Unsupported Crossing: 01st October 2022. Martin Assame and Jude Rivers.
It is with deep regret I can report a successful unsupported East to West crossing on the 1st October 2022 of myself, Martin Assame and Jude Rivers
Start time: 0000hrs Saturday 1st October 2022
Finish time: 1600hrs Saturday 1st October 2022
Crossing time: 16 hrs (Moving time 13hrs 35mins, if interested!)
October is not the most appealing time of year for such a crossing but with a brief window of opportunity the day was seized and we found ourselves (with the help of very understanding partners) at the Lyke Wake Stone at midnight. At this hour, sleeplessness was the main enemy but a ‘refreshing’ hour of rain ensured we kept our wits about us on the early ascents/descents which passed quickly by despite use of auxiliary lighting! This led to a presumptuous feeling we could get to the pub for a few hours before collection.
Little did we know as we rounded Blakey Ridge to find the Lion Inn and a clear sky, sunrise what was in store. After a food stop and well needed change of socks we entered the peat bogs of Shunner Howe descending both literally and metaphorically from there. Mile after mile of peat bog, puddles, rocks and the developing blisters/foot pain dampened the thoughts of the pub with finishing becoming the main goal.
After completion of the technically challenging peat bog, the remaining ‘easy section’ became more and more challenging as our fatigue and blisters set in. Spirits were lifted after reaching the stepping stones, railway crossing and Jugger Howe Beck in what was a battle of wills between head and foot. We finally reached the Antenna at 1600hrs, fatigued but safe and with a great sense of achievement.
This was a tough walk and certainly in the ‘retrospective’ fun category but after a few days we are contemplating our next crossing!
Regards,
Martin and Jude