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! 😜

Fourteen Knights including two “newbies” gathered at Market Cross for the “Grande Departe”. The first group of six set off through North Bar as soon as the “flag” dropped, followed shortly by a second group of four then the final four. At Manor House we were joined by Chris and Sarah.

The “Tete-de-la-Course” group consisting of Mark, Andy, Karl, Brian, Chris H +1 made an early breakaway as we set off towards Middlehowe road and the steady climb to High Hunsley. The first “pursuivant” group with Pugwash, James G, Chris Shep, Sarah and Colin followed but soon lost sight of the lead group. The final “Lanterne Rouge” group made up with Stephen, Sharrin, Michael, Chad and newbie James remained a few minutes behind.

Feathered friends featured early in the “Pugwash” group. Firstly as we rounded the corner onto Middlehowe Road, we encountered a car approaching the exit. For some reason the “lady” behind the wheel decided to “flip the bird”🖕 at Chris. 🤔 Probably because we had the temerity to hold her up for two seconds.

A little while later as we were passing Littlewold farm, we came upon a flock of chickens 🐔🐔happily pecking away in the grass at the side of the road…. Except for one! It started to panic as we approached, running round like a… well headless chicken. It nearly was, as it took a dive across the road right under Pugwash’s wheel. Fortunately it escaped with only a few ruffled feathers. Not sure if it would have fitted in my back pocket anyway!

After that little scare, we continued our journey to South Newbald and Hotham where we picked up the Cliffe Road. Our “chain gang” however, got interrupted when Colin lost a package from his back pocket forcing us to stop and retrieve it. Just as he recovered it, we spotted the “Lanterne Rouge” coming up fast behind us. Time to get a move on once more. With Chris, James and Pugwash taking the lead we made good time as we battled against the wind through Harswell, Everingham, Bielby, Hayton to Burnby.

The “Tete-de-la-Course” took a slightly different route at this point by taking the road through Nunburnholme to Kilnwick Percy while the “Pursuivants” went via Pocklington. James G peeled off early at Burnby to return home while the rest continued to the “feed station” at Millington.

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After enjoying our sustenance, it was time to get 🎶on the road again🎶. We could have done with a bit of Canned Heat as we were beginning to feel the northerly wind seeping through to our innards. With Chopper and his mate having continued without stopping, we took the opportunity to “shuffle” the groups. Michael joined the remainder of the “Tete-de-la-Course” who were intending to follow the longer return route via Wetwang, Sledmere, Driffield and Brandesburton.

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Chris and Sarah dropped back to the the “Lanterne Rouge” while Chad and newbie James joined the “Pugwash Group”. Not long after leaving Millington, the “Lanterne Rouge” group encountered a couple of deer that jumped into the road in front of them then disappeared into the bushes just as quickly. Obviously a bit more nimble than chickens but I’m sure it didn’t stop Stephen wondering how he might have got one home for dinner!

The “Pursuivants” followed the shorter route home taking us first to Huggate then Tibthorpe. Now that the wind was generally behind and the terrain mostly downhill, we enjoyed a superb run to Kirkburn. The “Pugwash” group continued along the Bracken road directly to Etton then home through Cherry Burton.

On the way along the Bracken road, the “Lanterne Rouge” had another “encounter”. This time, it was nothing more scary than Jim out for his first ride since injuring his arm.

Despite the autumnal feel in the air, we had a very good turn out for today’s ride. With the route(s) offering something for everyone, I’m sure we all enjoyed our day out.

Seven students turned out at Market Cross to learn what grades had been assigned to them. Teacher announced “Right you four ‘young un’s’ , (Mark, Karl, Paul W & Chopper) will be in the A Team. The B grade team (Pug, Stephen & Sharrin) will follow”. No sooner had we set off when we were met with red lights. A voice called out “Hey Pug, didn’t you say you were in the B team” said Paul. Looking round at the “A team” gathered around me “oops” sprung to mind. My excuse was that no-one seemed willing to take the lead, so headed off first to set an example.

The “A team” were so pleased with their “results” they headed out through North Bar while the “B team” saw an opportunity to upgrade their “status” by taking a shortcut along Tiger Lane. As the “B team” pulled up to the York Road junction, we saw the “A team” in the distance, so waited for them to pass before both teams headed over the Westwood to Manor House.

Waiting patiently for us all to arrive was Matty. After discussing the “results” and how it would effect the rest of our day, the “teams” were juggled with Matty joining the “A Team” and Pugwash getting an “upgrade” while Mark was “downgraded” to the “B Team” who were taking the express route directly home without stopping.

