Buckton Castle & Alphin Pike - 16.09.2013



Ghostly figures in the night

The past week has seen a definite climatic shift into Autumnal conditions which has coincided with the Owls, along with the rest of SRC, moving to their winter nesting grounds. Stretching their wings for the first flight of the winter season a fine parliament of 11 owls took to the hills on what was a drizzly misty night.

Climbing up Shadworth Lane we headed along Moor Edge Road before making the short heather clad ascent to Buckton Castle. Reaching this former medieval fort, in a rapidly fading light, we had hoped to enjoy what are normally fantastic views across Slatepit Moor to Harridge Pike. However, tonight the ancient look-out post was in low cloud and we could see no further than a few metres.

After taking the obligatory photo it was time to turn the head-torches on as we contoured around the northern rim of Buckton Quarry, following a narrow, but well worn, trod through the deep heather. Upon reaching the north-eastern corner of the quarry we were still engulfed in mist so I made a quick map check and took a bearing just in case we lost the faint trod which would lead us across the moor.

Happy Owls

The climb up the back of Alphin was without hindrance and we soon attained Slack Head Brow, were we turned west and headed for the summit shelter and trig point upon Alphin Pike. With Anita needing to get back to feed the baby we stopped just long enough to do another head count. With a light breeze rising up the heathery slopes we spread our wings and soared down the hill past Mount Pleasant Farm and below Noonsun Hill before returning to the cricket club, via Shadworth Lane, once again.

It was fantastic to have such a large group out for the first winter Owl’s Run of the season. We even had a new owlet (James) join us tonight and he thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Unfortunately my fellow Grand Wise Owl, Andy G, was unable to make tonight’s foray due to feeling unwell after being given a cocktail of jabs in preparation for his departure to Africa.

Owl runs are held every Tuesday night departing at 7.30pm. Everyone welcome. Remember to bring a good, fully charged head-torch, full waterproof body cover and extra warm clothing suitable for the weather conditions.

Tonights Owl’s were:

Chris M (Grand wise owl), Ian M, Mark B, Bruce B, Charlie B, Claire W, Anita C, Mark B, Dan B, Jo H & James ?