Ding Ding, Ding Ding went the bell signifying the midnight hour and the end of “Lockdown 2”. It was not quite fireworks but the moon was very bright. The “headmaster” had originally suggested our return to group riding for Thursday but with a poor forecast we opted for a Wednesday ride.

Like kids freed from school the motley crew “ran” to be first out. “I’ll be there” “Me Too” “And me!” Heather proposed the route taking us to North Cave Wetlands centre. After meeting at Manor House, we set off to Walkington then Little Weighton.

Mike set off full of vim and vigour leading the way. However, he’d not been paying attention to the pre-ride briefing and with “autopilot” engaged headed up Bluestone Bottoms instead of continuing onwards to Little Weighton. Having made our way to the top there was a mixed reception to Mike’s excuse that “he loves that hill”.

To get us back on track we headed downhill and round Rowley Road to the “Medieval Village of Riplingham”. It was here that Raymond decided he was not feeling at his best and headed for home while the rest of continued south towards Welton. After climbing the High Road we are normally greeted with a fantastic view southwards over the River, however on this occasion we were presented with a panoramic blanket of grey “driech”.

Matthew assumed “point duty” as he led us through Elloughton along the main road to Ellerker before being “usurped” by Mike as we made our way through South Cave to North Cave Wetlands. On arrival, as everyone parked their bikes, Mark grabbed his chance to place his order first. “That’s a good idea” thought Pugwash and promptly joined him.

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We spent a pleasant interlude catching up and watching the local wildlife as we munched our way through our lunch. However, despite the warmth of the banter, the cool damp air started to seep through to the bones and it was time to head home. “Mega-ride” Mark tried his best to persuade everyone to continue on to Market Weighton then home but the consensus saw us taking the shorter option through Hotham.

At Newbald we were just getting ready to wave goodbye to Matthew who looked like he was heading for Trundlegate before making a last minute adjustment. “It’s all downhill from the top” he said. Whichever way we decide to go, there’s still a bit of climbing to contend with on our way home.

It was a joy to be out group riding again even though we are still limited to groups of six and unable to meet indoors. With the weather forecast set to take a downturn over the next week, it may be a while before our next opportunity.

The past week has not provided us with the most clement conditions for cycling. Friday 23rd took four Knights on a journey out towards Huggate then Warter to Nunburnholme top before heading to the Fiddle Drill at Goodmanham. After some muttering about the long slog to Huggate (yes you Raymond) we were confronted by a “road closed” sign. Undaunted by such trivialities, Raymond picked his way through the obstacles to continue upwards. He loves it really. 🤔 ⛰️🐐

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Sunday’s ride proved a rather windy affair. Two groups set off following Neil’s suggestion to head for South Cave then Market Weighton before returning via the Fiddle Drill. “Mechanicals” proved to be the theme for group 2 as first Pugwash suffered that sinking feeling as the air escaped from the front tyre caused by a tiny piece of flint. Further complications arose when the gas canister blew the seal on the connection when trying to re-inflate. Fortunately Andy had another spare. Meanwhile, Neil Z who’d just joined us at South Cave found that he’d snapped a gear cable and had to abandon and limp home. On the way home, Pugwash found the going tough eventually realising the same tyre had deflated once more. That’ll teach you to repair inner tubes 😂

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Heavy rain forecast put paid to our regular Tuesday ride, however five Knights were able to turn out on Wednesday for Heather’s round route to Skerne, Wansford, North Frodingham and Brandesburton. Although another windy day, the sun shone and it was pleasant enough to sit outside at Bert’s.

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This Friday’s ride turned out to be a rather wet affair. Five Knights braved the conditions and set out from Manor House to the Bike Cave at Driffield. Although it was dry to begin with, ominous dark clouds lurked over the northern skyline. Sure enough by the time we’d reached South Dalton the first few drops started falling prompting a stop to don rain jackets. None of this “pro” stuff for us, trying to zip up while still cycling.

After a pleasant stay at the Bike Cave we decided to follow the same route home. Just as we were about to set off the heavens opened forcing us to retreat back into the shop for a few moments until it eased. At our second attempt, a bedraggled looking Michael arrived having suffered punctures on the way to meet us.

