Culter 50+ Walking Group

THE late heavy snow caused us to cancel our first walk in Match this year but we followed that a fortnight later with a coastal walk from Gourdon to Benholm Mill, returning on the "high" farm track, which we found to be still deep in snow. Much laughter could be heard as we slithered our wav to the bottom.

April found us nearer home at the Mulloch, followed by another coastal walk at Forvie Nature reserve. The coastal path there was excellent and the views superb.

The weather was not being kind to us and stayed that way for the rest of our walks during May and June. Dare I tempt fate by saving that it is a long time since we have had to don all the waterproof gear and trudge, head down, for the end of the track!

Our two walks in May were to the Shooting Greens at Potarch, where the geans were in full bloom, arid then a delightful walk from Drumoak to Crathes, taking the railway line  on the way out and the river path an our return.

On a hot June day we drove into the Forest of Birse up to Birse Kirk walked part of the Fungle, going towards Aboyne. We all enjoyed spending a short time at the Kirk, Finally in June we walked very near home, from St Peter's car park to Dalmaik Church and back and followed that walk with a new venture for us - summer lunch - at the Garlogie Inn.

We walk every second Thursday throughout the year and this year we have been delighted to welcome new members but we still have one or two seats empty on the bus so, if anyone would like to come along, please get in touch with our Secretary/Treasurer Kate Thomson (phone 01224 811275).

Included in our walks for July and August are The Bullars of Buchan, Upper Denburn in Aberdeen and the Seven Bridges at Ballater. Our walk are usually fairly flat, averaging about 5 or 6 miles. We are a sociable bunch and visit one of our many favourite coffee shops before we start walking.

Ethel Taylor