The ferry trip from Barra took only 40 minutes. The “clansmen” made landfall on the island of Eriskay following in the footsteps of bonnie prince Charlie who landed here in 1745. Eriskay is also famous for being the original Whisky Galore Island when in 1941 the SS Politician ran aground with a cargo of whisky.
After loading the bags onto the taxi we set off to continue our quest. Once again we faced strong defences in the form of a 5% average climb around Ben Cracabhaig with gradients touching 16% in places. Our time on Eriskay however soon came to an end as we reached the causeway leading across to South Uist after only a few miles.
Once on the other side we “docked” at the Kilbride Cafe for some well needed sustenance. It seemed like the whole world had the same idea with all tables soon occupied and no one wishing to sit outside in the chilly wind.
Suitably fed, we resumed our northward trek passing North Smerclete and the Lady of our Sorrows. An apt name for such an incongruous structure and quite the ugliest church I’ve ever seen. Leaving the church behind we turned to the coast road where the ‘clans’ continued to ‘make way’ north through North Boisdale and Kilpheder eventually reaching Daliburgh West. From here we started to “tack” inland with a full on head wind towards the main town of Lochboisdale in search of a suitable ‘watering hole’ to pass the time until we could check into our lodgings. The Lochboisdale Hotel provided just the right setting for our ‘pit stop’ where Simon and Andy showed they had a thirst equivalent to a formula 1 car.
A short while later we all returned to base camp at Uist Travel Accommodation leaving Simon & Andy to continue ‘rehydrating’. Dinner for this evening was arranged at the Borrodale Hotel a short walk from the digs. As we all assembled around the table there was still no sign of our ‘formula 1 drivers’. Speculation began to fly around “Perhaps they are still at the hotel or maybe fallen asleep”. Such fears were unfounded though as they waltzed in the door to join us.
The day dawned with grey skies and a cool moderate breeze from the East. First objective was to reach the official start of the Hebridean Way towards the southern end of Vatersay Island. This was easier said than done as the locals had strong defences in place. Before we’d had a chance to warm up we faced a stiff climb from Nask to the War Memorial reaching gradients of 8-12%. On making it over the top, among all the gasps for air, a comment was heard “Well that’s warmed things up a bit”. We were rewarded for all that effort with a lovely sweeping winding downhill to the southern tip of Barra which is then linked to Vatersay by a causeway.
The road then followed the Eastern coast of the island where there is a memorial to the crew members of a catalina which crashed on Vatersay in 1944. With heads bowed our group raced on until reaching Vatersay village. “Now where do we go?” we asked looking round at each other and for some indication of the ‘start point’. Just then, a breathless Neil came up behind us yelling some colourful language “Hoi you numpties, (or words to that effect) you’ve already passed the start. It’s about mile further back”. With sheepish faces, the ‘flock’ about turned to follow Neil back to the official start.
Photo op completed, it was time to retrace our route back towards Castlebay including the steep climb back to Nask. From there our route headed up the west coast of Barra through Borve and hugging the beach to Allasdale before heading inland to the ferry terminal at Ardmore.
The clarion call went out from the ‘Great Highland Chieftain’ “Is there anyone out there tough enough to take on the challenge of the Hebridean Way?” Rising to the throw of the gauntlet, the ‘clans’ came from far and wide to ‘set up camp’ with the ‘Southern contingent’ at the Kelvin Hotel in Oban while the ‘Beverley Clan’ opted for the nearby Dunarle Guest House. Unfortunately for Chieftain Phil he had to cry off at the last minute leaving Chris to step into his shoes to keep the motley crew in check. Later the ‘clans’ met up at the Oban Inn to discuss tactics and logistics. (At least that’s what they claimed). Of course this involved copious amounts of food and alcohol to stimulate the brain and fortify the body for the challenges ahead.
The Hebridean Way covers a journey of around 185 miles from Vatersay to the Butt of Lewis crossing 10 islands, 6 causeways and 2 ferries. The first obstacle was to transfer bikes and luggage and establish a ‘beach head’ on the island of Barra. Our task was greatly assisted when Richard offered to transport the baggage in his camper van leaving the rest of us to walk on to the ferry along with bikes.
Fortified by a full Scottish breakfast we were ready for the trip on the Calmac ferry “Isle of Lewis”. The crossing from Oban to Castlebay, the largest village on Barra, takes about 4hr 45m passing through the Sound of Mull before being exposed to the Atlantic. Luckily the weather was relatively calm giving us a smooth passage. After docking in Castlebay, it was time to haul bikes and luggage to respective ‘bivouacs’. Seven ‘clansmen’ settled into the Castlebay Hotel while the remainder were a short distance away in the Craigard Hotel.
