Midge Walkers
Walk Report Kem Mill/Cuerden Valley - Walk 197 (10.08.25).
Walk 196 was abandoned halfway around due extreme heat and humidity, the small number of us, 5, had had enough! Consequently, it was decided to have another bash at it next time out when 11 folks joined in. The normal start point for this walk was changed as parking can be difficult in Mill Lane.
From our changed start point at Clayton-Le-Woods Community Centre, on to Spring Meadow, across Lancaster Lane and into Shady Lane, we then entered Cuerden Valley at the Woodland Centre, it then became necessary to ignore requests to stop at Café by moving swiftly past. Cuerden Hall came into our view, this once grand building seems to be gradually falling apart under the Stewardship of Lancs CC (shame on them). Going down hill we reached the River Lostock, we saw children and dogs having a great time in the shallow river. Now walking along the main pathway, we stopped for a regrouping in some welcome shade. Upon reaching Sheep Hill we crossed over to the Southern Half of the Park continuing to follow the River Lostock. Reaching the site of what was Kem Mill it was disappointing to see that this historic site is not being maintained and is now overgrown! (LCC shame on you).
On reaching the South Car Park we branched right up the pathway to Lisieux Hall, the view of the valley and beyond is impressive. The Hall is now run by the Brothers of Charity for mainly elderly folks. Heading toward Dawson Lane we turned right onto a path running alongside the roadway to Clayton Sand and Gravel Pit, another short stop in the shade was taken here. Eventually we took the path, which runs around the Pit, it is an amazing sight as the once huge hole, made by extract of sand/gravel, is now an enormous hillside of compacted refuse. Passing the edge of Leyland Golf Course we reached Clayton Hall which is now a Stable & Riding Centre.
Our start point was also now in sight. All 11 folks, although hot again, said they enjoyed was is a picturesque, flat walk of 5.5 miles.
Rodney Swarbrick
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