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Do You Know the Way….

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Aug 20

Which way are we going?

“Where are we going again?” said one, “Burton Constable” said another. “How are we getting there then” enquired yet another. “By Bewholme” said one while someone else claimed “By Sproatley”. Are we confused yet, bring back a proper route master I say! Meanwhile Heather was trying desperately to text the route instructions to Neil (in case he could join us along the route) while getting more and more confused as each rider chucked in their own pennyworth. Eventually it was established that the intention was to follow a clockwise route. Phew, how difficult was that, and we hadn’t even set off yet.

Having decided on Bewholme as the first port of call, we were all now on the same “hymn sheet”. Following our usual route to Leven and Brandesburton, the pace remained brisk pushed along with light winds generally in our favour. On reaching Bewholme, we turned south to face head winds on the way to Seaton and Sigglesthorne. “Right here!” shouted Mark as we followed him through the village on a road we’d never seen before. “You’ll know where you are when you get to the junction” he said confidently. “Ah yes, I know where we are now” claimed Michael as we turned towards Rise.

Shortly after leaving Sigglesthorne, Heather decided to take to the front. On approaching the Catwick junction she called out for confirmation that we were continuing. “Straight On!” came the shout from behind, however with the wind whistling through her ears she interpreted the call as “Hold On” so yanked on the brakes almost causing a concertina effect with those following close to her wheel.

At the Rise junction, Mark and Pugwash were about to turn left towards Rise when Matty piped up “Shouldn’t we be going the other way?” he queried adding for good measure “You’ll just meet yourself coming back going that way”. “Well this is the way we normally go to Burton Constable” assured Pugwash, “The other way would take you back to Skirlaugh”. “Aaah💡 yes, you’re right”. On reaching New Ellerby it seems everyone was now familiar with their surroundings as a chorus of “LEFT HERE” rang out.

While enjoying our Al-fresco lunch at Burton Constable, a couple with a dog 🐕 sat at a table nearby. As with most dogs they can be somewhat inquisitive and this one was on a very long extendable lead. Just as Pugwash noticed it sniffing at Matty’s bike, it then cocked its leg to relieve itself over his front wheel. I have to say Matty took the information stoically and with good grace, however when it started sniffing around my bike enough was enough forcing Pugwash to “bark” in the dog’s direction, at which point the couple reined their dog in.

Burton Constable

The ambience of our surroundings, good food and great company led to a longer break than usual, however it was time to hit the road back home. Now we really were all singing from the same sheet as we all knew which way we were going. Despite turning back into head winds, the pace remained relatively high for a Friday ride, with Chad taking the lions share on the front, as we sailed through Sproatley and even directly across the main “Hull Road” at Coniston and onwards to Swine.

The final leg of our journey took us along well travelled roads to Meaux and Routh before returning to Beverley. This was a flattish ride but with a decent pace enjoyed by all but I’m sure we will all appreciate the return of our superb Friday ride routemaster.

Fryday Fish and Ships

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Aug 13

Normally when food is mentioned in “despatches” the number of “trawlers” multiplies by a factor of two. On this occasion however we had some away on far flung “hunting grounds” plus a few others with “engine” problems preventing them taking advantage of the bountiful offerings at Hornsea Inshore Rescue.

Seven trawlers gathered at Market Cross to seek out the coastal waters of Hornsea. The good ship Michael was the last to make up the fleet numbers as he hurried in against the “main flow of traffic”. Breathlessly exclaiming that he had a problem with his headset while bouncing vigorously up and down on the handlebars to demonstrate. “I’m sure it’s not meant to do that?” he said as he surveyed the faces of the other “Captains” looking for confirmation. “It looks terminal to me” said one helpful voice. “Right, change of route, let’s head along Norwood and call into the ‘bike repair yard’ to check it out” suggested the Admiral.