While lugging our bags upstairs to our rooms, Puggy was intercepted by an elderly lady, (later to be christened Bag Lady) “You’re not carrying that bag on your bike are you?” she asked before adding “How are you getting it to Stornoway?” After explaining the baggage pickup and the fact that one of our group had a camper van she quickly adopted some pleading eyes “Do you think I would be able to put my bag in the van to deliver to Stornoway?” Well what could I say. “I’ll ask the question but….”
The “Craigard Clan”
During dinner there was much discussion about how “Bag Lady” would have coped if Richard had not kindly offered to oblige her, along with a lot of speculation as to how she had intended to get to Stornoway and what she might have in said bag. Conspiracy theories were running wilder and wilder as the liquid refreshments got to work. All too soon it was time to say good night and get ready for our first big day.
“Ladies and gentlemen, roll up, roll up for the inaugural ‘Formula 1¾’ to be held at the Brands Hatch circuit to Hornsea!” cried Matt. When the ‘competitors’ gathered on the start grid at Market Cross, questions began to be raised. “Doesn’t he mean Brandesburton?” asked one brave soul. “I’m sure it was a deliberate mistake” whispered another. As the appointed start time approached “Who are we waiting for?” enquired Neil. Just at that moment Graham arrived followed by Mark. “What time do you call this?” we all remarked mockingly before assembling on the ‘start grid’. Red light, Amber Light, Green go go go!
Racing into the first corner…. Oh a red light again, false start. Green again signalled the resumption of the days activities. Unfortunately those at the ‘back of the grid’ failed to get through on the first cycle. Luckily for them the ‘lead’ bunch were held up again at the rail crossing and the ‘magic roundabout’ allowing them to catch up. The ‘race’ then began in earnest heading over the Weel Bridge to Tickton Grange where there was an early ‘pit stop’ to allow Dave 💦🏠 to join in the fun.
The ‘race marshal’ eventually got things underway once more as we “loitered” through Leven ‘straight’ and “bombed” through Brands Hatch hill round to ‘Bewholme Chicane’ where the ‘Red flag’ came out once more allowing the ‘competitors’ to regroup before continuing to Bewholme. Turning south from there, the pace picked up slightly as the minds of the ‘race crew’ turned to thoughts of ‘refuelling’ at the Floral Hall ‘pit stop’.
When the ‘race’ resumed, the circuit continued south along the ‘Rolston Straight’ towards Mappleton. As the ‘battle’ to hit the front heated up, a breakaway trio of Stephen, Melvin and Mark opened up slight gap on the ‘main field’. Unfortunately for them they hadn’t done they’re homework. Just before they were about to turn off at Mappleton (cos we always go that way), shouts came from behind to keep them on the right track. “Straight on!” we all yelled bringing us onto the Cowden straight. Taking the advice literally, the leading trio went head down and then missed the shouts to direct them round ‘Cowden Corner’.
“Well what do we do now?” we asked each other. “There’s no sign of them”. After making several attempts to contact them, the ‘race marshal’ decided to resume the ‘race’ without them. “They’ll catch up eventually” we thought. Later, having completed an extended loop the “breathless” trio made contact shortly after ‘Hatfield Bends’ “sneaking” up behind, then nonchalantly moving through the field as if nothing had happened. “I thought we were going to Withernwick” said Stephen sheepishly when challenged on the “error of their way”.
A segment of ‘sector four’ of today’s circuit was closed due to road works so an alternative had to found to bring us back ‘on track’. The suggestion was to make a right turn at Long Riston and head for ‘Catwick Loop’ then swing back towards Leven. “Are you listening up front!?” Well, we never quite made it to Long Riston as the ‘race marshal’ guided the group right onto the Rise Road instead and along the bumpy, gravelly potholed road to Catwick. “Well I’ve never been along here before.” said Raymond wistfully. “Me neither” replied Neil before adding “…and we’re never coming again. It’s horrible!”
On reaching Leven, the ‘racers’ were then able to track back along ‘sector one’ of the ‘circuit’ leading into Tickton. As we regrouped on the corner Neil asked “Are we all here now? How many are we?” looking pointedly at ‘race marshal’ Matty. “I think so” he replied unconvincingly looking around at those assembled. “Maths was never my strong point.”
