We’re now into the final days of the year. October opened with a “rallying cry” from Chairman Neil urging everyone wishing to contest for any of the “crowns” to get out there before it’s too late. He also added a reminder that the “attempts” for KOM and Sprint had to be carried out as part of a club ride. “Eh, Point of Order Mr Chairman” cried Sir Jim “When was that agreed?”. Responding like a corporate lawyer, Neil pointed out the “small print” from an obscure document published many many moons ago (well 2015 AGM to be precise).

Well, you could hear the gasps and intakes of breath as we followed the arguments back and forth. “Yea but… No but… Yea but……”. It was not long before the implications were realised as commiserations began to put in for Sir Olivier who currently had one hand on all three “crowns” with fantastic solo efforts. However “Rools is Rools” so it looks like the sprint crown may go to Sir Chris…….. Oh wait a minute, he won the sprint last year so is not eligible this year. So who is next in line of succession? Step forward Sir Michael with a superb effort of 54s giving him a speed of 50.2kph.

Battling it out for the KOM crown, in 2nd place this year currently is Sir Zog, with a time of 8:28 and a speed of 23. 7kph, unfortunately for him this was also a solo effort. Next in line at present is Sir Iain urging his mighty steed onwards and upwards to achieve a time of 8:42 and a speed of 23.1kph.

Meanwhile over in the “Shark’s Tooth” there has not been much activity this year. Sir Olivier set an ⚡electric⚡ pace back in March, posting a time of 18:17 for a speed of 35.4kph. The next best effort goes to Sir Jim with a very creditable time of 21:15.

Time is has almost run out for anyone else who wants to get their hands on any of the main “crowns” although the winter weather and holiday season is unlikely to be in your favour. Just a few weeks ago the Met Office issued a yellow warning for snow. “Isn’t that something Eskimos teach their children?” Shortly after, they also issued a yellow warning for strong winds. “Yea, that’ll be what happens if you ignore the Eskimo advice!”

This year there are many more categories “up for grabs” with “crowns” for Champion of Champions, Male under 40, 40-60, 60years+ and 70+ then there’s Female 40+. Good luck everyone, hopefully all the winners will be announced at the presentation day on 14th January 2022.

🎶 Always look on the bright side of life 🎶🎶🎶 At least that’s what it seemed like when Ray suggested this Friday’s ride. “Not looking too promising weather wise, strong winds and rain” he began his encouraging rallying cry. Were we daunted? Not in the least…. well, apart from hedging bets with a weather permitting, except for Michael, who is not one to let a little ^_weather deter him from his ‘enjoyment’, put his ‘money on the nose’. “I’ll be there, Not Weather Permitting” he claimed.

As dawn began to break, heads poked out of windows. “What’s it like out there?” enquired Michael (probably texting from under the blankets). “Cold and Wet” suggested Chris “so it’s a no from me”. “It’s not raining here” added Zog “I’ll give it a go”. Routemaster Ray then chipped in with apologies that he’s not feeling well and would give it a miss. In the end, seven optimistic Knights made it to the 0945 start line at Manor House.

The first leg of our journey saw us battling into the westerly wind towards Newbald with Matthew taking the lions share at the front. I think everyone else was just glad to be able to hold his wheel. As we approached the bottom of Stoneknowle, we were joined by Zog. Not far into the climb, shouts went out “Hold on everyone, mechanical!” turned out that AndyG had problems with his rear mech. “That looks terminal” was the consensus, only option would be to split the chain and set it on a fixed gear. “Good luck getting up the hills with that” suggested one helpful voice. As it turned out, no one had a chain splitter with them. Time to call “International Rescue” which in this case Heather managed to persuade Neil in Thunderbird 1 to transport him home.

As Andy waited for his lift home, the rest of us continued up Stoneknowle in the sunshine with a little wind assistance then down past Gardham farm. On the way down, we ran the gauntlet of grouse shooters on both sides. “Hope they don’t mistake us for moving targets” as we kept our heads down. Shortly after, while cruising along Gardham Road, a figure in bright colours shot off the front. “Was that Colin?” we wondered. “Is he having a go at the 2018 sprint?” A bit late now Colin.

