Today's walk in beautiful Bransdale followed a clip I had filed from The Darlington & Stockton Times of 29th August 2003 - yes, 20 years ago. Twelve of us enjoyed spectacular views, glorious heather and such wonderful peace. From Cockayne and its tiny chuch of St Nicholas at the head of the dale, we ventured south passing the impressive nineteenth century cornmill complete with inscription in Hebrew, Latin and Greek, by one-time owner and scholar, Rev William Strickland. A varied walk through pasture, woodland, along the Hodge Beck and, of course, through the heather, its beautiful scent wafting in the air. Lunch was a picnic in glorious sunshine at the ruined Stork House on a hillside with superb views.
Caroline Stott