Waiting outside the ‘Repair Yard’

Emerging from the repair shop a few minutes later somewhat reassured he informed the fleet that his “ship” was seaworthy but would need to book a “drydock” in the near future. The outbound passage then continued with a fair wind following as we made our way to Routh before taking the “Southern Channel” to Meaux and Arnold. Just as we were cruising along towards the “Channel Tunnel” at Arnold, Michael missed the turn and was about to sail off into the heavy traffic until he was “hailed” on the “loudspeaker” much to the amusement of the fleet. “I always forget that turn” he explained wriggling like an eel to “get off the hook”.

From Long Riston the fleet continued westwards with only a brief stop for some of the trawlers to “pump the bilges”. At Great Hatfield there was a brief confusion as some of the trawler skippers, concerned that we were running late, stopped to discuss the merits of taking the most direct route to Hornsea or stick to the original plan via Mappleton.

Deciding to stay with the plan, the fleet then felt the need to “up the pace” and ring down to the engine room for “Mair steam Doogie”. For some of us it was a case of “Captain, she cannae take any more” as the fleet scattered like the Spanish Armada in the “stormy” seas on the coast road into Hornsea. The sight of the Hornsea Inshore Rescue centre looming on the horizon was therefore a welcome relief.

The smiling faces of the “Rescue Team” provided a warm welcome along with the tea, coffee and biscuits. For our two seafarers, Pugwash and Seadog it was also a chance to reunite with our former colleague Sue, who along with her team have achieved an impressive setup. Following a video display highlighting the work of the HIRB we were given a demonstration of “suiting up” with Seadog “volunteering” to take part.

Seadog Suiting Up

At the end of the demonstration we had a question and answer session after which we had a tour of the facility before sitting down to a wonderful “plate” of Fish and Chips. Fully sated, we then “waddled” round for look at the rescue boat, finishing with a visit to the shop /cafe. We all had a wonderful experience and came away with an enhanced respect for the work carried out by all the volunteers.

Hornsea Inshore Rescue

Our visit came to an end all too soon as we dragged our feet back on board our “trawlers”. The prospect of heading home, stuffed to the gills, into a head wind did not fill anyone with joy. However, as each trawler took it in turns to “tow” the others along, we still managed to get home in good time. For those who missed out this time round, there will be another opportunity at another date.

Game of Thrones Season 2

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Aug 8

In season one, we saw the all conquering Olivier crowned King of the Mountain, defeating all opponents on the “battle of Chris’s Hill” waving his “Spotty Pants” for all to see from the highest point. On the lower slopes of the “Ionians Pass”, Chris Shep blew away all with a blistering burst of pace to lay claim to the “Green Pants” award. Finally on the much coveted “Shark’s Tooth” time trial there was strong competition between Chris and Michael but both were eventually subdued by Olivier’s ‘army’

In season two, the battle for KOM has shifted to the “Burgate Mountain”, a category 4 climb out of North Newbald. “That bloody hill” as some have described it or “Once done never again” as mentioned by someone else. Likewise the contest for the sprint section will now be held on the “Warter Road” North of Etton. The “Shark’s Tooth” however retains it’s bite and returns for another season.

There are some other changes to expect in season two. We will have the “Champions league” where previous winners compete against each other, then there’s the “Premier league” for gents under 40 years of age, “Division 1” for those in the 40-60 bracket, “Division 2” for the 60+ group and “Division 3” for the 70+. In the ladies section this season, we see the creation of the “Super League” where all our ‘girls’ compete against each other.

How are we proceeding so far I hear you ask? Fifteen ‘players’ have posted times to date. Laying down an early marker for the KOM crown is Iain Goodlass with a time of 08:42m followed closely by Steve Guest only 1 sec behind. In the “Super League” only Heather has ‘played’ posting a time of 09:24.

There’s been a bit more action on the sprint section with 25 ‘runners’ posting times this year. Olivier currently stands top of the leaderboard with a time of 50 sec which equates to an average speed of 54.2 kph (33.8 mph), best of the rest is Barry Denness at 55s. In the Super League, Heather is once again top of the tree with a time of 1:07 with Sarah breathing down her neck at 1:14.

