Yes, but before then, we didn’t, it was more like straining along for some of us as we eleven climbed up the wicked Wicken towards Seal Edge. Our start from Blackden was one requiring immediate fell craft, for those who have it, down the steep and rocky path to the bridge. There was at least one faller who recovered quickly and, in good fell running form, carried on to the bridge (and beyond).
It was a relief to get beyond the bracken line into a less vegetated climb, though still with heather, tussocks and bilberry. Here, the young ones, there are a few (aged 16 to about 60) in the group, showed their prowess by breaking into cruise control to Seal Edge. Whilst, of course, we laggards can only admire their ability, I suspect that the young ones may, understandably, be a touch smug sitting watching us struggle. As my mother pointed out, “You’ll come to it one day!”. I think some of us have already come to it!
Nevertheless, it was a wonderful evening to be on Seal Edge, a cooling breeze, some sunshine, a great view and splendid company.
As always, there was a discussion on which way to go, this time to Hartshorn “number 1” which is on a ring contour. Either a direct Harmerian route (only one taker, guess who?) or a via a path, of sorts. The fastest one seemed be via the path, though this was taken by the young ones which may account for them arriving in front. Our cruising continued to Hartshorn number 2, at 604m height and from there, on to a wing-shaped and unnamed rock which proved to be of great interest to the bird watchers. A bird’s pellet (possibly a raven’s?) was found on top, it was examined in detail, including a proposal for it to be tasted but sadly there were no volunteers.
The Slow Warts are nothing but curious, probably in both senses. So, as we then arrived at Bob’s Rock, both Anna and Tom practiced their semaphore, from its top, the message seemed to be “U” and “E”, check it and interpret that as you wish.
Now, the view of the descent to the car park revealed a critical problem of how to minimise our contact with the extensive patches of bracken. The watchwords were to stay high, so we did, finally finding a sheep track to Dean Hill which was descended a bit less than comfortably? It was steep and with hidden rocks, for our enjoyment. The final sting in the tail of our outing is the steep climb from the river bridge. Is it quicker to run up it or walk up? In my foolhardiness, I chose to run all the way up but Anna who was walking, extended her lead, so It’s quicker to walk, probably. I will keep trying!
We celebrated our splendid evening out on the hills, at the welcoming YBI where we attempted to put the world to rights with discussions about golf, DJT in Scotland opening another golf course, and health. Our concerned Slow Wart’s veteran (Happy Birthday) veterinary surgeon checked whether hands had been washed after the previous intensive pellet examination.
The things we discuss! We did, however, agree it had been a wonderful evening, so thanks to all.
Graham