Bowes to Middleton on Teesdale . 131 miles and18,834 ft

After a week of marvellous weather, yesterday semed to indiacte a change. I am not optimistic.

Annie dropped me off at Pasture End near Bowesand with the weather looking pessimistic I start the walk. Whilst calling Di to explain we have had a few problems with the blog, particularly down-loading our extensive photo library, two Hurricanes fly overhead. Good to know that national defences are still functioning. Chat with Di about Lapwings and Curlews and continue walking.

When I wake this morning I had a slight twinge (bloody great pain) in my left knee, but decided to ignore it. However it is still there.

Anyway with our delayed start at 10.25 (just waiting for the rain to stop) I walk across Cotherstone Moor to Blackton Reservoir and press on. The odd shower descends as I progress to Grassholme Reservaoir.

Up the hill through Lunedale and the knee is starting to be a real problem. Up the hill and around Hooter Fell and despite cheese and ham sandwiches I feel worse.

Nearing Middleton-in-Teesdale I make contact with Annie who is instantly off to Boots for a knee support. Meanwhile I slow down and the mile descent to Middleton takes me an hour.

Reach Annie nad Horace at 4.30 and a combination of knee support and refreshments enables me to restart the walk at 5.10 along the river Tees to Low Force waterfall. Another 4 miles along fairly flat terrainj and I am able to do that. Take a few more drugs (painkillers) and all is well(ish). Relieved that I can continue and actually have an enjoyable evening in the sunshine before I meet Annie at 7pm.

Off to the Rose and Crown at Mickleton for a very delicious couple of pints and return to a very pleasant meal at the Barnard Castle campsite.

Go to sleep wondering how the knee will cope tomorrow.

Only 14 miles and 2,373 ft, but still going.