A huge turnout of thirty walkers and one dog met at Coal Aston Village Hall on a bright and breezy autumn morning. We set off following the Dronfield Barn Round Walk through the fields and into Cook Spring Wood. After passing through the pasture known as “Dowey Lumb” Adrian, our leader, decided not to carry on along the valley owing to a tricky water crossing. Instead we continued on the Round Walk over the footbridge and up the steps, making our way to the Rotary bench. This was a lovely spot to have a break and enjoy the view. I did attempt to take a group photo but after seeing it on my computer I realised that I had cut off a few people and the lighting wasn’t very good.
Carrying on uphill we met Owler Car Lane, turning left downhill to meet the ford in the valley. It was just shallow enough so many of the group decided to go through the ford rather than tackle the stile and footbridge. Just before reaching Povey farm we took a track on the right leading to the bottom edge of Ryall’s Wood. The path turns into an enclosed track known as “Doe Lane” which is a slow, steady uphill route leading all the way to the main road through Troway. Before entering the wood we stopped for a second break, making use of a pile of logs to sit on.
Our homeward leg of the walk took us through the wood back to Sicklebrook Lane. On reaching Eckington road we reflected on how lovely the walk had been. Many thanks to Adrian for leading us round.
