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Journey journal
I started off at Locke Park Barnsley with railway luminary Joseph Locke in statuesque form an every present guide to the toiling runners. Today’s parkrun was overseen by run director Rachael and colleague Davey. I was joined by the resolute support of runner Steve Taylor who made sure I was filmed as we completed the undualting-hilly route. Steve has a marathon the next day.
We chatted with Rachael, met Davey’s lovely dog Maya, a Whipradore, and runner Ian gave us a local clubs low down. I also met a MNDA runner Nigel, who was lovely to talk to. We shared memories of Rob Burrow whose funeral was the next day.
Then en route to Sheffield we crossed the Transpennine Trail – one of those really useful route that crosses the country connecting cities and countries.
The affable Chris Heaton also popped up on his bike for a couple of miles.
At Sheffield Cathedral I met an enthusiastic chaplain called Richard. In the crypt I spotted a pool/ cue sports table just beyond a wonderful stainless steel sculpture. Those cathedralers have clearly been influenced by the nearby Crucible Theatre – the cathedral of snooker.
Up by the Crucible, Sheffield was in dance mode with inclusive group Under The Stars performing in the Winter Theatre. The called for additional participants, so up I went.
I also met Beth, a lady who is quadroplegic, outside the cathedral and talked to her about the motorised chair she was using to get around hilly Sheffield. She knew all about Experience Community, who I had met yesterday.
After Sheffield, a long chat with PA News about my tour and then I busied off on the trail to Worksop, through Robin Hood country at Rother Valley Country Park.
We were in and around Clumber Park and Sherwood Forest towards the end of the day, following the Chesterfield canal into Worksop whilst England played out a winning quarter final at the Euros, vs Switzerland, smashing in 5/5 penalties in a perfect shoot out.
‘Where I live’
Beth and Richard gave insight.
Fuel
Sheffield is home to Henderson’s Relish, so I bought that.
Overnight stay
The Red Lion, Walesby. It is probably the most boisterous country pub I have ever encountered, and quite lovable. The locals seem to have a great time. Of course the football was making it extra jubilant, but it stayed much more than upbeat throughout our 3 day stay.
The Natural World
A stunning fox in its finest red and white trousers stared at me on the trail leaving Sheffield. I have seen many foxes but this one was perhaps the most foxlike I have seen. Picture perfect. A family of mallards sleeping by the canal were also charming.
Media
That PA News interview was long and detailed. I think it will be vey good.
Friends old and new
Steve Taylor and Chris Heaton for old.
Club Scene
Ian talked abiut a clutch of Barnsley and Penistone clubs – see the video.
Heroes and Villains
Joseph Locke was probably both.
Dog of the Day
Maya, The Whipradore
Photo of the day
The Chesterfield Canal
Events and Festivals
The Euros led to mini festivals up and down the country and especially in the Red Lion, Walesby.
Inspiration
Under the Stars, fully joyous and engaging.
