It was a welcome return for three of our faster Warts, Phil, Dave and Chris, whilst our resident regular leaders were either otherwise occupied or injured, Andy was partying and Tom’s calf was playing up. Instead, Tim bravely stepped up to the mark.
There was an air of conspiracy as we started from Cutthroat Bridge. The previous Wednesday, it was planned that Chris would be given a special welcome surprise by taking him up Priddock Wood (he likes it, apparently)there, so, being suitably vague about further route details, we set off on the path to the Ladybower pub and car park. By this time Chris had twigged what was happening but showed no sign of being the slightest bit flustered, as was shown by his calm phone call to Dave and Phil who had shot ahead past the pub. However, others were a bit concerned about the coming climb.
At least there wasn’t much water in the stream so it was possible to avoid wet feet and start the climb. It had more vegetation than rock with the added jeopardy of rotten branches (do not to cling onto them!) and falling rocks to entertain us. The ground was also slippery and unstable with dust from the long dry conditions of the last few weeks. I have to admit that it was the first time for many years that I had experienced the knee trembling syndrome, similar to when I went rock climbing ages ago. With help from Michael and Pete and the easing gradient, we reached the top wall for a spot of wobbly rock climbing and then gentle bracken massage to familiarise ourselves with the upcoming relief of easy path running!
It had taken about 50 minutes to reach the path, so confirming our Slow Warts reputation and our credit rating for slowness had been much enhanced. As is our wont, there was a conference on the next stage of our outing, concluding that a visit-to the Jarvis cabin would be good for a sheltered sit-down.
There was more discussion about the route with the result being a visit to the classic Pillars of Hercules via the circular shooting butts and Stanage Edge.
Compared with our previous encounter with Priddock Wood, this was all easy going so we enjoyed some fast (?) running back to Cutthroat Bridge. Meanwhile, Moz who is still recovering from a broken finger, walked to various places including Jarvis cabin to meet us, which we didn’t, and yet went further than we did. Perhaps Priddock Wood slowed us a bit?
A grand outing in good weather and some excitement and much satisfaction. After yet another Slow Warts’ discussion, we agreed to go to The Grouse next Wednesday (specially for Andy’s benefit). Thanks to all.
Graham
