Day 10: Knottingley to Ricall

Several pilgrims stayed up singing and making music last night, and we had an early rise, plus the logistical problems of sleeping in one building and eating in another, but we still managed to get away pretty much on time. As usual, those available gathered for the setting out prayers.

(The truck was subsequently found to have a flat battery, due to over use of the electric taillift. Oops!)

We left Knottingley along the banks of the Aire and Calder Navigation, with its associated industries.

Then along the River Aire with horses grazing the banks.

Our first prayer stop was at Birkin, where we were made most welcome.

We were told a bit of history of this Norman church.

And provided with tea, coffee and biscuits.

Soon thereafter, our first trial: walking through (legally) a field of sugar beet. The ankles twisted and turned, but we got to the drink stop at the far side.

A little later we passed the prototype for next year's accommodation!

Then we crossed the railway and at last got a picture of a train for Julian - northbound from Doncaster to York. Not sure why the left-hand rear light cover is flapping in the breeze!

The lunch stop had been changed to the Anchor alongside the A19 and the Selby Canal. They'd laid on a barbecue, but it was chilly and most people stayed inside the pub.

After lunch we walked into Selby along its canal

as we entered the town I found Stephen waiting for me.

We met up at Selby Abbey

We went into the church

for prayers

then enjoyed an hour or so in the town before heading north to Riccall. This followed the River Ouse which, after the flooding of 18 months ago, has had its levees raised 50cm by corrugated steel shuttering capped by plywood, which provided an interesting walkway (the longest boardwalk in the world?) though at 30cm there was no time for lapses in concentration!

After arrival at Riccall Regen Centre (hot showers - luxury!) we celebrated Mass with the sun setting through the window.

Now we've eaten, in the BAR (no need to go out  to the pub tonight)