 |
Men of Moulton Church Walking Group
|
After a few late withdrawals thirteen willing and able Brothers gathered for the Moulton Church annual walk. Leaving the church we made our way up the A43 to New Lodge Farm for a hearty breakfast to set us op for the treck ahead. A fine breakfast it was too, just what the Doctor ordered. Thankfully the anticipated 'heatwave' isn't due to arrive until after the weekend. Records for June temperatures are expected to be broken. Today it is a little overcast and humidity isn't too bad. Excellent walking conditions really. Leaving New Lodge Farm we turn right, heading in the direction of Laxton.
 |
| Looking back to Laxton |
We are seven miles east of Corby in Northamptonshire. Over to our left behind the trees lies The church, dedicated to All Saints, largely rebuilt in 1867 but retaining a late 13th-century tower. Laxton looks a nice place to live , the village Green has a beautiful Copper Beech Tree. We are just passing through though today as we head towards the woods. We do pass the Grade II listed Laxton Hall which seems to bee holding a Fete or something similar. We pick up one of the trails running through 'Wood Hollow' as we head towards Wakerley Great Wood. It is part of what is still known as Rockingham Forest. Some 593 acres of ancient woodland. It is actually one of the oldest forests in England. We wind our way through the Larch Trees stopping briefly to take on much needed fluids. It is fairly easy walking and very dry underfoot. There are a few Mountain Bikers too, they are polite and give us room to pass. I had heard that the bikes had taken over but that certainly wasn't the case today. We cross over the A43 for a comfort break at Top Lodge Fineshade Wood.
 |
|
We pass close to the site of Fineshade Abbey. First a Norman Castle, then an Augustinian Priory the building was demolished in 1956. A beautiful house lies across the valley, and some other building work is taking place. We find a shady spot and Rev Nick Alexander gives a reading from Psalm 121. The Psalm starts "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help”.It is also possible that it was sung by Pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem. It has also been called a 'Soldiers Song' and a 'travellers hymn'. It feels very appropriate for our walk today. In the background several Highland Cattle nod as if in approval.
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
Leaving the woods behind we walk downhill towards Blatherwycke Lake. It has been a great opportunity to chat with people that you previously haven't. Being outside in nature and talking is a fundamental of good mental health. The lake lies along the Willow Brook and is part of the
broader Blatherwycke Estate. It was dug by hand in the mid-19th century,
it is the largest man-made lake in the county.(58 acre body of water).
 |
Blatherwycke Lake
|
A few of us are regretting wearing shorts... the thick long grass and fields of corn are playing havoc with the skin. Resisting the temptation to scratch is the hard part. A short road stretch and we are in the village. There is a beautiful pond literally buzzing with insect life.
The lovely 'Holy Trinity' church dates back to the 12th century. It stands in the grounds of the now demolished Blatherwycke Hall. The village was immortalised in song by the Comedian 'John Shuttleworth' (Graham Fellows). Apparently noticing the name on a road sign, and then lamenting an opportunity missed to visit. We are nearing the end of the walk now and thoughts are starting to turn to the big Rugby match this afternoon. Several potential walkers have made a pilgrimage of their own to Twickenham. The home of English Rugby where Northampton Saints will be looking to defeat Exeter Chiefs and secure the Premiership crown. .
Walk completed and shade is sought back at New Lodge Farm .It has been a really enjoyable walk with plenty of interest. Everyone has made it back safely , if a little be itchy and bitten. Nothing that won't soon heal at least.
According to my Strava App the walk in total was a fraction over 9 miles. Well done all !
No comments:
Post a Comment