June 27th Leisurely

Wednesday, 27th June 2012

Walk:	Johnsons Hillock, Lower Copthurst, Top O’th Lane, Denham Quarry, Whittle Spinney and Whittle Hills.
Start Point:	Malthouse Farm	Grid Reference:	SD 591 203
Distance:	5 miles	Ascent:	600 feet
Time:	3 hours
Weather:	Very humid
Comments:	Many people arrived prepared for rain but because of the warmth and humidity they were soon discarding attire. Not all of it! Joining the Leeds to Liverpool Canal the group were led by Len and his co-leaders Christine and Alan in the Leeds direction to climb a flight of locks to pass Top Lock Bridge. Shortly after Top Lock Bridge the group left the canal to climb to Denham Hill to reach the quarry for elevenses. People had the option of doing a bit of rock climbing or abseiling but everyone opted for a coffee break instead. Leaving the quarry, Len led the group towards Whittle le Woods. This being an elevated part of the walk it offered views over the Fylde, north towards Morecambe Bay and the Welsh Hills to the east. At Whittle le Woods the group were able to view some old millstones and were told about the remains of part of a canal that was intended to connect the Leeds Liverpool Canal to the Lancaster Canal at Preston. On route there was plenty of Elder flower giving off its sweet aroma and begging to be turned into wine. Due to recent heavy rain the path on the later part of the walk proved to be muddy in parts. This together with overhanging vegetation caused a bit of hilarity among the group. On the last leg of the walk the group re-joined the canal tow path returning to Malthouse Farm for lunch. Another enjoyable walk. Thank you leaders.