The two teams set off towards North Newbald. Despite the adverse wind we made good progress through South Newbald to Hotham. On reaching the Cliffe Road, we formed a “chain gang” as we headed to Market Weighton. An option of a slightly longer route presented itself as we approached North Cliffe but the thrill of the “run in” and the threatened rain showers kept us focused on the more direct route.

When we finally rolled into Market Weighton, I’m sure there were a few sighs of relief that the A* effort was at an end. A more leisurely pace ensued thereafter as we wound our way to Goodmanham and the Fiddle Drill cafe.

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Shortly after placing our orders at the cafe, the B Team arrived. Mark tried hard to convince us they’d taken the longer route but nobody was “taking the bait” 🎣 While we enjoyed our refreshments the B Team continued home. The slightly longer proposed route home via Lund was rejected in favour of our usual return by Holme-on-the-Wolds. With the wind now generally in our favour, we made swift progress before turning south to Dalton, Etton and home.

This was a shorter ride compared to our normal Sunday club runs but was none the less enjoyable. The predicted rain did not materialise (until much later) and we could have taken a longer route but that’s the trouble with computer “predictions”, they tend to use “ah’ll go rhythms”. They have all the right notes but not necessarily in the right order and if the “results” turn out to be “wrong” the “boffins” can the blame “ah’ll go rhythms”.

The “battle” for the Iron Throne has been somewhat quiet recently after an earlier flurry brought in new champions. This has been mainly due to the “protection” put in place on both “battle grounds”. First we had roadworks on Kirk Lane, then later on the main road in Walkington. We also had roadworks pop up on the Ionians both hindering attempts to grab the “crown”.

The current Lady of House Shark since early June, is “Bust’er Gut” Sarah, who rode like Daenerys Targaryen astride her dragon burning up the course and sweeping all aside to grasp the crown and claim the title Queen of the Mountain👑. An impressive effort setting a time of 21:45 to ease into 10th place overall for this year.

With both House Shark “crowns” safely stored in “House Shep” it was inevitable that there would be challenges ahead. In July, we saw Olivier on his “turbo charger” throwing down the gauntlet racing round to victory while setting a new target of 18:38.

Now that Chris had his Shark Tooth crown snatched away, he set off on a quest to grab the “Green Pants” crown. Driven by a fit of pique (or perhaps the WNW’ly wind 😉) he powered his way along the Ionians to set an excellent time of 1:02 with an average speed of 49.9kph. That should take some beating. Chain gang anyone? Heather is currently Leading Lady for the sprint Challenge with a time of 1:26.

The “battle” for Chris’s Hill has seen a number of challenges since the last report, with Chris having to relinquish his “Polkadot Pants” crown, firstly to Chad who set a good time of 4:59 only for it to be “smashed out of the park” just a month later by Olivier, setting a new best time of 4:26. Fresh from his north Yorkshire hill training session, “Windy” James attempted yesterday to knock Olivier from his perch but came up just short. Once again, Heather is still the leading lady for the hill challenge on 5:57.

There is still some time to go this season to stake your claim for any of the “crowns” and the bragging rights. Go on you know you want to!

This Tuesday evening ride was a replacement for our cancelled solstice ride from June. The fact that the pizza was on offer at half price was just coincidence 🍕😉 Eight members turned out to take advantage of “Dishy Rishi’s” largesse.

Before any eagle eyed people say “But there are nine in the picture” the “Sheriff of Nottingham” only came along for the ride (and a pint 🍻). Setting off in two groups, the first group consisted of Mark, Chad, Olivier, Andy & Michael. Following in the second wave was Neil, Heather, Raymond & Pugwash.

Instead of our usual blast to Hornsea and back, we opted for a clockwise route via Wansford. Our table was booked for 8pm and given our 6:30pm start gave us an hour and a half to cover around 40km. No pressure then.

After giving the lead group a few minutes “head start” the second group set off along Molescroft Road to Cherry Burton and Etton. Before approaching South Dalton and the usual run along Mere Lane, “Head straight up to the top” called Neil. On reaching the main road at Holme-on-the-Wolds, Neil instigated another change by heading through Lund before resuming the originally planned route. While passing through Lund, Neil decided to take a “shortcut” between some bollards then through a narrow gap by a poorly parked van. Felt like I was a little kid out on my chopper as we played follow my leader.

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Once back onto the Bracken road, we were enjoying the late evening sunshine and warmth and soon arrived at Wansford. Checking the time, Neil ventured “We’ve only 15 minutes to get to Brandesburton, nice steady chain gang everyone”. Another “time check” at Frodingham “Only 8 minutes now”. Rolling into Brandesburton we heard “1 minute to go now”. Oh the pressure. Not sure I would vouch for the veracity of our “speaking clock” given our timings on Strava.

