Members:  Jim Gregson, Sandy Gregson, John Castick, Virginia Castick, Alan (Liv) Jones, Dave Shotton, Kate Harvey, LesterPayne.

Meet Leader:  LesterPayne

    Rain fell steadily as we walked through mixed woodland, now clad in the golden brown colours of autumn, we arrived at the Pinetum, created by Nort West Water Authority, in November 1993, when 30 Giant Redwood trees were planted & now growing well & over 60foot tall, having been planted in memory of past club member Alan Payne.

    Steeper paths & terraces now led up & onto Rivington Pike, were we paused briefly for lunch, by the Tower, usually noted for the extensive views over the West Penine Moors, Lancashire, & the hills of North Wales, the Lake District Fells & Isle of Man, 

   Continuing rain forced a change in the route plan, & leaving Winter Hill shrouded in mist, we descended via Belmont Road to the Dove Cote or "Pigeon Tower" returning through the terraced paths of the Japanese Gardens of Lever Park,for afternoon Tea at the Visitor Information Centre Cafe. 

   Many thanks to all who  came & enjoyed an excellent walk for a short wet winter day.