Daily start times for Bob’s Walk

A reminder to anyone joining the walk that the start time is 9.30am each morning, except Sunday 21st which is a 1pm start.

BOB’S WALK – IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR WALKERS

There is work planned on the Forth Road Bridge which will impact travel to our start points both days this weekend.
We would recommend that those heading for the Kelpies on Saturday travel there via the Kincardine Bridge.
For Linlithgow on Sunday you should consider a slightly earlier start as there will be Network Rail activity in Winchburgh Tunnel which will impact traffic around Linlithgow Railway Station.

http://www.forthroadbridge.org/news/cable-inspection-works-110615/

 

Dr Bob’s 117-mile walk to raise money for Maggie’s

Dr Bob Grant sets off this Saturday 13th June on his amazing 117-mile walk for Maggie’s, the charity which provides free practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer, their family and friends.

Dr Grant lost his leg to cancer in 2002, having been diagnosed with the disease as a teenager.

His fourth walk for Maggie’s Fife, and his longest so far, starts at the Kelpies, in Helix Park, Falkirk, just a few miles from the site of Maggie’s Forth Valley which is being built in the grounds of Forth Valley Royal Hospital and which will be the eighth Maggie’s Centre in Scotland when it opens next year. From there Dr Bob will walk for nine continuous days on a route along the Union Canal to the coast, then up the Fife Coastal Path and finally to Maggie’s Dundee on Sunday, June 21.

Dr Bob will be joined by friends and supporters along the way and for the last stretch of the journey he will be joined by 100 Harley Davidson bikers from the Dunedin Chapter.

BobAtKelpies

From the Fife Today website – Photo by James Stewart

Dr Grant was first diagnosed with cancer as a teenager, just weeks after he lost his best friend to cancer. He decided to have his leg amputated in 2002 after living for years with pain and infection. Having survived cancer and lived for years with the lasting effects of radiotherapy Dr Bob has become a national influence on the Scottish cancer scene. His experience of health problems from his school days onwards has contributed to a strong personal motivation to improve patient care.

Dr Bob has been the chairman of the Associate Fundraising Board of Maggie’s Fife since 2012. Dr Bob said: “My enthusiasm for Maggie’s continues to grow. It is vital that funds are raised to ensure that the essential support that Maggie’s gives to people affected by cancer, and their family and friends, can continue.

“This is my fourth walk for Maggie’s and I know it will be exhausting because it’s day after day. It will be tiring but I know the endorphins will be flowing and any fatigue will be overwhelmed by the buzz!” He added: “There are so many things to enjoy! In previous years, I have been joined en route by so many generous and interesting people and I look forward to meeting more this year.

“The route of the walk will take me through so many interesting and beautiful places. I can never get enough of the Fife Coastal Path and I’m looking forward to the ever-changing scenery, the wildlife, the East Neuk villages and of course the finale in Dundee. “The last day is always amazing and always surprisingly emotional.”

Alison Harrow, centre head at Maggie’s Fife, said: “We are so proud of Dr Bob. He is fantastically committed to supporting Maggie’s, both in his work as chairman of our Fife Board, and also through this extraordinary challenge and the amazing funding he has already raised which helps Maggie’s to keep on supporting people with cancer and their family and friends.

“Travelling 117 miles on crutches is an exceptionally tough challenge and everyone at Maggie’s wishes him the best of luck for fine weather and an enjoyable journey.

“Numerous members of Maggie’s staff and volunteers will be joining Dr Bob at points along his route, so we will be able to cheer him on.”

Since his first walk for Maggie’s in 2007, Dr Bob has raised more than £40,000 for the charity.

Mackays Jam and Marmalade have come on board as Dr Bob’s walk event partners, and two Mackays staff members will be joining him for part of the walk to represent the organisation. FMC Technologies of Dunfermline are also supporting the walk.

Paul Grant, chairman of Mackays, said: “Mackays are delighted to be supporting Dr Bob’s walk for the second year. We were immensely proud of his dedication and fundraising efforts in 2014 and look forward to an equally successful, if not better event this year, for Maggie’s.”

The route for Dr Bob’s 2015 walk for Maggie’s Fife starts at the Kelpies at Helix Park near Falkirk. From there the route will be via the Falkirk Wheel and along the tow-path of the Union Canal to Winchburgh.

Then, leaving the canal, it will go on to Kirkliston, South Queensferry, over the Forth Road Bridge and on to the Fife Coastal Path all the way to the Tay Road Bridge.

On the final day the route is over the Bridge to Dundee, passing Discovery Point, and ends at Maggie’s Dundee.

You can donate online at www.justgiving.com/bobswalk2015
You can also donate by text message.
To donate £5 just text  DOCB99 £5  to 70070
To donate £10 just text  DOCB99 £10  to 70070

To find out more visit Bob’s Walk or Facebook

To find out more about Maggie’s and to see how the Centres support people with cancer visit Maggie’s Centres

 

Bert maps the route for Bob’s Walk 2015

Bert Hannah is the route planner and one of the main participants for Bob’s Walk 2015

Trekkers on a special week-long charity walk this month will be turning to Methil man Bert Hannah for help and guidance. And they’ll more or less have to – as he’s the one who planned the route!

Bert is one of an enthusiastic group taking part in Bob’s Walk 2015, an annual excursion in aid of Maggie’s Fife. The party – featuring a mixture of newcomers and experienced walkers, including Mail editor Allan Crow – will be walking between the Kelpies, near Falkirk, and Dundee, from June 13-21, a distance of 117 miles.

The walks have been inspired by the main participant, Dr Bob Grant, a retired Fife GP who lost a leg to cancer in 2002, after being treated for the illness during most of his life

Bert has mapped out a fairly flat route for the team to tackle – and his reasoning is quite simple, as he told the Mail: “I hate hills.”

Bert

Bert (68) has previously done a walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats in aid of Cancer Research UK, as well as a Length of Ireland trek – which featured alternate days of cycling and walking – for a school for pupils with cerebral palsy.

Also, in his days with the East Fife Male Voice Choir, he trekked from Kirkcaldy to Luss, when the choir had a singing engagement nearby. “I do quite a lot of walking anyway because I enjoy going outside,” added Bert.

Originally from Methil but now living in Kirkcaldy, Bert said he’d been impressed when he heard about Bob’s extensive work for cancer research. “Bob Grant was a GP in St Brycedale and in Markinch, and people always talked about him in glowing terms as a doctor,” said Bert.

This year’s walk, as ever, will be taking in some spectacular sights. “The Kelpies had just been unveiled, so we thought that would be an iconic spot to start from, especially as they are building a new Maggie’s Centre at Forth Valley Hospital, which is nearby,” he said.

An ex-Dundee University student, Bert worked with the world-famous computing firm IBM before retiring at the age of 53 and deciding he wanted to devote time to community-based activities. He’s also had a lifelong awareness of the misery cancer can wreak, having literally grown up with its legacy.