There may not have been a ‘chequered flag’ to greet the end of the ‘race’ but I’m sure we all reflected well on the beautiful spring weather and camaraderie which helped to make it another wonderful ride.
This Sunday saw the first “away day” of 2023. Six Knights met up at the village of Hovingham in the Rydale district of North Yorkshire for a forty mile loop around the Howardian Hills. The participants were greeted with bright sunshine and light winds from the south-south-east.
Breathe in Mark!
The first leg of the loop took the squad east to Slingsby before commencing the northwards run. The first 20km covered some undulating terrain passing through East Ness and Muscoates with the first big hill challenge coming on the run in to Great Edstone. The bank was short but steep averaging 5.8% but ramping up to 10-13% in places.
Continuing north through Kirbymoorside the road carried on skywards offering little in the way of relief with short downhills followed by yet more climbing before a lovely longer downhill into Cockayne.
Now having reached the furthest point north on the loop it was time to head back south and into the wind. Shortly after leaving Cockayne the climbing began again in earnest with the next 2.2km averaging 6.2%but reaching 16% in places. The reward for all that effort eventually came in the form of a 6.5km downhill towards Carlton but “what goes down also goes up” and so it came to pass. Another ramp upwards reaching 12% in places before the final drop into Helmsley for a well earned lunch break.
Suitably fortified the riders continued the short return journey southwards to Sproxton and Oswaldkirk before completing the loop back to Hovingham for some well deserved “refreshments” to celebrate a very successful “away trip” well enjoyed by those who attended.
The next scheduled “away day” has been earmarked for May 21st taking us into North Yorkshire. Put the date in your diary to make sure you don’t miss out.
Our Easter Sunday ride turned out to be quite the adventure for our gang of gallant riders. Led by our imaginative Route Master Michael, stepping into the breach in place of our intrepid leader. The group consisted of Michael, Puggy, Paul, Andy, Zog, James, Iain and rare appearance of Brian in summer shorts despite the slight chill in the air. The proposed route took in Middlehowe Road, North Newbald, Hotham, North Cave, Broomfleet, and Ellerker Garden centre for a cafe stop returning via Melton, Raywell, Cottingham and Dunswell. Well it would have been if the cafe was open. Various suggestions for alternative destinations were discussed but no decisions were forthcoming, so we set off to follow the planned route and make it up ‘on the hoof’.
The first part of the plan went well with a pacy ride. We soon found ourselves approaching Ellerker. “Now where do we go?” we all asked looking pointedly at Michael. “A pub?” suggested Puggy wistfully. “Only if they’re serving food!” retorted Michael, piercing the encouraging look which had appeared on Iain’s face at the thought of a pint of ‘nectar’. Revising our plan we steered ourselves towards South Cave with the hope that the Zoom cafe would be open, “If not, there is garden centre across the road” suggested Zog. While making our way through South Cave, heads turned to check out the Westend cafe in the forlorn hope of some refreshment….. closed! Arriving at the Zoom cafe the place was completely deserted with nothing but dust blowing in the slight breeze.
Pulling up at the South Cave Plant Centre we found the doors were also locked. Our spirts threatened to falter, but hope was still in sight, as we were given word from a passer-by that the “Butty Bus” at North Cave Wetlands was open. Undaunted by our lack of success we bravely set off towards the Wetlands returning to the road we’d just left half an hour previously. At this point Paul, Brian and Andy left the group to return directly home via Hotham while the remaining four went in search of some much needed sustenance.
While we were being served, the “Butty” lady commented that she’d had a lot of cyclists calling in today. “Is it because we are the only place open?” she asked with a happy smile. Not wishing to intimate the thought that the Butty Bus was the ‘last chance saloon’ James thinking quickly added “We do come here when it’s a bit warmer”. Having consumed our lovely hot sandwiches thoughts turned to how we get home from here. “How about heading to Sancton then up the hill to Kiplingcotes?” suggested Michael. “Sounds like a good plan” we all agreed.
As we mounted up the ‘Butty Lady’ cheerily wished us a “Safe journey home”. Setting off along the Cliffe Road with the wind at our backs, the pace picked up. I’m sure at one point Michael and Zog indulged in a little friendly ‘head-to-head’ with James tucking in as well leaving Pugwash and Iain vainly trying to keep up. “That was quite fast” commented Iain breathlessly as we regrouped.
When we reached Sancton, Zog decided to part ways and head home into the wind while the remaining four set off uphill towards Kiplingcotes and finally back home via Etton and Cherry Burton.Though the day had not gone entirely as planned, the challenges and camaraderie only made the journey all the more memorable.
