Shunning up Shunner

I said something was afoot last night didn't ? Well I was right. Rachel showed up to take them out to dinner, and apparently it was very nice.

By the way, as we're halfway, they've given me a dispensation on the uncle and auntie thing. I don't want to be disrespectful, but I'm sure you won't mind in the interests of saving my paws. Just for the duration.

So, we set out from Hawes. On the way out, we were walking past a house, with an 8' wall when suddenly a dog appeared on top and barked, very loudly. We nearly all jumped out of our skins, but it woke us up.

Up to Hardraw where we had a very nice demonstration by a man and his collie getting in half a dozen sheep for pedicures. Nearly as good as me - but not quite.

Up on to the moors to climb the 716 metres of Great Shunner Fell. We did it at Will and Claire pace (very fast) making good time for an early lunch which they didn't want. I did. Then over the top and down into Thwaite to meet David and Rachel, and a big surprise, Paul and Sue. Goodness all these people. It was bliss, everyone made a big fuss of me, and I was allowed to go to sleep in the back of their car whilst they all went in the pub.

Then they all joined us to walk on to Keld. I have been quite excited about Keld, because last year, I met another beautiful black labrador and I was really looking forward to seeing him again. Sadly he's not here any more, but Polo is. I'm in love with Polo. He's white where I'm black, and black where I'm white and they say we make a very handsome couple. They're probably right.

They've all gone now, and tomorrow we're over the top again to Bowes. I think Alan and Barbara are coming to see us so that will be good.

Keep spreading the word - bit tired tonight, sorry I'm late.

M
xx

HALF WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A huge day for us today - halfway on our fabulous adventure. Mum says she just hopes it's not like the last half of a tank of petrol. That always seems to go faster than the first half!

We left Selside in brilliant sunshine, and that's the way it's stayed all day long.

About 3 miles in, we rejoined The Pennine Way, where mum decided she was too hot and needed to remove her fleece AND her vest - well it is only April. So there she is in all her glory when up round the corner pops a gentleman she had met earlier in the day. I think she managed to retain her modesty, and it turned out that he was from the RSPB out checking on bird life. We had a chat about what might be around to look out for, and he was interested to hear about what we had seen on our travels.

Next, as we were about to cross a bridge (this is the bridge that dad told mum, crossed a 200' chasm, and might be a little unstable, the bridge that she has spent all night worrying about, and the bridge that was about 4' above ground, about 12' long, and made of stone) we came across 2 gentlemen who were cooking their breakfast on gas stoves. They said they were doing the Coast to Coast. They had started at St Bees and were heading for Huddersfield!?

A little further along we came across 3 ladies who were walking The Dales Way - small world, they were from Sheffield.

And then, I told you I thought there was a surprise in store, Auntie Claire and Uncle Will (C&W) with 2 new friends for me, Merlin and Wizard, big beautiful black labradors. We had a little water stop and then walked on. About 6 miles into our days walk, Uncle Will stopped at a cairn (pile of stones to mark the path) and suggested it might be a good place for a photograph. He then produced a bottle of fizzy water (that's what they told me, but I think it was champagne), which they all went wild about - and toasted the halfway mark. How kind is that. Auntie Claire even thought to bring me a little treat to celebrate with.

The weather was still amazing and we had a lovely lunch stop on the top, before heading down the hill and into Hawes. We fulfilled one of dad's little dreams that has been with him since Lands End - a trip to the Wensleydale Creamery for a pot of tea and some fruit cake with Wensleydale cheese.

It was time to say goodbye to these very kind people and my 2 new friends who had a long journey home and we headed off to our B&B for the night. I think there may be more in store.

Over Great Shunner Fell tomorrow and into Keld.

Keep spreading the word.

M
xx

Three peaks

We are now well and truly in The Dales and have much enjoyed the hospitality of The Lister Arms in Malham. Comfortable room, excellent food, and a staff who cannot do enough for you.

Yesterday was a rest day. Well I say a rest day, but they were scurrying about like meerkats in a Go Compare advert. Main job of the morning was to get the tent sorted out after our rather wet evening in Thornton. So off down to the village green we go. Dad got out the fly sheet (that's the outer bit to you and me) and put it up. The locals looked on anxiously and were clearly not keen on the possibility of somebody camping on their village green. Next, the footprint (groundsheet to the uninitiated). They stood there holding it between them to take advantage of the wind and what little sun there was, looking like they were planning to take off, in a new variety of hang glider. Finally the inner tent (or as mum calls it, the boudoir (nor me). This was full of all sorts of detritus; dad's crisps, bits of carrot cake, some of my Burns, a lot of my hair (? I'm not moulting at the moment - worrying!) and a great deal of grass clippings. In the absence of a dustpan and brush, they had the bright idea of turning it inside out and giving it a good shake. It actually worked.

That done it was time to turn to our other possessions. Boots were washed in the river, dried and dubbined. Clothes, mine as well, washed and dried. Waterproofs, including mine, cleaned and dried. They were showered off, and I made the big mistake of standing still, and I got washed too. So, ready for the next tranche of the adventure.

We were due to walk to Horton today, but unfortunately, can you believe it, not a single B&B would accommodate me, and the campsites were closed until May. Which is fortunate because I'm told that the owner of the site sits in a tent at night playing a piano and having singsongs until the wee small hours - not my scene! So we have had to go 3 miles further on to Selside. In the interests of economy of mileage, we have been mainly on the road, but have still been able to enjoy many of the sights - Malham Cove, reputedly a waterfall as big as Niagra in its day, but now completely dry, Malham Tarn, a natural lake high up on the fells, the glorious 3 Yorkshire peaks; Pen y Ghent, Ingleborough, and Whernside. Mum and dad are thoroughly enjoying lambing this year, appreciating other peoples hard work and the fruits thereof.

