Sunday's walk was an addition to the original published programme, a gentle walk from Sutton Lane Ends to Gawsworth with the intention of aiding the local economy with a drink at the Harrington Arms, Gawsworth's fabled hostelry.

Les had intended to lead the walk but a bereavement made this impossible and all joined in sending deepest sympathy to Les and Pat for their sad loss.

Nick assured everyone that he had studied the Ordnance Survey map but after two circuits of the school playground and helpful (but in the event wasted) advice from two passers-by it became clear that he hadn't the faintest idea where the path actually started.

It was here that Mavis' studies in assertiveness and deportment at the Gengis Khan Academy became obvious as she shouldered Nick out of the way and strode purposefully off in the opposite direction. Gingerly picking himself up nursing his shoulder and pride Nick suggested everyone try to keep up with Mavis.

Once on the path however Nick recovered his dignity and the walk proper began in bright sunshine along the feeder that starts from the River Bollin nearby and keeps the Sutton reservoir in water - hardly required at all following the recent rainfall as the reservoir was completely full (see the photo gallery for this and other photographs).

From the reservoir, we crossed the road and footbridge over the canal and headed along the towpath towards the wonderful wildlife haven Danes Moss. This is a former peat bog that is no longer exploited and has become a wonderful environment for waterfowl, other birds and insects.

From Danes Moss, we picked out way over the fields towards Gawsworth, as ever with quickening step as the thoughts of refreshment spurred our energies. We reached the Harrington Arms almost at a sprint and discovered - it was closed!!

The walk was ending with the same smooth efficiency with which it began - but worse was to come! We were 10 minutes early for the bus and stood in the drizzle in anticipation of a warm welcome as we clambered aboard - but 15 minutes later there was no sign of the bus, 20 minutes .. 25 minutes later the bus sped around the corner and the driver almost resented picking us up as he had to catch up on his schedule.

So all ended safely but a petition is anticipated that Nick lead no more walks - at least not without Mavis to keep an eye on him.