Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more
Outdoor Activities => Northern Ireland Camping and Bushcraft => Topic started by: RedLeader on January 17, 2010
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On the weekend of 23/24 January 2010 we will be having an overnight camp in Donard Forest
In order to satisfy all demands for excitement and exercise we will be coming in several groups. One group will leave from Meelmore Lodge taking the route through Hares Gap and over Slievenaglogh, Slieve Corragh, Slieve Commedagh and then down the Glen River to the campsite. The 2nd group will head for the same spot coming up over Slieve Binnian, Slieve Lamagan, Cove and Slieve Beg. Anyone who doesn't fancy a walk can come straight up from Donard car park.
NB - A 3rd easier walk is also possible starting at Meelmore Lodge coming up Hares Gap and along the Brandy Pad (missing Slievenaglogh, Corragh and Commedagh) and down by the Glen River between Donard and Commedagh.
The plan is for some rest and relaxation and a bit of craic the around the campfire. Allcomers are welcome both for the walks over and/or the overnight camp.
I've attached a route from Meelmore to Donard Forest if anyone doesn't know it.
I have now attached what I think the route from Annalong to Donard will be assuming a route straight down the Glen River.
Final Plans
We're all meeting at Meelmore Lodge secure car park at 9am on Saturday morning.
Definites
Me
Billy_Backpack
666_Pack
chris_8764
Ulsterwalker (+1 for the walk)
Simon
Suspectmonkey (+1 for the walk)
Spark
Possibles
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Lol i think I shoud get a stamp.... In
Sein as were were all ready for a 40miler, how about an early(ish) start and some sort of activity? Could be a chance for that group of us to bruch up on our photography skills or something?
(and early-ish doesn't have to be 9am just time enough to give us some day light!)
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Lol i think I shoud get a stamp.... In
Sein as were were all ready for a 40miler, how about an early(ish) start and some sort of activity? Could be a chance for that group of us to bruch up on our photography skills or something?
(and early-ish doesn't have to be 9am just time enough to give us some day light!)
I'm game. What sort of activity are you thinking of?
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annalong horseshoe. start at carrick little, binnian, lamagan, cove and beg. donard, rocky andback to annalong wood. camp somewhere in the middle.
I'm still not sure why the lecale way has been put off but this is what i think we should do instead. I think it's a waste off two days to spend it by a campfire.
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How far would that walk be?
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13 miles overall mate and a climb of 5100ft :o
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That's my goal, to be able to do walks like that. Suppose it's all about building up to it.
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I take it you're both in :D
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Unfortunately not for me Billy its my 30th b'day party on sat night but in a good way it means i'll be able to do the Lecale when new dates are organised :)
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Unfortunately the horseshoe would be a bit much for me at this point. However, I'm happy to meet at the campsite by an alternative route - its's no probs at all. Chances are in this weather for shelter, you'll want to camp at Donard Wood if possible anyway so I could meet you there. Think I'll consider coming over from the Trassey - Hares Gap, Slievenaglogh, Commedagh and down do Donard Wood. Seems like a good chance for me to try my first Mourne walk with more than one peak!
annalong horseshoe. start at carrick little, binnian, lamagan, cove and beg. donard, rocky andback to annalong wood. camp somewhere in the middle.
I'm still not sure why the lecale way has been put off but this is what i think we should do instead. I think it's a waste off two days to spend it by a campfire.
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I think a plan is forming...there is talk of doing the Devils Coachroad and stopping at Slieve Beg for the night so that wight work in with what yuor proposing so instead of dropping down to Donard Wood just follow the Brandy Pad where it intersects the coach road and on up to Beg.
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annalong horseshoe. start at carrick little, binnian, lamagan, cove and beg. donard, rocky andback to annalong wood. camp somewhere in the middle.
I'm still not sure why the lecale way has been put off but this is what i think we should do instead. I think it's a waste off two days to spend it by a campfire.
I've wanted to do this route for a while now..................................
Who's with me?
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I dunno which way to go! it seems unfair that the guys who've been on the forum for a while are beastin ahead with these walks and leaving the new guys behind, To be honest I'd rather do something that everyone can come to, i'm not tryin to cut any plans down or anything but I felt that point of this forum was to meet new people and if that means spendin a night at the fire then i'm happy enough...
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I don't think it's the case of beasting on, it's just that I had got myself geared up for something a bit more challanging than a night by the campfire and we did do that the other weekend.
If a night in donard wood goes ahead then of course I will amend my route and meet up with whoever is at the wood. I guess this will kill two birds with one stone.
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We possibly need a review of who's def going and to what extent they wish to exert themselves.
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why not do both then...we use donard wood as a base camp so that everyone can meet and then people have the option to do whatever.
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Well, as everyone knows I'm not confident enough yet to do the longer routes but I don't want to hold you game types back :) I'm honestly happy to sit this one out and let you guys get a belter in or walk a shorter route in to meet you at your overnight point.
The route I was thinking of was parking at Meelmore Lodge, up hares gap then follow the wall over Slievenaglogh, Slievecorragh and Commedagh then drop down the saddle to Donard Forest. Then reverse route home the next day (or taxi if wobbly legs :))
Also, if you were doing a route that stopped in Donard overnight then I could just come up the glen and meet you there. Is there any chance that MG could get up later in the evening?
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I don't think it's the case of beasting on, it's just that I had got myself geared up for something a bit more challanging than a night by the campfire and we did do that the other weekend.
If a night in donard wood goes ahead then of course I will amend my route and meet up with whoever is at the wood. I guess this will kill two birds with one stone.
Sounds good mate i'd be in for that.
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I'd be up for some time in the Mournes, followed by a camp in Donard Wood. Or a camp in Annalong Wood? Will be the first to admit though that the Annalong Horseshoe is a bit more than my legs can stretch to at the moment, following a particularly lazy winter on my behalf!
I like the sound of J's route as I know Meelmore/Trassey/Hares Gap but I've never been over Slievenaglogh, Slievecorragh or Commedagh. But likewise I don't want to be holding any one else back if they want to tackle more adventurous routes. But we could always have a route A and a route B for those of different abilities and meet up at the same spot for the overnight part?
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sweet. Shall we just go for that then? Half join 666pack on the horseshoe route and the others go with jonno on his, meetin up at donard forest for fun and games.
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I'd be up for some time in the Mournes, followed by a camp in Donard Wood. Or a camp in Annalong Wood? Will be the first to admit though that the Annalong Horseshoe is a bit more than my legs can stretch to at the moment, following a particularly lazy winter on my behalf!
I like the sound of J's route as I know Meelmore/Trassey/Hares Gap but I've never been over Slievenaglogh, Slievecorragh or Commedagh. But likewise I don't want to be holding any one else back if they want to tackle more adventurous routes. But we could always have a route A and a route B for those of different abilities and meet up at the same spot for the overnight part?
sounds good.
I really don't know where this notion of holding people back comes from? On these sorts of forums there are always going to differnt outlooks on route choice. I'm no super hiker by any strech but I do wanna push myself a bit harder this year as I'm sure we all do
The two route option with shared camp works for me....roll on the weekend.
The weather is lookin in our favour.