The short heavy downpour coupled with mud on the road created quite a quagmire on the road home. 🎶Mud glorious mud, nothing quite like it for spraying about🎶 Despite the use of mudguards, it proved impossible to remain clean, unless like Matthew you stay on the front the whole time. By the time we returned home you’d be forgiven for thinking we’d been off-roading. Still it was great to be out.

Heather was first to “grab the bull by the horns” and propose a route for today’s ride to the Ginger Cow at Everingham. Two groups set off from Manor House with James G, Mark and Pugwash in group one and Heather, Sarah, Matthew and Mike in group two.

Heading towards Cherry Burton, we caught up with another group ahead with a car trailing behind them waiting for an opportunity to pass. Tagging onto the back of the car felt a bit like “drafting”, fortunately it was not long before the car overtook the group and we did likewise.

The road closure is still in place at Etton so we headed for Chantry Lane. Mark almost turned into the driveway leading to the church before realising we’d not reached the junction yet. Perhaps he was looking for some divine guidance 🙏 or he may have been seeking forgiveness for not having mudguards on the wet roads. “It was dry in Driffield this morning” he claimed.

At Kiplingcotes, group one took the Spring Road to Goodmanham but with hindsight we should have taken the same route as group two and head up to Cross Gate road. Dodging potholes, gravel and general defects in the road surface was not ideal. At one point we had a car trailing a horsebox make an attempt to pass until the driver thought better of it and waited a few seconds until we turned off on Red Lane.

The toughest climb of the day came at Intake Hill with Mark taking the kudos for best time. While recovering from our efforts we discussed various heart rates. Based on the “rule of thumb” 220 – age then I’m only 52 yeah! 😁

“It’s all downhill from here” sprung to mind as we cruised down to Burnby then Hayton. Soon enough, we found ourselves at the Ginger Cow where we were welcomed in and settled at our table. Feeling “flush” Mark decided to splash out and go for the Eggs Royal with James going for Beans on toast. Pugwash opted to follow Mark’s choice which proved a good decision, more than can be said for the coffee.

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Shortly after settling down to our drinks, group two put in an appearance. Once we had our “fill” group one left to continue the journey home. The terrain was generally flat through Harswell and the Cliffe Road and the pace picked up as we each took turns on the front. A little more “challenge” came in the form of Common Hill where on this occasion Pugwash managed to “pip” Mark to the best time. 😁

However by the time we reached Newbald, Mark continued to “lead” from the front followed by James with Pugwash, slightly of the pace, trailing along behind. Nothing to do with the effects of James’s lunch though. 😉 While our group took the Beverley Road home, group two took a variation and “zipped” up Townend Road and Burgate before returning home along Littlewood Road.

With little wind to speak of and occasional sunshine, it proved to be almost perfect weather for cycling.

Captain’s log Star Date: 161020 Our destination today is Millar’s cafe at Heron Lakes. First to sign on for the voyage was Mr Sulu (aka Mike) then came Mr Chekov (aka Matty). Captain Kirk then outlined a possible route to the “Beta” quadrant. Also on board we have Scotty (aka AndyG), Mr Spock (aka Colin) and finally “Bones” (aka Jim).

Our “trek” started from Market Cross with Mr Sulu at the “helm” leading us through town to Weel Bridge. On passing planet Tickton the “transporter” burst into action as Scotty made an appearance off the starboard bow. “Permission to come aboard” he intimated with a wave of the arm.

Taking a swing around planet Routh, the starship Beverley Knights went to Meaux. At this point Mr Sulu engaged Warp factor then the “chase” was on as we all played catch up. Transiting the Kidhill zone we came across a number of Klingons (cars) fortunately this was the “demilitarised zone” and the Klingons all seemed happy to pull over and let us cruise by.

Next up, we visited the planet Skirlaugh taking the “worm hole” towards Rise. Unfortunately we missed the exit, despite Mr Sulu asking where that road leads to. By the time we realised our mistake, we decided to adjust the route through the Hatfield zone. Eventually we made our way back to road we should have been on but decided to take the road to Catwick instead of Catfoss.

On the way into Catwick, we suffered a lot of turbulence caused by disturbances in the “space-time-continuum” (aka road surface). “Shields up” came the cry as we encountered a “Romulan” mobile road block supposedly “improving” the road by filling in the “wormholes”. Sadly the methodology used is not very cycle friendly.