When we got to Horton, we stopped at the cafe for our main meal of the day, and I need to give my warmest thanks to the owners, who kindly cooked me a sausage with theirs.

There seems to have been a lot of phone calls today so I'm guessing there are some surprises in store.

Hawes tomorrow.

Keep spreading the word.

M
xx

Photo call

Dad and I at the trig point on Kinder Scout

A mountain hare on Bleaklow

The next day! Trig point on Black Hill - Yak!

Border control

Relief at Malham!

So I left you thinking of us tucked up in our tent watching a family movie.

They started out by tucking the I pad flap over the ventilation flap and sitting back to enjoy the film. I could have told them that wouldn't work - in the first place they couldn't see it (myopia/old age) and in the second place they couldn't hear it (pounding rain/old age). Next they rigged up dad's spare boot lace (he thinks of everything) over the integrated washing line that runs down the length of the tent - visibility improved, but the rain still obliterated the sound, and dad eating his grab bag of salt and vinegar crisps didn't help. Third try - plug in the ear phones and have one each - this worked for a short while, until they realised they were only getting half a conversation each. Right, turn on the sub titles - can't read them - writings too small - find the specs. So now they're sorted, sitting up in their sleeping bags like Dick and Liddie munching carrot cake with their sporks (manners maketh man). By now the film is halfway through, nobody has the first idea what's happening, but we enjoyed it anyway.

Dad woke up this morning, nudged mum, with a 'Jane, it's 7 o'clock'. 'And' came the response. 'Actually it's 5.30' was the somewhat timid reply. That went down well.

Eventually we awoke, had breakfast (porridge, um um), struck camp and started walking, still in the rain. Within an hour the rain ceased, the sun came out and we have had a wonderful day walking through undulating countryside, through field after field of sheep and lambs. I've had a feast I can tell you. They were so busy discussing the various ailments they spotted, that they failed to notice me grazing my way along.

As we approached Malham, we came across a group of D of E candidates who, on spotting mum's rucksack cover, asked how far we were going. 1100 miles says dad. Where's Groats asks one of them, is it in Wales? No, said dad in his most patient voice, it's in Scotland. Well where's Lands End, is that in Wales? It gives you so much confidence in the education system!

When we got to our destination (4* hotel - sublime to the ridiculous)there was a parcel for me. Dad helped me open it. It was full of Burns. I am so happy. Thank you everyone one responsible.

Also the new gadget for transferring photos has arrived and it works!

Day off tomorrow - hurray.

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Hunkering down

Really can't tell you much about today.

We left Ponden and had a steady climb up on to the moor in thick fog. I was glad to be on a lead I can tell you. It was the type of fog that creates a lot of moisture so we were all wrapped up in our waterproof togs. It was the sort of day when not much conversation takes place and you become aware of other senses. Hearing and short distance sight, for example.

In particular, the curlews were going bezerk. Probably because they didn't expect any idiot humans and their intelligent dogs to be out on the moors on such a day. I have to say, I have some sympathy with that view! You can imagine, with visibility down to 10 yards, the haunting sound of many angry curlews, was very spooky.

About mid-morning the fog cleared a little, and we came across what can only be described as a small unoccupied village of huts. They all had chimneys, and small gardens and we can only imagine they are used as holiday huts. We will make enquiries and let you know....I bet you can't wait!!

Down to Lothersdale for lunch, where the landlord cheered us with his merry banter. It's going to rain all afternoon, heavily everywhere. And all weekend. You've only a mile of steep hill to go. Etc.

Well, he was right about the hill, and it did pour for an hour or two. It cleared up long enough for us to dry out and get the tent pitched at Thornton in Craven, so we are nice and dry and cosy. We are on an animal farm so we are getting some strange noises (I have entered them as exhibits 92 & 93 - humongous humanis).

Family movie night tonight -  Captain Phillips - oh goody!

Malham tomorrow and then a rest day

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Bronte Country

Mum said this morning that if you'd asked her where she thought she might like to return to after the walk, the last place would probably have been Hebden Bridge. But how wrong she would have been. Having only travelled through on wheels, the impression is of a dark, satanic mill town. On foot, it is full of charm. Yes, a little grey, and yes, the architecture leans back to our industrial past. But it is full of small shops, eateries, and places to stay. It even has it's own theatre, which, last night, was showing an Alan Bennett play. They were very tempted, but just too tired, poor lambs.

Inevitably, having descended into Hebden Bridge, there was a climb out. We used a road, that was so steep, that motor vehicles were not allowed on it. Good progress though, well cobbled, and easy to get a good rhythm.

We walked on small quiet roads to rejoin the Pennine Way 4 miles in. Easy going with chance to enjoy some stunning views on a beautiful spring day.

Some more reservoir walking through to lunch. We never knew there were so many reservoirs up in the Pennines. Worryingly, many are low and some even empty, but optimistically, we have decided to assume that they are empty in advance of some sort of remedial works.

Back up on to the moors and to Top Withens. Now Top Withens was reputedly the inspiration for Wuthering Heights. It's an isolated farm house in the middle of the moor. Dad said it would have to be the right sort of weather for Heathcliff, or he might be told to 'go away'! Apparently Top Withens is very popular with Japanese tourists, and this would appear to be borne out by the use of Japanese hieroglyphics on the footpath signs.