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100118/06/123/ukprec.png)
So with two route sorted there no reason for a big turn out for the overnight camp.
all aboard
(http://www.mysmiley.net/imgs/smile/party/party0028.gif)
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sweet. Shall we just go for that then? Half join 666pack on the horseshoe route and the others go with jonno on his, meetin up at donard forest for fun and games.
Sounds like a plan - Me and SuspectM could come from Meelmore and you chaps can come the hard way :)
Would it be feasible to get all the way from Carrick Little to Donard Wood in a day?
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Sounds like a plan - Me and SuspectM could come from Meelmore and you chaps can come the hard way :)
Would it be feasible to get all the way from Carrick Little to Donard Wood in a day?
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I don't see any reason why it wouldn't be achievable. What is the plan for the return leg are we all going to retrace our routes ?
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We can either go back over Commedagh or just follow the Brandy Pad to Meelomore. You chaps can either follow on round the the Horseshoe or go back the hard way over the Coachroad.
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I didnt mean it like that mate, I just ment that some people seemed to be put off by the bigger hike. But with this two route option there's no excuse and even if you dont fancy a walk but a bit of a camp by the fire then everyone knows where we'll be. In fairness things like this will only work if people come, no point in it turning out to be one person doin a rout and camping by themselves or somethin!
Anyway I'm lookin forward to this now!
who's in for the bigger hike? how about a little kit prep?
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I think I've finally gotten my gear down to the <14kg area. Hopefully around 12 and 2 of that is the needlessly heavy rucksack.
Mine will likely be:
Hike Lite Pro
Alpkit Pipedream 600
Wee Airic mat + foam mat
Hunka bivvy
Mini Trangia
Berghaus Paclite
Windproof fleece
Down gilet
Hat, gloves and buff
Spare thermal baselayers + microfleece + socks + waterproof troos
Head torch / First Aid Kit / Spork / Cup / 1L Sigg / GPS / Map / Compass
Drinkies of some sort (winter warmer!)
Food probably pasta'n'sauce + some sort of cooked meat. Not sure about breakfast yet.
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I think I've finally gotten my gear down to the <14kg area. Hopefully around 12 and 2 of that is the needlessly heavy rucksack.
Mine will likely be:
Hike Lite Pro
Alpkit PD 600
Wee Airic mat + foam mat
Hunka bivvy
Mini Trangia
Berghaus Paclite
Windproof fleece
Down gilet
Hat, gloves and buff
Spare thermal baselayers + microfleece + socks + waterproof troos
Head torch / FAK / Spork / Cup / 1L Sigg / GPS / Map / Compass
Food probably pasta'n'sauce + some sort of cooked meat. Not sure about breakfast yet.
You could prob get away with out those if you wanted.
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Fair points. With the mat I've been using self inflaters that weigh 1kg. I got the Airic at 494g but I'm not totally convinced it will be comfy enough so I'm bringing the foam one to use beneath. Is only 154g so I think it's worth the experiment. As far as the Trangia goes, watching you guys cooking in minutes while I fecked about with pots on the fire made me promise I would never leave the house again without at least a lightweight cooking system. Not even to go down the shops :)
The bivvy I just feel safer carrying incase I get into trouble or get a leaky tent.
What's your list - you travel pretty light don't you?
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Fair points. With the mat I've been using self inflaters that weigh 1kg. I got the Airic at 494g but I'm not totally convinced it will be comfy enough so I'm bringing the foam one to use beneath. Is only 154g so I think it's worth the experiment. As far as the Trangia goes, watching you guys cooking in minutes while I fecked about with pots on the fire made me promise I would never leave the house again without at least a lightweight cooking system. Not even to go down the shops :)
The bivvy I just feel safer carrying incase I get into trouble or get a leaky tent.
What's your list - you travel pretty light don't you?
Why not use the backrest from your rucksack for underneath? or if you dont have one just the ruck itself? and if your in such a hurry to eat then why are you walking!? I'm only messin with you jonno there were just a few things I thought you cudda left out.
As for me I dunno yet i'll see what comes to hand on friday night!
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My original attitude was whats the rush but there have been a few times, especially in the wet where lighting a fire and getting it hot enough to cook on has been a trial and I've ended up starved for ages. Also I had a bad experience canoeing where I ended up cold and wet with no way to make a hot drink and it was pretty depressing. These days I sometimes just throw in a few MLs of meths and the burner from the Trangia, that way I can cope in an emergency!
Wish I could leave it to the last minute to pack. My OCD kicks in and I have to start weighing stuff and making lists like a mentalist :P
Fair points. With the mat I've been using self inflaters that weigh 1kg. I got the Airic at 494g but I'm not totally convinced it will be comfy enough so I'm bringing the foam one to use beneath. Is only 154g so I think it's worth the experiment. As far as the Trangia goes, watching you guys cooking in minutes while I fecked about with pots on the fire made me promise I would never leave the house again without at least a lightweight cooking system. Not even to go down the shops :)
The bivvy I just feel safer carrying incase I get into trouble or get a leaky tent.
What's your list - you travel pretty light don't you?
Why not use the backrest from your rucksack for underneath? or if you dont have one just the ruck itself? and if your in such a hurry to eat then why are you walking!? I'm only messin with you jonno there were just a few things I thought you cudda left out.
As for me I dunno yet i'll see what comes to hand on friday night!
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Fair points. With the mat I've been using self inflaters that weigh 1kg. I got the Airic at 494g but I'm not totally convinced it will be comfy enough so I'm bringing the foam one to use beneath. Is only 154g so I think it's worth the experiment. As far as the Trangia goes, watching you guys cooking in minutes while I fecked about with pots on the fire made me promise I would never leave the house again without at least a lightweight cooking system. Not even to go down the shops :)
The bivvy I just feel safer carrying incase I get into trouble or get a leaky tent.
What's your list - you travel pretty light don't you?
Why not use the backrest from your rucksack for underneath? or if you dont have one just the ruck itself? and if your in such a hurry to eat then why are you walking!? I'm only messin with you jonno there were just a few things I thought you cudda left out.
As for me I dunno yet i'll see what comes to hand on friday night!
Don't forget your head torch mate.
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Well count me in, with two provisos: 1. my tent arrives in the post this week (should be a cert!) and 2. the weather forecast 666 posted doesnt suddenly change to dark blue all over NI. I'm a fair weather hiker at the moment :D
I'm up for Meelmore to Donard Wood with the return leg via. Brandy Pad if that suits okay. At least Meelmore will be safe to leave the car at overnight, even if it costs a couple of £.
Logistically I've no idea what I'm going to bring, or how. I might as well 'fess up now and say I've never done an overnight hike/camp. In the past I've always car camped at a base camp and hiked from there and back. But seeing this is on my 2010 list of things to do I might as well get stuck in as long as no body has any objects to a newbie coming along :)
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Excellent! - got to jump in some time. I posted a potential kit list in a earlier in this thread - I think it represents a good mix of the necessities.
Well count me in, with two provisos: 1. my tent arrives in the post this week (should be a cert!) and 2. the weather forecast 666 posted doesnt suddenly change to dark blue all over NI. I'm a fair weather hiker at the moment :D
I'm up for Meelmore to Donard Wood with the return leg via. Brandy Pad if that suits okay. At least Meelmore will be safe to leave the car at overnight, even if it costs a couple of £.
