Drive & Stroll, with RON FREETHY. . .

SUMMER is the perfect time to enjoy canals because colourful pleasure craft are always on the move and boaters are friendly folk.

A circular stroll around Greenberfield Locks at Barnoldswick -- around three miles -- is a sort of Rolls-Royce sandwich! From Barnoldswick follow the B6252 towards Skipton, passing a Rolls-Royce factory before following a sign leading left to the Greenberfield Locks. Here there is parking and a friendly little tea shop which sells books and souvenirs and also provides free information leaflets.

To the canal enthusiast Greenberfield is a joy because from here the canal starts its descent into Yorkshire. Since 1892 water for the locks has been fed via a pipeline from Winterburn Reservoir in the Yorkshire Dales.

Here also is a fascinating section showing that not all canal construction went smoothly. By 1820 it was found that the existing line of locks was using far too much water. A new line had to be cut and this left a bridge, a lock house and a stretch of canal literally dry. Despite almost 200 years having gone by, the old line is clearly visible. The so-called '"new line" has locks which are always busy as barges pass through.

From the road, turn left and at another Rolls-Royce factory look to the right where a footpath is indicated. Cross the road and then through a gate. The path climbs gently with a pretty clough with a stream on the left and a farm on the right.

The path reaches St Mary-le-Ghyll Church, which is one of the most interesting religious sites in Britain and yet is not well publicised. Those wanting to know the opening times should ring 01282 812028.

At one time in the 12th century there was a Cistercian monastery in Barnoldswick, but following some disagreement with local folk the brothers left and built a huge house at Kirkstall near Leeds.

St Mary's is now the only connection with the monks and the building is in splendid repair. Inside there is a three-decker pulpit and a super set of box pews. It is interesting that both St Mary's and Kirkstall Abbey are now close to the canal. The church is also directly on the Pendle Way and those who follow this route pass straight through the middle of Ghyll Golf Club. Walkers should follow the arrowed path and look out for flying golf balls. My route followed Ghyll Lane, which is idyllic, and time should be taken to explore the hedgerows full of flowers in summer. I watched a brown hare sunning itself in the sunshine. Ghyll Lane eventually joins Skipton Road. A right turn soon leads back to Greenberfield.

Visitors should never rush home. Enjoy a brew and a butty. As long as you bring the crockery back you can sit on the seats on the canal towpath, read the information boards, watch the boats and the wildlife. I never stroll in a hurry but this route is something very special.