His father died of the disease in 1949, when Bert was little more than a toddler, although he said his mum Mary did a great job of raising him and his older siblings. “I’ve always known the effect it (cancer) can have on a family,” he said.

Bert is also working with the Friends of Methil Heritage Centre and researching the famous story of Robert Dunsire, the Buckhaven soldier who earned the Victoria Cross during the First World War nearly 100 years ago.

Bob’s Walk has already raised £40,000 for Maggie’s Fife. And not surprsingly, the team there has huge respect for Dr Bob Grant, who will be tackling the walk on crutches. Alison Harrow, the new head of centre, said: “We are so proud of Dr Bob. He is fantastically committed to supporting Maggie’s, both in his work as chairman of our Fife board and also through this extraordinary challenge.” The squad will set off from a point near the Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert on June 13, heading via the Falkirk Wheel along the towpath of the Union Canal to Winchburgh, Kirkliston, South Queensferry and over the Forth Road Bridge to the Fife Coastal Path. They’ll be joined by groups of friends and supporters along the way before arriving at Maggie’s Dundee on June 21.

You can donate online at www.justgiving.com/bobswalk2015
You can also donate by text message.
To donate £5 just text DOCB99 £5 to 70070
To donate £10 just text DOCB99 £10 to 70070

 

From the Fife Today website – article by Ralph Mellon. Pic by Fife Photo Agency

 

Dr Bob’s preparations for Bob’s Walk

Dr Bob has also set his training programme into action, ahead of Bob’s Walk 2015 in a few weeks time.
“Bert, Joan, Amber and I enjoyed a dry and sunny walk in Kirkcaldy on Monday morning. We started at Ravenscraig Park and walked west and along the new promenade towards Morrisons. Then we headed up a path, which was new to Joan and I, towards Balwearie Golf Club and then via the woodland walk into Beveridge Park. We really enjoyed the sunshine and the firm and even surfaces a…llowed me to practice using my spare, lightweight carbon fibre crutches. Just after the half way mark I reverted to my favourite titanium crutches and completed the walk on them. In all we walked for 2-1/4 hours and felt that we had earned our picnic lunch adjacent to Dysart harbour, currently being prepared as a film set…all very interesting.”

You can donate online at www.justgiving.com/bobswalk2015 and you can also donate using text message. Just text DOCB99 £5 to 70070 – or DOCB99 £10 to 70070

DysartPhoto courtesy of www.fifetoday.co.uk

Alan Crow’s training blog #3 – Sunshine on the Water of Leith

Bob’s Walk: Sunshine on the Water of Leith

Allan Crow is in training to join Bob’s Walk 2015. His latest walk took him across the Forth to the Water of Leith

One of the joys of walking is you get to see towns and cities from an entirely new perspective.

I grew up in Wester Hailes in Edinburgh – a grim housing estate designed to suck to the life out of any community spirit even before folk move in.

It sits at the bottom of a dual carriageway which feeds into Colinton, and leads to the leafy suburbs of Juniper Green and Balerno.

And it’s there you can start the Water of Leith trail; a 12.5-mile journey which takes you all the way to Leith.

Over the course of five hours on a gloriously sunny Saturday I meandered the length and breadth of my home city.

A number 44 bus trip through the town and out to Balerno, off at the stop next to the high school and I was ready to roll.

The Water of Leith is pretty much flat, almost entirely off-road, perfect for families, cyclists and joggers … and walkers.

It’s easy, accessible, and you can leave it at any time and be in a shop, cafe, shop or back on the bus in a matter of minutes. In fact, that rucksack on your back is pretty much redundant.

It truly is a green corridor which weaves like a ribbon through the heart of Auld Reekie.

In Balerno I saw a couple relaxing by their outdoor swimming pool which featured a ceramic penguin as a lifeguard – one of the many hidden features in gardens which take your breath away.

It takes no time at all to pass Juniper Green and Colinton before arriving at the Slateford canal with its narrow path and no wall between you and the flat water. The duck sitting on sunbathing in the jetty didn’t seem too concerned as cyclists dismounted to negotiate the path as walkers passed in the opposite direction, all careful to avoid a diup in the calm water.

You can continue and follow the canal, or you can take a left and head to the visitor centre. It’s a good stopping off point for info and a cuppa before carrying on towards Saughton where the playing fields now boast a tree of hanging trainers – shoes thrown up and into the branches!

WaterOfLeith
Cross the road and you are back on to the path which picks up the river once more all the way to Murrayfield and round the rugby stadium into Roseburn.

One more hop across the road and down a flight of wooden steps and you are back into the tranquil wooded walks along the river’s edge where you’ll find some amazing waterfront homes; places you never even knew existed far less lived in!

You’ll pass the back stairs to the National Gallery of Modern Art – one of many obvious stopping places – before you head to Dean Village, arguably the most stunning part of the walk. It’s the perfect place to stay if you have oodles of money – waterfront balconies in modern flats where time is marked by the sound of water lapping agast the river banks, magnificent historic buildings with many nooks and crannies, old town houses still standing and looking resplendent, and everything wrapped in tranquility. Alas, I can but look, dream and move on …

If you want food, Stockbridge is as good a place to any to stop – the area is packed with great eateries, from sandwich shops to cafes and great pubs such as Hector’s Bar. You can be seated with a cold beer within minutes before returning to the path as it heads on from Canonmills – where properties balance right over the water – and onwards to Bonnington before finally arriving in Leith.

I turned off just after it passed Leith Walk, and doubled back for my bus, but you can follow it all the way to Ocean Terminal

I’ll definitely do the Water of Leith at least once more before Bob’s Walk in June.

It was a pleasure to see my home city from a completely different perspective.

There will be a daily blog during Bob’s walk in June here at www.fifetoday.co.uk and www.bobswalk.co.uk – plus several updates leading up to the fundraiser for Maggie’s Fife.

Allan Crow is joining Bob’s Walk 2015, June 13-21, from The Kelpies round Fife Coastal Path to Maggie’s in Dundee, raising funds for Maggie’s Fife.

There will be a daily blog during Bob’s walk in June at www.fifetoday.co.uk and www.bobswalk.co.uk – plus several updates leading up to the fundraiser for Maggie’s Fife

You can donate online at www.justgiving.com/bobswalk2015

You can also donate by text message, just text  DOCB99 £5 to 70070  –  or text  DOCB99 £10 to 70070

Allan Crow’s training blog #2 – Bob’s Walk 2015: Stunning views along to the Wemyss

Bob’s Walk 2015:  Stunning views along to the Wemyss

Bob’s Walk for Maggie’s Fife takes place in June – 117 miles from the Kelpies, round the Kingdom to Dundee. Allan Crow’s keeping a training diary …

First time I had to climb The Path in Kirkcaldy I thought I’d need an ambulance. Boy, it fair gets the heart going and tests the old calf muscles … But what waits at the top is worth the brief huffing and puffing.