Logistically I've no idea what I'm going to bring, or how. I might as well 'fess up now and say I've never done an overnight hike/camp. In the past I've always car camped at a base camp and hiked from there and back. But seeing this is on my 2010 list of things to do I might as well get stuck in as long as no body has any objects to a newbie coming along :)
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Well count me in, with two provisos: 1. my tent arrives in the post this week (should be a cert!) and 2. the weather forecast 666 posted doesnt suddenly change to dark blue all over NI. I'm a fair weather hiker at the moment :D
I'm up for Meelmore to Donard Wood with the return leg via. Brandy Pad if that suits okay. At least Meelmore will be safe to leave the car at overnight, even if it costs a couple of £.
Logistically I've no idea what I'm going to bring, or how. I might as well 'fess up now and say I've never done an overnight hike/camp. In the past I've always car camped at a base camp and hiked from there and back. But seeing this is on my 2010 list of things to do I might as well get stuck in as long as no body has any objects to a newbie coming along :)
Never fear I've never been wrong yet. ::) Its not the blue rain you have to worry about its the green stuff
Great I love it when a plan comes together.
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Well count me in, with two provisos: 1. my tent arrives in the post this week (should be a cert!) and 2. the weather forecast 666 posted doesnt suddenly change to dark blue all over NI. I'm a fair weather hiker at the moment :D
I'm up for Meelmore to Donard Wood with the return leg via. Brandy Pad if that suits okay. At least Meelmore will be safe to leave the car at overnight, even if it costs a couple of £.
Logistically I've no idea what I'm going to bring, or how. I might as well 'fess up now and say I've never done an overnight hike/camp. In the past I've always car camped at a base camp and hiked from there and back. But seeing this is on my 2010 list of things to do I might as well get stuck in as long as no body has any objects to a newbie coming along :)
Sweet thats what we're all about, meeting new people and getting out there. The basic "rule" of kit is only bring what you think you'll use. I.e no point bringing two stoves or three coats! Since you'll be walking a light windproof layer is handy for lunch breaks map checks etc
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and a wee tiple for round the campfire ;D
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and a wee tiple for round the campfire ;D
Amen brother! The most important piece of gear that's always worth the weight ::)
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Alright guy's just in from work and it seems everything is workin out cushty.......must say great to have "suspect" on board I hope you catch the bug ;D
Have we worked out the two groups yet?
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at the minute it looks like me you and chris doing the horseshoe and jonno and suspect coming in form the hare gap.
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Are you thinkin of goin back to Carrick Little or Meelmore on the second day (I'm trying to work out a plan for transport)
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what do you have in mind mate?
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Was contemplating leaving my wheels at Meelmore for secure parking but hadn't worked out how to get to Carrick Little if I choose that route and if I so it makes sense to trek back there to finish :-\
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Dammit >:( why couldnt i have been born a week later... ragin im gonna miss this now sounds like a good plan is comin together well now
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Dammit >:( why couldnt i have been born a week later... ragin im gonna miss this now sounds like a good plan is comin together well now
Have your bday party in Donard Wood :D
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Too right I spent my last birthday at the top of Slieve Bearnagh looking at a glow stick for fun ::)
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Too right I spent my last birthday at the top of Slieve Bearnagh looking at a glow stick for fun ::)
Was that your birthday? If I'd known I'd have hidden a cake for you in Micheals pack (no way I'm carrying an extra 400g birthday or not :))
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Have your bday party in Donard Wood :D
That would be perfect mate, i would come in from the donard wood carpark and carry the beer up all day until you's arrived... wishful thinking tho :-\ not to worry im sure there will be plenty more overnight trips in the coming months!
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I'm going to jump in on this as well, Its about time I got back into the hills, its been way too long!
The major kit decision for me will be whether I can be bothered carrying 2kilos of tripod and camera across the hills? Will probably regret carrying it at the time, but will be more annoyed if I don't bring it! Might post my kit list for anyone that's interested later on.
Maybe there should be a blanket invite email to all forum members for the weekend, just in case people don't think they're welcome or if they haven't been on in a long time? If anybody doesn't fancy the walk they could just meet up for the camp at Donard Wood?
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Good man ........... The more the merrier :)
I think the blanket invite is a top idea as I often wonder do people feel that way or are they thinking there's only a small clique of people that meet.
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I'm going to jump in on this as well, Its about time I got back into the hills, its been way too long!
Maybe there should be a blanket invite email to all forum members for the weekend, just in case people don't think they're welcome or if they haven't been on in a long time? If anybody doesn't fancy the walk they could just meet up for the camp at Donard Wood?
No problems, I'll do this shortly.
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I'm going to jump in on this as well, Its about time I got back into the hills, its been way too long!
The major kit decision for me will be whether I can be bothered carrying 2kilos of tripod and camera across the hills? Will probably regret carrying it at the time, but will be more annoyed if I don't bring it! Might post my kit list for anyone that's interested later on.
Maybe there should be a blanket invite email to all forum members for the weekend, just in case people don't think they're welcome or if they haven't been on in a long time? If anybody doesn't fancy the walk they could just meet up for the camp at Donard Wood?
I'll be bringing mine, dont let me feel left out!
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If you were wanting to meet up with you guys on the Sunday, what route would you be taking and were would be the best place to meet you. Thats if ya don't mind a Newbie tagging along.
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I think we're all headin back to meelmore lodge, if you were able to get to donard forest we could all leave together. Might be easier than tryin to meet you at a grid ref.
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Ulsterwalker alerted me to this trip and I may be interested in coming along!
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I might like to do this also only 2 things anyone able to lend transport, and are there any other ladies going?
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are there any other ladies going?
Katherine is going to come along with me, but she is going to skip the overnight stay in Donard Wood. Not that she isnt game for it, just we are a bit short on gear for two. We are planning to leave one car in Newcastle, and then take the other to Meelmore to start the walk. Then when we get to Donard Wood Kat will walk on back to her car and head home to a warm house, and I will struggle to pitch a new tent :) We are planning to do the Meelmore/Hares Gap leg though rather than the Horseshoe so might not be much use!
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Might post my kit list for anyone that's interested later on.
Yes please :)
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are there any other ladies going?
Katherine is going to come along with me, but she is going to skip the overnight stay in Donard Wood. Not that she isnt game for it, just we are a bit short on gear for two. We are planning to leave one car in Newcastle, and then take the other to Meelmore to start the walk. Then when we get to Donard Wood Kat will walk on back to her car and head home to a warm house, and I will struggle to pitch a new tent :) We are planning to do the Meelmore/Hares Gap leg though rather than the Horseshoe so might not be much use!
Excellent news, the more the merrier! I sent you a PM so we can start to organise the group leaving from Meelmore.
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looks like there will a good turn out for this one. REally looking forward to the weekend now.
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are there any other ladies going?
Katherine is going to come along with me, but she is going to skip the overnight stay in Donard Wood. Not that she isnt game for it, just we are a bit short on gear for two. We are planning to leave one car in Newcastle, and then take the other to Meelmore to start the walk. Then when we get to Donard Wood Kat will walk on back to her car and head home to a warm house, and I will struggle to pitch a new tent :) We are planning to do the Meelmore/Hares Gap leg though rather than the Horseshoe so might not be much use!
Funny i was gonna ask if it was the same suspectmonkey..!! thats good only have to cadge a lift now..........anyone passing Ballymoney?
