A GROUP of 33 people from Vale Royal and Knutsford Ramblers joined the coach to Edale with shorts much in evidence and the over powering aroma of sun cream.

The D party alighted before Edale enabling them to make a short climb to reach Rushup Edge with fine views and sunshine for most of their walk along the edge and over Mam Tor.

They descended from Hollins Cross to Upper Booth and arrived back in Edale along the Pennine way after 7.5 miles and a few hundred feet of ascent.

The rest of the group alighted at Edale and the C party, led by David Eyes, set off along the North side of the valley to Jaggers Clough. From there they walked around Lose Hill, passing beneath the summit to reach the Great Ridge. A magnificent airy walk brought them to Hollins Cross, an easy descent and well earned refreshment after 8.5 miles in the sunshine.

The A and B groups walked the classic Edale skyline circuit. Karen Midgeley took the A group to Hollins Cross. From there they followed the skyline around the valley over Mam Tor, Rushup Edge, Brown Knoll and the south rim of the Kinder Plateau before descending from Ringing Roger after 14 miles with 2,500ft of ascent.

Steve McCandless took the B group on a similar route, joining it at Rushup Edge. This gave his group time to relax and enjoy the scenery and sunshine on the magnificent high level traverse. They returned to Edale by the same route after 11 miles with 2,000ft of ascent.

Their summer meal was taken at the Bulls Head in Castleton where they were joined by some old friends. It was a perfect end to a fantastic day out in the hills. Many thanks to the leaders and coach organisers for making it happen.

Why not join them on our next trip to Sedbergh, Cumbria on Sunday, July 20. Phone Barbara Ward for details 01565 651765. Pick-up points at Knutsford, Northwich, Weaverham and Frodsham.

Alan Milligan