Another cracking start to the day, the sun is shining and not a cloud in the sky. We meet up with our walking friends (the Aussies) and set off down the valley and follow the River Swale. We have decided to avoid the lead mines and follow the river and are rewarded with a lovely days walking and some beautiful scenery.
Surprisingly the Swale is flowing quite quickly but you can see the water level is much lower than it has been. We have managed to avoid any rain for the past 10 days!
First stop is to take some pictures of a waterfall (more on photo page) before a steep climb upwards towards Muker.
The scenery is absolutely stunning and the walking very easy on the legs, today's 11 miles will be easy and made all the more enjoyable by the fact that England are in pole position to win the first Ashes match. What could be better!
We take a slight diversion into Muker itself and act like tourists for a short while, drinking tea and visiting the wool shop! If you have never been add Muker to your list of places to visit, Swaledale at its best.
Things are not quite going to plan and the Aussie cricket team are 'digging in' and at lunch only need 20 runs to win, tension is mounting and the Aussies seem to have the upper hand, England need just one wicket but are struggling to break through.
The walk continues along the Swale and passes through some delightful villages, sadly mobile phone reception is limited and we resort to stopping a passing motorist to ask can we listen to his car radio, this is after asking several villagers do they have sky TV!
The result is decided and England win by 14 runs after a brave but wasted effort by the Aussie tail end, Sam spreads the news along the trail to ensure everyone knows the result.
The 11 mile journey ends up as usual at a pub (these Aussies are great walking mates) and victory is both celebrated and commiserated over a glass or two of local beer. A wonderful days walking, great weather and a group of people with a common interest (no not cricket) walking across England. With over 100 miles now done the end is in sight but not before another 7 days of walking.
Tomorrow we have a pretty easy day, 10 miles to the town of Richmond and the weather forecast is for more sun!
