Short Ride

Despite the miserable weather three riders decided to join Helen and I for route 12. At Low Bridge Paul joined us making us a group of six. In was cold and drizzly so it was a case of gloves on, rain jackets on. Karen suggested a coffee stop at the garden center just over the main road. It worked out really well and there was a good selection of very healthy looking plants. On the climb out of Markington Russell had a gear malfunction but other than that it was a lovely ride. Even the weather improved. 25 miles with a lovely group- thank you- Janet & Helen

Wednesday Wanderers Group 1

A group of 13 Wanderers gathered at the Showground today for a 40 mile ride to Ilkley and back. We set off in two groups up towards Little Almscliffe, a long steady pull to warm up the limbs. My group consisted of Derek, Tim, Robbie and Mike W. The weather seemed uncertain about what to do and we battled against a strong headwind giving the non-electric riders a considerable workout. Well done to them. Onwards up to Timble and more climbing and then up Snowdon hill for yet more climbing. The descent down into Asquith was most welcome. Along the valley the pace picked up and we were soon in Ilkley. The sun came out as we headed for the cafe. ‘Outside the Box’ made us very welcome and soon delivered hot drinks, bacon butties, large portions of beans on toast and toasted teacakes. We were joined by the rest of the group and the usual varied conversations took place. Suitably refreshed we continued on the route back which proved to be far hillier than I remembered! It was hard on the legs and we were all glad to be on the way home especially after battling against the wind. A great ride and quite the challenge. 41 miles for me from door to door. Nicci

Wednesday Wanderers Group 2

Eight of us made up group 2 . When we arrived at Askwith, Gia and Paul T left us for the slightly shorter route back via Otley. Group 1 meanwhile raced ahead with Nicci at the helm. 

We caught up soon as we arrived at our coffee shop ‘ Outside the Box ‘ , a community – based venture, a great new find. Usual high level of banter followed. 

Heading back we deviated slightly at Otley from the set route. This shaved off 3 miles, added more hills but was a stunning detour. Beautiful Wharfe valley scenery. Thanks for your company, Liz F (the deviator ), Corinne, Sally, Colin ( back marker) and Debbie. Bridget 

Awayday to Downham

Whilst March’s Awayday seemed at the time like the first day of summer this one was looking like the last day of winter both from forecasts and first hand experience on the way there driving through some heavy showers. As it turned out we all stayed dry apart from a light drizzle at the end for a few of the backmarkers. The route was based on one last done in 2019 and was originally intended as a gentle, if undulating, tour of the Ribble Valley but, possibly against better judgement, a circuit of Pendle Hill was added. 

Twelve of us had turned up and with no-one opting for the shorter route we set off in two groups, immediately onto the first stage of said hill which was 2.5 miles and about 6% average. A lovely descent followed through Barley down to Roughlee where we declined the option of a detour to see Alice Nutter (statue commemorating the Pendle witch trials) as there was more climbing to be done. This thankfully proved to be a lot shorter and led to a long ridge with great views of Pendle hill on the right and down to Burnley on the other side. A sharp descent took us to Sabden and then to the busy town of Whalley (we were wondering where that was). The route then headed back towards the Ribble and lunch at the Potters Barn in Ribchester which was excellent, especially as we had just made the breakfast deadline at 12 noon.

The return route was still a bit lumpy but had the benefit of wind assistance and towards the end allowed great views of Pendle Hill. Our second group suffered a mechanical after passing the impressive Stoneyhurst College. Not being able to help the rest of us pressed on whilst Terry struggled to free his jammed chain, at least with the offer of returning to pick him up if needed. We arrived back in Downham just as the first group had finished their ice-creams. Fortunately by this time Terry had managed to free his chain and made very good time over the last 10 miles to join us. Even more fortunately the ice-cream shop was still open. Thanks to all for a good day out and to Steve B for leading. Possibly a bit lucky with the weather but we can now look forward to the summer programme. 37 miles and about 3400ft for me.  Doug H. Photos by Yvonne.

EG’s

After last week’s horrendous weather of wind and driving rain today’s ride was viewed  with some trepidation. 

Once again  the morning temperature was a little  cool and accompanied  by threats of more rain enthusiasm  for an extended  ride was thin on the ground!!

As some riders  had not had the opportunity to join our rides for a few weeks the planned  route  was modified to account for the possibility of late fatigue setting in.

Setting off on an indirect route for Easingwold a steady  pace was adopted,  noting a following wind pushing  us along  which only means  one thing.  A head wind to drive  against us on the return!

Avoiding carefully “Mr Plod” as we entered Flawith we followed on through Tholthorpe to arrive our  initial destination ready for lunch @ TeeHee’s.

Too cold to sit outside as we waved farewell to a group of departing cycling girls heading  off back to York, and a welcoming familiar greeting as we entered, we grabbed what  seemed  to be the last available  table as a significant large  group occupied most of the cafe chatting loudly as they continued to dine..

Service was brisk and friendly. We settled to our fare discussing the vagaries of the consequences of passing time as we all get older! The usual innuendos and “mickey” taking before deciding upon the return route, which turned out to be the direct and shortest way to return home. 

As we anticipated, wind in our faces slowed our progress and upon entering Ouseburn a second stop was called for, for by now the  sun was making  an appearance. 

Setting off on the final leg it was noticeable that the wind seemed to have  increased yet again  slowing  our drive to get home. Taking  it in turns to push through the wind, pausing as usual  at the top of Sandy Bank, we arrived on Boroughbridge Rd to be greeted by the chaos of temporary traffic  lights holding up traffic, which earlier had impatiently push it’s way past us.

Albeit,  circumstances had dictated our day, we had, indeed completed a reasonably 44 miles. A satisfactorily end to the day.

Thanks for the company of all & sundry! Dave Watson.