We walked a local, 3.5 mile circular route from the Kaye Arms pub near Grange Moor, across the pretty Thornhill valley to the village of Briestfield.
Although some paths were muddy and the fields sodden after this winter’s rain, we enjoyed a dry but windy day of blue skies and sunshine, which enhanced the beautiful views across to Thornhill Edge and beyond.
Along our way, we met a skilled craftsman who is slowly rebuilding the 18th century stone walls which have collapsed over the centuries, as weathering and invasive plant roots have taken their toll.
He explained the extent of his task, starting with removing all traces of the vegetation which had grown through the stonework, before reconstructing the wall with a combination of rocks salvaged from the fallen wall and new stone. His progress is slow but steady and the finished article is a wonderful testimony to his skill.
As we climbed the long hill back to our start point, welcome signs of spring were evident in the forget-me-nots, cow slips and early bluebells growing in the verges.
By then, we had all worked up an appetite for a very enjoyable lunch at the pub.
Words and pictures kindly provided by Ruth Rothwell who also organised the day!
