Following Pugwash’s failed coup d’etat on Friday, another chance arose today to play “route Master” while the Admiral remains in drydock undergoing extensive repairs. “Staggering Stalactites let’s have some ups and downs” thought Pugwash and proposed a nor’westerly route out to Huggate and refuelling stop at Fiddle Drill.

Mindful of the rule #87 reminder from the Admiral, there was a good turn out with twelve Knights presenting themselves for the 0930🕤 start, although it has to be said that James made it by the skin of his teeth😁. There was little appetite for the Westwood climb so the fleet opted for the Molescroft route to Cherry Burton.

Fair winds filled the sails as the flotilla continued towards Holme-on-the-Wolds. After regrouping at the top, it was off on a “broad reach” until changing tack for the run into Middleton-on-the-Wolds. Turning towards Huggate, the fleet encountered heavy going 🌊, fortunately the following wind 🌬️ made progress a little easier.

After regrouping at Huggate, it was time to face the head winds on the way to Warter. As luck would have it, the route was downhill most of the way. “Shuddering Sharks🦈” thought Pugwash “What good planning” 🤔😀

The tide turned against the fleet as we encountered the climb up to Nunburnholme top. At the bottom of Bailey Lane, knowing what was ahead ⛰️, it was a case of who’s going to go first? Eventually, it was “Billy” Bob showing his racing credentials as he led the way to the top.

A “close reach” passage followed before heading downwards once again into Londesborough with a little kick up Intake Hill before reaching Market Weighton. The final climb to the cafe stop was again wind assisted. Rhett Butler and Scarlet O’Hara having sufficient fuel on board, were gone with wind and continued without stopping, while the rest of the fleet dropped anchor ⚓ at the Fiddle Drill.

Refuelling complete, it was time to set sail once again as the fleet continued to the top of Cross Gates, before turning downhill into the wind along the Kiplingcotes race course road. The final leg of the journey took us through Etton and Cherry Burton before arriving back to home ports.

The sun was shining brrrrrrrright but there was still a chill in the air after the overnight frost. Captain Pugwash’s attempt to assume command by suggesting the destination, was well noted by “route Master” Raymond who, unbeknownst to Pugwash, had recently returned from foreign climes to take up his role once again.

Ten Knights turned up including two potential new recruits for a flat ride to the coast and the Mere Cafe at Hornsea. Setting out from Market Cross along Norwood, we met up with KiwiManx at Tickton to bring our numbers to football team level.

As we made our way towards Meaux, Mike led the way up front like a lone striker, supported by Russel, KiwiManx and trialist Michael. In the midfield we had Pugwash, Raymond, Norman and Sharrin and in defence we had trialist John and Steve providing great support in goal.

As we progressed towards Long Riston with a helping wind players moved up to take the lead or drop back to help out in the defence. The team worked well as we continued our way along quiet country roads towards Mappleton. The only hiccup on the way was when the strikers lost sight of goal on reaching the junction to Hatfield and turned the wrong way. Fortunately the midfield were on the ball to keep them heading the right way.

On reaching the main coast road, the team went into full attack mode. The strike force reached the cafe in good time shortly followed by the midfield. The forward movement had been so swift, the defence was left lingering around the goal mouth.

Half time allowed the team to recoup some of the energy consumed and a chance to discuss the progress so far. Our roving midfielder KiwiManx received a red card and had to return directly home alone for an early bath (work really). Tactics were discussed for the second half, however immediately after the whistle, centre forward Mike played a flanker down the wing in an effort to beat the defensive traffic lights.

Having bypassed the first defensive line, the temporary rearguard provided more resistance, until the referee gave us the green light to resume the game. The team then continued past the Honeysuckle Farm and on to Bewholme. From there the head winds provided stiff opposition, as we made our way through Brandesburton and Leven before returning to Beverley along the cycle path.

With beautiful sunshine, lightish winds and flat roads, I’d call that 3 – 0 result. Looking forward to the next leg already.

It was a cold damp start to the morning following the previous night’s rain. Seven Knights braved the chill at Market Cross to head for the Cheese Shop at Howden suggested by Captain Pugwash. In the send off party was Mrs Pugwash who came to say hello before setting off on her own ride. Unfortunately the Captain forgot his manners and did not bid a fond farewell to his dearly beloved before setting out, a mistake which would hopefully be forgiven but no doubt not forgotten.

