Sue and Martin in Mallorca 2019

Sue and Martin in Mallorca 2019
On the Archduke's Path in Mallorca

Thursday 18 June 2009

Wednesday 17 June 2009 - A Strutting Peacock in Swettenham

The expected squadron of participants for tonight's walk failed to materialise following a stormy day.  It was just Andrew and I who sat outside the Swettenham Arms with handkerchiefs soaked from swabbing the iron chairs, each with a welcome Black Sheep on the table in front of us.

By now the rain was gone and we readied ourselves for a 9 km stroll based on the DVW (Dane Valley Way), to Holmes Chapel and back. 

Setting off at 7.45, we soon encountered this fine strutting peacock, virtually blocking the lane as he tried to seduce his mate, who watched intently as we passed by, having (I think) provided an  unwelcome interruption to proceedings.

1702peacock1

1703peacock2

1704peacock3

Our route to Holmes Chapel by the south bank of the River Dane was pleasant enough, and after Holmes Chapel we enjoyed fine views towards the magnificent Victorian railway viaduct, recently re-pointed, and in use as we passed by it.

The sun then slowly drifted below the horizon, leaving a lovely sky, with lots of light to guide us back along the northern side of the Dane Valley, towards another welcome helping of Black Sheep.

1705sunset

No comments: