The last two days have mostly been walked in glorious sunshine with welcomes at the churches matching those at the earlier churches in warmth and generosity. Again we were joined in worship at St Nicholas by Christine, Ken, Phillida Robert and John. The walk from Ganton afforded us our first glimpse of the sea as we climbed the chalk face to the high point at the Staxton mast (which, I discovered, is being dismantled – it has been a useful reference point for lots of walks in the past). The High Wold was at its best and we picnicked above a dry valley, in a welcome breeze, admiring the view. Fordon is abeautiful small church and has a monthly service which has tripled in numbers lately. Pat and Stan were there to welcome us with fruit and drinks, along with Melanie and Julia from Heslington. Another four miles and Pat again greeted us at St Cuthbert’s Burton Fleming, but this time with a table spread with food. Barbara (their vicar) joined us and we had our evening prayers around the table. It was very fitting.
Our final day began with prayers at Burton Fleming chapel and we were sent on our way by Bob, Ann, Margaret, Jennifer and photographer Terry along with energy in the form of Mars bars! We were joined for these final 10 miles by John and Kathy (bro-in-law and sister), Tish (from Baildon) and Pat (from Scalby).
Some of the field paths before Boynton were a bit overgrown and an inconsiderate farmer had dumped a manure heap (large) across the path, but what pilgrimage does not have its difficult stretches of path. At Boynton we arrived minutes after the parallel group from Beverley. There was great rejoicing and swapping of notes on our adventures and prayer together.
Meeting up at Boynton
We divided again for the last 2.5 miles before Bridlington outskirts and we were joined by Becky, Marie, Corinne, Pam, Avril, Julia and Judy. The first glimpse of the Priory was hailed, and we re-joined the Beverley group to walk through the Old Town to the Priory. Belatedly the Priory bells rang out and a photo-call happened (though as I was in it I have no picture. After a rest and cups of tea, the Celebration Eucharist in the Priory which had all parts led by pilgrims (I was blessed in celebrating at it and preaching) and our badges were presented. Finally the Bull and Sun did us proud in food and drink.
Total Statistics
Miles walked – 254
Churches visited - open 50 locked 35
Kissing gates – 173
Trip points - 3
Accompanying walkers 41 + Jet and Willow (+the Beverley group for the last mile)
Total Scrabble won - Nancy 14 John 14
Pilgrim Nancy
