“Looks like we have enough for a football team today” thought Pugwash scanning over the “team sheet” this morning. As it turned out, we were one short at the start (even with the addition of a “trialist”) following a couple of withdrawals. Colin was last to arrive just as we were thinking that he was hiding around the corner, “waiting” to turn up at his predicted time of 09:29:55.

• 

• 

Once the “whistle” sounded we adopted a 5-3-2 formation as we headed over the Westwood to Manor House. The “strikers” keen to tackle the opposition had immediately created a gap in midfield. “On me head SUN” sprung to mind as we surveyed the cloud cover overhead. Back in formation again, we continued to “take the game” to Walkington. The “strikers” set off again. “Right let’s see what the opposition is made of” as we combined to overcome Bluestone Bottoms. On achieving our first objective, it was clear that our “team” were “playing” different games. It was decided to split up. Anyone for six aside?

The newly formed “team” then advanced to the next level led by Matthew P. With the “goal” in sight, a roar went up from the “crowd” 🎶”One Nil, One Nil”🎶 rang in our ears as we “ran” down to South Cave in celebration. After the restart, the “game” went a bit flat as we continued to probe the defenses, flying down Water Lane then Common lane. Sparks started to fly when an unknown “player” came down our flank. It was like red rag to a bull to Matthew P who was at the time in No. 9 position, suddenly increasing tempo in an effort to “catch” the miscreant who had the temerity to “scalp” our team. A bit more coordinated effort might have regained our “honour” but twenty’s plenty sprung to mind for the rest of us.

In the next round, we faced Broomfleet. Despite all the potholes and brickwork defense they put up, we were able to proceed safely to the next “round”. Along the way, we gained a couple of “supporters” happy to jump onto the back of our train. When the “referee”, just after Yokefleet, blew the whistle for a “foul”, they continued on their way while we stopped to phone ahead for our “half time” order. “Twenty minutes from here?” came an anguished cry as the team overheard the conversation with the cafe. “Have you been to the same school as Neil?” they asked incredulously. “It’s no more than 10km from here, easy” assured the captain.

• 

• 

• 

“OK Team, we’ve made it through the “group stages” and now we face Eastrington and Sandholme” for a place in the quarter finals. In an effort to avoid meeting North Cave, we decided to adopt a different plan by heading to Gilberdyke then back through the brickworks to Broomfleet. After successfully negotiating our way to the next round at Ellerker a voice cried out in pain “Who are we facing in the final?”. The grimaces on the faces of our team were clear to see when it was confirmed that we’d be facing Brantingham Dale. A tough opposition at the best of times, but in the heat of the day, would provide an even stiffer challenge.

It was a “war of attrition” but steadily we managed to come out on top. For our “victory” parade, we raced downhill to Little Weighton with open tops as the imaginary “crowd” cheered us on our way home. “Some people were on the pitch. They think it’s all over. It is now!” Back home just in time for the “real” match ⚽!

“There’s none of this turning left on this ride” announced Ray at the gathering of the clans. A particularly bold statement to make considering he’d proposed an anticlockwise route around Ulrome. We know what you meant Ray! 🤔 Eight Knights assembled at Market Cross for Ray’s “meander” to Hutton Cranswick via Ulrome.

The gods smiled on us when we set off as the traffic lights turned in our favour. We came immediately to our first right turn onto Hengate followed by another onto New Walkergate. The first “not turning left” soon followed as Matty led the troops onto Railway Street then left again onto Grovehill Road. Yet another left turn at Weel Bridge brought us to Tickton where we were joined by Andy G.

The following wind helping us along made for a “pleasant meander” along the cycle path led by Pugwash and Ray to Whitecross roundabout. Oh what’s this? Another left turn? On the way through Leven we picked up Chad waiting patiently at the Catfoss mini roundabout. The ten Knights then continued at a steady pace driven by the wind to almost 19mph as we passed through Brandesburton and on to the Bewholme road. Mark jumped onto the front in an effort to “up” the pace to 21mph but eased off when nobody followed his wheel.

On reaching Bewholme, we stopped briefly when a voice piped up “Someone has not read the script, this was meant to be a pleasant meander along the highways and byways.” “Well it felt pleasant to me” came the reply. “OK Ray you take up the pace setting” to which he responded “I would if you’d let me, but you all just come zooming past me” As Ray set off in “pole position” towards Skipsea Brough, the rest of us followed behind as the pace picked up 19mph…20mph…21mph. It didn’t last long though as he decided to drop back and let someone else take over.

“Ah, here’s the right turn Ray was referring to” we all thought as we headed toward Skipsea to pick another left turn to Ulrome and Lisset. The wind was no longer helping as we reached Gransmoor. Pugwash and AndyG took up the front running, however at the Kelk junction, Pugwash with a “memory” of a previous ride coming from Little Kelk to Gransmoor turned right until realising his error as a voice from behind shouted out to great hilarity “He can’t see you signaling Ray”. The final ignominy came when Pugwash realised the the signpost clearly indicated Foston to the left (again).

Splits occurred in the group as we made our way to Wansford then Skerne. Mark then left us to head home to Driffield while the rest continued to Cranswick. Approaching the village, there was increase in pace in the front group with Heather leading, head down in a big gear pushing almost 20mph into the wind.

• 

• 

The journey home promised to be a hard slog against the wind. The open fields of Bracken in particular gave no respite as we all tried to tuck in behind the wheel in front. Fortunately it was not too far as we followed our usual route through South Dalton, Etton and Cherry Burton with the final ascent of “Grannies Hump”. All downhill from there! Superb ride and super company once more. Looking forward to the next outing.

Today’s route took the Knights to the Eastern front with cafe stop at the historic Burton Constable Hall. Ten Knights plus two guests gathered at Market Cross. “Are we all here now?” enquired Neil. “Just Michael to come” came the reply. Right on cue, he appeared around the corner. Checking his watch as he pulled up, he made an impromptu poetic effort with “I’m on time. It’s only Nine Twenty Nine!”

Pugwash set the initial pace leading the group out of Beverley via Weel road to Tickton where we were joined by Andy G. Did you know that Tickton was mentioned in the Doomsday Book? I couldn’t possibly comment on the fossils that can be found there. 🤐🤔 Steve G then took to the front, leading us along the cycle path to Whitecross roundabout.

Next to jump on the front was Michael taking us through the even older village of Leven. Evidence of bronze age settlements have been found in the area. Not much chance of “bronzing” today though, as the sun stubbornly refused to poke through the blanket cloud cover. After leaving Brandesburton we cruised along the road to Nunkeeling and Dunnington. This road has been recently resurfaced leaving many loose stone chippings particularly along the middle. Rounding one corner, while Pugwash 🐱 slowed down, Barry fearlessly zoomed past seemingly oblivious to any danger of gravel.

On reaching Skipsea Brough, it was time to head south once more passing through Bewholme and onwards to Seaton. This is not a road that we travel on often, in fact it was the first time for me. The downside of this section is that it brings us out on the main Hornsea road where we need to dodge the traffic for about half a mile until reaching Sigglesthorne. Normal service was then resumed as we continued to Great Hatfield and Whitedale. Barry needing to be home early left the group at New Ellerby while the rest of us carried on through Marton to reach our cafe stop at Burton Constable Hall.

• 

• 

Despite the lack of sunshine, it was warm enough to dine al fresco. Good service and good food managed to ensure we all left with happy smiles and satisfied stomachs. “Look at those dark clouds” cried Neil “Which way are they going Puggy?” he asked expectantly, not wishing to miss an opportunity to remind me of previous predictions! “Better get going before it turns to rain”. “That wasn’t in the forecast” were the general sentiments.

With the threat of rain, the return pace picked up somewhat as we headed for Sproatley then Coniston. After Swine the lead riders were so busy with heads down that they missed the turn to Beningholme. “LEFT, LEFT” came the yell from behind. Back on track, we followed familiar roads to Meaux and back to Routh where we picked up the cycle path back to Tickton. Crossing the main road at Tickton Grange, a song by Stealers Wheel sprung to mind as we struggled to dodge the traffic.

Fortunately for us, we managed to stay dry (mostly) with just a few light drops of rain as we made our final approaches home, signaling the end of another very pleasant ride

In less than an hour after Ray announced Friday’s destination we had eleven Knights indicating they were coming along for the ride. A further two adding their names later brought the total to a round “bakers” dozen. Michael arrived at Manor House just in time for the “photo-opportunity” but tried his best to keep out of shot. Mark appeared shortly after at which point, route master Raymondo, leading from the front ‘fired the starting-gun’ . As we set off to follow ‘our leader’ a little voice piped up in the background “but we’re two minutes early”.

