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    A  more local walk than many of our regular Sunday destinations, 11 members plus 2 from Leek Ramblers gathered in the pleasant sunshine at Danebridge for the start of this 8.8 mile walk, initially along the Dane Valley Way, a long distance path running for 48 miles from the Pavilion Gardens in Buxton to the river's confluence with the Weaver in Northwich. Our route took us through the wooded, sometimes dramatic section of the path up to Gradbach Mill and Greensitch where we left the tree cover behind for the rest of the day, although, with occasional cloud and a welcome breeze, the temperatures never proved challenging.

    The pathways over to Goldsitch Moss and up Black Brook appear to be seldom walked which is a pleasant surprise given the vast numbers of people who flock to these parts every weekend. For that reason, we took the opportunity to grab lunch below The Roaches School before emerging into the busier areas at Roach End. Taking the lower path below the ridge past Clough Head, we eventually climbed back onto the ridge with superb views on all sides before descending past the impressive Hanging Stone. We then had a leisurely stroll back past Park House to Danebridge where most of our party indulged in a restorative glass or two at the Wincle Brewery.

Brian McMahon