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sweet. Shall we just go for that then? Half join 666pack on the horseshoe route and the others go with jonno on his, meetin up at donard forest for fun and games.
Sounds like a plan - Me and SuspectM could come from Meelmore and you chaps can come the hard way :)
Would it be feasible to get all the way from Carrick Little to Donard Wood in a day?
No bother to us mate......I just hope you have a good fire lit and able to carry me to my tent.
;D
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sweet. Shall we just go for that then? Half join 666pack on the horseshoe route and the others go with jonno on his, meetin up at donard forest for fun and games.
Sounds like a plan - Me and SuspectM could come from Meelmore and you chaps can come the hard way :)
Would it be feasible to get all the way from Carrick Little to Donard Wood in a day?
No bother to us mate......I just hope you have a good fire lit and able to carry me to my tent.
;D
I'll bring some matches and a trolley :D
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For anyone that's interested here is my packing list for the weekend, a screen shot from Word seemed a better idea than typing out a long list.
I'll be trying to stick to this, but no doubt some extras will creep in, not that I need them, a look at the excel doc makes the skin out weight at 14Kilos and that's with a conservative guess at the tripod weight, ouch!
*edit, forgot to mention a wee drink of some description, how could I forget that!
(http://i1017.photobucket.com/albums/af292/ulsterwalker/Screenshot-19_01_201020_14_20.png)
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Does it make sense to drop off cars at one place and vice versa - then both groups have drivers who are walking towards their cars. At the end the drivers who aren't with their cars get dropped back to where they started. Could be difficult to organise mind.
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Does it make sense to drop off cars at one place and vice versa - then both groups have drivers who are walking towards their cars. At the end the drivers who aren't with their cars get dropped back to where they started. Could be difficult to organise mind.
Depends on whether the ones coming over from Annalong intend to finish the horseshoe on Sunday and end up back at Carrick Little or just come back to Meemlore. If so maybe the best thing would be to all meet at Meelmore where there is secure parking and for one of the Meelmore walkers to drop the others over to Carrick Little. That way no-one would have to gamble on leaving their car there. If the Annalong walkers are heading back for Carrick Little then I suppose they need a car there anyway. Unfortunately at this point I'll have the hairdressers car with no room for passengers so I'm of little use.
Which route is everyone doing? At the minute me and Suspectmonkey+1 and possibly Spark are doing Meelmore.
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because of logistics of the whole thing and the less than secure nature of carrick little car park Chris and andy(my lift home) are leaving there cars at meelmore and I have organised a lift to pick them up and drop us at the start point. This means that we will also be finishing at meelmore lodge.
The route has changed slightly for us..
Starting at Carrick little aprox 930
Binnian
Lamagan
Cove
Beg
Then Once at the saddle there is then the option to summit donard an navigate down of using the top of the valley toward the black stair Or do the same form the commedagh side of the valley or simply head down the glen river trail to the camp spot.
Either way should be a great in the hills
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because of logistics of the whole thing and the less than secure nature of carrick little car park Chris and andy(my lift home) are leaving there cars at meelmore and I have organised a lift to pick them up and drop us at the start point. This means that we will also be finishing at meelmore lodge.
The route has changed slightly for us..
Starting at Carrick little aprox 930
Binnian
Lamagan
Cove
Beg
Then Once at the saddle there is then the option to summit donard an navigate down of using the top of the valley toward the black stair Or do the same form the commedagh side of the valley or simply head down the glen river trail to the camp spot.
Either way should be a great in the hills
Sounds like a plan. So best thing is if we all try and meet at Meelmore at 9am?
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Wish I could make this but can't. Hope you all have a good time and have one round the campfire for me.
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because of logistics of the whole thing and the less than secure nature of carrick little car park Chris and andy(my lift home) are leaving there cars at meelmore and I have organised a lift to pick them up and drop us at the start point. This means that we will also be finishing at meelmore lodge.
The route has changed slightly for us..
Starting at Carrick little aprox 930
Binnian
Lamagan
Cove
Beg
Then Once at the saddle there is then the option to summit donard an navigate down of using the top of the valley toward the black stair Or do the same form the commedagh side of the valley or simply head down the glen river trail to the camp spot.
Either way should be a great in the hills
Sounds like a plan. So best thing is if we all try and meet at Meelmore at 9am?
Yeah sounds good mate.
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Meelmore for 9.00 should be doable. Coming off the summit of Commedagh or Donard sounds interesting, would be up for that!
Looks like my friend Jenny and her dag Archie are gonna join us for Saturdays walk, but Jen doesn't fancy camping in January so is gonna head off from there on Saturday evening.
As far as I can make out the list of peoples walking and their route is as follows:
Meelmore to Donard Park
Jonno
Supstemonkey + Katherine
Carrick Little to Donard Park
666_pack
billy backpack
chris_8764
Ulsterwalker + Jen and her dog
Kirth, Simon, Spark, anyone else? Can you join us and what route/place/time should we expect you at?
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I would love to join you guys on the Sunday but to be totally honest being new to this, don't think my fitness would be up to it and would just slow you down. I have planned to head up to the mournes on Sunday from Cecil newman car park at trassey and walk up to the mourne wall.
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I would love to join you guys on the Sunday but to be totally honest being new to this, don't think my fitness would be up to it and would just slow you down. I have planned to head up to the mournes on Sunday from Cecil newman car park at trassey and walk up to the mourne wall.
Theres always a chance you could meet us coming the other way. If we swap mobile numbers we could keep you posted.
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the walk from donard car park to the camp is reaklly straight forward mate and is quite stunning might be an area to get a few good snaps. And as jonno said a few of could meet you half way But it's up to you really.
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Alrighty, had a look at the other kit lists so think I've got mine sorted. Anything I've forgotten or (c/s)hould take out?
Rucksack:
Tent
Sleeping bag
Self-inflating mat
Stove/meths burner/fuel
Fire steel
Pot & mug
Spork
2 litre bladder
Head torch
Map & compass
Survival bag (doubles as dry bag)
First aid kit
Toilet kit
Food
Spare clothes:
Baselayer top & bottoms
Fleece
Buff, hat and gloves
Socks
Waterproof trousers
Clothes to wear:
Baselayer top
Microfleece
Hard-shell jacket
Walking trousers
Socks
Boots
How do you fellas normally pack your tent etc.? I'm using a borrowed 65 litre pack as I haven't got one of my own just yet. Was planning on getting the sleeping bag into the pack, along with the tent. Then was going to use the compression straps on the outside of the pack to lash down my sleeping mat in a dry bag. I reckon my sleeping bag would probably go horizontally across the very bottom of the pack, but the tent is too wide for that. Would probably need to go vertically up the centre of the pack, so the tent and sleeping bag would form an inverted T in my pack with the rest of my kit packed on either side of it. Sound logical enough, or should I split the poles and pegs and try to get the tent wrapped up smaller?
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All sounds spot on to my untrained eye. I always put the sleeping mat on the outside and the sleeping bag inside in the very bottom (in a bin liner). Not sure about the tent. Mine packs small so there's no need to split it. I think as long as the bag is reasonably balanced then theres no probs. Plus with a 65L you should have bags of room to spare...