Yeah! The sun is shining and the wind is light(ish) but…. there’s always a but…..the wind is from the north making it feel somewhat chilly. It didn’t deter our doughty Knights from rising to the call from “gang” leader Raymond. Putting on his best impression of Constable George Dixon “Evenin’ all” he began, “Early heads up, there’s a lot of ‘trafficking’ expected this weekend, gather the gang at the ‘local’ at 10am Friday and we’ll try to get in on the action at the Travellers Rest in Millington”.
The ‘gang’ assembled at the Light Dragoon in Etton at the appointed hour including Ray, Puggy, Chad, Graham, Steve, Melvin, Matty with Michael and Colin vying to see who could be last to arrive. “Where’s this ‘Travellers Rest’” asked Graham “I’ve torn my hair out all night trying to find it on the map” he added. “Well I’m glad you spotted the deliberate mistake” replied Ray “Had to keep it a bit hush-hush. Don’t want any of the ‘other mob’ getting the ‘gear’ before us. Know what I mean ‘arry?”. There was a slight pause before the whispered reply came “but my name’s Graham”.
“Ok gang, we’ll head out to Market Weighton then Londesborough, Burnby, Nunburnholme and Kilnwick Percy. Is everyone ‘packin’?” enquired Ray. A quick inspection of our ‘equipment’ revealed that Michael, Matty and Chad were ‘unsheathed’. “Never mind, the roads are mostly dry” we all thought as we set off towards Kiplingcotes. Turned out that wasn’t quite true as we later discovered many wet patches along the way.
The outward journey turned out to be a bit of a roller coaster leading Ray to comment “I’d forgotten how many hills there are coming this way”. Later, as we turned to the KP Club road, we encountered a rival ‘gang’ heading in the same direction. This prompted an injection of pace from some of our gang determined to reach the ‘loot’ first.
With the sun still shining we opted for “dining al-fresco” with most preferring bacon sandwiches along with coffees or teas. Matty was one exception in choosing the calorie laden Creme Egg Brownie claiming it was needed to boost his energy levels. Suitably replenished we commenced the return journey along Millington Dale. Any extra energy gained would soon be spent as we faced the uphill battle to reach Huggate.
From Huggate we decided to head down to North Dalton and Middleton-on-the-Wolds. With the wind now behind us and the terrain generally downhill, Michael decided to spice things up and raced up to the front. I’m not saying it was contagious but he was soon followed by Graham and fleetingly by Colin. Puggy made a valiant attempt to catch them but couldn’t find the necessary after burners.
The roller coaster ride continued as we rode onwards to Holme-on-the-Wolds before returning home via Etton and Cherry Burton. Another fantastic ride with great weather and superb company. Wishing you all a happy Easter and look forward to seeing you all again soon.
“This Friday’s route is a little like school custard” suggested route master Mr Bumble “It’s lumpy but satisfying. Line up at the ‘Light Dragoon canteen’ at 10am if you want some”. After a few assented, one brave ‘boy’ ventured “Please sir, can we have some more?” he enquired tentatively before clarifying “.. more early. There’s a chance of rain in the afternoon and I wouldn’t want to dilute our custard.” Within minutes while most of us donned ‘tin hats’ and dived for cover, Matthew adopted his best Frankie Howard impression “Ooh er missus. Careful Melvin” he warned “You may getya assresized!” However “Mr Bumble” was in benevolent mood assuring us all that we should be home before the rain arrives.
The day dawned with bright sunshine but with a stubbornly strong wind from the south west. Eleven Knights turned up to sample Mr Bumble’s ‘lumpy custard’. However at the appointed hour, no-one seemed keen to be first ‘in the queue’. Eventually Norman took up the mantle leading us into the breeze, figuring that if he’s on the front everyone would have to go at his pace.
The first taste of the “gruel” on offer soon arrived as we turned towards South Dalton and headed upwards to Holme-on-the-Wolds. Maintaining our ‘sedentary’ pace we reached the top mostly together. “Well that wasn’t too bad” suggested some. The next course was a short ‘flattish’ aperitif but almost directly into the wind followed by some more ‘lumpy’ bits and a final ‘chaser’ into Middleton-on-the-Wolds.
“Are we ready for some more?” asked Mr Bumble as we continued to devour our way through to North Dalton. Now it was time for the “hor d’oevre” as we turned into the wind along Dalton Dale towards Warter. On reaching our turn off, Norman cried out “I want some Nunburnholme! Aren’t we going to Nunburnholme?” “Sorry sir, Nunburnholme hill is not on the menu today but we are going to the top of Nunburnholme”. “But I’ve brought my best ‘bib and tucker’ just for the occasion! This way is cheating” he cried.