From there, a relatively short step down into Ponden, to another reservoir and our abode for the night.

We have been well looked after by a multitude of lapwings, curlew, skylarks, and latterly oyster catchers.

Thornton in Craven tomorrow and another night camping, mum's excited, dad's not. I'll just eat Burns.

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

A better kind of water

What a difference a day makes. Yesterday we were paddling over the moors, where, even on the slabs of the Pennine Way, there was 1 to 2 inches of water, with more pouring out of the sky.

Today, sunshine most of the day, dry underfoot and the only water of note was in the numerous reservoirs we have walked past. Standedge to Hebden Bridge, 15.5 miles, but a wonderful walk high up over the moors! with great views all day.

The day began with a little controversy. As you know, mum was euphoric to be back in Yorkshire. However, dad managed to burst her bubble, by reliably informing her that, Diggle, where we spent the night, was in Lancashire. So, not only not in Yorkshire, worse still Lancashire. Disappointment was etched on her face. So when the B&B owner confirmed that we were indeed in Yorkshire, you can imagine the reaction!

Anyway, off we skipped back on to the moors. Now yesterday, several people had told mum that there was a snack bar halfway along the route, by the time they got to the layby, she had managed to hallucinate an oasis, represented by, a cafe furnished with tables and chairs, frequented by knights of the road all falling over themselves to give donations to the charities, and best of all, in the corner there would be a tumble dryer, which would dry our sodden clothes, whilst we consumed mugs full of steaming hot chocolate. The reality was...... nothing, zilch, nano. Today, the same suggestion had reached mum's shell-likes. Today, there was a snack bar, and today we got our hot drinks, and fly pie, and a jolly welcome.

Shortly afterwards, when dad was changing the software card in his sat thingy, we met a gentleman called Wayne Stringfellow, who was very interested in our walk. He was telling us about the book of poetry  he has written. A little later he passed us in his car whilst we were lunching, and very kindly stopped to ask if there was

anything we needed that he could fetch for us.

Our 'natural' treat for the day was a Golden Plover. What a pretty bird. I'll put it on the blog next week.

In the meantime, mum took a picture of Stoodley Pike on the I pad so that you wouldn't be too deprived. Sorry it's in the wrong place - can't have it all! - Technology 1 Madge 0

Our thanks to the lady in Something Sweet in Hebden Bridge for her kind donation, as well as refreshing our depleted stocks of old fashioned sweeties - very important for energy!!

Short day tomorrow. Keep spreading the word.

M
xx

Yorkshire!!!!!!!

Sorry I didn't make it last night. No signal whatsoever. Also apologies that there will be no photos until the weekend. One of mums bits of gadgetry has bust and she's had to order a new one.

Quick recap - yesterday was Snake Road to Crowden, over Bleaklow. Started off quite misty but ended up beautifully sunny. Windy all day, mum and I kept in dad's slipstream! We had a couple of merlins for company.  We saw 6 mountain hares (sadly 3 were no longer with us).

We got to the camp site and those 2 had an ice cream before pitching the tent and brewing up. We'd just got nicely settled leaning against a very comfortable wall when it started to rain. Never to stop all night. It had been the plan to eat dinner at the YHA. Can you believe they had shut a week before Easter without notifying anybody. Fortunately mum had some emergency rations.

These two don't camp very often but when they do they take to it like pigs to their styes. It was porridge for breakfast and dad, the only man who can make porridge that you can eat with a fork, couldn't find his sport, so he fished a plastic fork from his stew and dumplings out of the bin - ugh!

What can we say about today. Well, up to Laddow Rocks, up Black Hill, Wessenden Moor and on to Standedge. During the course of this 'adventure' we ventured on to the Marsden Moor Estate, which dad said was mine. Frankly dad, I don't want to appear ungrateful, but you can keep it.

The day has been very foggy, with poor visibility, and rain,  and you can imagine how we all jumped when we saw the skeletal head of a sheep coming at us. A D of E candidate thought it a jolly jape to attach one to the top of her rucksack.

As we topped Black Hill, we conquered another county and walked in to God's own, Yorkshire (according to mum). As we walked down the hill, we came across a sign "in very wet weather, the river at Dean Clough may be difficult to cross. Recommended diversion to bridge on Kirklees Way". Dad consulted the map, and estimated a 10 mile diversion. As we all know, dad doesn't do unnecessary miles, so down to Dean Clough we skipped. The assumption being, that this would be typical Yorkshire under- statement. Wrong. The weather had obviously been very, very, very, very wet, and the river was flowing very, very, very, very rapidly. Mum made it first, then dad told her to move downstream a bit so she could catch me if I didn't make it. Well thanks pal. Obviously, I cleared it, in one beautiful and graceful leap! So did dad, without the grace and beauty.

We made it to the B&B in good time and everything is drying out nicely. Although dad is hyperventilating about the tent, which is rolled up in a sodden lump at the bottom of his rucksack.

Never mind, as I write, he is wrapping himself around a well pulled pint of Black Sheep, getting over the day.

Hebden Bridge tomorrow.

Keep spreading the word, remember we may not always have a signal, but please stay with us. The very fact that you are logging in, and contributing to our charities, gives us huge encouragement.

M
xx

More men in the sky!!

