reached. Some had gone down to their lunch spot, whilst others stayed on the path for lunch and waited for the last to arrive i.e. Jimmy, Graham and Davie. Jimmy had taken Graham down to see the Fishers’ Tryst, hence the delayed arrival. It was really windy at the viaduct, so when lunch was over the decision was taken to retrace our steps rather than extend the walk. A minute later we were in shelter again and were back in Catrine in no time.
Yet again, the group was split, with those at the back taking time to chat to Peter again before walking back to the cars at Sorn. We had been on the go for a total of three and three-quarter hours and had covered about eight miles and had done so in good, bright, dry conditions. Even underfoot conditions had been better than expected.
FRT was taken in the Black Bull in Mauchline where the chairs and benches had had a make-over making for a pleasant and comfy surrounding for our apres-walk deliberations. All things considered, this had been a good day out.
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