The route to the Wemyss really kicks in once you leave the main road and turn into Ravenscraig Park where the crunchy path through green parkland follows the centuries old wall separating land from sea. The views are stunning, the nooks and crannies in the walls leading to secluded BBQ spots and places where you can forget all about the stresses of modern life.

Out of the park and on to the path adjacent to the beach, through the tunnel and sharp left takes you into the wonder that is Dysart Harbour. It never fails to impress.

There is always something happening at the water’s edge – boats moored for repairs, enthusiasts working under the midday sun. The towering rockface is home to many birds which fly in and out of the nooks and crannies, while the giant chains seem to be made to anchor ships much bigger than those in the water.

Past the harbourmaster’s house and the new modern sea beams sculpture, which mirror the colours of the sea, and on towards the Wemyss, the steps are great for getting the heart thumping – making the seats at the top all the more welcome.

Along to Frances Colliery and on to the path behind the place where once worked thousands of Fifers, we pass a horse and its young rider before tackling the first of several sets of wide steps round and then down towards the Wemyss. The artwork outside the village is fantastic, while the main street has a real tranquil seaside feel to it.

It was good to see the West Wemyss cafe back open for business – it’s a welcome stopping point for many walking the path. Do go in – the food is fabulous and it is a community venture that needs your support.

Must admit I’ve grown to love the walk out of Wemyss and on to Leven – it winds its way around a path right down at the waterfront. It’s easy to follow and there are plenty of places to stop as you arrive in Buckhaven and Leven … and it’s an easy bus journey back home!

There will be a daily blog during Bob’s walk in June at www.fifetoday.co.uk and www.bobswalk.co.uk – plus several updates leading up to the fundraiser for Maggie’s Fife

Allan Crow is joining Bob’s Walk 2015, June 13-21, from The Kelpies round Fife Coastal Path to Maggie’s in Dundee, raising funds for Maggie’s Fife.

You can donate online at www.justgiving.com/bobswalk2015

You can also donate by text message, just text  DOCB99 £5 to 70070  –  or text  DOCB99 £10 to 70070

711532932

Allan Crow’s training blog #1

In truth, the training is simple. Get up. Walk. Repeat.
But I’m a fairweather chap – if I see a muckle big black cloud, I usually find something else to do. Something indoors.

But you can’t really wing it if you are planning to walk from the Kelpies to Ninewells as part of Bob’s Walk to raise funds for Maggie’s Fife – 117 miles in nine days means you have to be capable, if not fit. It’s all very well going for a marathon walk, but you got to be able to get up the next morning – not the easiest task if you’ve seized up overnight – and do it again.
And again. And then again.

So, as winter melted away I knew I need to get back into the routine of walking, and getting some decent distances under my belt in preparation for Bob’s Walk 2015. This year I’ve been back on the coastal path, doing the two parts most familiar to me – in fact I’ve done Kirkcaldy to Kinghorn and then on to Burntisland so often I could possibly do it blindfold. The first walk of the year was meant to end at Kinghorn; a gentle 45 minutes from Kirkcaldy. In fact it took me and my other half to Burntisland. I must admit the slight detour at Seafield Tower down on to the beach and rocks to see the seals out sunbathing was rather special. I could have watched them all day.

As always the walk along the Esplanade in Kirkcaldy was a joy – we really MUST start making more of this as one our natural assets. It’s hugely popular with visitors and locals, walkers, joggers and ordinary strollers – with some imagination it could be an even bigger draw.

Along to Kinghorn and a wee stop at Nicola’s Cupcake cafe on the High Street for a wee treat and then back down to the beach and along the front where folk were out enjoying the beach and the scenery. The bit between Kinghorn and Burntisland is perhaps my second least enjoyable part of the coastal path – the routed out of St Andrews is noisy, gritty and tough going – simply because it’s on a main road where the roaring traffic throws up grit and dirt, and makes conversation impossible. And yet, glance across to your left and you are still left in awe of the views over the Forth and up the river to the bridges.

The magic of the coastal path never fails to dazzle or delight. I get to do almost the entire path this June as part of Bob’s Walk.

Before then,there are a few hundred miles to get under the soles of by walking boots. Come to think of it, better get a spare pair. Just in case …

There will be a daily blog during Bob’s walk in June at www.fifetoday.co.uk and www.bobswalk.co.uk – plus several updates leading up to the fundraiser for Maggie’s Fife

Allan Crow is joining Bob’s Walk 2015, June 13-21, from The Kelpies round Fife Coastal Path to Maggie’s in Dundee, raising funds for Maggie’s Fife.

You can donate online at www.justgiving.com/bobswalk2015

You can also donate by text message, just text  DOCB99 £5 to 70070

Exciting News

Bob’s Walk 2015 for Maggie’s

Dr Bob Grant has launch the fundraising drive for his latest challenge, Bob’s Walk 2015. The 117 mile walk over 9 days, on crutches, will be his fourth for Maggie’s Centres, and his longest so far.

Dr Bob’s walk will start on Saturday 13th June at the Kelpies, in the Helix Park near Grangemouth. Walking over nine continuous days, joined by groups of friends and supporters along the way, Dr Bob will arrive at Maggie’s Dundee on Sunday 21st June.

Dr Bob’s Walk for Maggie’s 2015 starts at the Kelpies, and takes in the Forth and Clyde Canal, the Falkirk Wheel, the Union Canal, the Avon Viaduct, the Forth Bridge, the Fife Coastal Path, the Tay Bridge and ends at Maggie’s Dundee. On the final day of his walk, Dr Bob will be joined by up to 100 motorcyclists from the Harley Davidson Dunedin Chapter.

Looking forward to starting the walk in June, Dr Bob said: “There are so many things to enjoy! ln previous years, I have been joined en route by so many generous and interesting people and I look forward to meeting more in June. The route of the walk will take me through so many interesting and beautiful places. I can never get enough of the Fife Coastal Path and l’m looking forward to the ever-changing scenery, the wildlife, the East Neuk villages and of course the finale in Dundee. The last day is always amazing and always surprisingly emotional.”

You can donate to Bob’s Walk online at  www.justgiving.com/bobswalk2015

You can also donate by text message.  To donate £5 just text   DOCB99  £5   to  70070

Please also sign up for Gift Aid if you can.

Allan Crow’s daily blog – Day 9 of Bob’s Walk

Piped home after 108 miles on the road. The ninth and last day of Bob’s Walk 2013, and a wonderful welcome at Maggie’s Dundee.

After nine days of walking covering 108 miles across three regions, we reached our final destination at Maggie’s Dundee – and the most wonderful of welcomes.

The roar of the motorbikes through a suburban street of Dundee told us we were almost there.

One bike passed, then another … and another … followed by dozens more from the Edinburgh Dunedin Chapter of the Harley Davidson owners’ group who staged the most amazing of ride outs to be part of Bob’s Walk 2013.

The first wave roared past, followed by a second and a third, their bikes gleaming in the sun, the noise bringing people out from their gardens to see the spectacle.

