AW rejoined the Wall north of Haltwhistle and continued west along it – a route now shared by the Pennine Way and the 2008 journey. It was ‘no longer impressive and upstanding‘ but he appreciated ‘its adventurous course‘ over the Nicks of Thirlwall where he tarried before dropping down to Greenhead.

From there he knew that his route would be along the valley of the South Tyne to Alston some 14 miles away. He followed, as best as he could, an ancient track – an old Roman road called the Maiden Way which runs from the fort at Carvoran to Appleby. After passing through Knarsdale he was pleased to be able to get a ‘splendid meal‘ in Slaggyford before setting out on the final 5 miles to Alston.

Crossing the river by a footbridge near Kirkhaugh station, AW walked through Kirkside Wood finally arriving at Alston at eight o’ clock. ‘Alston was en fête‘ for it was the day of the Annual Show but ‘tired . . . and cold‘ he was ‘in no mood for jollity‘ being more desirous of an early bed.