Over in the shark infested waters of the time trial, it seems people are remaining wary of “dipping their toes in the water” for fear of being “bitten” by the “pearly whites”. Only two efforts have been recorded this year, Olivier in March with a time of 18:17 and Jim Saunders in April, showing age is no barrier with a time of 21:15.

The “season” is still young with many opportunities remaining to improve on your best time. Best of luck everyone.

Memorial Ride

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Jul 25

Today’s ride was a change from our normal as the Knights paid tribute to one of our members Steve “Robbo” Robson, who was sadly taken from us long before his allotted time. Seven Knights departed from Manor House to follow a route finishing at Hullensions Club in Anlaby where a celebration of his life was held.

The group set out to Goodmanham via Etton and Holme-on-the-Wolds, stopping for a coffee break at cafe Gelato in Market Weighton.

Continental Cafe Culture

After a quick refresher it was decided to head directly to North Cave along the Cliffe Road before winding our way through South Cave, Ellerker, Elloughton, Brough, Ferriby and Hessle before arriving at Anlaby.

Knights with wife Sue and brother Simon
Steve “Robbo” Robson

A huge thank you to Sue for inviting us to share in your celebration of Steve’s life. He was a popular member of Beverley Knights.

Gamblers Anonymous

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Jul 23

The opening gambit for this Friday’s ride came from Raymond but initially there was no route forthcoming. Perhaps he was keeping his cards close to his chest, waiting to see how many “players” were going to turn up. “We have a limited number of ‘casinos’ where they can easily cater for so many ‘high rollers'” he opined as he ‘dealt out the cards’ to the eleven players who’d taken a place at the table (aka Manor House).

High Rollers waiting for the first ‘deal’

A breathless Michael, having originally gone to the wrong ‘table’, arrived just in time to register his ‘stake’. He was also the first to lay his cards on the table as the gamblers set off along Finchcroft Lane. Unfortunately his gain on the ‘first round’ came to nought as we all came together at Cherry Burton.

The next few ‘deals’ saw the players eyeing each other up trying to figure out who’s bluffing and who’s holding as they navigated their way through Etton and on to Holme-on-the-Wolds. While approaching the church at South Dalton, a cry from the “croupier” called out to “limit the stake” to reduce the losses incurred by other players. However the leading pair were “on a roll” and continued the high stakes until reaching the top.

The next “deal” saw the players maintain level pegging until reaching Middleton-on-the-Wolds where Mark took to the front with a good run leading the players to North Dalton. Thereafter, Matty then showed some “finesse” as he led the way up to Huggate. After all the poker faces heading uphill, a change of “game” was therefore very welcome as we switched to the “roulette wheel” spinning our way down to Tibthorpe. “Odds and Evens” or “Red and Black” were the most popular choice as the players battled against the wind to Hutton and Cranswick. While most of the players headed for the cafe, Dave 💦🏡 decided to head for the “cage” and cash in his “chips” before heading for home.

  • Chris “caching” his chips
  • Poker Faces
  • Ooh Matty!
Cranswick Farm Shop “Casino”

Following our lunch break, the players set off for the next “game” which was announced by Raymondo, minus Steve who decided to cash in and head directly home. Retracing our steps back through Cranswick we then looped round Carr Lane to Watton. Along the way, Sharrin showed a good hand taking the lead and upping the stakes. On reaching Watton, the “dealer” asked what game we’d like to play now. “Is it ‘Flanders Field’ or high stakes main road to Kilnwick?” he asked. “That way” pointed Pugwash. “You don’t want to go ‘that way'” warned Matty “It’s a minefield of potholes” he added. Reluctantly he followed where others led.

Following the umpteenth shout of “POTHOLE” and a couple of off-road trips, Matty piped up “Now do you believe me!” It did feel a bit like the ball bouncing around in the roulette wheel but eventually we reached smoother surfaces. Our next game took us from Kilnwick to Lockington. “I’m not familiar with this game. I don’t think I’ve played here before” he mused despite his previous two attempts. We were soon back to more familiar territory on Bracken Lane.

