No Snow at Gretna

Only 1 photo today as my camera has packed up and then my phone run out of power 2 minutes after this photo was taken. Tom reckoned we should head for Longtown as there would be no snow there and in Langholm there was at least 3" last night. On our way there we decided to go to Gretna instead and by the time we arrived the snow had gone but was replaced by heavy rain and a biting cold wind. We did manage to do 6 miles but it was not the best walk we have done but its still a walk and we finished with afternoon coffee and cake at Canonbie Community Cafe so that was very acceptable as was the price of £5 for both of us. My new cheap pocket camera arrives tomorrow so hopefully there should be plenty of photographs again soon. 

Gretna Walk to Redkirk and the Shore

Today's walk took us to Gretna and along an old B road to the village of Redkirk where we walked along a country lane down to the Solway shore. We were fortunate to meet Dougie Norden an old school friend of John and myself and he kindly took this photo of the four of us. Peter is putting a brave face on but he has a problem with his knee and was in a lot of pain during the walk but soldiered on like the brave trooper he is. 

Tom goes to great lengths to tell us about this area behind the fence which used to be where the Council recycled rubbish when he worked for them. As usual his commentary was listened to by the 3 of us but not taken in.  

The river Kirtle

A lovely country lane leading to the seashore 

A flock of Geese passing overhead.

Normally at this time of year this lane would be very muddy but the ground was dry and it was a pleasure to walk along it. 

Peter & Tom bringing up the rear

It was difficult walking along the shore and got considerably worse for a short section of the shore when we had to scramble along a very rocky foreshore. 

It looks easy walking but you had to watch where you put your feet as there were many holes and ditches you could fall into. 

Tom scrambling under a barbed wire fence. Once upon a time we would just jump over them but not now. It was a most enjoyable walk and after we finished we headed to Whitsheils Cafe in Langholm for a late lunch. 

Starlings over Gretna