11 of us caught the 9.47 train from Belper to Whatstandwell. The idea was to go down the Derwent Valley on the East side. Through Crich, Sawmills and Nether Heage coming into Belper from the Bessalone Hill. A decidedly wet start, with a cold wind. However, after a couple of early sharp showers the weather was kind to us and in spite of a cold westerly, we even had a little watery sunshine. At the beginning it was up to Crich with lots of steep steps. Through, a rather wet Crich, then along little muddy footpaths and back lanes to cross the railway and the noisy A610 at Sawmills. Over the Lockwood’s factory crossing and up into Nether Heage. We saw a Red Kite circling above us.  They seem to be coming to Derbyshire to live now, we have seen a few this year distinctive with their fan like tail and slower flight. After Nether Heage we were on footpaths again over Bessalone Hill. It was very windy now. Then into Belper, along a very long “jitty”. We were back to the centre of Belper by 1.30. 7 miles good winter walk. Jane.