The final deal took the players back to South Dalton. On the Dalton ramp an impromptu ‘race’ occurred as Matty raised the stakes matched by Pugwash and Michael. Just as Pugwash managed to get to the front, the other two upped the ante even more with Michael coming out on top as the others “folded”. The rest of the journey home was a little gentler, well until “Grannies Hump” where Chad having played a quiet game suddenly burst to life with a “full house” posting the best time of the day of 29sec and an average speed of 37.9 km/h.

Given the heat of the last few days, today’s ride in grey skies and light easterly breeze proved quite a contrast. Another excellent ride, no ‘winners’ no ‘losers’ but an enjoyable day out for all. Well perhaps not Flanders Field!

Steady As She Goes!

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Jul 18

Steady… there are several ways to interpret this seemingly innocuous word, as an adjective it could mean constant or changeless etc, even fixed, firm, fast. One could also use it as a verb or noun. In seafaring terms it is used to advise the helmsman to maintain the same heading. I’m not sure what meaning was applied on this occasion but ‘constant’ and ‘fast’ spring to mind. In terms of speed, what defines a steady ride will differ depending on whether you are a Battleship, Cruiser or Frigate.

Five “Frigates” turned up for today’s “steady” ride to Sledmere proposed by Pugwash in the absence of our chairman. It was a lower turnout than usual for a Sunday so no opportunity for a split group ride. The “flotilla” set off towards Cherry Burton and Etton, not quite “Full Ahead” but a bit more than the “Half Ahead” that was expected.

As the day began to warm up there was no slacking off in the pace as we cruised through Bracken towards Southburn. The wind in our faces while heading through Tibthorpe to Huggate was very pleasant, keeping us cool as we maintained the pace. As we got nearer to Huggate, Dave 💦🏡 got a call from the “Engine Room” “Scottie here Dave, we’re having a wee bit trouble with your back. I’m not sure we can take it any more”. Unfortunately it was enough for Dave to bale out and he returned home under his own steam from Huggate. The remaining four Frigates then continued onwards to Thixendale.

A Short Breather

“This doesn’t feel like a steady ride” said Olivier, during a brief stop, who’d been looking for a gentle recovery ride after completing a hilly 90 miler yesterday. “No it doesn’t” we all agreed but at least there’s a long downhill giving us a bit of a rest. The run along the valley bottom to Burdale with the wind now following meant the pace remained “high” but without taxing the engine too much. After a “little” blip at Fimber Ramp it was a wonderful zoom downhill until the roundabout before the final slog up to Sledmere.

After refuelling at the Stables takeaway cafe it was time to head home. For the return journey we decided to forgo the Wetwang option and return via Garton-on-the-Wolds. After tackling Limekiln Hill we enjoyed another long downhill to Garton. Getting onto the main road to reach Kirkburn proved a bit of a challenge as we faced a constant stream of traffic in both directions.

While cruising from Southburn to Bracken Pugwash noticed the first signs of cramp in the thigh. “Captain, it’s the Engine Room here, your pistons are faltering. Think we need more salt”. “OK Scottie, I’ll ease off a bit and spin our way home, meanwhile here’s a gel to get on with”. Despite that, by the time we reached Etton it was clear Pugwash could not complete the rest of the way home without an intake of salt. After a short delay, JamesG volunteered to ride off and return with something salty. Eventually it was agreed that the others would finish their ride and James would return in his car. Thankfully by the time JamesG returned, the salted peanuts had the desired effect. An ignominious end to what was a wonderful ride and a huge thank you to James for the rescue.

Some Like It Hot

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Jul 16

Talk about “hot off the press”, within three minutes of Raymondo posting the route for today’s ride there was a quick ‘screeching of brakes’ after Russell advised that the Stoneknowle road appeared to be closed. “OK let’s sleep on it and decide in the morning”. If anyone thought they were going to escape ‘hills’ by heading east, they must have been sorely disappointed with the Tour Master’s alternative.

