Slow Ways Routes – Selsna one, Cawsel one
I set off after a convivial breakfast, thankful that I had missed the rain yesterday evening and night. I left the quiet streets and was soon crossing the River Aire.
It was good walking on the embankment beside the River despite the wet grass.
The route changed to tracks and minor roads. I could see the ever present pylons leading to Drax Power Station on the horizon.
These pheasants were the only bit of wildlife’ I noticed.
It wasn’t all nature – I’m not sure what the story was here.
More footpaths, roads and then besides the Selby Canal.
I walked into the town of Selby – past the official end of my first Slow Way.
My priority now was to find somewhere for lunch. As it happens there was a handy Wetherspoons which was open. I headed there for some lunch and a soft drink. I had restricted myself to only having a pint after finishing walking for the day. It had been threatening rain for some time and while I was having lunch the heavens opened. I didn’t rush and it did seem to be easing so I set off, heading for a Greggs to pick up stuff for my tea later. As I approached Greggs the rain started getting heavier so I took time to get my waterproofs on again!
I came out of Greggs – struggling to get my backpack properly adjusted and noticed a young man sitting on the pavement trying to shelter. He asked me for some money for a coffee and after I had given him more than he was expecting we got chatting. His name was Alan and he was homeless. He assured me he wasn’t going to use money to buy drugs but I assured him there were no strings attached. He explained a bit about his current situation and I shared what I was doing. I felt so sad that he said he would like to give me a hug but he couldn’t because he was conscious he smelt bad. We parted and once again it brought home to me just why I was walking. I just wished there was more I could have done to help. As I left him I looked across and saw lots of well dressed people coming out of Selby Abbey and thought about the contrast.
I walked on though and was soon out in the countryside again on my next Slow Way to Cawood. It was a bit muddy in places.
I passed through the attractive village of Wistow. Thankfully the rain had passed.
Then finally to my destination of Cawood on the River Ouse.
Not sure if these count as wildlife. They seemed to be happy beside the bridge over the river.
I had a room booked at the pub. I had my pint since I had finished walking and then just had my stuff from Greggs. It was a lovely room and I had a good night’s rest.
