Local Walk : Crimble Area : Thurs 16th June 10.30am: Sonia Allen & Gavin Ashworth
We shall meet at 10.30am at the top of Chadwick Lane, Heywood OL10 1QL which is off the A58 Heywood/Rochdale Rd (OS map ref is SD865108) where the footpath begins. Park anywhere on the road, but there is usually more room at the top. We shall be walking up the valley alongside Chadwick Lane as far as the golf course, where the path turns back to meet the lane… (optional walk across golf course). From the lane, follow footpath over to Francil farm, then along to Chamber Hall wood (good trees). Follow the footpaths to cross the Rochdale/Heywood Rd, and through the cemetery… down the footpath at the far side into the Roch Valley ‘Crimble’ area. Walk along valley, see new pond and meadow, and eventually back up to Chadwick Lane. There should be plenty of insects and birds, but remember that June is the ‘dull’ month between early butterflies and the later ones emerging… and also that the birds are busy nesting and rearing young, so less obvious with less singing. It will be very weather-dependent of course. Nevertheless, the area is obviously rich in wildlife with different habitats and a visit any time of the year can be rewarding. NOTE: It will be a SLOW ramble. If you require a lift from the Manchester Rd cul-de-sac, please email rfnspublicity@gmail.com or contact Jan on 07982417672 several days in advance and we will try to arrange something.