by Lawrence Bland
The planned hike to the Kellets was postponed until later in the year, after heavy morning rain delayed the 10am start, and it was still raining at noon! With more heavy showers, high winds and snow on high ground forecast, three hikers decided on a shorter hike around Heysham. Catching the 3A bus to Heysham Village, the rain stopping as soon as the bus left! Walking down to the Royal, a new manager , but six real ales on, being a Michell’s pub, three York, Eboracum, Guzzler & Centurion’s Ghost Ale, guest beer was Lancaster Blonde, with regulars Black Sheep & Old Speckled Hen. Walking past St.Peter’s Church and St.Patrick’s Chapel, over Chapel Hill towards Half Moon Bay and Money Close Lane to the Duke of Rothesay. Another Mitchell’s pub, it was Sunday, so it was Carvery day, the pub was quite quiet , I think the rain had but people off from venturing out. Wells Bombardier and Lancaster Blonde, which was in excellent condition. On to Old Hall via Lea Lane, only Tetley Bitter was on, the guest Lancaster Blonde had run out, we were compensated by being given a free meat & potato pie with roast potatoes. Suitable refreshed we continued to the Strawberry Gardens, of course these days there are no gardens or strawberries! Black Sheep, Lancaster Blonde (again) and Theakston’s Bitter being available. And then bus 2A back to Lancaster.