Well the day got off to a really good start! At 06.30, dad looked out of the bedroom window to see some of my sheep in next door's field. "Oh good" said he (I think). Off he went to sort them out and when the phone rang 10 minutes later we knew we were in for a rodeo. For some reason, mum left me behind, and went to assist. As mum went out of the door, I caught a glimpse of a huge red ball in the sky with 'Virgin' written on the side and every so often it made this very loud hissing noise, and fire went up, and it went higher. Mum said some very rude words and ran off waving her crook in the air.

They returned half an hour later, and after a nice cup of coffee, order and harmony was restored. The Virgin balloon had put its burst on over the sheep, they had been startled, and jumped the fence. It didn't help the shining hour, when just as dad had got them to the gateway, the pilot thought it would be a good idea to let the balloon come down so that his passengers could get a good look at a farmer with a purple face dancing up and down, before another burst, which of course scared them once more into turning and running back. Hence the call for help.

Of course it would have all gone a lot smoother had I been called in the first place.

It was soon time for Auntie Jean and Uncle Rob (bless their kind hearts) to scoop us up to take us back to Upper Booth where we left off for the hike to the Snake Road. But first of all, we returned to the No Car Cafe for a fine breakfast to sustain us for the walk ahead.

From Upper Booth we walked to the bottom of Jacobs Ladder, a steep cobbled incline to Kinder Scout. There is a slightly easier route which zigzags up the hill and so a debate ensued as to which way to go. Of course, we went the hard way - what else?

Up on to the top of Kinder where a generally cold day was 'enhanced' by a strong wind, thankfully it was dry underfoot and we made good progress on the top, including a stop at the trig point for a photograph (of course). It was horrendously busy with people and dogs and it's surprising, therefore, that we were fortunate enough to see a mountain hare. This animal turns white in the winter but keeps the colour on the tips of its ears - looks like it's been dipped in a pot of white paint and hung out to dry by his ears! In England it is only to be found in the High Peak.

Half way across we were met by J&R who had left their car at the other end and walked to meet us. Well not quite halfway because one of the party (very sensibly in my view) didn't want to ascend and descend the hill that was in the way.

When we got back, another dog had arrived. Millie. She has a lot to say - not quite used to that yet. Think I'll take my time, because I seem to be getting a lot of treats at the moment.

Happy Easter everybody - Auntie Jean bought me a book all about Madge the Snub Nosed Lorry from Thomas the Tank Engine. Umm.

Tomorrow we leave home until the job is done, so Crowden here we come.

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Sorry got a problem with the photos again - working on it!

Men in the sky?!

Once more, the pull of the boots was too strong, and after a turpid morning; packing boxes, checking gear, packing rucksacks, etc, etc, they rewarded themselves (and me) with another days walking. First of all though, mum sent dad and I to the post office, to send our next box to Malham, ready for our next rest day. One objective was achieved, in as much as she got us out of the way for an hour or so, but we'd all forgotten that it was Good Friday, and the post office was shut! (Or had she?)

So, off to Wheston to start off where we finished. We were soon skipping over the fields and it wasn't long before mum found a small white flower, which she convinced herself was an edelweiss, which then gave her the excuse to sing songs from the Sound of Music all afternoon.......trouble is, I can't walk with my paws in my ears.

A little further on we came within sight of the range of hills, that includes, Mam Tor through to Winhill. And something I've never seen before ..manbirds... how very strange!

We came across another field full of alpacas (we know this because it said so on the gate, so no room for error) and another little gem to store away for future walks - the No Car Cafe. So called, because, guess what, you can't take your car there. The cafe was lovely, with wonderful home made cakes, and they also do breakfast so would be a a great start to a walking day. Thank you so much to the lady there, who very kindly made a donation to H4H.

It's been a while since the DD have been up to their tricks. Today, not long before we were due to be picked up by Uncle Rob and Auntie Jean (yay their back to sort us out), a family shouted to us, from 2 stiles away to ask if we knew where the path went. Yes, said dad, the stile is right in front of you. Oh, said the man, it's a bit muddy. Fair dos, he gritted his teeth and made the journey. As soon as dad saw how sticky it was, he turned in the opposite direction, climbed a couple of gates, and rejoined the path, without a speck of mud to be seen. Well, as he said, we wouldn't want to get Uncle Rob's car dirty!

Down to Upper Booth, and a delicious Bradwell's Ice Cream to eat on the way home.

Big day tomorrow - on to The Pennine Way, and an even bigger event...Auntie Sal, Uncle Rob, Cousin Henry and their dog Millie,

are coming home. I've never met Millie, I'm very excited, but also a little nervous.

Limestone country

I knew it couldn't last long - it was just too good to be true. After 2 days at home, they've only gone and got cabin fever. I don't know what it is, but apparently the only way to make it better is to go for a long walk!

So at 07.15 they loaded me into the car with dad, and mum followed in her car until she parked it in the middle of nowhere and then they came back. Well, I thought, that wasn't much of a walk, and what about mum's car?

Fear not, on went the boots, the rucksacks and my harness and off we went. Out first leg of the onward journey in the offing.

Up across the fields, past the eerie relics of Magpie Mine, through the picturesque and peaceful village of Sheldon, and down to Taddington. We came across a strange structure, a telephone box..... With a telephone in it. Mum observed that it is now fairly easy to spot an operating telephone box from a daitance....because it hasn't been painted! Along our travels we have seen a number of boxes converted into libraries (I think we may have included a a little earlier on), and I understand that in nearby Tideswell they have converted theirs into a history box. One common theme is that they are all smartly and freshly painted.

