Why we do recces

I’m leading a walk for the Intermediates next week and today was the day I set aside to check the route.

My blip was taken just after I parked in Birtley Village. The light was very attractive.

There were a number of problems on the route (see first in the extra). There were gates tied shut with bailer twine. I would have needed a knife to release them. One stile was missing a rung high up and it was not safe.

To balance the several problems, it was a glorious day and the wildflowers in the Countesspark Woods were breathtaking. The bluebells are hanging on, along with the wild garlic. There are newcomers like yellow pimpernel and wood sanicle.

My 7 mile route worked out at 10 miles, by the time I had found my way, climbed gates (two too many) and crossed a river bed with slippery stones.

Another route now has to be checked this week.

I made it back to the car. Suet pellets had arrived, so my blackbirds were very happy tonight.