The forecast for the day was wind and rain with a deep low over the country. Luckily the day started with bright sunshine. About 150 walkers and runners took part is this 26 mile event. The route passes through some of the most lovely scenery on the western edge of the Peak District. We set off from Meerbrook Village Hall and headed along the Leek Road next to Tittesworth Reservoir. After a short distance the route turned left to pass North Hillswood Farm and on to the highest point at 259 metres. The path then dropped down to Abbey Green passing the Abbey Inn. After crossing the road we continued over fields down to Tessenderlo Fine Chemicals Factory. We then walked a short way up the A523 to take a path on the left which went via a disused railway and the River Churnet. Eventually we arrived in Rudyard and then followed the Staffordshire Way next to Rudyard Reservoir. The scenery was lovely during this part of the walk.

The first checkpoint was in the car park at the northern end of Rudyard Reservoir. After a short refreshment break we followed the disused railway and then fields to Rushton Spencer. The sun had disappeared now and the skies started to look a bit black. At least it was not raining yet. We walked up Sugar Street out of Rushton Specer and eventually came to the Dane Valley Way which we followed to Danebridge then other paths and tracks to Wildboarclough and Checkpoint 2. It was now raining and becoming quite windy. There was a lovely feast of food awaiting us at the village hall including grapefruit segments and oatcakes as well as lots of savouries and drinks. It was a wecome break.

I decided (due to the deteriorating weather conditions) to follow the short route to Gradbach. The main route went to Three Shires Head and there was an optional extra to climb Shutlingsloe. After arriving at the Youth Hostel at Gradbach I decided to visit the third Checkpoint at Gradbach Car Park. The route follows the main path through Back Forest to Roach End. It was now pouring with rain and very windy. The ascent of The Roaches was not an easy one. Walking along the ridge was very difficult and it was hard not to be blown over. I descended near Rockhall and passed Hen Cloud. It was then across several fields back to Meerbrook Village Hall. A interesting day in varying weather conditions. Throughout the walk the paths and tracks were very muddy and boggy and in places very slippery - making walking very slow and difficult.