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Remembrance Day walk 2024, 9 November 2024

11 adventurous ramblers gathered at Blaen y Glyn Uchaf car park, a little after our 8:30 AM start time (thanks to some road-blocking cows!). Among us were new faces, Jason and Jo, as well as some familiar friends we hadn't seen in a while. Our journey began with a stiff climb, passing beautiful waterfalls on our way to the ridge line of Craig y Fan Ddu, following the Beacons Way. Though the day started with a thick mist that seemed unyielding, we pressed on north along Graig Fan Las. We then descended to the memorial and crash site of the Canadian bomber that tragically crashed on 6th July 1942, claiming the lives of all five crew members. Brief History: On 6th July 1942, a Royal Canadian Air Force Halifax bomber crashed on Waun Rydd in the Brecon Beacons during a training mission, sadly resulting in the loss of all five crew members. The memorial site is a poignant reminder of their sacrifice. At the memorial, we took a welcome tea break before observing a 2-minute silence at 11 AM. Alan's rendition of "For The Fallen" was truly moving, followed by the laying of our traditional poppy wreath. We then faced a short sharp climb back to the ridge of Cwar y Gigfran, continuing to the cairn by Gwalciau'r Cwm, and along the misty ridge of Craig y Fan to Carn Pica, where the mist lifted just enough to offer us some stunning views during our lunch spot. Carn Pica History: Carn Pica is a notable landmark in the Brecon Beacons, often used as a navigational point for walkers. It marks a place of both natural beauty and historical significance in the region. Our route then led us down the path between Waun Rydd and Craig Pwllfa, looping back to the original trail leading to the memorial. With the mist lifting and falling, we retraced our steps along the ridge, this time enjoying sporadic views before descending past the waterfalls to our cars. A huge thank you to everyone who joined this atmospheric and moving walk.