Just visible in the clouds on Shap are today's squad - Support driver Des with walkers Graham and myself.
In desperation for a photo opportunity we resorted to one of me with Penrith in the distance.
One of the heavy showers that we managed to avoid today - certainly not by judgement!We started today at the top of the Shap incline which was covered in cloud. There was a slight drizzle which fortunately never became any heavier. We later found out that for the second day running that Penrith had had torrential rain which flooded some buildings and was lifting man hole covers.
We avoided the A6 as much as possible and found some very good footpaths. We rejoined the A6 just short of the village of Shap after passing through a quarry. At the quarry we met a worker and expected the usual "good morning" - instead he said in a jocular manner "watch out the lunatics are about" - considering the weather at the time he may well have had a point!
We reached our target of Penrith (17.5 miles) after a pleasant walk mainly on quiet country lanes or footpaths. It was quite a good birdwatching day in terms of the number of species seen rather than seeing lots of new species. I did however see a first for the trip - lesser whitethroat. Finding this took Graham and I some time as it is a secretive bird hiding away in the vegetation.
Tomorrow Graham and I hope to reach the outskirts of Carlisle - ready to cross the border on Wednesday. Graham is planning to walk for a total of 4 days with me. This was originally supposed to be along the West Highland Way, but due to my change in schedule he has joined me for a few days where the scenery will not be quite as attractive. I perhaps should not pre-judge this issue and certainly today the countryside was very attractive.
To answer Adrian's question my feet are still in excellent condition. My shins are still holding up but I am ensuring that I do not do too much. I am however optimistic that I will be able to nurse them to JOG. More questions and comments are welcome!
Today's KBW's are :-
Graham - Services to walking in the cloud and rain
Des - Support driver and wife minding
"If you want to forget all your other troubles - wear too tight shoes" - The Houghton Line
Cheers
Keith
