Bishop Forest Hill, GM/SS-228 - 392m ASL - NX 849 796 - OS Explorer 321 - 1 SOTA point            

Sunday 6th June 2021 - Hightown Hill GM/SS-273, See Morris Hill GM/SS-274 & Bishop Forest Hill GM/SS-228

We now drove a short distance further west, parking on a patch of firm grass in a wide gateway at a T-junction of roads, at Marglolly Bridge to the west of the hill.  From here a quadbike track led over rough grass, meandering all the way to the summit.  The first 10-15 minutes was a steep slog, but the final few minutes to the summit was pleasant remote upland hiking.

The summit was lovely with great views, but our instinctive decision to set up using the trig point and cairn to shelter from the breeze proved to be a schoolboy error!

MM1EYP/P

20m CW: 8 QSOs

20m SSB: 2 QSOs

2m FM: 1 QSO

20m FT4: 8 QSOs

S2S: SV/PL-158, GW/NW-021

MM0HGY/P

2m FM: 8 QSOs

S2S: GW/NW-021

The S2S contact with Mal MW0NLG on Rhobell Fawr GW/NW-021 on 2.5 watts, 2m FM was a particularly satisfying one, and I got the impression that Mal was as delighted as we were with it.  The stupid decision to set up in a sheltered spot now came back to haunt us.  The sun became more intense, the temperature soared, the breeze vanished - and the Scottish midges arrived.  I copped for a few bites, but they particularly enjoyed the taste of Jimmy, and he had the “tattoos” to prove it!

Time for a sharp exit.  We both agreed that the fourth planned summit was not feasible.  It was time to go in search of supper, and head home.  We found a chippy in Annan for our battered haggis, chips, mushy peas washed down with Irn Bru (of course).  I still felt fresh and alert and was able to drive back to Cheshire with just one brief rest stop at Tebay, where we found these amazing bottled drinks called “Zingi Bear” - a refreshing drink originally made for thirsty Cumbrian farmers, and made from ginger, lemon and honey. Absolutely delicious, and we will be stocking up when next passing!

A wonderful and enjoyable day. Shirt sleeve order and sunglasses all day. Scotland will be getting a reputation for its nice easy hills and fantastic weather…