Our ultra runners Sheena and Johnny Logan also joined us after running the entire 108-mile route in under 24-hours – a truly staggering feat of physical stamina and endurance.

And many friends who joined us on the walk also mustered at points along the road leading to Maggie’s.

As we turned into the road which winds its way up the centre the first skirl of pipes could be heard; another magnificent gesture which added to the sense of celebration and achievement as we walked proudly behind Bob Grant to the front doors.

With STV’s news team on hand to film the event, it was a very special moment for all connected with the 2013 walk. Just perfect.

The day began at Tayport Harbour with blue skies overhead and more new faces to welcome – family and friends, and Paul and Helen Grant from Mackays jam and marmalade company, one of our major sponsors.

Also with us was Rod, Bob’s nephew who travelled from his Manchester home, got off the train in Edinburgh and cycled to Tayport via the coastal route to be part of the last day’s walk into Dundee.

With our morning photo-call done, we were ready to roll when Fife Council’s team opened the public loos. Cue a slight delay as more than a few walkers thought ‘‘well, I’d better go …!’’

The journey from Tayport to the bridge flew past – we were well ahead of schedule, so enjoyed a leisurely coffee break the services just adjacent to the bridge. Once again the generosity of people shone through as the cost of some of the food went straight into the collecting tin.

The walk across the bridge was fabulous – stunning views up and down the Tay, and a chance to gain a complete perspective on the city’s amazing regeneration plans for its waterfront.

We were still ahead of schedule by the time we reached Discovery Point, so headed next door to Discovery Quay restaurant which kindly allowed us to use their outdoor tables. Coffees ordered and lunch over, Bob announced we’d reached an important point in the walk … namely, the bar was open!

A thirst-quenching round later we set off to encounter our one and only rain shower; a short but heavy burst which had us all diving for our waterproof for the very first time since leaving Edinburgh. Not a single drop of rain fell while we walked the entire coast of the Kingdom …

The rain ceased within minutes and were back to our t-shirts by the time we paused in the shadow of the Tay rail bridge.

With more of Bob’s family joining at Dundee Airport and fellow walkers parking cars between there and the hospital we grew in number by the time we stored all our bags into our support cars and gathered for the last leg of the journey up the hill into the grounds of Ninewells and on to Maggie’s Centre.

The final day’s walking simply flew past – ten miles covered in the blink of an eye.

The hours and days spent walking on beaches, over rocks, up and down challenging hills and through some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland brought us home to Maggie’s, and a wonderful, very special welcome.

There are many stories from the walk – of personal accomplishments, friendship and cameraderie, and a great sense of achievement. It was, as Bob said in his touching and moving speech, a very, very special day.
Huge thanks to everyone who took part in Bob’s Walk – to all who joined us for a few miles or a few days, and shared the fun, laughter and conversations along the path.

Huge thanks also to Andrew Davie and his family for their outstanding support, ferrying the walkers and their bags to every single start and pick-up point. They were a huge part of the walk from start to finish

Thanks also to Gregg’s who supplied packed lunches every other day.

Thanks to all of our sponsors and supporters.

Thanks to all the companies whose donations of food and drink made the gathering at Maggie’s Dundee such a special occasion.

Above all, thanks to Bob and Joan Grant for all the work they put into organising Bob’s Walk 2013 – on behalf of all the walkers, it was a pleasure, a privilege and an honour to be part of it.
See the arrival of Bob’s Walk at Maggie’s Dundee online at http://player.stv.tv/categories/stv-news/
Full report in this week’s Glenrothes Gazette and Fife Free Press and online at www.fifetoday.co.uk

Ultra-runners cover 108 miles in under 24 hours

Our ultra-runners, Sheena and Johnny Logan ran the entire 108 mile route in the incredible time of 23 hours and 14 minutes. They started at Maggie’s, Edinburgh at 6am on Day 8 of Bob’s Walk and ran round the Fife Coastal Path overnight, finishing at Maggie’s, Dundee less than 24 hours later, on the final day. A truly amazing feat.

logan

Allan Crow’s daily blog – Day 8 of Bob’s Walk

Day 8 – Saturday 10th August 2013 – Guardbridge to Tayport. Following the forest trail to Tayport. 

You simply couldn’t order weather this good. Eight days on Fife Coastal Path and not one single shower, barely even a raindrop worthy of mention.

The perfect conditions continued on the penultimate day of Bob’s Walk as we headed from Guardbridge to Tayport – a 12-mile walk largely through, or rather, around, Tentsmuir Forest.

Once again we were joined by new faces and many family and friends of Bob and Joan at various stages of the day.

It started out overcast and cloudy, but our fleeces were discarded a few hundred yards after leaving the steps of the Guardbridge Hotel to head into the town and across the road to begin the long, and rather laborious, task, of circumnavigating the air base at Leuchars.

It’s a means to an end – the real joy of the coastal path only truly reveals itself once you have walked the perimeter of the chain link fence linked by solid concrete posts and barbed wire wrapped around every aspect of the base, including its family accommodation. It is as enclosed and forbidding as the path is wide open and welcoming …

It was a no-fly day so it stood silent and rather empty – in contrast to the many flights which thundered into the skies throughout Friday – as we turned right and headed up to Earlshall Road and back into the countryside.

Through the first gate and past a field of horses we started to spread out as we headed towards the single file path which leads through fields of tall grass.

A brief stop in the middle of nowhere – literally – during which we were pretty sure we spotted a buzzard in flight, and we made our way at a leisurely pace to Tentsmuir.

Once again we were able to speak to many people about the walk and the work of Maggie’s, and our thanks to all who gave donations. Every penny will go directly to Maggie’s Fife.

We made the picnic area at Tentsmuir in good time and stopped for lunch – the charcoal and aroma of several barbecues was too good to walk past!

Fed, watered and rested, we opted to stay in the forest rather than hit the beach, and enjoyed a long stretch along the main path, pausing to make way for the many cyclists on a day out, and to enjoy the green surroundings.

The midgies and ticks were out in force too – some giant fern leaves were used as makeshift fans, but we seem to escape relatively unbitten (tomorrow will give us a better indication!)

We passed by the Polish camp, and paused at the site of the old ice house – another small part of Fife’s rich past – before kicking on to Lundin Bridge, ahead of which lay our first views of Dundee.

We cut through the caravan park and stopped on Tayport Common which was winding down after a busy gala day, and carried on along the front to the Bell Rock pub where a very welcome cold beer was waiting.

Overall, a fantastic day of walking in near perfect conditions, and as deep in the heart of the Kingdom’s countryside as it’s possible to go.

Tentsmsuir alone is a fabulous place for any family day out and it was wonderful to see so many youngsters out on their bikes and exploring the outdoors in a truly safe setting.

It is also a wonderful part of the coastal path. Something to savour.

Tomorrow (Sunday) we switch terrains once more with road walking on the agenda as we head up to and over the Tay Bridge and on to our destination at Maggie’s Dundee in the grounds of Ninewells Hospital.