At planet Brandesburton Mr Sulu and Mr Chekov engaged Warp drive once more as the pace picked up with the wind now behind us. In accordance with the “prime directive” we boldly went in search of a cafe to replenish our dwindling reserves. Millar’s at Heron Lake was replicated on the holodeck as we parked our bikes outside the “mess hall”.

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With clean plates and empty cups it was time to settle our dues before returning to the “bridge deck”. “Mr Chekov, set a course for home”. The enterprising crew set off once more to return to base and the end of another enjoyable voyage.

The northerly wind continues to blow and Michael decided which way to go! Out towards Huggate then to Wetwang we’d leg it, before heading south riding the wave, all the way to Driffield and the Bike Cave. Well no-one said he was a poet, but it appears his skills as route master were also called into question immediately as his proposed route was taking us down a busy main road. It was not long before other Knights jumped to his assistance to make some slight adjustments.

Nine Knights volunteered to brave the elements, five setting off from Market Cross and four leaving from Manor House. The MC group set off heading out along the Malton road to Cherry Burton with Stephen leading the way. The “starters” course took us through Etton up to Holme-on-the-Wolds. Following a brief respite from the head wind we arrived at Middleton-on-the-Wolds where it was time for the “main course” the long drag to North Dalton and Huggate.

“Cometh the hour cometh the man” as we settled in to “enjoy” the challenge. Eventually Sam stepped up to the plate to prove his mettle by taking to the front. Unfortunately the rest of us couldn’t hold his wheel as he inched his way ahead. Is that thunder I hear?… or is it Michael muttering between breaths “I hate this stretch of road”. Sympathy was in short supply though as he’d suggested the route!

Once we’d all regrouped at the Wetwang junction, it was now time for the “dessert” course as we turned away from the wind and headed down to Tibthorpe, Southburn and Hutton Cranswick before facing the wind once more as we made our way to through Skerne to Driffield.

Arriving at the Bike Cave, we were “pipped at the post” by another group of cyclists who were in the process of “parking” their bikes. Well at least we managed to get there before the MH group of Chris, James, Matthew & Neil’Z. It was not long before our coffees arrived followed by bacon sandwiches. It was about this point we began to realise that we’d ordered the same as the other group and that they were still waiting. Oops, sorry guys, it would have been rude not to accept when “your” order is presented in front of you.

While Paul tucked into a stack of pancakes, green eyes of envy peered across the table as Michael polished off his poached eggs desperately hoping the calories would help to warm him up and stop his teeth from chattering.

On leaving the cafe we noted a slight increase in temperature as the sun made an appearance. For the “afters course” we returned through Driffield and headed towards Wansford where Michael, like a late blossoming flower, burst forth to take to the front. He was eventually superceded by Sam who dragged us all the way to North Frodingham creating many new pb’s along the way.

Continuing southwards to Brandesburton, there was no let up in the pace. Assisted by the following wind, everyone took turns on the front until passing through Leven and onto the cycle path taking us back to Tickton then home. Another smorgasbord meal thoroughly enjoyed by all.

This Sundays ride saw our largest turn out so far this year. Two groups of six started off from Market Cross while a third group set off from Manor House. We followed an anticlockwise direction taking us first to North Newbald then Hotham. It was here the first deviation took place when the “Smithy” group decided to take themselves through Hotham Park and round Nordham Road.

It was with some surprise then that the Pugwash group bumped into them as both groups emerged onto the Townend Lane leading to North Cave. After “allowing” 😉 them a head start, a natural split occurred when we were held up by traffic control as the “Smithy” group managed to sail through.

Once on the move again we headed to Newport where we turned off the main road taking us to Sandholme and Eastrington before arriving at Howden. Although the Pugwash group were last to arrive, we felt a little pleased with ourselves as Sharrin having phoned ahead with our food order were served second. 😁 🥓🥪☕ Great service from the Cheese Shop.

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After battling head winds all the way out, it was some relief to have the wind behind for the return journey. The “Smithy” group took the lead and soon disappeared in the distance while the Pugwash group followed the Gregory group keeping them in sight as we made our way through Howdendyke, Yokefleet, Blacktoft and Faxfleet. At this point there was a another divergence of routes as the “Smithy” group went off-roading along the river bank to Broomfleet while the other two groups headed through the “brick works”.

