I was at work this morning, looked out through the door and saw a lovely, clear day developing... right then, how about a walk around Carsington Water so that I could test out my new binoculars, bought last week in the sales.

When I'd finished my shift I sat in the car and phoned S - rather a long shot but it had to be done... how did he fancy a bird spotting walk around Carsington?  Well I knew the answer before I asked him, it's his own business and he can't afford to take an unplanned day off, and that's ok, but I needed to ask and it's always nice to chat.

The sun appeared now and again - good to see it :-) - and I spent some time getting used to the binoculars before heading to a hide so that I could have a dry seat to eat my lunch.  Then I began the circular walk of the reservoir while I still had time to complete it in the light.

7.76 miles
2.15 hours
650 feet ascent