On reaching Etton we headed up to Holme-on-the-Wolds. On the way, a realisation dawned on Pugwash that we were heading for the Fiddle Drill and not the Farm Shop as he’d advised his dearly beloved, who had intended to meet us there. Well what can I say, dementia must be setting in, Ray’s message clearly said Fiddle. Having also forgotten to bring my phone, how was I going to contact her? Nobody remembers mobile numbers do they? Then as we wrestled once more against the wind towards Goodmanham the solution came to mind that her number would be on Slack. 🙏

The Fiddle Drill was quieter than usual so we had no problem finding a table. Once we’d had our fill, it was time to face the chill on the way home. At least we’d have the wind behind for the most part. We took the Spring Road to Kiplingcotes back to Etton. At the junction, Colin decided to have a go at this year’s sprint section. “All clear Colin. Go go go” we all shouted encouragingly then sauntered our way down to meet up at the bottom of Etton ramp. “How did that go Colin?” we asked when we caught up again. “Not good” was the short answer. “Can’t expect much on a winter bike and cold temperatures” we commiserated.

With a deteriorating forecast over the next few days, we spent the rest of journey home wondering when we might get out again. Today was another super ride with enough ups and downs mixed with flats to keep everyone happy and the bright sunshine along with the company was a real bonus.

“Anyone fancy a ride to Millington on Tuesday?” came the first shout out. Within minutes the ‘Head of the Flat Earth Society’ responded with “Millington closed Tuesdays, suggest a ride to Burton Constable”. Ten Knights took part in the ride, with six departing from Market Cross to meet the others at Tickton Grange.

The meeting time of 0945 at Tickton Grange came and went with still no sign of Heather who’d messaged that she was ‘running late’. “How long shall we give her?” came one voice while looking closely at his watch. “Let’s just have look down the road to see if she’s in view yet.” suggested another. Just at that moment, we spotted her in the distance. As she rolled up to join us full of apologies, Pinocchio 🤥 chipped in with “I made them wait Heather, they all wanted to set off without you”. Any more of that and you’ll be tripping on your nose thought everyone else.

The initial part of the journey went smoothly with the light wind generally assisting as we made our way out to Bewholme. The skies may have been grey but the camaraderie created another type of warmth. On reaching New Ellerby, we found ‘Road Closed’ signs at the junction to Marton. “What do we do now?” we all asked each other. “We can usually find a way through, even if we have to walk a short distance” said one voice reassuringly. When we eventually reached the road works, one of the workmen was sat comfortably in his truck and was quick to advise “There’s no safe way through, the work covers the whole road”. Despite the ‘dead end’ sign on the road leading to West Newton he advised that we could find a way through. As we set off to see where the road would lead us, I’m sure there was a slight chuckle coming from the workman.

It was not long before we came to the “dead end” with signs advising “Private Road, No Public Access”. As we discussed our options, a farm worker with a face like a boiled beetroot appeared driving a flatbed type truck. “We’re trying to get to Burton Constable Hall” we explained “Is there a way through?”. “Follow me” he said, then led us along a rough farm track and eventually back onto the main road.

After a pleasant interlude at the Burton Constable, it was time to head home. As we set off, it felt as if the temperature had dropped while we were inside. Either that or we got too comfortable in the cafe. The road home took us via Sproatley, Coniston and Swine before returning to Tickton and home. Looking forward already to Friday’s ride.

“Anyone up for a ‘flattie’?” asked Raymond. I’m sure he wasn’t thinking of fish when suggesting we ‘flounder’ round by Brandesburton to Ulrome and back by Hutton Cranswick. Four Knights gathered at Market Cross in lovely autumn sunshine.

Following our normal route, we left Beverley via Weel road to meet up at Tickton with Raymond and Colin who was running late due to a ‘mechanical’.

After waiting until 0950, Matt looked back down the road to see if Colin was in sight before we decided to continue. “He’ll soon catch us up” it was suggested. As it turned out he missed us by only a few minutes. Unfortunately for Colin, he decided to “wait” for us to appear then after 10-15 mins realised he’d “missed the bus”.

Meanwhile, the “bus” was merrily rolling on through Brandesburton. The westerly wind generally assisting our progress we soon passed through Bewholme where we had brief glimpse in passing of the wonderful pumpkin display.