Obviously you've forgotten a fireside tipple though - it's the single most important item when camping ::)
What's everyone bringing food wise? Think i'm just going to go wth Pasta'n'sauce with bacon bits or suchlike with cereal for breakfast and lots of nibbles. No more wet food for me - dehydrated all the way!
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when packing my tent to save a bit of room I pack the pole on the outside of my pack, this means I can compress the material parts of the tent much smaller than I could if the pole were included.
What sort of tent did you go for mate.
Also I found at this time of year I need to put a foam roll mat under my self inflating for add insulation(But this might be because I have a cheapo mat)
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I would love to join you guys on the Sunday but to be totally honest being new to this, don't think my fitness would be up to it and would just slow you down. I have planned to head up to the mournes on Sunday from Cecil newman car park at trassey and walk up to the mourne wall.
Why not give it a go, there's all different levels of fitness going and to be fair I wouldn't say I was uber fit. ::)
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Kit wise I'm pretty much bring the usual
OMM Villian RL
Tadpole
Pipedream 600
self inflating mat+ Duo mat
Bivvi bag
Spare base layers
spare hat
spare micro fleece
Trangia mini+homemade wind shield
250ml fuel
Cous cous
smoked sausage
smoked cheese
few yorkies
I might treat myself to some sausages for breakfast
2ltrs water
spoon.
tipple for round the fire
bog roll
toothbrush
Obviously the clothes on my back ;D
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Did you make the trangia windshield from foil? I made one but it's a bit tatty and hard to transport unless its rolled round something.
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yeah just made it outta turkey tray... I does the job and really improves the performance the the trangia mini.
I do have to roll it but it fits inside my cup with a small pot scrubber. I'll show it to you at the weekend.
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yeah just made it outta turkey tray... I does the job and really improves the performance the the trangia mini.
I do have to roll it but it fits inside my cup with a small pot scrubber. I'll show it to you at the weekend.
Think I made mine a bit high to fit in the cup. Might trim it down a bit. I usually carry it wrapped round a water bottle but it's a pain when you want to drink.
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Hey all !
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Bloody hell Wolf. Where have you been? We assumed alien abduction.
Hey all !
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lol m8, just have been sorting alot of thing out but all is good m8. Hope you are to.
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I know you were busy organising your cafe. You don't know Iris Robinson by any chance because the timescales are bloody suspicious :P ::) :o
lol m8, just have been sorting alot of thing out but all is good m8. Hope you are to.
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Lmao, i wish i had of knew her i would have had the money for the cafe up front ! The cafe is no longer, its a long story, also some other things came up to bit me in the ass. But its all sorted and all is well !
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Hey all !
Awwooooo the wolfs back!! will you be joining us at the weekend then? and no's not an option ;D
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Where ya going ?
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theres two groups of us taking two different routes to donard forest (read the thread it'll make sense!), feel free to join either or if you'd rather just meet us there for a nights camping then go for it.
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Ill have to get sleeping bag any ideas ? I want a good one and dont mine paying for it. Its one thing i can never get my head round (sleeping bags) is there any good deals out there ?
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bloody hell wolf glad to have you back.
So you're in for this weekend then ;D
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Ill have to get sleeping bag any ideas ? I want a good one and dont mine paying for it. Its one thing i can never get my head round (sleeping bags) is there any good deals out there ?
There'll be a clatter of Alpkit Pipedream 600s about but they're out of stock at the mo.
http://www.alpkit.com/pipedream/
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Ill have to get sleeping bag any ideas ? I want a good one and dont mine paying for it. Its one thing i can never get my head round (sleeping bags) is there any good deals out there ?
Same old wolf then ;D
Get yourself down to costwolds, tiso, jackson sport, argos, army surplus, beg, borrow or steal. You will be coming to this meet.
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Yeh cant see why not, the best things in life are free ;-) Im waiting to get a sleeping bag sorted, I could never get my head round them. I think i need -10 bag ? i dont mine spend up to £200 on one just dont know where keep an eye out for me. Its great to be back and im glad to see your all still here, and more !!
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just get urself down to cotswold or tiso or jacksons and tell them what your lookin they'll sort you out. You cant really go wrong if you judt get a down one rated as low as you can justify/afford to pay. within reason tho you dont wanna be payin 300quid for a sleeping bag rated to minus 20 or anything!
*see 666pack beat me to it there!
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lol same old same old, Belfast is not great for sleeping bags, so ill start looking on line now. I realy what one asap ;-)
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Pipedream 800, will do you down to a parky -17 for £160.
http://www.alpkit.com/shop/cart.php?target=product&product_id=16417&category_id=253
Call Alpkit and they'll make sure it's here by the weekend - they're good like that. They do a good range of cheap self inflating mats too you can get while you're about it!
Yeh cant see why not, the best things in life are free ;-) Im waiting to get a sleeping bag sorted, I could never get my head round them. I think i need -10 bag ? i dont mine spend up to £200 on one just dont know where keep an eye out for me. Its great to be back and im glad to see your all still here, and more !!
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Ill have to get sleeping bag any ideas ? I want a good one and dont mine paying for it. Its one thing i can never get my head round (sleeping bags) is there any good deals out there ?
There'll be a clatter of Alpkit Pipedream 600s about but they're out of stock at the mo.
http://www.alpkit.com/pipedream/
Great advice there jonno ;D Your bound to have a spare kicking about your gear loft ;)
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lol belfasts not good for sleeping bags!? theres millions there! and you'll have it for the weekend for sure.
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Wat do i need -10 bag, True belfast and ill have it for the weekend, but i was thinging of mayb some of you has seen a great deal out there ?
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Has my wife been complaining again ::) Unfortunately I only have a 250 weight synth filled summer bag spare. Anyone who wants to borrow it is welcome tho. With a set of baselayers or maybe a bivi bag it would prob be fine. The forcast is for temps not to drop below 0 on Sat night.
Ill have to get sleeping bag any ideas ? I want a good one and dont mine paying for it. Its one thing i can never get my head round (sleeping bags) is there any good deals out there ?
There'll be a clatter of Alpkit Pipedream 600s about but they're out of stock at the mo.
http://www.alpkit.com/pipedream/
Great advice there jonno ;D Your bound to have a spare kicking about your gear loft ;)
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once back in stock I can highly recommend the pipedream 600. we used them here and worked a treat.
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=746.60
you've missed a bit wolf.
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Wat do i need -10 bag, True belfast and ill have it for the weekend, but i was thinging of mayb some of you has seen a great deal out there ?
-10 would be more than enough
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-5 then, it just seems to be ireland is turning into the new ice age ;-) anyway i need a bag so ill have to get the finger out here.
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The Tiso website doesn't have much variety in bags at the mo but Cotswolds do. Plough over to the Boucher road, they're really helpful. Every time I go I come home with all sorts of crap - I just can't help myself :D
Get yourself something sorted Wolf and get up to Donard on Saturday. Less talk more action :)!
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The Tiso website doesn't have much variety in bags at the mo but Cotswolds do. Plough over to the Boucher road, they're really helpful. Every time I go I come home with all sorts of crap - I just can't help myself :D
Get yourself something sorted Wolf and get up to Donard on Saturday. Less talk more action :)![/b]
agreed.
