Colin 'Fembot' Aitken gets worked while onlooking would-be-rescuers discuss the implications of being unable to 'grab' the 'grab-loop' on his Nano.

The North Esk is a river that is runnable at almost all water levels. In the height of summer it can become a bit of a scrape, but there are still good playspots to be found.

At the level that we found it the rapids are still clearly defined with none of the major drops yet washed-out. As the level rises, 'Double Drop' (or Two Tier Falls) becomes progressively easier, althought the narrow gorge imediately downstream becomes a bit of a boil-fest.

A winter flood can turn the mellow grade 3(4) trip into more severe undertaking. Although at this level most rapids become easier, one or two become very serious indeed, and a swim anywhere could be regrettably unpleasant.

During October, you could encounter anything from trickle to tonking, but as the trees slowly turn you're guaranteed a beautiful paddle.

If you are thinking of paddling the North Esk, then go for it, we highly recommend it. Please be careful not to park on the grass at Gannochy Bridge, and try to be discrete when changing.

Remember to follow the three stages to sucess below.

The Three Secret Stages 'Padding Nirvana'

1) Buy the new SCA 'Scottish Whitewater' Guide.

2) Paddle any of (or all) the rivers described.

3) Tell us about it!

Mr K.W.Ant show fine style on Double-Drop (Is that a hanging draw?)