After all the stuffing of turkey and beer, a few of us ascended to Gisburn Forest, cold morning but it was a lot better than the previous weeks we have encountered. Craig (gumpy), cheeky kid, Des, Paul, Dazza, Neil, Lord Brown and his peasant Tom who now wants to be called Nick, Darryl and the down hilling queen... Mick.  It is always hard work straight after Christmas but we found out that Lord Brown gave his Christmas speech to his minions of Skipton from his very own balcony. I think it went something like this

To the people of Skipton..........Christmas is a time for celebration, but this year it is a more sombre occasion for many. Some of those things which could once have been taken for granted suddenly seem less certain and the question has been asked...are the mudpackers going back to Lycra???.....say no to skin suits....

People are touched by events which we have completed and we are going to complete more in 2009.

In such times as these we can all learn something from the past and we will need support when we complete the biggest challenge yet. We might begin to see things in a new perspective and stop wearing lycra. And certainly, we begin to ask ourselves where it is that we can find lasting happiness...will it be when Mick comes back from the dark side???

Over the years those who have seemed to me to be the most happy, contented and fulfilled have always been the people who have lived the most outgoing and unselfish lives; the kind of people who are generous with their talents or their time.

There are those who use their prosperity or good fortune for the benefit of others whether they number among the great philanthropists or are people who, with whatever they have, simply have a desire to help those less fortunate than themselves.

What they offer comes in the form of what can easily be recognised as service to the Mudpackers or service to the wider community.

When life seems hard the courageous do not lie down and accept defeat; instead they are all the more determined to struggle for a better ride.

I think we have a huge amount to learn from individuals such as these. And what I believe many of us share with them is a source of strength and peace of mind in our families and friends......

To my peasants, I wish you all a very happy Christmas and remember that i will beat you if my work is not completed or the Mudpackers turn to Lycra.....

Love Lord Brown