Fourteen Knights assembled at Manor House for a trip to Cranswick Farm Shop. After weeks of dubious weather, it felt strange heading out in bright warm sunshine and minimal lycra. Following our usual route through Cherry Burton and Etton we took the Kiplingcotes road to Goodmanham.

Somewhere along the way, one of our members left the shelter of the wheel in front to cross over the road. What was this? An attempt to form a breakaway? Glad no-one followed the move as his intentions soon became clear as indicated by a flick of elbow to the sky and Index finger extended to the side of the nose and Whoa! Thar She Blows! A projectile big enough to grow cultures in a petri dish flew sideways and off into the slipstream behind. And here’s me thinking that lateral flow was a test you did at home.

The ‘pacing’ at the front was ideal as we managed to remain together until Goodmanham when a tractor appeared and turned down Red Lane behind the front runners and followed by the rear guard. At the bottom, we were greeted enthusiastically by group of WOW (Women on Wheels) ladies, cheering and egging us along as if we were part of the Gruppetto shielding Mark Cavendish at the Tour de France. The fact that Mrs Pugwash was among them had nothing to do with it.

Our first big climb of the day came as we headed for Intake Hill up to Londesborough then continuing to Nunburnholme top. A climb of around 2. 8km at average 4.3% gradient, not quite Pyrenees but tough enough to test the legs. There was only going to one winner today as Steve G turned up with his electric bike. Despite the heat of the sun and the effort required to push to the top, he didn’t even appear to have broken sweat as he sailed past everyone. Mark and Stephen enjoyed the climb so much they promptly turned around at the top and cycled back down to “escort” the Gruppetto to the top.

  • What kept you?
  • Gruppetto arrives
  • Oh boy it’s hot!
Nunburnholme Top

There was a brief respite as we continued to Bailey Lane and down to Warter. Next up however for “KOM points” was the climb along Mill Lane to Huggate beginning with a short 5% gradient over 1km then a gentler upwardly rolling section of 3.8km. No prizes for guessing who was first to Huggate. Once we’d all regrouped it was time for a bit of downhill fun as we headed to Tibthorpe with a slightly following wind making quick progress to Cranswick Farm Shop.

How fresh do you like your meat?

The proximity of the cows in the adjoining field gave rise to various comical discussions regarding why they were there and what breed they were. More concerning was the rear ends turning to face us and the possibility of them “letting rip” in our direction. Safely rehydrated and fueled it was time to head home.

Some People Are On the Pitch

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Jul 11

Matty was first to “pitch” the route for today’s ride to Ulrome. “Meet at Market Cross 0930” he said but when the start time was called into question he responded with “Just checking to see if you are all awake. OK make it 0900 kickoff”

The team lineup

The “game” started with only ten “players” but all systems were go as the lights changed in favour of the “Blues” making for a smooth passage of play as we winged our way through to Weel Bridge and Tickton. The team was brought up to full strength when Chad joined in at Routh.

The first “attacks” started as we pushed forward with Olivier, James G, AndyS, Mike and Stephen. With a huge acceleration they were joined up front by Matthew P while the “defense” maintained formation behind. It was not long before the “opposition” resorted to “dirty tricks” as we tried to find a way through “Muddy Waters”. Pugwash would have been 🎶Standing Around Crying🎶 after surveying the mess made to his newly cleaned and polished bike but the game has to go on, the marks of the dirty tricks showing on the backs of all the players.

Following a “free kick” at Long Riston, the “Blues” continued to mix things up as we kept moving forward to Mappleton. Approaching the coast line, the “opposition” tried to pull the wool over our eyes as the mist looked ready to roll in. Undaunted, the “Blues” kept the momentum and despite losing Mike to an “early bath” increased the tempo on the way to Hornsea aided by a slight following wind. In a deviation from the “plan”, some players decided to mix things up and reenact the solstice ride by passing the Trans Pennine gateway.

