Midge Walkers

Walk No.  175

Much Hoole Ramble

Our group of 6 was a little smaller than usual due to a Church Carol Singing event, Christmas Working and sickness. Setting off from Much Hoole St Michaels Church we were taken by the tower mounted sun dial clock which was a delight to see. After following Liverpool Road for a while, we ducked through the hedgerow onto a pathway crossing a few stiles, bridges, fields and what was the West Lancs Railway, we reached Marsh Lane and turned left passing the ancient Lower Marsh Farm, where we had an intellectual lesson on differing brick laying methods. Our next point of interest was a bunch of well-looked-after very young friendly calves. Upon reaching the now grassed over disguised refuse tip we encountered deep, slippery mud and some more stiles, this was all worth it as we had splendid views of the Marshes, River Douglas and Hesketh Bank Marina. We now joined the remains of the WLR track until reaching the site of the once majestic Railway Swing Bridge that was required to permit Schooners through. After a very brief refreshment break, we followed the Douglas to Tarleton Lock and then over our final stile to Old Liverpool Rd and returning to our starting point. The weather had been very bright and pleasant, though our route was a touch too muddy and slippy. We all enjoyed our slip sloppy outing.

Report by Rodney Swarbrick