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The Tiso website doesn't have much variety in bags at the mo but Cotswolds do. Plough over to the Boucher road, they're really helpful. Every time I go I come home with all sorts of crap - I just can't help myself :D
Get yourself something sorted Wolf and get up to Donard on Saturday. Less talk more action :)!
They love to see you coming J, But your 100% there need to just buy one. Im on it.
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Sniff............. :'(
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Sniff?
Sniff............. :'(
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I wanna go................ :-\
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Come along then. More maketh merriment!
I wanna go................ :-\
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Last time i was on most of you where gearing up for the Mourne Mountain, how did that go ??
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I dont drive live in Ballymoney >:( Have tried to get a few others to go but its too late notice......... so need lift more than happy to pay fuel cost................!!
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I wanna go................ :-\
then go ;)
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I dont drive live in Ballymoney >:( Have tried to get a few others to go but its too late notice......... so need lift more than happy to pay fuel cost................!!
Im in the same boat and had to call in a favor I'm sure you'll get somethink sorted spark :D
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Last time i was on most of you where gearing up for the Mourne Mountain, how did that go ??
It went grand weather was great but my partner found it hard going on the first day, it was a lot harder than he thought it was going to be but we got a respectable 53rd overall in the c class.
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I dont drive live in Ballymoney >:( Have tried to get a few others to go but its too late notice......... so need lift more than happy to pay fuel cost................!!
Im in the same boat and had to call in a favor I'm sure you'll get somethink sorted spark :D
Looks like i might have to bus to newcastle on friday night and camp over at meelmore, tho think if im gonna go i would rather do the longer walk.......... ::)
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Last time i was on most of you where gearing up for the Mourne Mountain, how did that go ??
It went grand weather was great but my partner found it hard going on the first day, it was a lot harder than he thought it was going to be but we got a respectable 53rd overall in the c class.
Great job spark ! Blmeing your parter, not cool. lol only messing m8
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Last time i was on most of you where gearing up for the Mourne Mountain, how did that go ??
It went grand weather was great but my partner found it hard going on the first day, it was a lot harder than he thought it was going to be but we got a respectable 53rd overall in the c class.
Great job spark ! Blmeing your parter, not cool. lol only messing m8
Well like it was his fault....!! proof is there on the results was in the 20's every other year...........lol nana...........
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LOL Spark, i cant say to much, im sure i would have been still walking about the Mourne Mountain somewhere. ;-)
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Ok well I have been looking on translink and i can be in Newcastle for just after 11am. I can start on the reverse meelmore route, ;D
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If you could get to Belfast earlyish in the morning maybe someone could grab you.
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I dont drive live in Ballymoney >:( Have tried to get a few others to go but its too late notice......... so need lift more than happy to pay fuel cost................!!
I'd offer a lift Shirley, but I'm coming from Bangor so Ballymoney is in the wrong direction for me. If you can get close to this part of the country though I'm sure could work something out!
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What sort of tent did you go for mate.
Ended up going with the Vango Tempest 200. Still fancy a Pro Action as well mind, but can't see them coming back in to stock at this stage :( Vango will do the job though because I will be mainly using it for 2 person trips, so when the weight is split between two it will be fairly light. I think it works out around 2.5kg any way so it shouldnt be too much of a back breaker even for a one man trip. Will soon see at the weekend :) The porch sold it though, I like a good area to cook in!
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I dont drive live in Ballymoney >:( Have tried to get a few others to go but its too late notice......... so need lift more than happy to pay fuel cost................!!
I'd offer a lift Shirley, but I'm coming from Bangor so Ballymoney is in the wrong direction for me. If you can get close to this part of the country though I'm sure could work something out!
Thanks Jon train get's into Belfast central at 8.38 so that might be to late, as i said i can always meet you's on the way......have a wee race to myself to see how far i can get lol
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I toyed with the Tempest but in the end went with the Banshee 300. It is the same weight at 2.5kg but has much more floor space as its technically a 3 man. I didn't really think it through though because with no headroom or porch the extra space doesn't help much.
I'd be interested as to how the Tempest actually stacks up space wise - these things are always different on paper...
What sort of tent did you go for mate.
Ended up going with the Vango Tempest 200. Still fancy a Pro Action as well mind, but can't see them coming back in to stock at this stage :( Vango will do the job though because I will be mainly using it for 2 person trips, so when the weight is split between two it will be fairly light. I think it works out around 2.5kg any way so it shouldnt be too much of a back breaker even for a one man trip. Will soon see at the weekend :) The porch sold it though, I like a good area to cook in!
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I don't mind leaving a bit later if needs be. If Jon could get you in Belfast at 840am you're still going to be at Meelmore before 10am which is loads of time.
I dont drive live in Ballymoney >:( Have tried to get a few others to go but its too late notice......... so need lift more than happy to pay fuel cost................!!
I'd offer a lift Shirley, but I'm coming from Bangor so Ballymoney is in the wrong direction for me. If you can get close to this part of the country though I'm sure could work something out!
Thanks Jon train get's into Belfast central at 8.38 so that might be to late, as i said i can always meet you's on the way......have a wee race to myself to see how far i can get lol
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I don't mind leaving a bit later if needs be. If Jon could get you in Belfast at 840am you're still going to be at Meelmore before 10am which is loads of time.
I dont drive live in Ballymoney >:( Have tried to get a few others to go but its too late notice......... so need lift more than happy to pay fuel cost................!!
I'd offer a lift Shirley, but I'm coming from Bangor so Ballymoney is in the wrong direction for me. If you can get close to this part of the country though I'm sure could work something out!
Thanks Jon train get's into Belfast central at 8.38 so that might be to late, as i said i can always meet you's on the way......have a wee race to myself to see how far i can get lol
okies sounds good over to Jon then...........lol
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I wanna go................ :-\
Don't fret we can probably sort something out.... If it helps any and it's any easier than taking a train to Belfast I live in Larne and can get you to Meelmore but unfortunately the other seats for the return leg home have been pre-booked but perhaps some good samaritan could sort that out ;)
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I wanna go................ :-\
Don't fret we can probably sort something out.... If it helps any and it's any easier than taking a train to Belfast I live in Larne and can get you to Meelmore but unfortunately the other seats for the return leg home have been pre-booked but perhaps some good samaritan could sort that out ;)
That would be great but i dont want to put anyone way out of there way...!! it would prob be better tho and maybe it would mean I could do the longer route too...... ;D Im getting al excited now not been in the mournes since the mmm....!!
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Don't fret we can probably sort something out.... If it helps any and it's any easier than taking a train to Belfast I live in Larne and can get you to Meelmore but unfortunately the other seats for the return leg home have been pre-booked but perhaps some good samaritan could sort that out ;)
That would be great but i dont want to put anyone way out of there way...!! it would prob be better tho and maybe it would mean I could do the longer route too...... ;D Im getting al excited now not been in the mournes since the mmm....!!
Shirley, if you want to take the train to Belfast I can pick you up there at 8.40am then we can head to Meelmore. Or, if you want to take Billy Backpack up on his offer for a lift to Meelmore, then I can take you from Meelmore back to the train station in Belfast on the Sunday? Either suits me fine :)
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Don't fret we can probably sort something out.... If it helps any and it's any easier than taking a train to Belfast I live in Larne and can get you to Meelmore but unfortunately the other seats for the return leg home have been pre-booked but perhaps some good samaritan could sort that out ;)
That would be great but i dont want to put anyone way out of there way...!! it would prob be better tho and maybe it would mean I could do the longer route too...... ;D Im getting al excited now not been in the mournes since the mmm....!!