 

The big finale:

Nine days of Bob’s Walk will end tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon with a procession up to Maggie’s Dundee.

The core walkers, who have covered all 108 miles since leaving Edinburgh last Saturday. will be joined by many family and friends as well as supporters as they head to the cancer care centre.

They will also be joined by ultra runners Johnny and Sheena Logan, who are running the path in just 24-hours and are scheduled to arrive in Dundee early on Sunday morning.

They will join the walk for its big arrival, along with up to 80 bikers from the Edinburgh Dunedin Chapter of the Harley Davidson owners’ group which is staging as ride out timed to co-incide with the arrival at Maggie’s Dundee at around 3.00 p.m. on Sunday.

If you are in the area please go along and show your support.

And if you see the walkers heading along the riverside, give them a toot!

 

To make a donation:

You can donate online at:  http://fundraise.maggiescentres.org/bobswalk

Please also share this as widely as possible on your Facebook and Twitter accounts to help us raise as much as possible for Maggie’s Fife.
See pictures from Bob’s Walk

Please visit  www.facebook.com/fifefreepress

www.facebook.com/bobswalk
Follow us on Twitter: 
Use the hashtag #bobswalk for updates from our daily walks (mobile phone signals permitting!)

 

Thanks to Allan Crow for his photographs and daily reports on Bob’s Walk

Allan Crow’s daily blog – Day 7 of Bob’s Walk

Day 7 – A coastal challenge with the most rewarding views. The steep ascents and tricky beach walks into St Andrews.

The further you go on the coastal path, the more stunning the scenery, and the more challenging the conditions.

Once again we were blessed with perfect walking weather, but the first half of the ten-mile stretch from Boarhills to Guardbridge still gave us food for thought.

The overnight rain made parts of it marshy and soft, while clambering over the giant boulders on the beach required guile as well as strength, and the ascents to the tops of the coastal hills may have taken our breath away, but so did the views.

The sun started to break through the clouds as we left the farmland of Boarhills behind us and began to spread out in single file along the path down to the beach.

The tall vegetation either side seemed to soak the air out of the sky, making it hard going, and the first climb was a real test of our fitness – but after seven days of solid walking we all made it to the top.

Ahead of schedule and on the fringe of the immaculately presented golf course at the Fairmont we scuttled up the hill for a treat – coffee, lattes, and teas all round!

Refreshed, we headed past the 17th tee, over the stile and back on to the path for a long walk towards St Andrews.

With the tide out we were able to scramble up and over the giant rocks and stick to the path before emerging at the caravan park and down into town. The view of the beaches was simply perfect – acres of golden sand with the white breakers of the waves seemingly miles away.

We paused to allow a newly-wed couple emerge from a church before stopping at the benches which look down over the West Sands for our lunch.

By the time we were on the move, the newly weds caught up with us for some photos. They then mirrored our route down into town and along the side of the Old COurse all the way to the hotel at the end – we did feel for the poor bride’s feet!

Meanwhile on the world-famous Swilken Bridge another new Mr and Mrs waited for golfers to tee off before dashing on for their special picture. We were tempted to do likewise for a group photo…!

The second half of the walk took us on to the path adjacent to the main road which was in complete contrast to the tranquility of the seafront. The trees did break some of the noise for the first half before they too ended, making conversation difficult as buses, lorries and cars roared past for the last few miles.

We arrived at Guardbridge on schedule and then – and only then – as we unpacked did the first rain shower of the day, indeed the week, finally arrive.

By then day seven was done. Ahead of us we could see Tenstsmuir Forest, part of tomorrow’s walk.
Day 8 (Saturday)

Guardbridge to Tayport (11 miles)

We depart the Guardbridge Hotel at 9.30 a.m. and follow the coastal path to Leuchars and Tayport.

We then head into Tenstmuir Forest, arriving at Kinshaldie Beach for lunch around 12.15 p.m.

In the afternoon we walk from there to Tayport Harbour whereb we hope to enjoy some of the village’s annual gala day on the Common.
Day 9 (Sunday)

Tayport to Maggie’s Centre, Dundee

We follow the coastal path to the Tay Road Bridge and cross into Dundee.

After lunch at the Discovery, we begin the final leg of our journey to Maggie’s Dundee in the grounds of Ninewells Hospital.

We will be joined by our ultra runners and a ride out of Harley Davidson bikes as well as many friends and supporters who have joined us en route.

Our estimated arrival at Maggie’s Dundee is 3,.00 p.m. – you are very welcome to come along and cheer us over the finishing line!

 

Allan Crow’s daily blog – Day 6 of Bob’s Walk

Day 6 – Thursday 8th August 2013 – Crail to Boarhills. Clear skies and the sound of silence.

A fabulous journey from Crail to Boarhills, deep in the Fife countryside.

There were moments on the coastal path today when all you could hear was silence.

No cars, no machinery, not even wildlife. Just the lapping of the waves as they broke on the black, jutting rocks that pock-mark the coastline of north-east Fife.

With the sun rising high into perfect blue skies an temperatures nudging 22 then 23, it was simply blissful. Once again we were fortunate – privileged – to see the coastal path at its most enchanting.

Day six took us from Crail to Boarhills, a journey of just over ten miles; a shorter distance than previous days, but over more challenging and rugged terrain which took their toll on such a hot day.

Once again we were joined by new faces and old friends as we headed further round the Kingdom, quickly leaving Crail behind en route to Fife Ness.

The sun was just beginning to break through as we joined the path out of Crail, getting used to the narrow walking surface nestled between arable farmland on one side, and the rocks and grass leading to the beach on the other.

As we rounded Fife Ness the backdrop started to change.

The Fife coastline was replaced by our first views over into Angus – another marker to underline just how far we have travelled since Saturday.

We paused on the jarring rocks and boulders for a welcome breather after clocking a brisk two miles on the path.

The terrain here can be rugged and difficult, so it was with some relief we saw it had recently been cut back – indeed coastal path staff were out and about working with strimmers as we passed.

A quick hop over the stone wall took us from the rugged path to the manicured greens and fairways of the golf course, and a swarm of corn lice – the black beasties attracted to our white t-shirts.

Slightly bigger animals lay in wait further down the track – coos!

With the path following farmland, it was inevitable we’d encounter a herd after passing through more gates, but ones with young calves are best admired from a distance. Unfortunately the beasts moved to the beach just as we did, so we were happy to take a step back and let them settle before clambering down the rocks and back on to the sands.

A fair chunk of the walk was spent on the beach – we had a fabulous beach lunch at Kingsbarns, and were sorely tempted to kick off our boots and go for a paddle.

Walking so close to the sea kept us cool, and the pace dropped as we let our canine companions, Fred and Amber, race in and out of the water before racing off ahead of us.

It was also a great opportunity to chat to many visitors about our walk and Maggie’s Fife – many people were certainly keen to find out more.

Back on the narrow path we zig-zagged up and down, through tall wild grasses, around boulders, and picked our way across the many layers of rocks which brought us back to the sea.