From Bewholme we headed northwards towards Skipsea then on to Ulrome. It has been suggested in the past that we should not ask Heather for directions, now I know why! As we approached the entrance to the “Rustic Riddle” she stuck her left hand 👈out and asked “Are we turning right here?” We knew what she meant! 😉

By the time we reached Lisset, the wind was beginning to hamper our progress. The first pangs of hunger must have started to register as comments such as “How far is it to the cafe stop now?” and “It’s a long way round to the cafe” were heard. From Gransmoor we passed through the lovely village of Foston-on-the-Wolds to Wansford. As we approached into Hutton Cranswick the lead group had lost sight of Raymond and Russ. “Where could they be?” we wondered. “Perhaps they’ve taken the Hutton loop” we thought. Just as Heather was about to retrace our track to look for them, they appeared looking nonplussed.

At last we’d arrived at the Cranswick Farm Shop and a chance to refuel. We spent a very pleasant time “shooting the breeze” with much laughter and good natured banter. All too soon it was time to head for home.

Heading off from the farm shop, we were straight into a head wind. It was tough going until we turned the first corner when a spontaneous collective audible sigh of relief was heard as the wind appeared to drop and we could feel the warmth of the sun. It didn’t last long however as we turned into it once more until finally heading downhill to Bracken Farm.

For the final section of our route home we followed our usual route through South Dalton and Etton back to Cherry Burton. On reaching the Manor House junction, we all reflected on the journey, the weather and the company and I think we were all in agreement that it was “A Grand Day Out”.

Stepping out of the door this morning there was a distinct chill in the air compared to the previous few days. Cue heading back inside to don another layer plus arm warmers. Well perhaps it was just me as everyone else seemed dressed for summer.

Four Knights set off from Market Cross to meet up with Matty at Manor House. On arrival there we were also joined by Steve G who would tag along until Huggate. Things were fairly uneventful as we followed familiar roads through Etton, Holme-on-the-Wolds and Middleton-on-the-Wolds.

At North Dalton, Matthew decided to try and fool those following by taking a side road round the Village Hall only to be met at the “main” road by Steve (now ahead of us) giving a quizzical look as if to say “Why did you go that way?” Next up was the climb that everyone loves to hate, the long slog up to Huggate. Initially the “Pug Tug” led the way but eventually had to give way to James, Matthew and Steve to finish the job.

While stopping for a breather, Stephen took the opportunity to investigate what was draining his garmin battery. While he was still “playing around” Sharrin decided it was time to continue our journey. By the time we reached the turn off to Millington Dale there was still no sign of Stephen so James went back to look for him while Pugwash waited at the junction. However both Matthew and Sharrin continued onwards, obviously confident that Stephen would soon catch up.

Catch up we did at the “switchback” where we found a number of cars in between us. It felt a bit like being in the pro tour with support cars all around. Eventually the group pulled over into a lay-by to allow them to pass. The Ramblers Rest proved very popular with many different cycling groups calling in.

For the return journey we planned to head to Nunburnholme then decide from there which way to go. On arrival we were greeted by a “road closed” sign. “Well that’s made the decision for us” we thought gleefully until a DPD delivery van passed from the direction of Nunburnholme Hill. “It’s OK, you can pass that way if you want” he informed us. Talk about bursting someone’s bubble.

“Reluctantly” we all agreed to “give it a go”. Kudos went to James on this occasion with a time of 7:30 with Pugwash 2nd at 8:00.

With every effort ‘up’ comes a rewarding ‘down’ as we swept towards Londesborough. Approaching the corner with Pugwash on the front reducing speed to round the corner safely, unfortunately immediately around the corner, the whole road was strewn with gravel washed out by a recent rainstorm. While able to warn those following, Pugwash’s wheel skidded out on the gravel sending him and his bike across the road like a curling stone on ice. Fortunately the bike damage was only superficial and able to ride on. 😁 Meanwhile I felt like I’d been attacked by a cheese grater! More cheese Gromit? Still had stones in my Jersey when I got home. The things people will do to get new kit. 🤔

After a little patching up, courtesy of James 1st Aid kit, we continued our way home through Market Weighton, Goodmanham and Etton.

Today’s route to Sledmere was proposed by Pugwash. Five Knights plus a guest rider Keith on a trial run attended at Market Cross. It was almost four plus one, but Colin with his reputation to uphold arrived with military precision at 09:29:55. I’m sure he hides around the corner counting down the seconds before finally appearing. 🤔

Matty led the adventurers to Cherry Burton via Molescroft before Chad took to the front as we continued to Etton. Now I know the outline of the route was somewhat sketchy but the first inklings that nobody had checked the map beforehand came when we arrived at South Dalton. When Pugwash indicated to turn onto Mere Lane, the first voices of doubt sounded from the group. “I thought we were going to Holme-on-the-Wolds” said one. Then a little later “Are we still going to Sledmere?” enquired another. A game of “follow my leader” ensued with Pugwash leading the “confused” through Bracken and up towards Southburn.