After parking the bikes, we wandered into Berts to find the lead group just about coming to the end of their first round. “Where have you been?” they cried teasingly “We’ve been here ages! “. Given the speed my first drink went down, I’d say they hadn’t been in too long before we arrived.

Taking our food order, the waiter passed down the line. “I’ll have the pizza with smoked salmon and avocado” said Heather before adding “but I don’t like avocados”. Quick as a flash, the waiter replied “Well why are you ordering it then” before Heather explained to just leave out the avocados. Chorizo and chilli was proving a popular choice until it came to Neil’s turn. Never one to pass up a bargain, “I’ll have the smoked salmon and avocado AND I’ll have Heather’s portion of avocado as well!”

I think we all enjoyed our pizzas and refreshments and the general chitchat but it was soon time for the return home. By this time it was beginning to get quite dark. Good lights and extra layers of clothing required.

While making our way along the cycle path to Tickton, we were dazzled each time a car came heading towards us. Being on the “wrong side” of the road meant that the dipped headlights of the oncoming traffic were virtually pointing directly at us making the path very difficult to see. I for one was glad to get back to street lighting. All in all it was a very pleasant ride in the warmth of a lovely summer’s evening and Grateful for the “Rishi dishies” that we Ate🍕🍟🍻

“Roll-up! Roll-up! Calling all Knights. You are cordially welcome to take part in a jousting tournament at Castle Howard!” Given the nature of today’s route it should have said “Climb-up Roll-down”. Many Knights were obviously up for the challenge as we achieved our best turn out this year.

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Having so many at Market Cross meant we split into four groups. “King Arthur” had preselected the groupings to set off in five minute intervals. The “Sir Lancelot” group consisting of James G, Michael, James M and Matthew P, led the way (you can argue amongst yourselves about who was “Lancelot”)

The “Sir Gawain” group followed promptly five minutes later consisting of Pugwash, Olivier, Paul, Iain & Colin. The “Sir Geraint” group consisted of Karl, Smithy, Chad, Matty & Brian. “King Arthur” led the rearguard action along with Lady Heather, Stephen, Lady Sharrin and Steve G.

The first part of the journey took us along familiar territory through Etton, Holme-on-the-Wolds, Middleton-on-the-Wolds, North Dalton and Huggate. Thereafter, we were treated to some spectacular scenery as we wound our way through Thixendale, Leavening and Barton-Le-Willow. The showers that were forecast fortunately came to naught. As the Sir Gawain group approached Barton Hill, we were held up waiting for a passing train.

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Once across the dual carriageway, we had a brief “lull” before facing the climb up to the Monument to the 7th Earl of Carlisle. “Don’t push too hard too early” warned Sir Iain as we began the ascent. We soon realised what he meant as the terrain continued upwards and onwards. A final few rollercoaster hills and we arrived at the impressive gate leading into the grounds of Castle Howard.

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Once everyone was suitably refuelled, we all set off in our various groups to face the return journey. A swift downhill saw us into Coneysthorpe with a steady climb (plus a few “lumps” thrown in for good measure) for the next couple of miles before a beautiful descent into Malton. I’m glad we had a good navigator on the front as we filtered our way through town to Norton.

Shortly after, we were presented with the “joy” of Settrington Bank with an average gradient of almost 8% and tipping up to 17% in places. The effort involved was really worth it (honest) as the views across the Wolds from the top were stunning. An additional benefit came in the long downward sweep to West Lutton.

Next challenge was the short 5.5% ramp heading towards Cowlam. As the Sir Gawain group waited at Cowlam for Pugwash to catch up, we suffered the ignominy of being “caught” by Chad from the Sir Geraint group. As he waited for the rest of his group, we set off again towards Driffield. Just as we approached Driffield on the descent, we were once more “caught”, this time by Smithy.

After Driffield though, Pugwash found a “second wind” and was able to maintain the pace as Olivier and Paul led the way through Skerne and Hutton Cranswick. Our trusty navigator left the group here while the rest opted to head directly down the main road back home. The Sir Lancelot group also took the “quick” route home while the Sir Geraint and King Arthur’s groups both returned via Bracken.

This was longer than our recent Sunday rides, however given the numbers in attendance it may become more regular as we seek out pastures new. Fabulous scenery, rolling hills and clement weather all helped to produce a wonderful ride experience. Many thanks to James M for suggesting the route.