Through the churchyard and across more fields to Priestcliffe. We came across a swing hanging from a tree in the middle of a field full of sheep and lambs. When I looked over the wall, mum thought I wanted a go on the swing - silly mum - I'm a sheep dog!

Down into Millers Dale, up past Tideswell and on to where mum's car was parked - that's a relief.

Later on this evening, they put on the talking picture box and you'll never guess who was on? Only Katy Cropper, whose farm I was born on, and whose Academy I went to. She was on Come Dine With Me on Channel 4 and it's an episode that's worth downloading!

I've been promised a day off tomorrow. - I was supposed to be having one today because I had my annual jabs yesterday - such is life. So I'm assuming we will be back to Plan 378 on Saturday!  See you then.

Keep spreading the word.

M
xx

Day off

Dad cleans what's left of his boots.

Mum takes photos (no change there then)

Me....I play ball and eat my Burns

Keep spreading the word.

M
xx

Home sweet home

When we got here last night, there was the biggest bag of Burns in the world waiting for me - I thought it must be Christmas. Then I realised what it really meant - more strenuous exercise! Nonetheless, huge thanks to the lovely people at Burns who have sent it to me. I've made a start and will make it my mission to finish it as soon as possible when the DD aren't looking!

This morning, we drove to Hartington, to pick up a friend who was going to walk with us until lunchtime. When we got there, waiting, were some of the lovely people from SARDA. John and Freda who are 'Dogsbodys'. These are the people who, on training days, go out and hide so that the dogs can find them. Also, Ian with his young dog, KT (mum thinks) who is one of the handlers and who works with the Edale Mountain Rescue Team. All these folk are entirely voluntary and all the costs are supported by donations, without government assistance. It was great to meet them all, and to have photographs taken to publicise the walk.

Shortly after, our friend David arrived and off we went to Thorpe to start where we finished off last night. We walked on to the disused Tissington Railway to make our way back to Hartington. There was a cold headwind most of the way, which wasn't too bad for me, but must have been worse for them because they're a bit bigger than me. Although not as big as they were! A few pounds have been  deposited by the wayside over the last 5 weeks!

We left David at Hartington, to begin the final leg home. I don't know if it was the thought of reaching home, but dad has all but run this afternoon, with mum and I scuttling along behind him. It was all we could to keep up ( mum, anyway). He stopped long enough to let me have a first drink in our own River Lathkill, but frankly, it was a bit clean, I think I prefer the skanky stuff the River Severn churns out.

Anyway, here we are safely home, and we have a couple of days off for them to catch up on all the post and to make sure all things business are in order before we head north. Don't be surprised or concerned if there is no blog, it just means that nothing has happened of note. Normal service will be resumed all in due course.

Keep spreading the word.

M
xx

Derbyshire

Last night the DD (Dynamic Duo) found that 334 of you have been kind enough to send messages to me on my e mail (thought it was a bit odd that nobody had!). I'm really sorry I haven't replied, please stay in contact and I will try and find out how to reply!

Another big day loomed, reaching Derbyshire at last. Staffordshire did not want to surrender easily and we have been flirting in and out all day, to finish up where we wanted to be.

They both donned new boots for the day, worn in, of course (even the DD aren't that silly), and both had a good old bleat about how heavy they were. Well they would be wouldn't they, the soles of the old ones were about an inch thinner. Particularly dad's which had a huge hole in the heel. Hopefully, they can get both pairs resoled ready in case of need.

We started off on the Staffordshire Way in Uttoxeter, changing to the Limestone Way in Rocester all the way up to Thorpe. All morning we had the company of the River Dove, who was not prepared to give up any of her secrets today, and all we saw were; Mallard, Canada, and Greylag Geese.

In Rocester we passed by the World Headquarters of JCB. It always reminds me of the James Bond films, where the villain has his pristine operation, with all the employees running around in boiler suited uniformity. Of course, we know JCB is nothing like that, it's an amazing operation.

Further on we were privy to a heavy horse display, when we came across a gentleman training his horse for pulling. He explained to us that he pulled a wagon liveried up for one of the breweries. His older horse had developed a limp, so he was having to bring the younger horse up to speed. It was a lovely sight, and they all appeared to be having a good time.

This afternoon, we were across fields, and saw nobody at all. The walking was great and we were accompanied by a number of swallows and curlews, the latter serenading us along the way.

We must say thank you to the taxi driver who had been a Grenadier Guard, and to Mrs Gwendoline Wooley, an lady from Rocester, who both gave us donations.

Tomorrow, we are hoping to meet up with some of the SARDA team from Derbyshire, who are practising nearby. And then, we will be walking home - how about that?

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

SWALLOWS!!!!!

Do you remember me telling you about the hot tip we were given for Taunton Races yesterday. Well it came in at 22:1. Guess who forgot to put a bet on it when she was sorting our National bets? Just think what a nice donation that would have been. Just can't get the staff!!

Today's walk got off to a good start. A beautiful morning as we left the Travelodge in Rugeley. That's 3 times now and every one of them have been spotlessly clean and have afforded us a good base from which to charge the batteries. A short road walk soon got us on to the Staffordshire Way, and we shortly arrived at Blithfield Reservoir.

The Dynamic Duo strike again! Go across the Causeway (no admittance), or walk an extra 2 miles on the correct footpath. I'm not even going to bother telling you. Suffice to say, when we start going north I'm going to pack my sunglasses in the interests of anonymity.

