Wednesday 6th March 2024.

Selset and Grassholm reservoir paddle, as part of a winter series organised by Giles and Mike S.

Janice, Dave and George accompanied Giles and Mike on the paddle, initially meeting at Brough.

We launched on Selset Reservoir from what remained of a concrete ramp and proceeded to circumnavigate the reservoir. We explored a number of tributaries, some longer than others. The many birds, Curlews, Lapwings, Geese, Ducks, Seagulls and others I could not identify, not being very knowledgable about birds, the Geese and Seagulls being particularly vocal. It was heartening, and a privilege, to be in such a peacefully remote and relatively wild environment. An overcast, misty day added to the ambiance and sense of remoteness of the day. The reservoirs’ location ensured the water was pristine, especially following a wet February.

We stopped for lunch and congregated under Mike’s large bothy, as there was a chilling wind, and enjoyed lunch and a chat.

After lunch, I looked over the wall expecting to see water on the down stream side of the dam, one was greeted with an expanse of grass, fortunately down a slope! The portage was quite a drag, we dragged the kayaks over the grass, as wheels would have likely been a hindrance, to reach the water, followed by another shorter portage to actually launch onto the river feeding Grassholm.

We paddled the length of Grassholm to the dam, accompanied again by many birds. Traversing the large dam and passing comment on the overfall from the dam, which appeared to have no protection from going over the lip, given that a dinghy sailing club is based on the reservoir. We completed the paddle at the dingy sailing club with an easy egress.

Would I do it again? Maybe, the portages are certainly physically hard work and suit those fitter, dare I say younger, and with lighter kayaks. Plastic recommended, not suited to composite unless carried which may be a better option than dragging a heavy plastic boat, worth a thought, would also have to limit the kit carried. However, there are shallow rocky sections so grounding a composite may not be a good idea. See you next year?

Mike kindly invited us back for coffee and tea, and Jill’s wonderful home baked scones, with butter and local strawberry jam. What a way to round the day.

Thanks yet again to Giles for organising and Mike leading, such an asset to the club.

George W