The twelve Knights were later joined by Steve G at Cherry Burton where we continued to Etton. Now I’m sure I heard Raymond ask if everyone was happy with the route receiving a resounding positive response. It did not prevent those in the lead missing the turn towards Kiplingcotes. Seems they didn’t know their Arras from their Dalton! 😉 Back on track, it was soon time to face our first climb of the day, Kiplingcotes Lane over Arras Hill. Just after crossing the main 1079 road we waited to regroup. Mike took the opportunity to attend to a mechanical problem with his bike as the ‘audience’ hung around offering support and advice.

On reaching Sancton we headed along Houghton Lane. A little way along, a group of children cheered and applauded us as we passed by creating an ‘event’ like atmosphere as we reciprocated with cheery hellos and waves. At Cliffe Road we split in two groups until peeling off at North Cliffe along Sand Lane. It was at this point Matthew headed home feeling a little below par after 2nd jab, while the rest of us continued to Harswell, Everingham and Bielby before arriving at Allerthorpe Lakeland Park.

• 

• 

It was really pleasant sitting in the sunshine enjoying our snacks, watching everyone having fun on the lake and “shooting the breeze”. Despite the temptation to join in all the fun, it was soon time to return home. As an alternative to riding through Pocklington, we decided to retrace our route back towards Bielby but then take the road to Hayton and Burnby. As we neared Burnby, a car came up behind us on the single track lane but was unable to pass safely until we reached the junction. Not content with us heading in the opposite direction, the driver had to give a blast on the horn as they’d been delayed by around 10-20 secs.

Next up was the climb up to Londesborough followed by Intake Hill before rolling into Market Weighton. After regrouping at Goodmanham Road we headed homewards on the Spring Road to Etton and Cherry Burton. A very enjoyable ride in perfect weather following different routes options. We’ll done Raymondo!

The early morning forecast was predicting temperatures to rise and a sunnier outlook as the day progressed. Indeed as Pugwash arrived at Manor House along with Colin there did appear to some “brightness” in the area. Turned out it wasn’t the sun after all but the the reflection from the brilliantly polished “guns” on display as everyone had opted for shorts for the first time this year…. well apart from a few hardier souls where such attire is ‘de rigueur’ unless the temperatures are near freezing.

Ten Knights set off from Manor House destined for Sledmere but we hadn’t got very far when Matty suffered a puncture (the third in two rides) and decided to abandon and head home to fit a new tyre. A little later as we passed Bishop Burton, we spotted another two Knights lurking in the bushes. Turns out it was Barry and Mark waiting to join us.

Today’s route took us initially through Etton, Holme-on-the-Wolds and on to Middleton-on-the-Wolds. It was at this point Neil, Heather and AndyG left the ride to return for an “early bath” while the rest continued up the long slog to North Dalton and Huggate. We noted that Mark had zoomed on ahead and was now nowhere in sight. No-one felt in the mood to “chase him down” however he appeared a little later emerging from the bushes with a “relieved” look on his face.

While waiting to regroup at Huggate, Pugwash decided to find similar relief in the nearby bushes. Just at that moment a frightened hare 🐰 went scurrying through the field causing great hilarity while the group speculated what may have caused its distress. Once all together again, it was time for us to scurry off to Wetwang.

At Sledmere, Mark and Colin continued home while the rest of us headed for the cafe. Having had twelve Knights join the ride we were now down to just six. Was it something you said Ray? It couldn’t possibly be anything to do with all the hills you’ve “thrown our way.” Never mind it’s all downhill from here… well apart from……..

The cafe was operating a limited menu choice with only breakfast, luncheon or afternoon tea. (Note for Chris, there was an option for a side order of chips!) If that wasn’t enough of a dampener, the clouds decided to release a few droplets in our direction. Come on forecasters, get your act together! Russell tried his best to persuade the waitress to conjure up a bacon banjo but she was having none of it. At least there was an impressive range of cakes and traybakes available. The faces of Iain and Barry lighting up as she read out Vanilla Slice as one of the options.

Once we’d put the World to rights, it was time to head for home. After the “battle” of Limekiln Hill we were looking forward to the lovely long sweep down towards Garton-on-the-Wolds but this road was recently resurfaced with stone chippings and a temporary 20mph limit advisory. It didn’t stop one self-important know-it-all in a 4 x 4 towing a trailer and blasting his horn as he passed us doing around +45mph

• 

• 

• 

By now the temperature was beginning to rise, 22°c according to Seadog. Not sure if it was ever that warm but there were glimpses of blue sky in the distance and it certainly made for pleasant riding as we headed homeward by Bracken.

