Day 3 - Mon 21 Sept 2015 (Cleeve Hill to Birdlip 14 miles)

A slightly earlier start given the slightly more mileage on day 3 saw the gang leave at 0845 and quickly climbing back on to Cleeve Hill escarpment. This gave stunning views over Cheltenham and the race course. We then walked down Prestbury Hill and with the rain starting we soon put our wet gear on and moved up in the fashion stakes and on with the walk. We had a good chat about wild cats which have been sighted in the area and which both Phil and Dave have seen and photographed. In good time we were at Dowdeswell Reservoir and crossed the A40 (the nearest point to home). Another steep climb up Lineover Wood tested us all before working ourselves down where Phil slipped over, to much sympathy, before a welcome break at Seven Springs. It was noted that Trevor had a little salad with his snack. We saw an interesting sign showing 'the ultimate source of the river Thames'. As the weather improved we continued our way, going slightly off course but enjoying wonderful views before completing the days leg at Birdlip. At this point Mike left us as he had a taxi and train to catch to get back to Leeds.