Brian Griffiths has recently led the first of three planned visits by our group to The Blackden Trust near Goostrey. The Blackden Trust really is a "Hidden Gem" and was only ‘discovered’ by the group whilst out on a ramble in the area earlier in the year and not one of the 20 of us had heard of it until a few months ago. A short walk along the paths and lanes around Goostrey led us to Blackden where famed local author Alan Garner lives. Already living in the 15th century Toad Hall he rescued the 16th century Old Medicine House from demolition in Wrinehill near Crewe. Purchasing it for £1 he organised its reconstruction at Blackden. We were all thoroughly entranced by the stories told by his daughter Katharine of growing up there, and the history of the place and the buildings told by several volunteers. Afterwards we all enjoyed tea and cakes in their marquee, especially Andy who wolfed down 2 slices! I don't want to spoil it for the following 2 groups so will leave it to Colin Park to provide a more detailed account after his visit. At the time of writing we have only 1 place left for the final visit on 24th August. However there are still places left on their public tours for anyone interested in this absolutely fascinating "Hidden Gem".Just Google Blackden Trust. Brian Griffiths As a footnote Colin Park will lead a visit on the 21st of August and Tony Littler will lead the visit on the 24th of August. Both visits will be preceded by an optional morning walk of around 5-6 miles and full details will appear on our website prior. [caption id="attachment_4059" align="alignnone" width="4160"] The group outside the Medicine House[/caption] [caption id="attachment_4060" align="alignnone" width="4160"] Enjoying afternoon tea and cake in the grounds of the Medicine House[/caption]