After polishing off the “hor d’oevre” we felt on “top of the World”….well at least the top of Nunburnholme. The next appetiser saw us all heading downhill to Londesborough. The pleasure such a “cruise” was somewhat tempered by the continual barrage from the side wind. “Not often you have to peddle downhill” was one comment overheard. The “main course” soon arrived as we were presented with Intake Hill and a side of Market Weighton followed by “leg of Goodmanham”.
Finally it was time for a little breather as we headed for the Fiddle Drill. Having given our “digestive juices” a rest, Mr Bumble asked “Does anyone want some more?”. “Can we have our pudding now?” asked one speculatively. “Pudding!” bellowed Mr Bumble “How can you have any pudding when you haven’t finished your meat? There’s still a climb to the top of Cross Gate!” Setting off from the cafe there was the sound of gnashing teeth, either that or grinding gears as we finally came to the “sweet course”.
With the wind now firmly behind we began to “melt” downhill faster than an ice-cream in the desert. Indeed we enjoyed it so much we all cried out for MORE! so instead of turning off towards Kiplingcotes as planned we continued back to Holme-on-the-Wolds.
The “final course” was now ready as we headed back into the wind accompanied with a “dish of Etton Mess” followed by a cocktail with a Cherry Burton on top. “Anyone got room for more?” asked Mr Bumble “Oh go on then. Just a wafer thin mint” at which point we set off to tackle “Granny’s Hump”. Now at the end of the meal we could sit back and relax and reflect on the generosity of our “host” and can agree that indeed it was all rather satisfying.
“East is East and West is West” said Raymond quoting Rudyard Kipling, before asking “but which one is best?”. “Meet at Market Cross 0930, text back if you’re up for it”. As the replies came rolling in there was still no answer to his question until AndyG chipped in with “Well if you’re coming east I’ll meet you at Tickton”. That was enough to sway the balance as Ray went on to outline the route for the day.
“East it is then. Usual route to Farm Shop, Leven, Brandesburton, Dunswell, Beeford, Foston etc” he said. “DUNSWELL!!??” we all thought. Fortunately we all knew he meant Dunnington.
The day dawned feeling like a lovely spring morning, leaving many of us wondering if we’d overdressed. As the we gathered at Market Cross there was an atmosphere of “Cheltenham Races” with two groups of cyclists meeting up in the “paddock”, the “Fillies” of Women on Wheels and the “Colts” from Beverley Knights. When the “appointed” hour arrived, “What time are you leaving?” asked one inquisitive filly followed by “Which way are you going?” “OK Ok we’re going, come on Iain! Pay attention!” “Beasts before Beauty”.
Ten Knights set off towards Weel Bridge along Grovehill Road. Splits in the group soon appeared as some managed to pass the various traffic lights while others got held up. “Regroup at Tickton” we suggested. Just as we were passing the Crown & Anchor we spotted the leading group of “fillies” coming over the Hull bridge. Our “field” was increased at Tickton as we were joined by an additional five Knights. As we mulled around “waiting for the starter” to resume proceedings, the “WOW group” were spotted crossing the road coming toward us. “Come on guys, better get going before those Fillies arrive”.
“And we’re off!” First up was a gentle “canter” along the cycle path to Whitecross roundabout then a “gallop” along the “Leven straight” followed by the “Brandesburton Sprint”. When we turned onto the Catfoss Road there was a call for a “Stewards Inquiry”. “Better call the Farm Shop and book our place” said veteran jockey Raymond. As Matt “did the honours” the rest of the group continued onwards.
The “tail enders” then galloped on to catch the rest of the “field” as they headed for Dunswell…… oops I mean Dunnington. When the “race” reached the “outward turn” at Skipsea Brough the “going” got a little “heavier” as the wind was now in our face. The “field” then continued at a “breeze” along the “back straight” through Beeford then trading the turn to Foston-on-the-Wolds.
When we’d all regrouped at the Driffield road junction the “clerk of the course” decided to split the “field” in two groups. “We’ve only got 20 minutes to make our booking time” cried “Flash”. The first group set off on a “strong gallop” to Wansford and Skerne led mainly by the “in form” Colin while the rest tried valiantly to hang onto his tail.
