Rothwell ChurchFor our New Year’s walk this year we ventured to Rothwell in the renowned Rhubarb Triangle for a circular walk of about 4 miles. The rain in recent weeks had made some of the route quite muddy, especially as we had to cross an open field. A recce on the previous day, however, had resulted in the walk being declared doable and so a party of 14, which included a new member in Maddy's friend Julia, set off in high spirits in dry overhead conditions.
The route took us along an old railway track to the village of Robin Hood before we walked along a short road section and across the open field which brought us to Carlton and a fine lunch spot in the millennium park with bench seats sufficient for all to sit comfortably. Whilst having our lunch we were treated to a fly-past by a red kite, one of several interesting species of bird that we encountered during the day including sparrowhawk, redwing, bullfinch, mistle trush, and jay amongst more common species.
The way back to our starting point was past rhubarb and brassica fields with the local rhubarb growers preparing for the forthcoming annual rhubarb festival.
Unfortunately illness meant that our botanist presence was significantly reduced and apart from an odd ragwort and a hawthorn in surprisingly early leaf little of botanical interest was noted although we did record a few fungi including jelly ear and blushing bracket.
Morrison’s, who had provided toilet facilities before departure were rewarded with our custom after the walk for cups of tea and buns which rounded off an interesting walk in unusual territory and a successful start to the 2016 BEES season, despite the mud!
Many thanks to driver Sue and good luck with your appeal against the parking ticket!
See more of today's pics here.
Stuart