Like London Buses .....

I did ask for more match reports, but didn't expect to get two from the same ride. First in was John Morton's effort:

"A chilly start with some 9 folks in full team colours.

Les had returned from warmer climes, but it was John M who won the contest for the most layers. Apparently the Banchory Posty had warned John M of black ice, but we were lucky enough to avoid this on our chosen route. 

We set off for Potarch via Scolty Car Park and ''the Gauch''!

At the foot of said climb, the team split into Upper and Lower Gauch groups, intending to meet Shooting Greens.

Lower Gauch got to Shooting Greens earlier and colder whilst Upper Gauch were later and warmer.

Potarch supplied fine coffee, scones and even a scrambled egg roll whilst we discussed such subjects as how to keep feet warm, the state of global politics, the price of Peroni and whether one can phone ahead to book one's favorite scone on Deeside. 

With all that sorted, we set off via the quarry for the run home.

A fine day.

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​Chris Low, Jack, Les Gray, Mike R, Scott, Dick, John L, John P, John M

Mike has some photos."

Mike not only had photos, he also had an alternative match report, plus the route map:

"Goach for the Daft!

Most noticeable issues when I arrived at the hut; all Freewheelers were resplendent in yellow and for the second time this week a decision on the route was agreed within seconds, mmm, Ian Who? I was on lead up the climb to Shooting Greens by virtue of my recent foray into the wood and claimed to know how to avoid the dug up mud paths.

The initial climb had us peching and there was a brief stop at the car park where we met Rufus. Rather than take the root path after the gate we took a right turn down past the oak wood before the second of the climbs. Les was doing well after his hols but found the going here a little tough, mind you he wasn't alone. Onward and upward to the next stop which was at the foot of the Goaugh junction, aka as Morton's Corner, where a decision had to be made, Johns Morton and Larkman, Chris, Jack and I decided to go for Goauch whilst the rest ploutered on up to Shooting Greens where we were to meet. The climb up Goauch was vicious but we all made it without stopping except to take a photo at the top, we then headed down to meet the rest, unfortunately the last bit of the climb to Shooting Green car park was all cut up and muddy but we got there. 

Next stop was down the hill to potties and a welcome cup of coffee, not cheap though - my flat white and scone was £5.75 way more expensive than any of the other stops!

We took another photo outside and John Morton asked everyone to take a note of the number for future phoning ahead!  Our return route was the popular one through Craiglash and Brathens where splinter groups headed home in different directions. Despite the temperature not rising above 3C  we all had a splendid time, well done everyone :) This was my route:"