A further route alternative occurred when the “Smithy” group headed for South Cave then up the “clump” while the other two groups passed through Ellerker and Brantingham taking the Dale Road to Riplingham. Yet another route change occurred when the Pugwash group decided to head via Little Weighton to take the Dunflat road through the “Medieval Village of Risby” while the Gregory group headed down “Bluestones”.

Another great day out with super company and it would have been great to ride in a big strong peloton. Perhaps one day 😷🤔 The Gregory group managed to round off their day with a quick pint at the Woolpack, perhaps we should make that a regular feature. Looks good to me 🍻 cheers all!

Here at the Cross, the market cross, well in time, steadily, sensibly, not too quickly, not too slowly, falling in line were the firemen of Trumpton along with a number of citizens. Captain Flack called the “brigade” to order. “Right men, action stations” he said “There will be two “tenders”, in the first we have Pugh, Pugh, Barney McGrew, Cuthbert, Dibble and Grub along with the “Mayor” and in the second we’ll have Miss Lovelace, Mrs Cobbit, Mr Bolt, Mr Clamp, Mr Troop and myself “

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Barney McGrew set the first tender in motion as the rest fell in line behind. Approaching a set of road works, Cuthbert and Pugh caused the Mayor some consternation by mounting the pavement and circumventing the traffic control, while the rest of the crew waited patiently for the green light.

With a generally following wind, the tender moved swiftly along the Weel road to Tickton. After Tuesday’s hilly ride, Captain Flack decided we needed a flat route taking us out east to Leven and Brandesburton before heading north at Bewholme.

The smiley faces soon turned to grimaces as we turned into the wind at Skipsea with firemen Dibble and Grub stepping up for “point duty” to lead us into Beeford. In a change to the usual run through North Frodingham, we turned off towards Foston-on-the-Wolds before reaching Wansford. Although the bridge over the Driffield canal is closed to traffic, it is passable for pedestrians allowing us to proceed directly to Skerne.

The closed road made for a wonderful run through to Hutton Cranswick as Cuthbert regaled us with tales of a grisly murder that took place there the previous evening. Soon enough we reached the Farm Shop and a chance to take on board some sustenance.

Mr Bolt skipped the cafe stop and “bolted” home. The rest of the second “tender” arrived at the cafe just as the first were placing orders. “Get back in your boxes” barked Mrs Minton from behind her clear perspex screen as the firemen crowded round to see what was on offer. With the food delivered we spent a pleasant time at the outside tables until the cold started to seep through, indicating it was time to get going once more.

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For the return journey the “Mayor” changed to the “gruppetto tender”. Leaving the cafe, we were immediately faced with the full force of the increasing wind strength and few hedgerows to provide shelter. It was a case of everyone taking turns at the front while the rest tucked in behind.

The two tenders followed familiar routes through to South Dalton, Etton and Cherry Burton with the wind remaining a constant feature until we could hear the strains of the “closing credits” (or perhaps it was huffing and puffing of the firemen) as we arrived home. Another great ride, with super company.

Well we all know the way don’t we? Yes yes, just follow the signs for Lisset and Gransmoor, can’t possibly go wrong…….. or could we? A total of eighteen Knights turned out at Market Cross for today’s ride including two “newbies” on their first trial run.

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“Mr Organiser” had prearranged the group selection. In the lead group were Neil Z, Chris, Mark, James G, Michael K & Chad. Once they were on their way the second group with Andy S, Brian, Stephen, Matty, Paul & Jose lined up ready to follow leaving Neil, Heather, Matthew H, Sharron, Mike & Pugwash to bring up the rear.

We had not gone far when Sharron, on her inaugural Sunday ride, suffered a “mechanical”. Fortunately Neil was her “knight in shining armour” and was able to assist getting her back on track as we rode our way through Etton then up to South Dalton.

Stopping on the Lockington road junction, Neil phoned in the “food order” only to find no-one answering. “OK we will try a little later” he said as we continued onwards. At the top of Bracken hill, Neil finally managed to get through. We could “hear” the sound of the till ringing as he passed the food requirements for the fourteen Knights who were calling in.