After the restart, Matty led the way through the “opposition defence”, dancing and spinning his way through the back streets of Hornsea then leading us to the Bewholme road. At this point Matthew P showed his mettle by spearheading the strike force assisted by AndyS eventually “passing the ball” to Pugwash who then took the team up to Skipsea Brough. The “half time whistle” came shortly after when we reached Ulrome and made our way to the “dressing room” in the Granary.

Well done Chad, you missed this photo op!

On resumption of play, the pace of the front runners remained high as we tried to find a way through Lisset and Gransmoor to reach Great Kelk. Darting through Foston-on-the-Wolds seeking a way to reach the “goal” the team continued to press ahead. By the time we’d arrived at Hutton Cranswick the high pace of the game was beginning to take its toll so it was decided that the “defenders” would form a Gruppetto while the “strikers” would continue at pace.

Luckily the dark clouds conjured up by the opposition came to nought and with little wind against us led to another enjoyable “match”. They think it’s all over, it is now.

Along the Yellow Brick Road

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Jun 27

Ten Knights confirmed they would be out for Neil’s ride to the Ginger Cow at Everingham this morning. But what’s this, a late entry? Well I say ‘late’, but one could argue it was ‘early’ as it was posted at 03:42am. Who could be sending messages at that time of the morning you may ask. Could it possibly be a gentleman of a “certain age” woken in the middle of the night (again) or perhaps he’d been awake all night worrying whether to join us. “Can I join the ride at Elton?” he asked. These spell checkers are wonderful when they work but can create moments of hilarity. Quick as a flash Matty piped up “Are we meeting on the Yellow Brick Road?” “If you like, Tinny” came the cryptic reply.

Ready to hit the “Yellow Brick Road”

Just as we were gathering at Market Cross a group of bikers turned up creating a right old racket as they assembled around the Cross. Fortunately it was time for us to set off. Unfortunately the ‘bang’ we heard was not from a back firing exhaust but from Barry’s rear end (tyre that is)! Seems as if there was some broken glass on the ground nearby and he was unlucky enough to have a visit from the ‘puncture fairy’. Sharrin, Heather and Stephen set off to meet up with Jim while the rest of us waited as Barry made necessary repairs.

Once on our way, “Bennie and the Jets” headed out to Cherry Burton then Elton where lo and behold there was no sign of “Scarecrow”. He’d obviously joined “Dorothy” and his new found friends and set off ahead. Still no sign of the ‘breakaway’ at High Gardham.

The “chase” then continued until we found “Scarecrow” along with his friends hanging around on the corner of a field at the top of Stoneknowle whistling “Sad Songs” while waiting impatiently. Right we’re off, off to see the wizard. Following the “Yellow Brick Road” we passed through Newbald and Hotham before taking the Cliffe Road north. Cruising along Sand Lane towards Harswell, we were blown along like a “Candle in the Wind” all the way to Everingham. It’s been a while since we called at the Ginger Cow so we can be forgiven for having doubts that we were following the correct route. Just follow the ‘Captain’ he’ll never lead you astray 😉🤔.

“Dorothy” and her travelling companions arrived at the “Ginger Cow” and marveled at the “wonders” on offer. The “tinman” polished off a sausage sandwich while the Scarecrow could only manage a coffee. “My body is a temple” he explained. “I’m a Tiny Dancer” he added “and wish to remain that way”. At the end of the meal we consulted the “wizard” regarding our route back to Kansas (aka Beverley). “Head back the way we came then turn left to Hayton” advised the wizard. Just as “Dorothy” and two of her friends set off, Toto her faithful dog exposed the error of the wizard who’d sent them in the wrong direction. When his feeble call for them to return fell on deaf ears, Toto volunteered to chase after them and bring them back to the “fold”.

