Sunday's walk was an extra six-miler led by Tom to take advantage of the autumn sunshine and to show support for the Swan pub in Kettleshule recently taken over by the locals after a threatened closure.

We began at Higher Poynton, a former mining area that now enjoys a pleasant pathway along the former railway line. The bus threaded its way through Cheshire lanes lined with golden and red trees on a beautiful clear autumn day with views across the Cheshire Plain towards Manchester airport and Merseyside.

We began the walk through fields and riding schools heading towards the distant ridge that dominated the skyline marvelling at the colours of the leaves and berries. We then began a long, steady climb along the edge of Lyme Park until we met the Gritstone Trail at the top of the ridge - the weather men had got it right again and by now there was a very strong and cold wind blowing. We began a sharp descent down an old green lane (pack horse trail?) to a derelict mill and cottages in the village of Kettleshulme - a relic of its early industrial past.

We then entered the village itself and the welcoming atmosphere of The Swan - a lovely stone pub with a welcoming fire, three real ales and an attractive menu with dishes that were really well presented. In fact the food attracts large numbers of customers for sunday lunch and it was very crowded.

We still had time to spare before the doomed 60 bus arrived so we popped into the Bulls Head, a short walk up the road from The Swan. Again there was a roaring fire, a beautiful stone-flagged interior and a large sofa and easy chairs in front of the fire. No food but three good real ales.

A return visit must be on the next programme.

Another journey on the threatened 60 bus route!

Sunday October 12th, we set out on a bright, mild autumn day encouraged by the number of other users on this maligned route. But as the bus climbed into the hllls, the clouds darkened and heavy rain started to fall. But we alighted at Kettleshulme and there met Tony and Mavis, intrepid souls who thought the published walk was for wussies only and had already walked from the Cat & Fiddle adding another six miles to their jaunt.
We headed up onto Taxal Edge and made our way to Fernilee reservoir, doubling back from the dam on the other side of the valley eventually dropping down into Whaley Bridge - and the welcome glow of an open fire in the wonderful stone-flagged pub The Sheperds Arms - and an excellent pint of Snowy Peak, from the Red Brick brewery.