YC enjoyed a jog around the Simonside Hills today. Parking in Rothbury, he headed up the route of the Hillforts & Headaches race before following some of the Beacon Hill race around the flank of Simonside. It was a slate grey day with a chilly breeze blowing, but the views over towards The Cheviots were good. Afterwards he drove to Cresswell Pond where the red breasted mergansers (look them up in your bird book) were putting on a fine display - 4 males were in hot pursuit of a lucky (or unlucky?) female.
As it's the season of Lent, some readers might have given something up for Lent. Emma Duff reports that she is abstaining from alcohol, cakes and biscuits, and feels "as fit as a lop". Readers may consider this admirable though unobtainable for them. In which case they could consider the example of John Telfer, who is warming up for the Allendale Challenge with vodka and beer whilst holidaying in Russia. YC, as always, will be following the diplomatic middle way - a half of shandy if the weather is particularly hot...