Lady Bagot's Drive With St. Christopher's Blessing 4th October 2007

The Clwydian Hills.

Dave J and memories of a close encounter on a windy day .

Walk stats: Distance: 12.5 miles; Climb: 607'.
Time: 5 hours 48 minutes; Walking average: 2.6 m.p.h.; Overall walk average: 2.2 m.p.h.
Group: Martyn, Richard, Annie H and Dave J.

This was a very pleasant walk in almost perfect walking weather, a marked contrast to the last time when gale force winds were blowing and in one place we had to wade through a flooded river section. The only inconvenient part of the walk was the need to go around the outside of a very large field to avoid crossing the field that was in the process of being ploughed/planted. We visited St. Saeran's church with its medieval painting and and the door with it's ancient graffiti. The views of the Clwydian Hills were outstanding bathed in glorious sunshine with blue skies above. The Clywedog and Clwyd rivers tumbled alongside lady Bagot's Drive and then meandered gracefully through the Vale of Clwyd, but without evidence of Salmon leaping (the water wasn't deep enough yet).
It was claimed that a Natterjack toad was seen on the walk! Trout were seen in the River Clwyd.
Birds seen or heard included: Buzzard, Carrion crow, Jackdaw, Robin, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Grey wagtail, Dipper, Blue tit, Great tit and Long-tailed tit.
The resident Ruthin itinerant was again spotted, this time resting beside the River Clwyd. On the final part of the walk we were entertained by two model aeroplane enthusiasts.
Refreshments were enjoyed at the Glasfryn. Its roaring fire was perhaps a little unnecessary on this occasion, but it won't be long before it will be added bonus!