A walk along the Simonside ridge

The walk started in the valley below and we saw for the first time the devastation the winter storms had wrought on the Northumbrian forests. The number of trees uprooted was astonishing. In places trees had had their branches and tops ripped off just leaving single trunks standing. It looked apocalyptic! 

At one point we thought we'd have to turn back as the path was an obstacle course, climbing over and crawling under fallen trees. However we persevered and eventually reached open higher ground. It was worth it as the ridge walk was wonderful with tremendous views of Rothbury and the Cheviots.