Eleven Knights turned out to join the “team bus” for a tour around the local area. Confusion reigned from the start when Pugwash spotted James G heading in the opposite direction on the way to the start. “I’m sure Neil said Manor House” thought Pugwash waving a cheery hello in passing. “Sunday’s are always 0930 from Market Cross” thought James G as he passed with a puzzled look on his face. Well it seems he was not the only one making the same mistake as a message from Sharrin confirmed.

“Rule 87 The Ride Always Leaves on Time!” cried Neil as we set off for Walkington. Fortunately for those of the “confused” persuasion they were able to head directly to intercept the “bus” on the way to High Hunsley. Olivier also arrived in the nick of time to see the “bus” just departing but was able to latch on to the back.

The initial pace along Middlehowe road was somewhat sedentary as we warmed up and caught up with the latest news from those we hadn’t seen much of recently. At one point we were caught up by another cyclist, but with our group completely occupying the road, he could not find a way through until reaching the Newbald Road.

Heading towards Riplingham the pace picked up. The fact that the terrain was generally downhill had nothing to do with it. There was a lump or two on the way to keep the heart flying as we headed onward to Welton. After that the going was fairly flat through Elloughton, Ellerker and on to South Cave with everyone jockeying for position.

From North Cave to Market Weighton was a great opportunity to have a “chain gang”. It was not quite textbook operation but still managed around 21mph+. What do you mean “it was wind assisted”? It doesn’t say that on Strava.

Passing through Market Weighton someone must have lost their bearings as a voice piped up “Where are we going now? I thought we were going straight on”. Never mind just follow the leader 🐑.

The final challenge was the climb up to the Fiddle Drill. Matt led the way initially until Pugwash took over to reach the cafe first. Before you all jump to the conclusion that it was an effort to get to the front of the queue, I’ll have you know that desperation for the loo🚽 took precedence!

On arrival it looked like we’d landed on a cycle rally with bikes parked all around and tables occupied by cyclists. Fortunately some of us were accommodated inside while others grabbed a table outside which had been kept warm by Smithy and family.

• 

• 

The “strikers” were first to finish the “half time” break and decided to set off for home, leaving the “defenders” to follow a little later. The two groups took different routes back to Etton. The “strikers” preferring the more direct Spring road via Kiplingcotes while the “defenders” returned via Holme-on-the-Wolds.

We still seem to be a long way from Summer conditions but despite that we still had a few brave souls who deemed it fit for wearing shorts. A great route and a pleasure to be out in larger groups. Look forward to seeing you all again.

Two crews set off for a cruise by the Ouse destined for the Cheese Shop at Howden. In the Market Cross crew there was James N, Colin, Brian, Mark, Paul + guest Alex. Starting from Manor House we had Neil, Heather, Pugwash, Karl, James G and Michael. Both crews set off at 0930.

The MH crew followed the Middlehowe road climb to High Hunsley, while the MC crew took on Bluestone Bottoms climb on the way to Riplingham. Neil Z, joined the MH crew at Brantingham (just in time to save him climbing the hill to meet us 😉). Continuing on to Ellerker there was another “parting of the ways” with the MH crew taking Common Road to Broomfleet while the MC crew went via Ings Lane.

With few hedgerows in this area, we were exposed to the adverse westerly wind. Fortunately it was not too strong and we managed to maintain a good tempo as we took turns on the front. After passing through Faxfleet and Blacktoft we stopped at Yokefleet to phone ahead to confirm our arrival time at the cafe in around 15-20 minutes.

Shortly after our arrival the MC crew arrived as we all “commandeered” the Market Place outside of the Cheese Shop. Having preordered our requirements, it did not take long before the service arrived. Initially, it was quite pleasant sitting in the sun providing a little heat, however once the sun disappeared, the temperature dropped and the skies looked somewhat daunting. We took that as our cue to set off home.

• 

• 

• 

This time the MC crew set off first followed a few minutes later by the MH crew. Departing from Howden we headed for Eastrington and Sandholme. With the wind 🌬️now assisting our progress the prospects of a “chain gang” fizzled out as our crew spread out with the stronger riders upping the pace opening a gap to those behind.

From Newport we followed the main road back to North Cave. Here there was another parting of the ways. The MC crew decided to ride through Hotham Park while the MH crew took the main road to Hotham. On reaching South Newbald, Michael decided to follow two of the MC crew, which had been spotted earlier in Hotham, up Trundlegate leaving Pugwash, Heather and Neil to return home on the Beverley Road.