A little further on we came to some farm buildings, at High Ash Farm, that had been converted into an equestrian centre, with a small cafe, which fell just at the right time for elevenses. Mum had hot chocolate and coffee cake, dad had coffee and Victoria sandwich, absolutely marvellous. But the most amazing event of all was.......SWALLOWS!!!!! One doesn't make a summer, but 2 does and that's what we saw. I can't believe we've come all the way from Cornwall, and this is our first sighting. Five minutes down the road, and hey presto, the first curlew!

Anyway, back to the farm, where mum had spotted, the loo. Never one to miss a chance, in she goes, and oh no, the shorts are back on. Is there to be no respite?

Whenever we see a "traffic mirror" we take a selfie, today's is below - see what I mean?

For the rest of the days walk in to Uttoxeter, dad wished he'd changed too,  for the path was dreadful. It was as muddy as anything they have come across - including the Somerset Levels, and the Severn Way!

We made it into Uttoxeter where they had arranged for Uncle Jim to come and collect us to take us home. The walk will continue, but we will have the comfort of our own beds for a few days - bliss.

So tomorrow, it's back to Uttoxeter,  to walk 14 miles to Thorpe.

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Cut to the chase

We leave Somerford Hall, sitting in the most lovely surroundings. It's easy to understand why it is so popular as a wedding venue.

After a little roadwork, including an industrial estate, we returned to the peace and tranquility of the Staffs and Worcs Canal all too briefly, before returning to roads and fields, from where we had the joy of spotting 7 roe deer grazing in woodland.

At one point, we were stopped by a lovely lady on her bike, who wanted to know all about the walk. She told us that she had recently had an operation on her back and was trying to get fit again. So only 15 (?!) miles today, as she was preparing for a half marathon in May. Wow, that's so brave. She also told us that in 1999 her husband and 5 of his friends had done a JOGLE relay on bikes, in 36 hours. What on earth do we think we're playing at - 3 months!!!!

Shortly after that we had to cross some arable land. The first stile was a little overgrown, but before you could say hoof picks, dad had got out his Swiss army penknife and cut it back. We have done a lot of whining about poor footpaths, but this farmer had made very clear wheel markings through his crops, that were so easy to follow. The oil seed rape crop was almost overwhelming both sight and smell. How wonderful to see crops thriving at last.

From there we progressed to Cannock Chase. A huge woodland amenity in the middle of urban areas. Along the way we were stopped by a lady who advised mum and dad not to let me off the lead (not that they ever do!) as she had seen a basking snake. This is very early, but when she showed us the photo it was clearly an adder. I kept to the middle of the path, I can tell you.

We called at the visitor centre for a sandwich and a drink, where dad found out that donkey jackets had derived from these parts. So called because they were designed for the gentlemen who worked on the Manchester Ship Canal and who named them after the donkey engines they operated. Every days a school day!

After lunch he thought he would be helpful and clear away the cardboard cups by putting one on top of the other. We should have told him not to put the full one

to the bottom. Silly dad!

We emerged from the Chase into Rugeley, our abode for the night.

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Canal rage

As I write this, I can't tell you how upset I am. The 3 J's were due to meet us again tonight, only the most important one hasn't come. She is very very tired after yesterday's walk and her shoulder is very sore. Wish little Jasmine well everybody.

It's been another beautiful day, and these two have had their shorts on again. I try to hide behind my paws, but they just aren't big enough.

We started off up the canal (Staffs and Worcs), then onto a disused railway (which none of us liked too much) then back onto the canals, latterly on the Shropshire Union.

Once more we have seen loads of wildlife, new boys including, Jay, Coot, and Moorhen.

Both mum and dad have commented on the peaceful nature of canal life, but this afternoon we had a fresh experience with two barges battling for position - canal rage. The barge in front was a local full time bargee, the one behind a holiday maker who was in a tearing hurry to get somewhere. I don't understand why anybody in a hurry would hire a barge, unless of course he had to get it back. Anyway the man in front wouldn't make way and the man at the back got very excited, and there was a lot of swearing and mum and dad were very excited and I .....well I ate my Burns. Sadly, we had to turn off so I can't tell you the result.

When we got to our overnight stop, dad had selected the back entrance to the grounds because it was the nearest. Unfortunately, the notice said 'Private, no entrance' and the gate wouldn't open because it was electric. That didn't stop the dynamic duo, oh no. It's the shorts. Over the fence they went and ran up the road before they could be seen. And of course I'm complicit because I got lifted over and had to follow suit.

Making for Rugeley tomorrow, getting close to home.

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Sorry no pics tonight - 'service unavailable'!

Sunny side up!

Sorry about last night's post, it really was a terrible signal and it took for ever to get that miserable offering on it's way. It was a bit of a poor day anyway, rained all day, and heads down.

We stayed in a lovely B&B in Bewdley, Pewterers House, where the lady gave me the most wonderful rub down after my horrendous shower. When we left, she very kindly tore up mums cheque for the B&B charge, and we have put it to H4H. People are so kind.

After 3 days, today we say goodbye to the River Severn and.......say hello to Uncle Jim, Auntie Jo, my very best frien Jaz, Uncle Alston and Auntie Karen, who joined us on our merry way. It has been lovely. So great to speak to another dog who understands all my little problems, and can commiserate with some of my experiences. Do you know she even shared her Dentastik with me, so I gave some of my Burns (not much though!)

After leaving the river, we passed through fields and forest, the outskirts of Drakelow Tunnels, and a 50' high watch tower, that dad said was a deer stalking tower - silly dad!

