2016

Thanks to Chris and Sandra we were all booked into stay at Hardwick Hall

Here is Hardwick Hall

Here is a “cottage” near Hardwick Hall

Here is the gang. One person wishes to remain anonymous

Here is the gang having a cuppa on a walk

Here is some of the gang in a local pub

Here is some of the gang enjoying one of the local drinks (Slivovica)

Here is a hip flask ready for a walk

No comment.

No comment.

No comment (but worried)

Alice, Digger and Richard with the Woods stage in background (probably early evening as the bottle of port Digger is holding looks un-touched!)

As is traditional at festivals it rained and for reasons beyond my control (thanks Jono) I only had my 25 year old tent. It turns out its still water proof if you protect it under an emergency sheeting.

Apparently it is traditional to have makeup on, especially glitter, at festivals. Well that’s what these two make-up ladies (Hebe and Esther) told me.

They also told me I look good and I think they were right.

Infact, we all looked pretty good.

Look at what you missed? The Red Hot Chilli Pipers!

Look at what you missed? Shamus O’Blivion and The Megadeath Morris (yes the even was as blurry as this photo suggests)

Look at what you missed? Yes Chris and Digger dancing around their hats to Steeleye Span! (ed. I not that you are on the campsite so you didn’t actually go to see them?). Self photography at its best?

The problem with attending an outdoor beer festival in the British summer is the weather.

It just means you have to drink more beer!! Self photography at its best?

Sophia, Tahira and Digger- somewhere near Mam Tor. Self photography at its best?

The Staffordshire Moorlands is really the western Peak District. It has some lovely scenery which is why most people go there. Others however visit because…………………..

There is a brewery! Self photography at its best?

Many walkers visit the area

Some of the walkers don’t look that “normal”. No silly, I don’t mean Neil or Digger.

Of course, many of us (he lies) go for the hill and road runs……

Why is Russell is looking happy: Is it because A. It’s his birthday, B. Sunderland have stayed up, C. Newcastle have gone down, D. All three? Self photography at its best?

As part of the weekend, Digger was taken to what appeared to be the set of Midsummer Murders

View from part way up Kinder Scout. With Sophia as the scout!

At the end of the walk (errh, it looks dark?). “This is the best walk I have ever done” (Sophia pers comm.), “this is the longest walk I have ever done” (Tahira pers comm.), “I am trying to smile but my whole body hurts” (Digger pers comm.- if you are unsure he is the one on the right). Self photography at its best?

Early in the walk. Tahira, Sophia and Digger.

Go-Gift Memories in the woods (photo by Luke)

Two brave ladies signed up

But the “boys” risked a white knuckle-ride on a train

Scary!!

The boys celebrate with a well known savoury snack (photo by Luke on the right- hiding to save his blushes)

See no evil, hear no evil, look evil.

Luxury tea room with views over to Bradgate Park.

New Year gathering in Westfield Road (un-authorised self photograph using a “cheat-stick”)