Mileaters 'weigh' out on Portland
On a cold and misty morning 10 hardy walkers and "Pip" our perpetual motion scout, set out under Andy Davies' stewardship to tackle the southern half of Portland.
Threading our way through the old quarry workings we craned our necks to say "Hi" to old Derrick, administered the last rites to a recently departed Goldcrest, and then paused to view Pennsylvania Castle built for John Penn, Governor of Portland, and grandson of William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania.
Turning west to start the crossing of the island, it was too tempting for the more juvenile amongst us (=all of us) to pass up the opportunity to try out the weighbridge. More used to measuring trucks laden with stone, it somehow recorded a 100kg increase when our beloved photographer jumped aboard. "Pip" joined in the fun.....20kg later! Discussions ensued as to which "weigh" next. Passing the bases of old windmills, a game of cricket was suggested but we could only find 2 stumps.
Reaching the west side of the island the mist cleared, the sun shone on the righteous, and great views of Lyme Bay were enjoyed. An easy 2 miles on springy turves later, the "Pulpit Inn" was reached to quench our well-earned thirsts.
You could say a walk worth "weighting" for.
Nick Priddle (with apologies)