Shirley, if you want to take the train to Belfast I can pick you up there at 8.40am then we can head to Meelmore. Or, if you want to take Billy Backpack up on his offer for a lift to Meelmore, then I can take you from Meelmore back to the train station in Belfast on the Sunday? Either suits me fine :)
The later sounds like a plan, Billy I will pm you my number to sort were to meet ext.........
Edit just seen my pm.......lol
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Sounds like we're all sorted then - just Simon to confirm if he's coming.
Looks like it's going to be a blinder, plus the weather looks fine too. Party on Wayne!
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I'd forgotten about a date I had with a washing machine on Saturday morning >:( but it looks like I've managed to shift that to Friday afternoon so I should be on for this!
Now the only question is what route and how hardcore I go on my shelter - do I go for the the bivvy and tarp? ;D
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Who needs a washing machine anyway, those breeks will last another week! Great to see you can make it - that's 10 walking and 8 camping.
I did a few nights under a tarp before Xmas and it was great fun but I'm going to give the Hike Lite an airing this weekend. The temperature doesn't look like it will be below zero and the forecast says no rain and low winds - perfect bivying weather!
I'd forgotten about a date I had with a washing machine on Saturday morning >:( but it looks like I've managed to shift that to Friday afternoon so I should be on for this!
Now the only question is what route and how hardcore I go on my shelter - do I go for the the bivvy and tarp? ;D
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I'd agree, but my sister-in-law will not be happy if the old machine is still there when she gets back on Sunday ;)
My last night out was during the heavy snow - around minus 8 inside the tent ... so if we are in the woods and its not below freezing I reckon the bivvy bag will be fine!
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weather update
Looking like a good start to the day.
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100121/06/51/ukprec.png)
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100121/06/51/ukwind.png)
and a dry night
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100121/06/63/ukprec.png)
Sunday
might get a bit wet on sunday but you can't have everything
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100121/06/78/ukprec.png)
Happy trails
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Just to add a spanner into the works; If Jen is heading off from Donard, she'll be leaving her car at Donard Park so we won't be heading to Meelmore, is there any chance we could get picked up on the way round to carrick little when someone else is getting dropped off there?
Also if Suspectmonkey is heading back to Bangor it might make more sense if I bounce with him back to Bangor seeing that I'll be heading to Helen's Bay, then Spark can take my place in Billy_Backpackers van, and either get to Belfast or up to Larne, might make for some less driving? Just a thought?
It can be finalised over the weekend either way.
For January I don't think you can expect any better weather, a full dry day and a damp second, I'm happy with that.
Pretty much packed. After taking the lid, compression straps and other useless parts of the rucksack off to save weight, it seems a bit silly adding a 2kilo tripod on. Pure madness.
Chris, you strapped your pod onto your ruck yet?
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My tripod weighs 90 grams Inc ball head, and it slips into my pocket!
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Just to add a spanner into the works; If Jen is heading off from Donard, she'll be leaving her car at Donard Park so we won't be heading to Meelmore, is there any chance we could get picked up on the way round to carrick little when someone else is getting dropped off there?
Also if Suspectmonkey is heading back to Bangor it might make more sense if I bounce with him back to Bangor seeing that I'll be heading to Helen's Bay, then Spark can take my place in Billy_Backpackers van, and either get to Belfast or up to Larne, might make for some less driving? Just a thought?
It can be finalised over the weekend either way.
For January I don't think you can expect any better weather, a full dry day and a damp second, I'm happy with that.
Pretty much packed. After taking the lid, compression straps and other useless parts of the rucksack off to save weight, it seems a bit silly adding a 2kilo tripod on. Pure madness.
Chris, you strapped your pod onto your ruck yet?
Could she not drop you off first and then spin back to donard park?
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curious, what is it? I'm thinking a velbon v-pod might be of use for times like this, however, the benbo will come with me this weekend, whether I spend the whole time cursing it or not.
666_pack, she could drop me and her dog off alright but she would still need lifted to start at carrick little ???
*edit* that graph makes it look like we're climbing the Matterhorn or something! :D
(http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=781.0;attach=183;image)
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ahh.
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I've managed to arrange my work i'll be joining you guys on Sat nite but it might be midnight by the time i get there. ;D ;D ;D
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Just being (semi)mischievous here, but if you are heading up lamagan then the group that starts from Meelmore could drop down to the head of the Ben Crom Res, along the side and up to meet the Carrick Littlers between Binnian and Lamagan! It might make the Lamagan ascent a bit more strenous but the walk from there on is more interesting than just along the Brandy Pad (I could regret saying this though as my fitness is poor after a prolonged and enforced rest due to a twisted ankle)
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I've managed to arrange my work i'll be joining you guys on Sat nite but it might be midnight by the time i get there. ;D ;D ;D
Awesome. We'll save you a seat!
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Whats the plan for Sunday? any thing adventurous?
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Whats the plan for Sunday? any thing adventurous?
Good to see your on board....... and as for Sunday well I think that will be debated over an open fire :D
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*edit* that graph makes it look like we're climbing the Matterhorn or something! :D
(http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=781.0;attach=183;image)
The Total Level Distance of this route is v funny :D :D :D
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My tripod is a dirty big jessops special my dad bought years ago and i've pretty much sniped off him (its not even on their website anymore!) I'll just wack it on the side somewhere, not even sure I want to weigh it! Camera wise i'll be taking my d3000 with the nikkor 18-55mm lens kit that came with it and a 50mm prime lens I already had layin about see if I can get any good shots with it.
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This is mine, I use this to fire a remote camera at football matches from behind the net, and it will be really handy for th hills, really sturdy and light, I also have a Velbon Sherpa Pro & Head which cost the gus of £300, but I never use it
http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/pid/2211
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Also if Suspectmonkey is heading back to Bangor it might make more sense if I bounce with him back to Bangor seeing that I'll be heading to Helen's Bay, then Spark can take my place in Billy_Backpackers van, and either get to Belfast or up to Larne, might make for some less driving? Just a thought?
I'm happy enough either way, but seems like a logical suggestion if it suits everyone. As you say, can finalise it over the weekend then, but will make sure no one is stuck :)
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Also if Suspectmonkey is heading back to Bangor it might make more sense if I bounce with him back to Bangor seeing that I'll be heading to Helen's Bay, then Spark can take my place in Billy_Backpackers van, and either get to Belfast or up to Larne, might make for some less driving? Just a thought?
I'm happy enough either way, but seems like a logical suggestion if it suits everyone. As you say, can finalise it over the weekend then, but will make sure no one is stuck :)
Thanks everyone im happy to just do as im told as long as i get to go......lol
Im sorted for sat morn with Billy_Backpack getting me on sat morn, even tho i dont live in Broghshane..........lol......!!
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well wolf did you get a sleeping bag?
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Wolf if u need some kit just let us know and I'm sure we will be able to sort u out no bother ..... after all it's just a wee dander and 1 night in the forest ;D
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weather is still with us ;D
Sat
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100122/06/27/ukprec.png)
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100122/06/39/ukprec.png)
Not a bad night to camp either..
