Day 10: Brighstone to Shanklin

Today we will be walking along another spectacular up-and-down section of the Island's Coastline. Much of the time we will be literally inches from the edge, so do take care!!. The views will be very special, so do spare time to admire - ahead, behind and out to sea. You will pass through the largest developed Landslip in Europe with the villages of Chale, Niton, St. Lawrence, Bonchurch and Luccombe and the town of Ventnor set within it.This has been a smuggling coast for centuries - Brandy in days gone by, Cocaine in our time. We will stop at a variety of churches in Chale, Niton and St. Lawrence, with lunch at a genuine pub, The Buddle Inn ( with plenty of alcohol!! ) and have the opportunity for an official Swim and Ice Cream Stop, to say nothing of other tempting spots for a quick dip. So be suitably prepared!! Finally your Drink Stop 2 will be just along the road from your Coordinator's back gate. There's a thrill for one and all!!

Before rise time, the sun streams into the hall.

Moving the luggage from the hall to the van

The musicians prepare to folk it up again.

New pilgrims, including Becky, received their crosses.

Fathers David and Richard concelebrated.

Peter was taken by this image of Jesus in walking socks.

The pilgrims walked along the top of the cliffs, which clearly suffer regular erosion.

Close to the edge!

Pat and Keith together for once.

Excellent views backwards.

This section reminded us of the walls of a cathedral.

We turned inland to St Andrew's, Chale.

Here Bill led the reflection.

We hurried on to lunch to be met by an army of Dorans.

From lunch, up the hill to Niton Baptist church...

...where we were given a warm welcome.

As we walked up the path to the church, Pat Olivier, who had joined us for the afternoon, collapsed. An ambulance was called, and he was treated. Father Richard anointed him then led us in the rosary. The minister then led us in further prayers and we were given an excellent tea before moving on.

Sadly we learnt later that Pat had died. Pat had been involved with the pilgrimage since 1975 and was a respected and loved priest, husband and friend. May he rest in peace.

Meanwhile, our pilgrimage continued. Peter led us close to his home, past the pretty cottages of St Lawrence...

...and down to Steephill Cove where the brave swam...

...whilst the sane continued along the coast path.

Pilgrims study an information board about St Catherine's and pilgrim trails.

Through Ventnor we went.

Ant's GPS had been saying that we were out to sea for some time - and now the arrows prove it.

Ah, that's where we're headed!

Through the wooded landslip.

And into Shanklin town.

We're sleeping in hall and church, and eating where we can.

A quiet service was held, praying for Pat and his family.

Today's editors: Aidan Simons, Sarah Doran & Clare Gamble.