The outward route took us over the Westwood on the Newbald Road then down into Walkington. From there the group headed to the climb up Bluestone Bottoms. In case anyone was not already warmed up, the long climb towards Riplingham was just what was needed.

After swooping down into South Cave we headed to North Cave taking the main road to Newport before taking the turn off to Faxfleet, where James left the group to return home. Normally this route would be into the prevailing wind, however on this occasion the wind was varying from North West to West making it appear as if we had a constant head wind with the road continually changing direction.

As the song might have said “I’ve lost feeling in my fingers, and feeling in my toes” so the sight of the cafe was quite timely and welcome. The giant scones proved a popular choice, however did little to settle the argument “Jam on cream, or cream on jam”, as they came already loaded. So if your preference is the first you can eat it as is, and if you prefer the second option just turn it the other way round! The choice of poached eggs however seems to be a step too far with only fried or scrambled on offer. We did wonder why they couldn’t just put water in the frying pan instead of oil.

Suitably refreshed it was time to brave the chill once more. The return route was proposed by Steve and saw us taking the back roads through Spaldington, Foggathorpe and Seaton Ross. Along the way we spotted a huge buzzard sat in a tree giving us the beady eye. Probably checking for any sign of weakness or stragglers on which to prey. Fortunately we were still all together so no “meals on wheels ” today.

From Everingham we finally had an assisting wind so the pace remained high until we ground to a halt as we turned off the main A164. Paul had been visited by the puncture fairy, probably as a result of passing through an area strewn with thorns. A fortuitous stop for some and a chance to rest as the first signs of tired legs were beginning to show.

With repairs complete, it was time to continue to the Cliffe Road and up Common hill to Hotham. There was no appetite in the legs for Trundlegate, so we headed for the “easier” hill out of Newbald before returning to Beverley.

A superb ride, longer than our usual winter rides, and for most of us the longest we’ve done for a number of months. The temperature did not see much above 3°c for most of the day, so hopefully some warm weather will be heading out way soon.

In remembrance and with apologies to Rabbie Burns, The cow’rin’ timorous beasties congregated at Market Cross to exercise the heart within their breasties. The chieftain o’ the Puddin’ race said with all good grace, “We can head out Eastie in search of the flying beastie, or make our way, bold and brave, all the way north to the Bike Cave.”

Having chosen the Bike Cave option, the nine haggis puddings set off along Norwood towards Tickton where they were joined by KiwiManx. Approaching the Hull Bridge chicane, Steve had some trouble with his mudguard forcing him to stop and make some impromptu repairs. While Chainsaw Dave stayed to assist, the remainder of the group continued slowly onwards towards White Cross roundabout.

The group came together again shortly after with Steve immediately jumping onto the front to set the pace through Leven and on to Brandesburton. The chieftain found the pace somewhat higher than his fitness would allow and was soon off the back. Too much good living over the winter months methinks.

“Then horn for horn, on they stretch and strive, Di’el tak the hind most and on they drive” seems an appropriate Burns quote as the group once again split on the way to North Frodingham.

While waiting to regroup, we were passed by another group of cyclists. For some, it was like red tag to a bull and once on the way, set off in hot pursuit (not that we’re competitive or anything). Although we did not make the catch, we managed to close the gap significantly before stopping at Wansford. Sharrin took this opportunity to phone ahead to place our cafe order.

The chieftain also took advantage of the stop and headed off the front to gain some distance before being caught once more. On reaching Driffield, Steve and Dave continued homewards, while the rest of us found our fare ready and waiting at the cafe. “Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it, But we hae meat and we can eat, And sae the Lord be thankit.”

The journey home proved a little tougher, with westerly winds providing a constant buffer, Wending our way o’er Hill and Glen, stopping for a breather now and then. The road miles soon passed by, like the scudding clouds across the sky, then as our end we came to face, it was time to end the puddin’ race.

“Shiver me timbers, it’s cold out there” thought Captain Pugwash as he arrived at Market Cross where ready, keen and waiting was the latest addition to the fleet, cabin boy Cueball Dave. A hardy looking soul judging by his choice of outfit. Next to join the assembly was quartermaster Brainfeeder Brian who’d never sneek up without being heard given the rattling noise made by his freewheeling cassette (or should that be castanets). Timing his arrival to the exact second was able seaman Paul Blackbeard. No doubt not wanting to hang around any longer than necessary before the fleet set off.

