The venue for this years Christmas walk is the Haskayne and Halsall area. As usual, we will be having a meal after the walk - see details below. The walk starts, and finishes, at the Ship Inn, Haskayne (OS Explorer 285 - grid 364083). This is easily reached by car from Formby (allow 20 minutes):

• Cross the by-pass near Tesco's and head out through Altcar over the Moss (B5195)
• At the Scarisbrick Arms, turn left and head towards Southport (A5147)
• Go past the flower stall on your right, over the bridge and take the first turning on the right – sign-posted to the Ship.

Please meet in the car park by 9.45am for a 10.00 am start. We have been asked to park vehicles at the back of the car park, or on the overflow (which is the field on the right hand side of the road, immediately before the car park - recommended only for 4 wheel drives!). If possible, share a car to save space.

The walk starts at the pub and is a circular walk via fields, lanes and canal towpath. There is a short climb, to Clieves Hills Farm, but apart from that the route is flat. The view from Clieves Hills is excellent in good weather. When last 'reccied' (early November) the route was generally dry underfoot with some wet places. Apart from one field however, it was free of mud. Boots are nevertheless recommended. You may wish to bring some bread for the ducks too!

Total distance - 7.5 miles Ascent - 120 feet
Leaders - Bob Scurr, AN Other