Falls of Clyde 25 October

 

Allan, Davie C, Davie Mc, Dougie, Graham, Gus, Hugh, Jimmy, Johnny, Malcolm, Paul, Rex, Robert

The drive through to Kirkfieldbank promised an overcast day with lots of low mist/cloud but, on arrival, at least it was dry. We were going to do the walk in the more traditional clockwise direction i.e. up to New Lanark and then past the Falls of Clyde and across the dam at the top before returning on the opposite side of the river. The grass path that was flooded the last time we were here was thankfully OK today and rapid progress was made up and down the various hills and steps until we eventually met the tarmac that took us into New Lanark for our coffee stop. The autumn colours had been admired on most enjoyed a relaxing break. 

 

Allan, however, was feeling decidedly ropey, maybe had done the climbing too quickly, and as the rest left to continue the walk, he remained behind with his minders, Johnny and Malcolm. There was thought of them turning back but, as it was probably easier to go on, this is what they did, after Allan had recovered. When the threesome came to the boardwalks they were closed for tree-cutting but the alternative, higher path soon took them back on to the familiar route and the dam was reached at midday.

Whether it was the case that the dam was holding the water back or that this part of the country had not experienced the rainfall that other parts had recently, there was a poor flow over the Falls today, not the spectacular sight we were hoping for. By half=past twelve the three had caught up with the main party at the traditional lunch spot overlooking the Clyde and joined them with their pieces. Not long after resuming, there was an obstacle in front of us, a large fallen tree. Most had to crawl on hands and knees under it with Robert politely refusing to do limbo-dance to the other side. No matter, all negotiated it safely, one way or another, and trekked back to the cars, arriving at about one thirty-five, three and a half hours after having set off and having covered seven miles in decent underfoot conditions.

FRT was taken in the Black Bull in Darvel where an enjoyable hour was spent.