The sketching walk yesterday to Great Horrocks. Alistair, Beth, Zorina and her children joined me on a walk, passing by the former home of Frances Hodgson Burnett on Cheetham Hill Road (now modern flats opposite St Lukes Church which lies derelict). We walked along Rayburn Way to the public footpath sign, past the caravan site and then skirting the metrolink depot, climbing the mound to overlook Collyhurst and the city centre. Luckily the sun was shining and everyone was delighted at the place, the view and the escape from the frenetic pace of the main road. We nibbled grapes and sketched and painted. I think Hodgson Burnett would have appreciated our effort to slow the pace, to listen and to experience nature - allbeit surrounded on all sides by urban activity.........The area of Great Horrocks is apparently the new development area for the new Irish Heritage Centre - click here irish heritageThis appears to have already gained planning permission, so if you want to experience this particular "secret garden" you need tovisit Great Horrocks as soon as you can....

(more images on the images page)