Following a short break at Cranswick Farm Shop it was time for the “home stretch”. The first section took us along Burnbutts lane and onto Bracken lane where once again we split into two groups. After the mostly “flat racing” it was time to add in a few “jumps” in the form of South Dalton Ramp, Etton ramp and everyones favourite Granny’s Hump. With the final “furlong” in sight the “field” reduced as each rider headed for their own “stable”.
“Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Let’s bring this meeting to order!” cried chairman Neil. “Today’s agenda is a ride to Langlands Garden centre at Shiptonthorpe. Meet at Walkington Pond 0945, out via North Newbald, Hotham, South Cliffe, Market Weighton to Langlands. All in agreement say Aye!”
As hands started to be raised in favour, one dissenter cried out “Point of order! The weather forecast is showing 70% chance of rain 🌧️ and only 4-5°C 🥶 so it’s a Nay from me”. Not sure which forecast he was looking at but it prompted a comment from another member questioning whether his sanity had been affected by the sun on a recent holiday. 🤔 In the end six Knights turned up to brave the cold air.
Just as we were beginning to climb our way along Middlehowe Road, Michael noted a problem with Heather’s rear……. mudguard that is. Seems it had snapped in two pieces so to be on the safe side it was better to remove it entirely. “I’m taking that back to the shop for a refund” uttered Neil expectantly hopeful.
On reaching the junction at the north end of Middlehowe Road, Neil stopped to look for a “pond” in the Memorial wood, obviously fed up with all the ridicule heaped in his direction for his constant mentioning of the “memorial pond”. After trudging through the wood the only thing he found was a muddy pit. As we got set to continue, someone asked “Which way are we going now? Straight on or to the right?” “Let’s put it to the vote. Who wants to go right?” asked Neil raising his hand hopefully. Unfortunately for him the “motion” was defeated by 5-1 so we continued along Littlewood Road to High Hunsley.
On reaching the next junction it was time for another vote. “Straight on down Trundlegate or right to North Newbald?” “Ooh! I’ve never been down Trundlegate” said Graham, however on this occasion the “motion” for North Newbald was carried unanimously. Heading directly into the cold westerly wind we plummeted to the bottom. By the time we turned to South Newbald our faces had assumed a style of “rigor mortis” due to a combination of speed of descent and the cold. From there, we made our way across to Hotham.
Setting off along the Cliffe Road, Michael took up the “chair” position. “Are we turning left somewhere?” he asked. “No, all the way to Market Weighton”. The “chain gang” didn’t quite work textbook style but as each took a turn in the “chair”, we soon reached the junction to Giant Bradley Way. Heather, displaying a momentary lapse in the navigation department, was about to turn left onto the main carriageway before shouts from the others put her back on the “right path”. Thereafter it was a short hop through Market Weighton to Langlands.
On arrival at the cafe, we were just “parking” our bikes in the outside seating area when an assistant came to advise us “You can’t be in this area, it’s dangerous” pointing to the partially collapsed wall. “But we’re only leaving our bikes” we insisted. Eventually Common sense prevailed. After a brief “lunch break” it was back to “business”. The next item on the “agenda” was the return journey. The first proposal was back through Goodmanham to Holme-on-the-Wolds while the second option was via Kiplingcotes. When Option 1 was “passed” unanimously, “I love democracy” declared Michael enthusiastically. Great when things go the way you want!
After negotiating our way back to Market Weighton we turned onto the Londesborough road. At this point chairman Neil, still recovering from a bout of lurgy, decided to take the easier “option 2” route home at his own pace. “I’ll meet you again at Etton” he advised. The first major climb of the day came as we passed through Goodmanham rising around 85m over 4.8km giving a good test of lungs and legs. Over the top and there was a chance for recovery as we headed downhill to the Middleton road.
Turning towards Holme-on-the-Wolds what little wind there was now came from behind making progress relatively swift. On the next “leg” we headed downhill once again through South Dalton. Just as we were building up momentum to tackle Dalton ramp, a car on the road ahead decided to stop in the middle until realising we were fast approaching before edging over to the side leaving just enough room for us to squeeze. Despite the interference, Michael was not to be outdone and proceeded to wind up the big gear racing to the top with the best time of the day.
True to his word, chairman Neil was waiting at the top of Etton ramp like David Bailey camera in hand. “There’s only six minutes difference in the routes” he declared as he rejoined us for the final “item on the agenda”. The route home, taking us from Etton through Cherry Burton and everyone’s favourite hill sprint of “Granny’s Hump”. As the meeting drew to a close, the AOB item consisted mainly of the expected weather forecast for the next week or two, leaving the date for our next meeting open.
