Day 20 – England at last….

Annan to Carlisle. 11.29 miles, flat as….elevation 285 ft, 21,159 steps

My final stretch of walking in Scotland and then whisked into England for some much needed R&R.

I started the day walking along the edge of the Solway Firth sandbanks – reminded me of Greatstone with its mudflats but probably more picturesque and full of bird life rather than kites. The sun was shining and I could see England beckoning me forth with promises of sunshine and proper bitter to drink.

The walking was tough. The path I chose was to avoid road walking but it looked line no one else had had the same idea so it was slow going.

I had to fight my way past miles of MOD fencing as I navigated past the site of the WWI Gretna munitions factory.

If you google ‘Devils porridge’ this is a reference to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s description of what went on here in the First World War. It was the UK’s response to the ammunition shortage – a massive factory was constructed and inhabited mostly by women mixing wool with nitro-glycerine to make cordite for the shells. Definitely a smoke free work place….After negotiating the miles of fencing I made my way towards Gretna. As a final gesture from my parents they then took me to Carlisle. This was to avoid a rather dismal 6 miles on the service road to the M6. Cheating? Maybe but this gave me precious time in Carlisle to do some shopping and get myself sorted for the assault on the Lakes District.

So – in to England we go. New haircut, a new wardrobe (or pants, socks, shorts) a radio for the rugby, The man feels fantastic.A very special mention to Martyn my barber. A man fighting his own demons but working hard and generous to a fault. Thank you for the chat, the donation and all the best in the weeks/years ahead. If you are in Carlisle go get your hair by Martyn. He made a good job of mine!And not to forget my parents. Thanks to you both for the company, the support, the lunchtime coffee and the chat. See you again down south…..