At Skerne, we were met by “Road Closed” signs, however we knew it was possible to get through on foot or by bike. On reaching the damaged bridge, one could imagine the Wurzels in the corner singing 🎶 “I’ve got a brand new combine-harvester, and I’m going to squeeze through here” 🎶😂 It was at this point Mike left our group to head home for an “early bath” while the remainder turned left to play “follow my leader” as Neil led us literally “up the garden path”.

As we meandered along Carr Lane, the realisation suddenly dawned on us that this was not the way we should have come. In fact it was the road we normally take to Burton Agnes. Never mind, when we reach the “main” road we should be able to get back on track. When we arrived at Little Kelk, we paused to check the map once more. Mathew was reminded of his earlier comment “I’m glad we are in Neil’s group”🤔 perhaps he’ll have second thoughts next time. 😉 Now back on track, we made swift progress to Gransmoor and Lissett and the final dash down to Ulrome where the first two groups were patiently waiting.

It was quite a pleasant interlude “shooting the breeze” while we munched our way through lunch at the Granary with the sun bringing some warmth and adding to the general ambience. Eventually when it came time to leave, we decided as the original numbers were now depleted, we should form up two groups for the return home. “Pugwash you go in the lead group” said Neil. “What Me?” Sprung to mind as I looked round at the “Young” things I’d have for company. “Oh well, here goes”

Setting off towards Skipsea, Pugwash took the initial lead but then settled in behind as first Brian then Michael upped the pace. It was with some relief when we were held up briefly by a tractor on the way to Dunnington occupying the whole road. A chance for a quick breather before the previous pace was resumed.

On one corner, a moments lapse in concentration saw Michael taking the “off-road” route. Fortunately he displayed impressive bike handling to recover and get back on the road. A bit shaken by the ordeal, he dropped back for a while until his confidence returned. There was no let up in the pace as Stephen took to the front to lead us through Brandesburton at 25-26mph with Brian and Michael taking over through Leven.

A gentler pace ensued once we reached the cycle path back to Tickton and home. A superb turn out today for what proved to be another wonderful ride, even if some of us went the wrong way.

🎶To the sound of…… 🎶huffing and puffing! Five Knights including trialist James attended the “team” briefing at Market Cross. “Right men, were going to stay local but will include some hills today” advised Raymond. After outlining the route we set off to meet up with Matt and Russell at Manor House.

The peloton set off into the wind towards North Newbald led initially by Matt and Russell. The rest of us happily tucking in behind until we reached “base camp” at the bottom of Stoneknowle. 🎶The only way is up 🎶 began to filter through the brain waves as we approached the gentle lower slopes but soon changed to 🎶Climb every mountain🎶 as we hit the short steeper section.

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After regrouping near the top, we continued towards Gardham and the thrill of 🎶Flying Without Wings🎶 downhill then wind assisted to Etton before turning up to South Dalton. At Holme-on-the-Wolds it was time to head into the wind once more. With little to shelter us, progress was tough. At least the first part was relatively flat, but as we turned towards Goodmanham the slight incline added to our efforts. With a final flourish downhill we reached the “feed station” at the Fiddle Drill. 🎶Feed the Birds… 🎶

Our return journey took us firstly along the Spring Road to the second “base camp” at Kiplingcotes Lane. The steady initial incline soon gives way as the terrain continued upwards. “Who’s idea was this?” must have flitted through our minds. At the top we managed a short breather while waiting for an opportunity to cross the A1079 before hitting the final Hessleskew climb. Thereafter it was downhill to Sancton directly into the wind.

Setting off from Sancton to Newbald, “Every man for himself” called out Raymond. As we rolled through North Newbald, strains of PJ & Duncan 🎶Let’s Get Ready to Trundle🎶 filled the air. Somewhat reluctantly we danced💃 our way to third “base camp” at South Newbald. Cue “granny gear”, head down and keep pedaling. Thankfully the wind was now behind us, although it never seems to make the climb much easier.

The last leg was now generally downwards as we rode wind assisted to Walkington where we all started to head our own way home and the end of another superb ride. A familiar cafe stop but a quite different route from our usual. I’m sure we all secretly enjoyed it, even Trundlegate! 😜