The old RAILWAY STATION

What memories lay within its crumbling walls? Fiona was about to find out

- Liz Hornby

Let’s make the most of today and head for the Peak District,’ suggested Graham, waking early on a bright autumnal morning.

‘Great idea!’ replied his wife Fiona.

Most Sundays they would go walking, and the Peak District was one of their favourite haunts. Today, while Graham packed the walking gear, Fiona made a large flask of coffee and some bacon sandwiches.

It didn’t take long to reach the Peak District and they parked in a lay-by just outside the village of Crosby. Taking a woodland footpath, they strode out towards the river.

‘It's so peaceful,’ said Fiona.

The path was crisp underfoot from an early frost, and the puddles were frozen hard. Eventually they reached some steep stone steps which led them to the river. The view was awesome as they looked down at the beautiful river meandering through the valley. ‘It's flowing quite fast today,’ Fiona said.

Graham nodded, then gasped in delight as a heron suddenly took flight in front of them.

‘What a lovely sight!’ Fiona exclaimed. ‘I hope we didn’t disturb him as he waited to catch his breakfast.’

Deciding they were feeling quite peckish too, they found an old tree trunk which nicely doubled as a seat. The coffee and bacon sandwiches tasted even better in the chill morning air. Graham took the opportunity to look at his map. ‘How about taking the old railway line down to Ashby?’ he suggested.

‘Good idea. We’ve never been down there before, have we?’ Fiona grinned.

The old railway line had been deserted for years. It had once been a busy track full of steam trains with their loads of ironstone and passengers.

It was a lovely walk, with huge trees on either side of the track joining to form archways overhead. Beautiful autumn-coloured leaves were everywhere and the sun was shining through the branches.

A couple waved as they cycled by with a reluctant dog in tow. Fiona and Graham waved back.