KNACKER CHAV - BA!

The March march started from Revack and was organised by Dave and Sandra. There were a few people missing due to various other commitments, so it was a small but hardy band that set off on what looks like a cool and sunny morning. They left from the Smokehouse near Achnagonalin, just outside Grantown on Spey. I cannot find a meaning for Achnagonalin, you will be glad to know.

Dave tried vainly to get them to look at the sign that said the walk was only just over 4 miles. They did not believe him.

So, he tried a less confrontational pose when they got to the sign that said the walk had now increased in length.

Even the toads thought he was being fast and loose with the truth.

They kept on going nonetheless.

They came upon a little fishery, but not having a decent rod between them had to carry on.

They spotted a duck of indeterminate species and wished so hard that Bob and Sharon from the Young Ornithologist Trust had been there to help them with identification.

Pam got brave and stood next to a fence, behind which were some cows lying down.

The path was sponsored by Rothiemoon Farm. The Dinosaurs were sponsored by Age Concern.

A wee bothy.

Robin, the gentleman let the ladies go first, just in case there was a hidden danger.

A long view to the hills and the photographer has cleverly used the pylon and the electricity lines to draw your eye to the far distance.

A  table in the woods draws there attention, but it is too soon for lunch.

On the other hand it is never too early for Dave to practise his cue action.

What to do now - Shooting in Progress - says the sign. Those wearing bright colours would clearly make the easiest targets.

So, Janet and Sandra were sent off in front, to scout things out.

They seemed to be OK....

....and had made it to a sign of civilisation, well at least a sign of Nethybridge.

Suitably reassured, the rest of them followed on.

Just to be sure, they went in Indian file. Of course, that should be First Nation's file, because they are not really Indians.

I am guessing that Hugh had a Bridge Camera with him.

They don't really look any better close up.

This reminds me of a walk we did at Glenlivet, if not a bit firmer underfoot.

A Birch tree.

A bit of a slope, which probably means nobody had the breath or the interest to notice the Juniper, which we all know is an indicator of ancient semi-natural woodland.

Janet was not long back from her skiing holiday and still had all the moves.

They were fairly striding along by the dyke here. It must have been getting close to lunch and they were in a bit of a hurry.

Sure enough, picnic time.

Hmm a bit of a blasted heath, like something out of The Road.

A bit of a slower pace after lunch.

Mac and Janet upset Dave by asking just how much further they have to go.

Not much kissing in evidence at this gate.

The three wise men try to decide which way to go now.

At this point Dave notices the sign at the house advertising a camp site. He sparks a full scale rebellion when he suggests they spend the night under the stars.

They walk off quickly, Dave still pleading with them to be more adventurous.

Eventually, they make up and stop by a bend in the river. There is still a bit of distance between Dave and the others, though.

An unsullied bend in the river.

Aah. Pam's best friends.

Dave chases the cows away.

Then brings up the rear in case an errant bovine decides this is red rag it sees before it.

Back to the cars.

Oh dear! The gates are shut, how will they get out?

Sandra breaks the lock. I have sent this photo to the police and she can expect a call any day now.

Time for tea.

Oh how happy they all look. Sandra has even managed to look innocent.

It looks like they had a good time and well done to Dave and Sandra for getting them there and back in one piece.

Thanks to Hugh for the excellent photographic account of the walk.