By Helen Gray

South Manchester LDWA is a large group with more than 200 members. The organisation of the Goyt Valley Challenge was passed over to our close neighbours High Peak LDWA some years ago and, although we are active in helping out with this, creating and organising our own event once more was something the committee thought would be very worthwhile.

I volunteered to coordinate the project and our starting point was a 24-mile route planned by Dave Gosling which starts and finishes in Marple. Having secured a grant from the LDWA for purchasing essential equipment, we began to work on finessing the route and timing system. Entries opened on SI entries in April.

The 24-mile route passes over Werneth Low, Cown Edge, Lantern Pike and Chinley Churn before returning to Marple via New Mills. The 19-mile option cuts off after Cown Edge via Rowarth. There is over 4000ft of elevation in the long route, presenting a real challenge to walkers to complete within the 10-hour limit. In addition, there will be self-clips at some Peak and Northern Footpaths signs along the way to test route finding skills.

The views along the way are amazing: from the Manchester skyline to Kinder and the Dark Peak, showcasing the best that the area has to offer. In addition, the route passes areas of industrial heritage in Broadbottom and New Mills and traverses the stunning Millenium Walkway.

There are 4 outdoor checkpoints with drinks and snacks; tea, coffee and pastries at the start and a hot pot meal at the finish.

Entries are open on SI entries, £17 LDWA £22 non-members. https://www.sientries.co.uk/event.php?event_id=13158

Any help which you could offer is greatly appreciated.

Email mailto:signposthike@yahoo.com

Helen Gray