NE020203

North East Past Events

Kielder Forest Run Sunday 2nd February 2003

We set off at 9.30am to meet Michael and Joanne in Stanley. Then it was over to Washington Services to get Mike and Viv, before setting off on the grand anniversary trail. It was a cold day but no sign of snow – did I speak too soon! The plan was to travel up towards the Keilder Forest Park with the odd detour on the way! So we went up the A197 had a look through Ogle before getting onto the A696. There was still snow over the hills, but the roads were ok. We were nearly at the main entrance to the forest when a light flurry of snow started to appear. Were we deterred? Don’t be silly! We had Mr 4x4’s! I had never been to Keilder Forest before and as we slowly started driving into it, I was quite taken aback by how beautiful it was. Michael was ahead and as we got deeper into the forest, the snow started falling and I mean quick and fast when I say that! Michael had been in front of us but now he was nowhere to be seen! Meanwhile we were slipping and sliding all over the place as was Mike behind us. We were probably about a third of the way through the forest drive when we were well and truly stuck, there was no going forwards, it was the same for Mike, but Evil McSheavills ( his new nickname-christened by Paul) was nowhere to be seen ahead. After lots of deliberating and a few choice words we were well and truly stuck. A kind 4x4 came towards us and apparently offered help but Paul Woods refused it (does he have a brain – it's debatable)! So finally we were able to reverse back the way we had come and drive along the tracks the 4x4 had made. By the way still no sign of Michael and Joanne, then we realised that because he was in the blue supercharger, an automatic, he would have been able to keep driving at a steady pace! So he and Joanne had got to the end of the forest drive, but double backed on themselves to come looking for us! We eventually found a lovely place for Sunday lunch, where we could discuss the mornings escapades and think of quotes for the article. By the way The Redesdale Arms in Northumberland did a fantastic Sunday lunch, so if you’re ever passing! Feeling full and content we continued on a different route, well we continued on the A68 to the Scottish Border, where we stopped for snowball fights, photos, and ‘How not to treat an MR2’! We did stop for a look at Keilder Water Reservoir where the views were incredible. It was then time to head home after a long but very enjoyable day, did I say home, I meant our second home The church Mouse! Thanks to all who came. We will return to Keilder Forest, but possibly when the weather has improved somewhat!!

Becky