A wonderful route of two distinct halves. A quick, flat start from Meerbrook skirts reservoirs and follows rivers and old railways before the hills finally kick in for a strenuous second-half. Shuttlingsloe, at 14 miles, is the first hill and quickly dampens the fast pace gathered until then. This is followed by a long ascent via Cumberland Brook and the moors above, finishing with a traverse of the Roaches and a delightful gulley descent.
As expected from the Staffordshire group the food was excellent both at halfway (Wildboarclough) and at the finish where an amazing salad spread was laid on accompanied by apple pie and custard! Thanks to the whole Staffs team for a truly great day. Garfield (Tracklogs : 28.7 miles, 4562 ft ascent)