If you wanted to get rid of your wife, I’m not sure that’s the way to go about it. Just as Toto caught up with them, Sharrin’s phone rang. None of this chasing after them for Stephen. Why waste all that effort when modern technology can achieve the same thing. “OK we’re on ‘The Retreat'” she purred down the phone while imaginary strains of “Can you Feel the Love Tonight” played in the air. When “Dorothy” and her band returned to “Emerald City” they spotted the rest of the group up in the distance, having left already in the right direction to Hayton. When we were all together again I’m sure we could hear the sound of “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word”

The journey home then took us to Burnby where we then took the long climb up to Nunburnholme top. “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” sprung to mind as we fought our way upwards. In some ways it felt like a tougher climb than Nunburnholme Hill so we were glad of a short break as we waited to regroup.

At Nunburnholme Top

The “Lion” had clearly found his heart as he led us strongly into the wind. Taking the road down to Middleton-on-the-Wolds strains of “Crocodile Rock” would have been appropriate as we rattled our way over the bumps and lumps on the road surface. Back to “smoother waters” the group made their way to Lund before picking up the Bracken road.

  • Wait For Me!
  • Scarecrow & Tinman
  • Dorothy & Friends

Barry left the group when the rest turned towards Holme-on-the-Wolds. In the “click of a heel” we were back at Elton where the Scarecrow went back to his “field” as we all sang “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”. The final section of our journey included the Bishop Burton Hill sprint with the fastest time of the group being posted by “Rocket Man” Matty. “I’m Still Standing” on the pedals while a voice lamented “I hate that hill” wishing he had a pair of Ruby slippers that he could click to take him home.

Solstice Ride 2021

By Pugwash Leave a Comment Jun 22

Monday saw our best turn out this year for our traditional annual solstice ride to Hornsea and back. 22 Knights took part setting off in two groups. The “Pensioner” (apologies to the ‘younger’ interlopers 😁) train leaving Market Cross at 6pm followed by the “Young Guns” train at 6:30pm.

The “Pensioners”

Now you may be wondering what was the attraction to entice so many Knights out on a cold windy evening for a blast to the seaside. Most likely it was the promise of pizza🍕 and beer🍻 at Berts on the way back. It certainly wasn’t the “summery” conditions with the North easterly wind lowering the temperatures to an almost autumnal feel. Never mind, the pace of the ride kept us warm.

Negotiating our way through town, the “Pensioners” suffered frequent delays with traffic lights and a zebra crossing conspiring against our smooth passage. This led to speculation about the possibility of the “Young Guns” catching up, but with a 30 minute start, it was highly unlikely, prompting one of our gents to comment “If they catch us, I’m going to join a ‘girls’ group”.

At Tickton, the “Pensioners” were joined by AndyG then by Rachel and Chad at Routh. From there, we had a brief respite from the wind as we headed south towards Meaux. Thereafter it was almost continuous adverse winds as we made our way to Mappleton via Long Riston. After regrouping, Matty took the lead as we headed directly into the wind to reach the seafront at Hornsea.

  • The “Pensioners”
  • The “Young Guns”

Neil took his life in his hands as he ‘dodged’ the traffic in an attempt to get our photograph. “Right” he said when the deed was done “We’re about 17 mins behind schedule, so let’s not delay further”. Once clear of Hornsea, the pace picked up led by Chad and Mark as we continued north towards Bewholme. Finally the wind turned in our favour as we cruised to Brandesburton and a well anticipated feed stop at Bert’s Pizzeria. Two of the “Pensioners”, Steve G and Mike, opted not to join in the feast and continued home while the rest went to the restaurant. By the time the “Young Guns” arrived we were already on ’round 2′

Excellent organisation and service coupled with enjoyable food managed to ‘warm the cockles’ and put a smile on all our faces (it was either that or the effects of alcohol🍷🍻🥃🥂). Soon however, it was time to head home in the fading light of the evening. With all the flashing lights on our bikes, we must have looked like a moving Xmas tree making our way through Leven and home via Tickton.

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