MONDAY 27 AUGUST

Vicky drove me to the start of the West Highland Way in Milngavie (pronounced Mull-guy) before she started work for the day. The problem being that we struggled to find the obelisk in the precinct which marked the official start. Eventually we located it, Vicky left for work and I set out on my journey.

I try and keep going at good pace but everyone seems to be overtaking me. Two guys are aiming to finish in four days. I keep plodding away hoping that there is truth in the tale of the Tortoise and the Hare.

Photo below is looking back at Milngavie.

The first seven miles seem very long until I realise that I’ve actually walked ten. I stop at midday, say the Midday (Sext) Office* sat on pile of logs with a view of the mountains in the distance. The weather is fine and sunny with a slight breeze but no midges – yet! After lunch I’m joined by a young man from Germany and I arrive at Drymen at 2pm.

Now 83 miles to go…


* I am following the Bendictine Daily Prayer based on the Rule of St Benedict. It starts with Vigil (or Prime), Lauds (Morning Prayer), Terce (9am), Sext (midday or 6th hour of the day), None (afternoon), Vespers (evening) and Compline (night). This life of prayer is derived from ancient Jewish practice and is mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 3.1). Also, referred to in Psalm 119.164 ‘Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous ordinances’.