Some semblance of recognition sprang to mind as we hit the main road at Kirkburn before turning towards Garton-on-the-Wolds. “Ah now I see, we’re following our usual route but in the opposite direction” 🙄 Discussion then turned to which cafe we should stop at. First choice was the cafe at the Woodyard, however on arrival we found it closed. At least the decision was made for us as we crossed the road to the recently refurbished Coachhouse cafe.

The vanilla slice was a popular choice, but how are you supposed to eat one without getting in a mess. Matty showed one way by lifting the top layer off and devouring it separately. Karl then followed suit. After a vain attempt to cut the slice into bite size pieces, Pugwash gave up and did likewise.

Just as we were preparing to leave, we bumped into Norman and Marilyn. Glad to hear they were on the mend. Colin left the group after the cafe stop to find his own way home while the rest of us headed towards Helperthorpe before taking the road to Cowlam and Driffield.

Adopting Mathew’s suggestion of going via Nafferton to Wansford we could almost hear the “wheels turning” in the brains of the group. “Where are we going now?” they cried. “I’m lost now” said one, “I just follow the leader” 🐑 said another. All became clear once we got back to familiar roads at Wansford. The group then formed a “chain gang” working together as we made our way home through North Frodingham, Brandesburton and Leven. Another enjoyable ride with some sunshine and we managed to avoid the isolated showers in the forecast.

This week’s Friday ride saw the return of our illustrious route master! It appears that the last few “flat” rides in his absence had not gone unnoticed as he announced in the preamble that “there will be some hills”. Eight Knights reported for duty as Team BK assembled on the start line at Manor House.

The “roll out” was fairly processional as we passed through Cherry Burton and Etton catching up on the trials, tribulations and holiday news of those who’d not been out in a while. For some, it was a case of “Who are you again?”

The peloton remained together as we continued on the Kiplingcotes road towards Goodmanham. At the junction of Red Lane, two of Team BK Matty and Mike, ‘departed the fold’ as they needed to be home earlier, while the remaining six continued to Market Weighton via the Goodmanham Road.

After the gentle slopes so far, the first “categorised” climb was soon looming on the horizon. Not steep in the scheme of things but one that will challenge most of us. At least we get a good downhill run leading into it to pick up speed. While it is tempting to try and maintain that impetus on the lower section where it is “only” 4-5% one needs to keep something “in the tank” for the second half as it ramps slowly up to 6-7%. Then just as you think you’ve reached the top at the junction there is still another quarter mile climbing to reach the next flat section and a chance to recover.

Fortunately the next section was a long sweeping downhill run into Burnby followed by a slightly undulating road to Nunburnholme and on to Kilnwick Percy. A further steady climb followed for around a mile before dropping down into Millington to the “feed station” at Ramblers Rest.

By the time we’d completed our refreshments, the unseasonal cool brought by the northerly wind was starting chill our bones. Winding our way along Millington Dale with the wind funnelling into our faces did not help, but the little ramp at the end soon had our pulses racing as we neared Huggate.

With the peloton all together again, we looked forward to the wind assisted downhill run to North Dalton. Next up was the two hilly lumps on the way to Middleton-on-the-Wolds. At this point Heather decided to attempt a “breakaway” powering her way to the top of the second hill then pushing hard on the descent. Unfortunately for her she hadn’t picked up the instruction to turn through the “estate” and zoomed past the turn.

When the peloton arrived at the junction at Front Street, there was no sign of Heather. “Where can she be?” we all wondered. “Could she be waiting for us at the roundabout?” we thought. Iain then volunteered to drop down into the village to see if she was there but came back with puzzled look, “No she’s not there” he said. Meanwhile Colin rode onwards to the next junction where he found her waiting patiently, probably wondering what was taking the peloton so long to catch up.

The final section of Friday’s stage saw the peloton taking the usual route through Holme-on-the-Wolds and back to Beverley via Cherry Burton to end another superb ride. All we need now is for some summer weather.