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100122/06/39/ukpaneltemp.png)
Sunday
Looks like we might miss the worst of the rain :o
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100122/06/57/ukprec.png)
(http://charts.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100122/06/60/ukprec.png)
6
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Looks like we picked the right weekend. Wonder if it will be overly wet underfoot after the snow and heavy rain. The Glen and Trassey rivers might be swollen.
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wet underfoot I can deal with better than it falling on you ;D
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So I'll see you crowd of nutters in Meelmore at 9am in the morning.
If anyone wants my mobile number just send me a PM.
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I just managed to spill blood over the backyard by solving the following equation head+sharp_metal=hole+blood ... but I shall still be coming along tomorrow morning.
I'm heading to Meelmore and should be there by 9am, but I'll PM J my mobile number just in case.
What route are the Meelmore peeps looking at taking? I kind of fancy doing the drop down to the reservoir and Lamagan, but if you don't fancy that then I'm not going to drag you along! If I (or we) do that then we should meet the other group at before we ascend Lamagan or on the summit, which means we should know what time they are going to be there at. I reckon a prompt 9am start from Meelmore would mean 10:30 at the foot of Binnian/Lamagan - if the Carrick Littlers start around the same time they could be there about 10:30ish too depending on how fast people are walking with more-than-daypacks and hpw many stops there are for photographs and the like.
Anyhoo, just getting that one out there for people's perusal.
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Gutted I am missing this, I will be sitting at the side of the Pitch shooting Crusaders v Coleraine, Plus I hate football!
I was in Newcastle today and it was amazing weather, called into Meelmore to use the loo and was talking to two guys who had just came down, said it is very wet and heavy in places, but great to be up there.
I still plan to head up with my friend on Sunday from Trassey Track to the wall, think that is more than enough for me. Will keep an eye out for a group of Ragga Muffins on the hills.
K
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All sorted for the morning wooooooooooohoooooooooo............ Mr Billy Backpack is a star................. :)
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Well Guys, How did you all get on?
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We had an awesome time.
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4940.jpg)
More later!
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ahh my legs ;D Makes you feel alive. Great two days in the hills and great to meet a few new people.
I'm sure some of our photographers will post some snaps soon.
Hope everyone made it back to normality safe and sound and I'll look forward to see you all soon
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Had a crackin' weekend, best fun I've had in the hills for quite some time! Thanks for the invite to come along, really friendly bunch and I learnt a lot as well. Hope to get out again soon, and be a kilo or two lighter as well :)
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Had a crackin' weekend, best fun I've had in the hills for quite some time! Thanks for the invite to come along, really friendly bunch and I learnt a lot as well. Hope to get out again soon, and be a kilo or two lighter as well :)
Glad you had a great time mate nothin like a few days in the hills.
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Great weekend, got home at 9pm........lol
Thanks again to andy for the trasport..!
ankle not in great shape, but hope its god for the next outing........!! 8)
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curious, what is it? I'm thinking a velbon v-pod might be of use for times like this, however, the benbo will come with me this weekend, whether I spend the whole time cursing it or not.
666_pack, she could drop me and her dog off alright but she would still need lifted to start at carrick little ???
*edit* that graph makes it look like we're climbing the Matterhorn or something! :D
(http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=781.0;attach=183;image)
Ulsterwalker - What software is this you are using?
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Hey Kirth, Its Quo Mapping software.
I don't have it, just re-pasted one of jonno's screen shots, he started a thread about it here ----> http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=749.0
Was a good weekend, good wee walk, but my legs are a it stiff as a result, sitting round the camp fire was pretty rocking, even if my clothes now make me smell like an arsonist.
Couldn't ask for better weather in Jan I don't fink
Good to see everyone again and the new faces too!
And a big thank you to Simon for dropping me at my door, couldn't ask any more than that!
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Good wee trip that! Good to meet you all. No probs about the lift Keith! I only took a few snaps (off duty! ;D) but here's a few to give a flavour of the two days:
(http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Yx9JyJm1S7c/S14poAyjRLI/AAAAAAAABlY/u0wIsWBPHPc/s800/IMG_2857.JPG)
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Yx9JyJm1S7c/S14poyOHghI/AAAAAAAABlc/OO0f9k-DBJI/s800/IMG_2859.JPG)
(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Yx9JyJm1S7c/S14pqPQs-3I/AAAAAAAABlg/UmkS2jvXjhc/s800/IMG_2865.JPG)
(http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Yx9JyJm1S7c/S14pqxqIXpI/AAAAAAAABlk/vQwb-DfKeIk/s800/IMG_2870.JPG)
(http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Yx9JyJm1S7c/S14prEyzo_I/AAAAAAAABlo/nKtxL95hUcU/s800/IMG_2903.JPG)
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Yx9JyJm1S7c/S14p9Yh1X0I/AAAAAAAABlw/D4wALw-U7AI/s800/IMG_2905.JPG)
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Yx9JyJm1S7c/S14p9yLaqdI/AAAAAAAABl0/TICbHtg13AI/s800/IMG_2908.JPG)
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For all that couldn't make it we walked exactly as planned in 2 groups from Carrick Little and Meelmore Lodge to Donard Forest (with MG1 coming up the short way from Donard Car Park at 9pm) for a standard NI-Wild night out. Big fire, food, a few drinkies, bit of rock music and some awesome chat. Coming home we split again into 2 groups at the Donard Saddle heading along the Brandy Pad or back over Commedagh and met up at Hares Gap, then back for Meelmore Lodge for bacon and eggs.
Think it was probably the best trip yet and the walks were just enough for me (my legs were screaming on Monday :D). Highlight had to be the new husband and wife team of Billy_Backpack and Chris_8764 with their dinner choice of fillet steak, mange tout and baby sweetcorn topped with pepper sauce and cooked on a single trangia followed by steamed pudding and custard and all accompanied by a nice red! Made our pasta and cous cous look a little less interesting :o ::)
Was grand to see all the new faces, hopefully you'll all be regulars now that you've seen how blummin' awesome we all are in the flesh :P
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4872.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4875.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4881.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4911.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4918.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4921.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4925.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4937.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4944.jpg)
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4949.jpg)
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Mmmmmmmm...
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Perfectly cooked too!
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now you know why andy is so chuffed ;D
(http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii423/sputnik57/Donard%20230110/DSCF4911.jpg)
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What can I say ......Awesome trip........Fantastic company .......and truly Magnificent cuisine ;)
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Got round to going through my pics and turfing at least half of them, and doing a bit of editing on the "keepers" here's a couple from the weekend.
1.
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2218/4307256290_e025076a5f.jpg)
2.
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2709/4306619109_f2554dc83b.jpg)
3.
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4307252526_fd6b7f97f7.jpg)
4.
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2798/4307258124_656d213279.jpg)
5.
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2698/4307259368_a6f7d515d0.jpg)
6.
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4306511707_104471aea4.jpg)
7.
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4307260220_9b96acefd9.jpg)
More can be seen on flickr here----> http://www.flickr.com/photos/39480762@N08/sets/72157623289540614/
Prob best viewing them in a slideshow, click here to start the show-----> http://www.flickr.com/photos/39480762@N08/sets/72157623289540614/show/
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some great pics there keith....it really was a cracking trip.