We meet up at the appropriately named Griffin Inn at Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd, Nr Ruthin. Following early morning refreshments we set off along the B5429, a leafy country lane leading us onto the A525 via the villages of Graig-Fechan and Pentra-Celyn continuing through the Nanty-y-Garth Pass. Turning onto the A542 we climbed the road which takes us to the “Ponderosa Café”and the Maesyrychen mountains where it is sited. We have spectacular views all round from the Cyrn-y-Brain mountains down into the valley at Worlds End, car photos were a must. Leaving this view point we descend down the famous Horse Shoe Pass (well named) not the place to discover faulty brakes, passing the ruin of Valle Crucis Abbey we enter Llangollen. We did not stop at Llangollen a famed beauty spot, with equally famed Steam Railway but pressed on along the A5 for a few miles. Approaching our venue the Club cars drove in Convoy through Chirk village, and after a couple of miles via a narrow country lane we entered the grounds of the impressive Chirk Castle. Completed in 1310 Chirk is the last Welsh castle from the reign of Edward 1st, features from its 700 year history include; Medieval Tower, Dungeon, Guard Room and Soldiers Quarters. There is a 17th Century Long Gallery and the Portcullis entrance brings you into the Castles striking quadrangle. Outside members can enjoy award winning gardens with stunning views over the Cheshire and Shropshire countryside.

The Club was given permission for a photo shoot of our cars at the castle entrance, another interest the general visitors enjoyed. Photos were taken of “14th Century” soldiers engaged in sword fights on the green, plus many more of this fortress and its battlements.

Sadly we had to leave this historical venue and retrace our drive back to the Griffin Inn, but enroute we stopped again at the Horse Shoe Pass for yet more photos in this beautiful location.

All members had a great day even the weather was on our side, which even Griffin runners cannot control. A further report in the Autumn Newsletter.

All runners received an attendance certificate and info pack.                                Bryan Wilcox

Members Attended:

Bryan & Marie Wilcox

Jane & Jean Miller

Paul, Arthur & Alice Ellson

Ken & Joshua Jones

Ian Hill & Kerry

Martin & Heather Frost

Vince Poole

Jo Winks

Gareth, Michelle, Charlotte & Zak

Richard & Beth Watt

Brandon Smith  & Sue Watt

Cars:

Cavaliers

Chevette

Monza

Manta

For more information on Chirk Castle please visit their website:

www.chirk.com/castle

All The Best

Bryan Wilcox