And then we turned away from the beach and through a lush tunnel of trees and green foliage , over a metal bridge and up a lane filled with apple trees just not ripe enough to pick from!

We ended by walking through farmland to our pick-up point – a fabulous day of walking in perfect conditions.

 

Day 7 (Friday) Boarhills to Guardbridge

We return to the coastal path for a nine-mile hike into St Andrews and on to Guardbridge – a shorter distance again, but with much more challenging conditions to face.

Lunch is at the West Sands in St Andrews, and our final destination late afternoon is the Guardbridge Hotel.

 

If you’d like to join any part of the walk please you will be made very welcome. Please visit www.bobswalk.co.uk/bobs-walk-2013/ for further details.

 

To make a donation:

You can donate online at:  http://fundraise.maggiescentres.org/bobswalk

Please also share this as widely as possible on your Facebook and Twitter accounts to help us raise as much as possible for Maggie’s Fife.
See pictures from Bob’s Walk

Please visit  www.facebook.com/fifefreepress

www.facebook.com/bobswalk
Follow us on Twitter: 
Use the hashtag #bobswalk for updates from our daily walks (mobile phone signals permitting!)

 

Thanks to Allan Crow for his daily reports on Bob’s Walk

Allan Crow’s blog – Bob’s Walk on the right path for big finish in Dundee

Dr Bob Grant and his fellow walkers are well on schedule to finish their incredible week-long walk at Maggie’s Dundee on Sunday.

The Bob’s Walk group set off from Maggie’s Edinburgh on Sunday to trek the 108 miles along the Fife Coastal Path to help raise awareness of Maggie’s.

Every single penny raised by the group will go directly to Maggie’s Fife.

Speaking to The Press as the group headed out of Earlsferry at the start of day five, Bob praised the walkers and supporters who had help spur the group on.

“It’s been a great walk so far and the support we have received along the way has been quite overwhelming,” he said.

“In terms of fundraising we’re already ahead of our target and we’ve been able to raise the level of awareness of Maggie’s and the wonderful work that it does.”

The group has been joined by fellow walkers and well-wishers along the way, around 20 per day, and have yet to be hampered by the unpredictable Scottish climate.

Bob said: “The weather has been perfect; if you’d asked for ideal walking conditions then this is what you would get.

“The only part that was a bit tiring was the stretch between the Kingswood in Burntisland and Buckhaven. That seemed incredibly long but then the coastline is so beautiful that you can just concentrate on the view and you forget all about it.

“There were a few aches and pains on day two but they’ve gone now.

As we went to press the group was heading for Pittenweem where a pop-up Maggie’s was set up as part of the Arts Festival, before heading for Anstruther for some well- deserved fish and chips!

Fife Free Press Editor Allan Crow, who is keeping a blog at www.fifetoday.co.uk, has been with Bob every step of the way and says the walk has opened his eyes to the beauty of the coastal path.

“What’s been great for me is that I’ve seen parts of Fife along the path that I never knew existed.

I’m really enjoying it.” he said.

A big finish is planned for Sunday when the group arrives at Dundee.

The walkers will be joined by ultra runners Johnny and Sheena Logan, who plan to run the path in just 24 hours, plus up to 80 bikers from the Edinburgh Dunedin Chapter of the Harley Davidson owners’ group who will chaperone the walkers to their final destination of Maggie’s Dundee.

Bob said: “I’m looking forward to a big day.

“It’s bound to be emotional, it always is when you do a walk like this and I’m sure there’ll be quite a crowd to greet us.”

To pledge your support simply visit fundraise.maggiescentre.org/bobswalk

Allan Crow’s blog – Day 5 of Bob’s Walk

Day 5 – Wednesday 7th August 2013. Earlsferry to Crail

Blue skies and soaring temperatures in north east Fife

A 13-mile walk through some of the most stunning views in the Kingdom, and a fabulous high tea at the end!

Day five of Bob’s Walk delivered the hottest temperatures and arguably the finest scenery yet – a day in the north-east which took your breath away.

We travelled from Earlsferry to Crail, through Elie, St Monans, Anstruther and Pittenweem;a fabulous journey which embraced wonderful views and the warmest of welcomes wherever we went.

Our pedometer stopped dead on 13 miles as we arrived at the Golf Hotel in Crail for a fabulous high tea, and by then we had seen and savoured the Kingdom at its very, very best.

Once again we were joined by new faces, old faces and community groups who took the number of walkers to over 20 for the third day running.

The Rotarians from Anstruther & District were joined by Ken Wilkie, the man behind www.bobswalk.co.uk website, and fellow photographer and walker, Peter Grubb.

The mile-walk from Earlsferry to Elie took no time at all, and the silence of the countryside was broken only by conversation and a number of plans flying low overhead on exercise from RAF Leuchars.

The rural path leading to St Monans produced many photo opportunities – stunning landscapes as well as of the walkers as we started to split into small groups with our canine companions Fred and Amber zig-zagging back and forth and exploring more of the path than probably most walkers have managed!

From St Monans we kicked on past the saltpans and the first of several once-popular old outdoor swimming pools, and along to Pittenweem where a pop-up Maggie’s Centre formed part of the festival and became our focal point for photos, and the presentation of a generous cheque from our Rotarian walkers.

Tu Edwards was busy serving hot and cold drinks as we sprawled out on the grass for a very welcome break – the sun was just about at its peak, and we were all starting to feel the heat!

With its arts festival in full flight, Pittenweem was a busy place as we headed down to the shore and on to Anstruther.

Our apologies also to Eunice and Susan Thomson who had arranged a little welcome party for us along with Heather Cunningham- one of the participating festival artists – who we didn’t catch up with after arriving in the village via the top road. Our thanks, however for their support and very kind wishes – their pictures is part of our photo-montage from day five online at www.facebook.com/fifefreepress and www.facebook.com/bobswalk.

We said farewell to some of our walkers as we headed out of Pittenweem along the coast to Anstruther which was soaked in summer sunshine, with every pavement table and bench filled by visitors and tourists.

Our thanks to the people who gave so generously as we ventured along the front to the ice cream shop – Bob’s treat! – for a very welcome rest before moving on towards Cellardyke where there were old friends waiting to meet Bob.

And then it was back into the countryside as the towns and villages faded and the path narrowed just yards from the shore.

The second part of the walk was fabulous, but more challenging – the underfoot conditions were far from even, and the switch from stone to path to grass and back again every few dozen yards took its toll on tiring limbs.

Thankfully the coos in the field were far to docile to investigate as we hauled ourselves over the stone wall and into their fields around the Caiplie Caves, en route to Crail where we climbed the last stone steps and began a wonderful descent to the door of the Golf Hotel.

Huge thanks to the staff for their very prompt service despite us arriving at the same time – we were slightly late! – as a huge coach party and a very busy bar to run. The high tea was absolutely fantastic – toast, pancakes, cakes, and haddock and chips.