We've had the usual gem from dad "oh look at that black and white spotty pony" says mum "oh yes, it's just like a zebra" came dad's reply.

It's not just him that's daft. Our visitors had left Uncle Jim's car at the finishing point, and driven in Uncle Alston's car to where we were due to meet them, in order that they could do the journey in reverse at the end. That was until Uncle Jim put his car keys in Auntie Jo's handbag, which she left in the car in Bewdley!! I ask you - who takes their handbag walking? Hey ho.

Towards the end of the walk my best friend Jaz began to limp, well she is quite an old lady, and she had run all over the woods at a great rate of knots. Uncle Jim had to carry her on his shoulders.

Isn't it odd! All the quiet rivers and canals we have walked in the last 4 weeks, and seen very little wildlife. Today, on a really busy canal, we have seen all sorts including today's treat - a duck and her 9 ducklings - absolutely gorgeous.

When we walked past one of the locks, a gentleman in his barge, spotted the rucksack cover and gave us a bag of coins to donate to the charities. Thank you Phil and Lorraine on the 'About time' for your generosity.

We have hit anothe county today, Staffordshire!

We did an extra mile tonight!

Keep spreading the word.

M
xx

Soggy doggy!!

Having a terrible time getting the blog on tonight with very poor internet connection. Taken me 2 hours to do this and my paws are getting sore!

It's been very wet along the River Severn, but we are safely in and dried out. I was so dirty they washed me at the Texaco station with the windscreen-washer-filler-upper - the indignity of it!

How does mum make the Radox last longer? - she waters it down!! Aggggh!

Will dad's boot last until Friday - it's got a hole in the heel?

Exciting day tomorrow the 3J's are coming!

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Worcestershire wanderings

We left Upton and the White Lion, whose staff had looked after us so well. They, of course had a torrid time during the flooding as well, but there is a certain stoic amongst the residents we spoke to. They are obviously well prepared, one house on the riverside has a door in the eaves - escape or entry?

We continued along the banks of the Severn, disturbing a heronry, whose residents were clearly enjoying a Sunday morning lie in, for we were resoundingly admonished by these prehistoric like birds.

Everyone we meet to chat to, tells us that we are going uphill and today my case was proven when we came to a road called Madge Hill. The photo hasn't made it today but maybe at a later date.

Throughout the course of the morning we have been accompanied by the Malverns to the west, and I think they may have protected us from the rain we were 'promised'.

During our journey, today, we have passed a gravel pit, that has been reinstated as a wildfowl reserve (unofficially) and there was a wonderful variety of species that would even make Slimbridge envious. In addition to birds we have already seen there were; oyster catcher, lapwing, terns, golden eye, and so many more (she hadn't got the eye-spy book with her today!).

We passed oast houses, a relic of the days when the county had a thriving hop industry, now much depleted.

We passed an incredible amount of damage resulting from the floods; hundreds of bamboo canes washed up, rubbish literally miles from the river but deposited by it, and mud - bizarrely worse either side of the city of Worcester.

We passed a clay pigeon club, making horrid banging noises (I don't like banging noises - my tail goes right underneath me and touches my nose!)

We passed a yacht club, where we were given some really useful information with regard to our journey north, and I guess dad is going to have his nose back in the maps tonight.

Mum used to go to Worcester a lot on business, but had never really appreciated the historic architectural gems that there are there. We wandered along the riverside, past the cathedral, and over Worcester Bridge, where there were well over a hundred of last years cygnets gathered and waiting for the next stage in their gracious lives.

At lunchtime we needed to have our main meal as there will be nowhere to eat this evening. We struggled to find somewhere where I would be welcome and in the end, as by now it was raining, we had an excellent Sunday lunch in the outside smoking area of restaurant in the park! Most people looking to satisfy their habit were kind enough to use the umbrellas, but there were some who, quite rightly, exercised their right.

The rain passed over and we continued our journey to Hallow, where we shall spend the night.

Keep spreading the word.

M
xx

Paws for thought

They promised me a rest day today, but they've been scuttling round like a couple of ferrets.

Mum and I went out for my constitutional a tad later than normal. On the way this big black dog came charging upon us. "Is it a dog?" says mum. "Yes" came the answer. "Is it entire?" , "Yes" came the reply. The big black dog is now becoming very persistent. "She's in season" says mum. Response "oh well. That'll make his day. He's only a youngster, he won't know what to do" !!!! After some encouragement from mum (not all of it polite, I'm afraid to say) the big black dog was brought under control, my honour is intact, and mum's nice clean trousers are back in the wash.

Then they went for breakfast. Four tables were occupied, one by an elderly gentleman who asked the waitress if we could have the TV on. The rest of them all 'silently' groaned. By the end of breakfast, he was reading his book and all the rest of them were watching TV - such is life.

After breakfast, first job was to clean up after all the mud running we've been doing this week. Dad asked the hotel for a bucket, and mum went off to get a nail brush. The hotel didn't have a bucket (can you believe), but managed to find us an empty plant pot (no holes in the bottom dear Liza!), which did the job just as well. Mum went to the chemist for the nailbrush - "no, sorry, we don't sell them anymore, there's no demand"!?!? Then she went to the supermarket "no sorry, we only sell them in a pack of 3" who wants 3 nail brushes all at once for goodness sake?! So she finished up cleaning my harness and coat, and their boots and gaiters with a sawn-off toothbrush that she had brought to use as a nailbrush (you might well ask - simple answer - space and weight).