“‘Ere Ray, I ‘eard on the grapevine that there’s some rich pickin’s to be had in Millington. Sumfink about ramblers resting on their laurels.” “OK” said Ray “Round up the gang and we’ll head out there. I could just murder me a bacon sarnie”. “Our boy Seadog ‘unter said he can’t make it this time. Somethin’ bout another job”

“Hey Chief, just had the heads up from a CHIS (Cyclist Hiding in Sidelines) about an OCG (Older Cyclists Group) job over in Millington.” “OK fella, round up the group and get going. If we can get there before them, we’ll catch them in the act”.

A six man squad from AC12 (Active Cyclists) set off from the Manor at 0945. Pugwash and Colin were the early pace setters as we battled the wind through Cherry Burton and Etton. Approaching Holme-on-the-Wolds, Mark jumped on the front and upped the pace as we climbed steadily upwards. On reaching the Goodmanham junction, Colin tried to lead us in the wrong direction until a shout from Pugwash set us back on the correct road to Middleton-on-the-Wolds. Andy took that as his “cue” to return home.

Next up was the long drag up to Huggate through North Dalton. On reaching Huggate, in an effort to cheer us all up, Mark employed Neil’s trick, “It’s all downhill from here” he said confidently forgetting the little lump out of Huggate before heading down to Millington Dale. There was also the small matter of the “switchback” climb past Millington Woods before finally reaching the “stakeout”.

• 

• 

• 

As we settled at the table the ‘chief’ enquired how we’d all paid. “I used plastic” said Matthew enthusiastically. “There’s only one thing I’m interested in and that’s spent coppers” replied the ‘chief’. “Now Pugwash, there’s a rumour that you have connections to the OCG” he continued inviting a fitting reply. “No comment” responded Pugwash. “We have it on good authority that you had a birthday recently” he added. “No comment” repeated the Captain. “Look fella, you can ‘no comment’ all you like, but we have information that your birthday cake had so many candles on it that the cake melted nearly burning the house down”. “No comment”.

Just in the nick of time, the OCG turned up and focus of attention shifted to their arrival. “Look out guv, it’s the boys in blue” warned Russ as they made their move towards the cafe. Heather came over to our table, “We did the ‘cable tie’ challenge coming down Millington Dale” she beamed, shortly followed by Neil. “Guess who won” he asked proudly. His ‘pride’ bubble was then severely burst when Colin suggested that it was probably not the best ‘claim to fame’.

We started to get a bit cold when the wind picked up so that seemed like a good time to head home. It looked like there was a prospect of showers in the distance as we returned via Kilnwick Percy to Nunburnholme. On reaching ‘base camp’ mutterings of “Holy mother of God, are we really going up there?”. The OCG however thought better of it and took the longer way round by Burnby. After AC12 regrouped at the top, further tongue in cheek mutterings of “It’s all downhill from here” were bandied about. “Jesus, Joseph, Mary and the wee donkey what about Intake Hill.” thought everyone else.

The final leg of our journey took us through Market Weighton and along Spring Road back to Etton. It was another superb route and fortunately we managed to dodge the worst of the wintery showers. Hopefully it will warm up again soon and we can get out on bigger groups.

This Sunday it was “chairman’s choice” for a ride similar to the previous Sunday but in reverse order. Nine Knights turned out seeking an adventure. Splitting into two groups the Swallows team consisted of Paul W, James G, Karl and Chad, leaving Neil, Heather, Pugwash, Mark and Mike forming the Amazon team.

The Swallows departed first followed five minutes later by the Amazons. Mike was the initial pace setter as we headed to Cherry Burton via the Molescroft road. Pugwash then took to the front as we passed through Etton and on to Holme-on-the-Wolds. Flying down into Lund it was then Mark’s turn to lead the way to Middleton-on-the-Wolds. Our first “adventure” came with the roller-coaster road to North Dalton.

Turning towards Bainton we encountered the cool NE’ly wind almost head on. The thought of eventually having it behind us spurred us on. Our next adventure soon came as we played “dodge the pothole” from Bainton to Burnbutts, a narrow single track road. The “excited” cries of our team rang out “POTHOLE! “, “GRAVEL!” as we enjoyed the challenge. Then just to add to our “excitement”, a large 4 x 4 came hurtling toward us with no hint of slowing down despite frantic waving from Neil at the front.