A perfect end to a perfect day …
Day 6 (Thursday) Crail to Boarhills

A shorter distance – just nine miles – which will see us depart from the Golf Hotel, Crail, towards Fife Ness and Kingsbarns and on to our destination in late afternoon.

If you’d like to join any part of the walk please you will be made very welcome. Please visit www.bobswalk.co.uk/bobs-walk-2013/ for further details.

 

To make a donation:

You can donate online at:  http://fundraise.maggiescentres.org/bobswalk

Please also share this as widely as possible on your Facebook and Twitter accounts to help us raise as much as possible for Maggie’s Fife.
See pictures from Bob’s Walk

Please visit  www.facebook.com/fifefreepress

www.facebook.com/bobswalk
Follow us on Twitter: 
Use the hashtag #bobswalk for updates from our daily walks

Alan Crow’s blog – Day 4 of Bob’s Walk

Day 4 – Tuesday 6th August 2013. Buckhaven to Earlsferry. Fife’s coastline at its most beautiful & beguiling.

Allan Crow looks back on a wonderful day of walking amid some of the Kingdom’s most wonderful natural scenery.

Standing at the railings overlooking Fife Energy Park in Leven early this morning, we could see our destination away in the distance.

We could scan round to our left and see the distant tip of the land jutting into the blue sea – Earlsferry, some 12.5 miles away.

Several hours later we could look back at the wind turbine which was now but a speck on the horizon after a fabulous day of walking – quite possibly, the best yet on Bob’s Walk.

Day four was blessed with glorious weather and showcased Fife Coastal Path at its most breath-taking.

The views were stunning – from the blue/green sea to the gentle lapping of the waves on the sand which acted as a metronome as we marched along the beach for mile after mile, to the tops of the cliffs as we looked back on Shell Bay.

Onvce again we were delighted to welcome some familiar faces back, and some new recruits – members of Glenrothes Ramblers joined us. Or, ‘Glenrothes Gamblers’ as my Twitter update very nearly said thanks to the ‘joys’ of predictive texting!

The car park of the Buck & Hind pub was more or less filled with our cars as we set off to collect the rest of the team, and stage a photo-call on the centre of a roundabout in the middle of a junction which was, thankfully, quiet at that time of the morning.

The first donation of the day came within minutes – our sincere thanks to the driver who stopped to hand over some cash.

Walker Bert Hannah brought the history and industrial heritage of Leven to life, pointing out landmarks and historical links – I never knew that the Swan Hotel featured in the classic drama ‘‘Tutti Frutti’ – as we headed past Leven Swimming Pool.

From there it was on to the Prom and along the front en route to Lower Largo during which time we enjoyed long stretches walking on the beach as well as along narrow paths.

The sea breeze was perfect for keeping us cool as we logged the miles before stopping for a wonderful BBQ courtesy of Mairead Stewart.

Mairead walked with us on day three from Burntisland to Buckhaven, and very kindly invited the walkers to dine alfresco with food courtesy of Stewart’s of Lower Largo, and delicious strawberries from Blacketyside. Our thanks to both companies for their generous donations.

Tu Edwards, community fundraiser from Maggie’s Fife, joined us for the BBQ which was superb – wonderful food, excellent company and a fabulous host – and which set us up for the afternoon leg up to Earlsferry.

We followed the old railway line and the beach to Dumbarnie Links before heading up to Shell Bay where perhaps the finest views of the afternoon lay ahead of us.

More than once we simply stopped to look across the Forth which was as calm as a pond – the flare of Mossmorran was one of the view signs of movement on an otherwise still, and perfect, landscape.

Climbing higher up the grassy hills and with the Chain Walk below us, Earlsferry spread out before us – the perfectly maintained golf course skirted by a golden beach and ringed by immaculately tended houses.

With the old gun turrets at our backs, it was a perfect photo opportunity; a chance to show people why Fife’s coastline can be beguiling, and never ceases to delight.

The steps down into Earlsferry were a real challenge for all – we gently picked our way, stone by stone, back to sea level before some walked the beach while the rest of us followed the tineist of paths which was overgrown with long grass and thistles, before meeting to cross over the golf course and on to the Golf Tavern for a very welcome drink…
Day 5 (Wednesday) 
Bob’s Walk heads from Earlsferry to Crail.

We leave Earlsferry Golf Club at 9.30 a.m. and will follow the coastal path to Elie and St Monans before heading on to Pittenweem where a Maggie’s pop-up centre will be placed as part of the town’s arts festival. Please come and say hello or take the opportunity to find out more about the work Maggie’s does.

We then head on to Anstruther and arrive in Crail around 4.15 p.m.

If you’d like to join any part of the walk please you will be made very welcome. Please visit www.bobswalk.co.uk for further details.
To make a donation:

You can donate online at:  http://fundraise.maggiescentres.org/bobswalk

Please also share this as widely as possible on your Facebook and Twitter accounts to help us raise as much as possible for Maggie’s Fife.
See pictures from Bob’s Walk

Please visit  www.facebook.com/fifefreepress

www.facebook.com/bobswalk
Follow us on Twitter: 
Use the hashtag #bobswalk for updates from our daily walks

Allan Crow’s blog – Day 3 of Bob’s Walk

Bob’s Walk Day 3: Burntisland to Buckhaven – the group grows in number!

The forecast was for rain. Lots of it. In fact day three turned out to be absolutely glorious – slightly overcast, but warm enough to leave the waterproofs and jackets in our bags.

Just as well … it was the toughest day yet as we walked from Burntisland to Muiredge, Buckhaven.

The schedule was for 13 miles, but the detour off the path to Maggie’s Fife showed a total distance around 15.6 miles, and the tower of steps leading to Muiredge took its toll!

Once again we were joined by many people who came along to support Bob’s Walk for Maggie’s Fife.

By the time we mustered on the steps of the Kingswood Hotel, Burntisland, we were joined by a team from RBS – whose support for Maggie’s Fife has been outstanding – Rotarians from Burntisland and Kinghorn, friends and former colleagues of Dr Bob; some 23 of us in total setting off for a leisurely walk up the hill to Kinghorn before turning down on to the beach and along the front.

Introductions were made en route, and connections quickly found with many of the new faces – it truly is a small world!

The journey from Kinghorn to Kirkcaldy flew past with more people joining us at the first stop at Seafield… or ‘Sheffield’ as my predictive text on Twitter had it! Come the end of the day my feet did wonder if we’d ventured that far south!

Arriving in Kirkcaldy we ventured off the path and zig-zagged through the town to Maggie’s Fife.

While the walkers headed off, I made a detour into town for some urgent boot repairs – basically, two and a half days on the path had destroyed my footwear. The soles had gone and a two inch split along the heel told me they weren’t going to make the rest of the journey.

I doubt the sales staff at Trespass on the High Street have had an easier, or quicker, sale – in, out with new trainers in ten minutes and my old boots confined to the bin. Ah, I’ll miss ‘em …

We all met up just before heading into Maggie’s where a fabulous welcoming party awaited us.