Today’s ride saw the fleet seeking the flavours of the east at the Hornsea Mere cafe. Taking the Weel road to Tickton the fleet cruised steadily with a fair wind in the sails. The sun shining, while extremely welcome, did not do much to raise the ambient temperature as it stubbornly hovered around 1-2°c.❄️

Sailing happily along the cycle path Brainfeeder came under attack by a barrage of thorns and suffered a breach in the hull. After careening his vessel it was time to effect some repairs. This was easier said than done. Despite all the videos showing how easy it is to remove a tyre, Brainfeeder struggled to carry out the said removal, eventually breaking his plastic “tyre lever” in the process. The look of horror on his face as Captain Pugwash offered metal levers was a picture to behold. “I can’t use those on my carbon rims! ” he exclaimed. Things always seem more difficult when there is an audience and you are trying to do the job as quickly as possible. When he’d eventually removed the tyre, it turned out the valve on his spare tube was the wrong size for the deep rims so now he needed to repair the damaged tube. On completion of repairs we were off again.

We did not get far before it became apparent the repairs had not been successful and Brainfeeder decided reluctantly to call time and return home to effect repairs in the warmth of his home. The now diminished fleet continued on to Long Riston and then headed for Great Hatfield. It was at this point that Captain Pugwash led the fleet astray, taking the wrong turn and ended up on the outskirts of Withernwick. Realising his mistake the fleet then changed track through Cowden before picking up the main coastal route to Hornsea.

Progress on the final leg was swift with a light breeze on the port quarter as Captain Pugwash led the way. We soon arrived at our designated anchorage at the Mere cafe where it was time to refuel. Just as we finished, the fleet Admiral arrived to inspect the colours and meet Cueball.

Our return route saw us passing the Honeysuckle Farm and on to Bewholme before turning back into the wind towards Catfoss and Brandesburton. Despite the head wind, a good pace was maintained with each taking turns on the front. On reaching Hull Bridge it was then time for each to head to their home port. An enjoyable ride with conditions slightly better than expected given the temperature.

You say windy, I say windy let’s not call the whole thing off. After a lot of humming and heying and hedging bets, we saw six Knights turn out at Market Cross. Pugwash was adopted as route master for the day after suggesting the Spotted Duck cafe as the destination, and he was the only one with a sextant!

Starting at the later time of 0945 to allow for Jim to join us put AndyS in a stew as he missed the message and waited in the cold from 0930. Seems like Jim is now in cahoots with Raymond to sow confusion. “It’s windy today” said Matt, “I thought it was Thursday” said Jim. “So am I, let’s have a cup of tea” responded AndyS. With that it was time to set off.

Our route saw us take the Weel road out to Tickton, much to the chagrin of AndyG who’d just battled his way from there against the wind in order to join us at Market Cross. At least the return was a lot easier as we cruised our way along with the wind assisting. At Routh we headed south towards Meaux.

As we twisted and wound our way along, the wind generally assisted but occasionally hindered until reaching the road to Benningholme. Then it was full gas as we breezed along. Speaking of gas, comedian Matt insinuated that Pugwash had added to the breeze by adding some odious gas. The proximity of the local pig farm had nothing to do with it he said.

From Skirlaugh we headed for Old Ellerby and passed Burton Constable. On reaching Moor Lane, the wind turned on the beam giving us a very strong broadside making it difficult to stay upright. Visions of our return journey began to sink in. The sextant worked well as we soon found out destination without hesitation or deviation.

Matt’s usual sugary laden latte was not on offer today so opted for the equally calorie laden milk shake. This poor example influenced Paul who chose the same. Unfortunately (for them) they both appeared disappointed with said choices. The rest of the fare however went down very well.

The navigationally challenged guy in the black top offered to lead the way back but was unanimously outvoted as we did not want to end up in Howden. Following the same road back till reaching Pasture Lane we then headed round the west side of Burton Constable.

The proposed chain gang for the return, did not work as envisioned as we virtually split into two groups before coming together again at Routh. The dreaded head wind took its toll but did not seem as bad as feared due to the twists and turns in the road and some shelter from roadside hedges.

Grey skies and cold air did not prevent a good turn out for Friday’s ride. Eleven Knights turned out at Market Cross, including one newbie. Oh no not another David! Nickname will be required if he signs up. At least he will help to lower the average age of the club! In the absence of our esteemed Friday route master, the destination of Millington was proposed by Rear-admiral Heather.