A more relaxed period then ensued as we passed through Hutton Cranswick and on to Skerne. There was a “wee” short break at Wansford before heading through Foston-on-the-Wolds. From there we had our first taste of the following wind as we turned south towards Beeford.

• 

• 

Arriving at the cafe we found the Swallows already tucking into their “picnic” wondering cheekily what took us so long. By the time we began to partake, the Swallows were ready for the return journey.

After spending a pleasant time in the sun, it was time for the Amazons to return as well. Heading towards Skipsea Brough, we headed into the wind once more. In a slight change to last week, we took the Dunnington road instead of our usual Bewholme route. The northern end proved to be another “dodge the pothole” or “mind the gravel” ride. Eventually we reached a recently resurfaced section, unfortunately there were still a lot of loose chippings to be wary of.

Mark obviously hadn’t seen enough excitement as he rounded a corner on the right side of the road only to be confronted by another cyclist coming in the opposite direction. Unable to pull left out of the way or brake in the corner due to the loose chippings he eventually passed on the wrong side shouting his apologies for the error. Fortunately there was no incident but it must have set his heart racing for a brief moment.

The rest of the journey home was uneventful as we passed through Brandesburton, Leven and Tickton with the wind helping us along the way.

The rallying cry went up from St George for volunteers to ride out and hunt for a “Dragon” said to be devouring everything in its path and leaving pestilence and devastation sweeping the countryside in its wake. Within hours we had sixteen gallant Knights “booted and spurred” ready for the challenge.

Overwhelmed by the response, St George was all a fluster. “I’ll get back to you with a plan” he said “I’ve been busy all day”. Later, fortified by a hearty meal (and possibly a glass of wine) he formulated a plan. Splitting our numbers into three groups, we had the “Cornettos” as the advance scouts followed by the “Cappuccinos” and leading from the rear the “Gruppetto”.

• 

• 

• 

Setting off at five minute intervals from Manor House, the Knights gee’d their steeds in the direction of Newbald. The sun shone brightly but the air remained cool so it was interesting noting the choice of “armour” with many Knights opting to go without “vambrace” and “greaves”. The Cappuccinos consisted of Pugwash, Matt, Heather, Colin and Andy G. Making our way through Hotham we caught our first glimpse of the Cornettos.

After waiting a few minutes at the bottom of Common Hill to reestablish a suitable gap, we continued to North Cliffe. Keeping the Cornettos in sight ahead, we passed through Harswell, Everingham and Bielby. Soon after that, the Cornettos split with Steve G, Chris Shep and Sharrin heading home, leaving Mark and Karl as the sole scouts. A swift effort from Matt made “the catch” as we turned onto the main road leading to Allerthorpe. The “venom spewing dragon” was reported to be living in a nearby lake demanding to be fed sausage rolls.

Mark was one of the first on scene. “Right where do we get service?” he enquired, completely missing the massive sign saying “ENTRANCE” by the nearest door. Sympathy was in short supply as everyone ribbed him terribly for his observational skills. Matt had just polished off his sausage roll when St George arrived. “I hope you’ve left me some sausage rolls” he glared directly at Matt only to appear a few minutes later “armed” with a bacon and egg roll.

• 

• 

• 

With no sign of the “Dragon” and the only hungry things in the lake being some massive carp, we decided to take our leave and head for home. The two groups headed for Pocklington then Burnby where we had to “negotiate” our way passed the ongoing roadworks. On reaching our turn off to Londesborough we found the road closed. Faced with the prospect of continuing upwards to Nunburnholme top, Mark went over to speak with one of the workmen to see if we could safely pass through.

Obviously “safely” is a relative term as we found ourselves heading off road to get round work vehicles parked across the road. Shortly after passing the closed section we faced the short sharp ramp. It was just then that the “Dragon” decided it’d had enough being chased and decided to throw a spanner in the works. With an ugly crunching noise Matt ground to a halt to find his front derailleur completely buckled. After a few adjustments, he was able to limp home running on single gear.

• 

• 

From Londesborough we headed towards Market Weighton and Goodmanham. While running along the Spring Road the “Dragon” struck again. This time it was Colin’s turn as he suffered a puncture. While he effected the repair, the rest of us hung around watching a buzzard circling overhead, or was it a Kite?

• 

• 

• 

The rest of the ride fortunately passed without incident as we headed home through Etton and Cherry Burton to end another great adventure. Perfect weather, sun and light winds, lovely route and great company. What more could we want?