Again, huge thanks to Tu, all the volunteers, and Brian Munro. our newest associate board member at Maggie’s Fife, for giving us such a warm welcome.

The cuppas were much needed, and the array of food from Mandeep was just fabulous.

It was also a good opportunity for a group photo before we made our way through the grounds of the Vic and down in Pathhead before turning along to Ravenscraig Park for the next leg of our journey.

Again the trek flew past amid lots of chat and humour and we were soon through Dysart and climbing the steps that take you on the path towards Frances Colliery, along the back of the industrial estate and then down into West Wemyss.

Once more there were donations from individuals – our sincere thanks to them all – and lots of familiar faces met on the route.

A brief stop at the Walk Inn saw us part company with our troupe of medics and GPs as we headed along the Wemyss, moving off the beach and on to the country paths.

The weather was perfect from start to finish and seldom has the Buck & Hind pub been a more welcoming sight at the end of our journey!
On Day 4 (Tuesday) Bob’s Walk heads from Buckhaven to Earlsferry, a distance of 12 miles. We’ll be following the coastal path through Leven on to Lower Largo, Shell Bay and Earlsferry, finishing at the Golf TAvern.

If you’d like to join any part of the route please download our up to date itinerary.
Donate online:
It’s been fabulous to see the online donations rising in recent days – a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed.

To donate please visit: fundraise.maggiescentres.org/bobswalk

We’d also be delighted if you could simply share the link and www.bobswalk.co.uk on your Facebook and Twitter pages to get the message out as widely as possible.
You can see a selection of photos from Bob’s Walk on www.facebook.com/fifefreepress  and www.facebook.com/bobswalk

Allan Crow’s blog – Day 2 of Bob’s Walk

Bob’s Walk Day 2: Glorious sunshine & great company

That most relaxing of moments when you kick off your shoes, sit back and go … aahhh!

We have to start our Day 2 blog with a huge thank you to the Kingswood Hotel in Burntisland for allowing us to kick off our walking boots and abandon them with our rucksacks, and then pad round their busy restaurant in our socks.

Rarely can so many weather-beaten, sub-burned people have crowded round the cake stand after scoffing a quite fabulous meal which was the perfect end to an excellent day on the coastal path (and two cakes are equal to one scone by the way!)

The food was superb and the service excellent, and our thanks to all -including our fellow diners – who made us so welcome.

The day was a joy from start to finish. The further we walked, the more people joined us – we ended up with over 20 people all heading through Burntisland.

Their company was fabulous and made the day very special.

It started at North Queensferry as we decided to head up the hill and into Inverkeithing – if you’re going to tackle a hill you might as well do it at the very start!

We passed Gordon Brown’s house and enjoyed the first of many stunning views across the Forth as we climbed high up Ferryhills Road before turning down and into Inverkeithing.

From the High Street we turned down towards the path, past the old railway line that once ferried thousands of Fifers to the dockyards.

We stopped several times simplhy to admire the view – the Forth was tranquil and captivating, and we were able to study just how far we’d come as we looked across the water.

Coming into St David’s Harbour we were joined by ramblers from west Fife who made the trek all the way to Aberdour.

Before that we had a stop at Dalgety Bay Sailing Club which was buzzing with activity – again, sincere thanks to them for the warm welcome and use of their facilities.

Refreshed and revived we set off for Aberdour just as the sun really started to burn through.

Cutting through the grounds of Aberdour Castle, we were stopped by two old ladies who made a lovely donation to the fund – one of many we’ve received on the journey so far.

Lunch was on the park benches at the Silver Sands where more family and friends joined us, along with a delegation from the Rotary Club of Kinghorn and Burntisland who accompanied us all the way to Burntisland.

The walk along the side of the Forth whizzed past amid great chat, and it was fascinating to hear them pinpoint landmarks and tell the stories behind them.

They also took us up to the Viewpoint – a fabulous attraction we would otherwise have missed.

The views were stunning. From the noisy and excitement of the shows on the Links to the tranquility of the Forth, it showed Burntisland at its very, very best.

Back down to the High Street we regrouped and made the final journey to the Kingswood Hotel.

Total distance was circa 12.5 miles. Two days down and seven to go.

On Monday we head from Burntisland to Buckhaven with a special stop at Maggie’s Fife.

If you’d like to join us for a short walk – or the whole thing – please check our itinerary on www.bobswalk.co.uk – we’d be delighted to see you. If you wish to make a donation online please visit fundraise.maggiescentres.org/bobswalk – or simply help by sharing this link on your Facebook and Twitter accounts and any other social media or web forums you use.

All money raised goes directly to Maggie’s Fife

Day2group

Photo of Dr Bob and the group on Day 2 – courtesy of Suresh Patel

 

Alan Crow’s blog – Day 1 of Bob’s Walk

Day One of Bob’s Walk started at Maggie’s Edinburgh and took the team back into the Kingdom – a 13-mile trek on a glorious day.

Maggie’s Centre in Edinburgh threw open its doors for a warm welcome and bacon rolls early on Saturday morning to give us the perfect send-off.

We headed out on to Crew Toll, but quickly left the noisy streets of the city behind as we switched on to the cycle path to Davidson’s Mains and Barnton, emerging up the road behind the Cramond Brig Hotel.

Pausing only to let the many cyclists pass – and there were many! – we made good time.

The path was wonderfully green, and also took in some of the quiet suburban streets where the houses range from the stunning to those so stunning they are hidden firmly behind electronic gates.

Heading to Cramond we came across a plaque to Pet Marjorie, the Kirkcaldy born child writer and poet.

She wandered here ‘‘in rural filicity, festivity and pleasure’’ according to the plaque and praised it in her journal.

Our first stop was at the Cramond Brig Hotel before diverting again away from the main roads on the cycle paths through a tranquil and green Dalmeny Estate.

As we approached Hopetoun House we got our first glimpses of Fife across the Forth, and the first spots of rain fell – barely enough to fill a thimble.

The breeze from the sea kept as cool as we headed into South Queensferry for lunch alfresco.

The town was bustling with tourists and locals, and one driver wound down his window to donate £10 – the first of what we hope will be many on our journeys.

More than a few people also stopped to ask about the walk which allowed us to explain about Maggie’s Fife and our route.

we headed through South Queensferry and climbed up to find the road which winds its way up to the Forth Road Bridge.

The walk across the Forth was slightly more than breezy! More than once the cross winds caught our rucksacks and knocked us off our stride, but, we got to the other end to snake down the stairs back into North Queensferry almost bang on schedule.

Sunday’s schedule starts from the very spot we stopped today, and our route will take us up the hill into Inverkeithing and on to Dalgety Bay, Aberdour and Burntisland.

 

>> Sincere thanks to Gregg’s for supplying our packed lunches today – they were superb!

>> Follow Bob’s Walk on www.bobswalk.co.uk

>> On Twitter use the hashtag #bobswalk for updates on where wee are.

>> Pictures on www.facebook.com/fifefreepress

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