Our starting time 0945 was slightly later than normal. I’m sure our route master is trying his best to keep us on ours toes with all the recent changes to meeting points and times. No one fancied the climb over the Westwood and instead opted to head out to Cherry Burton along the slightly easier Molescroft road. We had not been going very long when a lorry pulled up to the side of the road in front of us. Whether by design or just blind ignorance, the driver opened his door and jumped out just as our group were passing, forcing the leading riders to take emergency avoiding action and in the process very nearly causing those behind into a pile up. A few choice words were exchanged before continuing on our way.

After clearing Molescroft we headed onto the cycle path to Cherry Burton, except for Jim who followed his own script and stayed on the road. At Cherry, we were joined by Dave and Jenny bringing our numbers up to 13. Hope no one was superstitious. The group were soon strung out with Mike setting the early pace as we headed to Etton and onwards through South Dalton and Home-on-the-Wolds.

After regrouping we were off again. Unfortunately Leslie had to leave for an early bath and returned via Kiplingcotes while the rest of us continued to Middleton-on-the-Wolds. Next up was the relentless climb through North Dalton and up to Huggate. It was here that lack of match fitness began to take its toll on those who have not been out regularly or those who are gravitationally challenged.

On reaching Huggate, Alan decided to return home via Tibthorpe. Must have balked at the prospect of tackling Nunburnholme Hill with his single gear bike set up. Once we were all together again, it was breeze along Millington Dale. As we were cruising along, we came upon a pheasant shoot with a number of the “tweed set” giving both barrels to the the poor unfortunate creatures. “Time for the tin hats Mr Mannering” as the birds came tumbling to ground all around us.

The Ramblers Rest cafe was a welcome sight, as was the warmth of the fire as we placed our orders. In fact the fire was so comfortable that there was some reluctance to leave.

A quick vote (or a Straw poll as some might say) ruled out returning via Nunburnholme Hill, instead heading for Burnby then Londesborough before tackling Intake hill and on to Market Weighton. We then followed our normal route back to Etton and Cherry Burton. Heading along the Kiplingcotes road to the top of Etton ramp a mini sprint ensued between the front runners, Steve, Pugwash and Mike. With a tremendous final burst of acceleration, kudos went to Ironman Mike.

A superb ride with enough hills to suit a mountain goat, but I’m sure there were a few tired legs by the time we reached home.

Six Knights assembled at Market Cross before setting off over the Westwood to meet up with another four at Manor House. Today’s route was proposed by Heather, however the North Dalton proposal was kicked into touch as a step too far for a cold winter’s day, instead we decided to follow a similar route to Friday’s ride but with a few variations thrown in.

The hunt set off towards Cherry Burton and Etton under a dull grey sky. The scent led us on to South Dalton where the first quarry was spotted darting up the hill towards the church. The chase was on, as the lead group soon ran the three foxes down, leaving them trailing in their wake. The burst of pace however caused a split in the hunt so a re-mustering was required at Holme-on-the-Wolds.

It was during this brief stop that the three foxes passed by again with a cheery hello. Never let it be said that cyclists are not competitive, as Jim replied with “We’ll get you again”. When we were all together, it was off on the chase once more. The leading group eventually passing the three foxes from Brough on the long climb towards Goodmanham however the pace again causing a spilt, forcing another stop at the junction to Enthorpe where the foxes passed by a second time eventually giving the hunt the slip as they went to ground at the Fiddle Drill.

After passing through Market Weighton, it was onto the Cliffe Road when another fox was spotted. This time wearing a Cliff-Pratt racing shirt. It was just too much for Brett who set off in hot pursuit hoping to gain some kudos with the catch. Tucking in behind him were Andy, Pugwash and Heather who managed to cling onto Brett’s wheel until one by one dropped off the pace. Brett did eventually make the catch before turning off onto Common Hill.

At the top of the hill, Heather used the regrouping as an opportunity to investigate what was rubbing on her wheel. While we waited for the tail enders to catch up, however it seems they did not read the script and missed the turning and continued on to North Cave before heading for Hotham. Realising the error of their ways, we soon received a message from Matt saying they’d meet us at the cafe.

Next challenge for the depleted hunt was the climb up Trundlegate and a chance for Jim to show age is no barrier as he posted the 3rd best time of the day on Strava for the full climb.

After the final regrouping at High Hunsley it was nearly all downhill to Little Weighton where we were briefly held up by a tractor who’d slowed down while passing a group of horses in a nearby courtyard. The sight of the Folly Lake café was welcome, as hunger and cold needed to be assuaged. The tail enders joined shortly after as we settled down for refreshments before the final journey home.