Having reinvented the wheel and decided that it wasn't worth camping just for one night this side of home, they thought it would be a good idea to go through all their bags and get rid of some excess. I gathered all my Burns and gravy bones together and lay on them. In the meantime they had some heated discussions about the efficacy of keeping various effects. When they eventually agreed, they had 25 minutes left to get it all together, packaged and down to the post office. They packed up one of the boxes Auntie Jo brought, sealed it with the gaffer tape dad had wrapped round his walking pole before we left home (clever, my dad) and off they went. The lovely lady in the post office was very interested in what we were doing,  and we explained that we were sending excess home. As she was applying the stamps to the parcel, she said "and where do you live?"

Back in the room, and it was time for us all to choose our horse in the Grand National. We all put our pocket money in the pot and we put each way bets on 3 horses that didn't win. The moral of the story is....choose better horses.

Ah well

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Severn ways for seven gravy bones

A pleasant night at Hatherley and on to Upton on Severn storming into our 5th county, Worcestershire. The weather has been much improved, with much better visibility. It rained heavily overnight so they opted for trousers and gaiters today - thank goodness.

Until lunchtime we continued to experience poor paths and stiles, but we have been rewarded for our patience and persistence for we have had quite a treat. At lunchtime, we walked through Tewkesbury, and from there to Upton we have had a very pleasant, and surprisingly dry, walk along the river bank on the Severn Way.

We've seen countless cormorants, the black-crowned simplicity of the marsh tit, the sable beauty of a brown hare, the elegant protectiveness of a nesting swan and her mate, and best of all the traffic light glory of a pair of green woodpeckers. We have been teased by the Popeye-like call of these beautiful birds all the way up from Cornwall, but, like the kingfisher, have remained elusive until today.

Do you remember dad and the bus fare. Well mum had to frequent the facilities in Tewkesbury today.     20p! Or 4/- as she kept refraining all afternoon. Dear oh dear, these two really do need to get out more.

Well, tomorrow is a rest day (praise be) and Auntie Jo has very kindly delivered some boxes of supplies, one for me, one for them. So plenty of Burns and Gravy Bones. I looked hard to see if my friend Jasmine was in there, but no, I'm just going to have to wait until Tuesday - think I might burst with excitement!

Keep spreading the word

M
xx

Bonus edition!!

Quick resume of yesterday. Lots of hills, woods, and urbanity...oh and more hills. Deer, blubells, Pygmy pigs, Pygmy goats, bus shelter art, and stunning architecture. Oh, and more hills.

Last night, we stayed at St Anne's B&B in the pretty Cotswold town of Painswick where we were well cared for by our charming hosts in their 'green' establishment. Breakfast was particularly good; with home made organic granola and yoghurt, home- baked bread and croissants and home-made preserves. They are both getting a bit full-Englished up - me- I'm sticking to Burns.

We started the day by going into the village to procure some goods and whilst mum and I were waiting, mum engaged Mr Alan Major in conversation, who then ran home to get her a donation - thank you.

Following the Cotswold Way once more, we walked out of town up a hill! and across Painswick golf course which is laid out all across the remains of an ancient fort. It is so narrow, that on some holes they are playing the same hole in different directions from two tees! No bell either. Mind you they all looked as if they had dents in their heads.

We walked on through some woods where we spotted a badger diving for cover - wouldn't you if you saw these two coming towards you ( yes, the shorts are still on - they ran out of tissues today, you should see their sleeves - I'm at my wits end). As we passed through we spotted a number of small CCTV cameras, so clearly something is being observed, but other than Brock, we didn't see anything unusual.

Until today we have been very impressed with Gloucestershire's performance with their footpaths; they have been well marked, well maintained, and with good stiles (Mostly kissing gates - ugh!) until today......

After we waved goodbye to the Cotswold Way, it has been like walking through Bosnia. Any private property has been surrounded by high security fences, razor wire, large grizzly dogs, CCTV, padlocked gates where stiles should be, and we wouldn't have been surprised to see the odd Gatling gun poking thought the windows (except we couldn't see the windows!)

At lunch time we stopped in a little village called Badgeworth. Dad spotted a farm advertising the Village Experience, a farm shop run by Lesley, selling home produced meat and wonderful home baked cakes. Lesley, is a wonderful lady who was kind enough to make us a cup of coffee and make a contribution - thank you so much. The village sported a very attractive church, that even had its own brand new loo! The sign outside read "1315-2009 relief at last" Bliss.(for them anyway).

From there we lost the high security area, and joined the Gloucestershire Way. This took us round Gloucester Airport where we were treated to some great helicopter displays. Here's an funny thing. We have seen houses employing every security device known to man, and then we have the 3 foot high perimeter fence of the airport topped with a single strand of barbed wire?

At one point a low flying helicopter came right up to the fence. Before we started the walk, we all had a choice of 1 luxury. For a brief nano second, mum and I thought this was dad's. 'Fraid not! So there was mum jumping up and down taking pictures and waving to the crew (shorts!) and the crew were waving back (I think). Turns out they were waiting for her to get out of the way so that they could get on with practising landing on a slope!!!

I have had a day of indignities. First of all, I had to have my breakfast in the boot room, then I've been lifted over countless unkempt stiles and cattle grids, and then to cap it all he put me in the bath to was my legs and paws - just because he saw something on TV last night about 16 dogs dying of some E. coli disease after licking muddy paws! Suppose it's because they love me.

Keep spreading the word.

M
xx