WaterfallThe walk was led by Joan and Maddie. On this occasion the mini-bus was not used and all 15 of the party made their way to the start under their own steam. All of the non-drivers were kindly given lifts.As is usual for these outings the weather was good. Actually it was splendid, hardly a cloud in sight all day. We began from The Malt Shovel and then headed up Goitstock Lane. This led us towards the delightful, undulating, unimproved grassland hillside, where we sat down for a very early drinks break. Joan informed us that this is the second best such site in the entire district.
We also stopped to read the informative notice board about the mill and its owners that had once occupied part of this site.
During the day we came across 45 plants in flower plus 6 ferns.
Dipper Notables included Moschatel, Greater Stitchwort, Ladies Smock and Wood Sorrel. Joan also pointed out the leaves of Wolfsbane, a plant that flowers in July. Carpets of Celandines and Anemones were a delight. Bluebells however, were only just beginning to make a showing.
Butterflies were in short supply, given the warm conditions and we only sighted Orange Tip and Peacock.
There was a great amount of birdsong that included Chiff Chaff, Willow Warbler, Blackcap and Song Thrush. Sightings were made of the first three and also of Dippers, Grey Wagtail, Jay and a Buzzard.
Lunch was taken near a row of cottages. Although much of the walk was easy there were some tricky patches; a boggy field and later a path by the beck crisscrossed by tree roots. One particular handrail proved a challenge but Phillip fortunately had both hands on the rail when his feet left the ground. Stuart and I were also there as supports so there was no real risk of any injury. We then passed by the waterfall which must be the finest in the district.
Wood Sorrel By The Falls
A rather splendid Summer Oyster Mushroom aka Branching Oyster (Pleurotus cornucopiae) was spotted on a dead Birch. A swarm of tiny moths were also seen, two of which were captured and later identified as Dyseriocrania subpurpurella. They were both later released unharmed although probably a bit stressed!
We finished up at Stephen Smiths Garden Centre where half of the remaining party treated themselves to drinks and cakes. The cafephobics however went off home for a cheaper cup of tea! Sue also bought herself a watering can.
John Gavaghan