Reedley Hallows 23-08-2026 Leader Roy

On a beautiful, warm morning 18 of us met at the top of Higham Hall Road to start on what was a typical Roy walk.

Crossing the road, we struck south to the river Calder and then turned east on the Pendle Way. 6 buzzards greeted us as we came to a clearing, but there were plenty of swallows by the river. Snipper Steve employed his secateurs on the next section heading towards the M65.

At this point, Roy deviated from the usual route and headed off towards the allotments and a dog agility ground. Snipper Steve was in his element – sadly not before succumbing to recalcitrant brambles that came back to bite him – and we went up by the side of Greenhead Manor looking enviously at the couple sat outside enjoying a brew. Our break came a little later as we managed to find a clearing in the balsam to have our lunch.

We enjoyed the sunshine for a bit longer than usual,  before continuing north up Spurn Clough towards Fence. Finally we had a decent track, but it was up and felt more up as it got hot and one or two of us needed water. At Higher Fencegate Farm we hit the road and turned back towards Higham, enjoying the sight of the goat proudly standing on his picnic table.

We walked along the pleasant country road, mildly disturbed by 2 cyclists, but again Roy had found a path less well travelled as we headed down towards Bank House, Guide Lane and Higher White Lee and back to the cars in good time.

Was it typical of Roy? There was no mud, but as a great ambassador for keeping footpaths in use, he’d found paths that aren’t usually taken, so yes! Unfortunately, it’s the time of year for brambles, nettles, and the pesky Himalayan balsam, and it makes summer walks more challenging.

Importantly, we’d all enjoyed ourselves…. and had the opportunity to chat while Steve was busy!

Many thanks to Steve D for his fabulous photos and to Sue for magnificent back marking.

Write up: Gill

 

Slideshow below but if you wish to see a static view of all the pics in one go, then click here