Today’s route master was Heather, proposing a ride to Allerthorpe. The promise of a lovely sunny day and light winds was difficult to resist. Eight Knights plus one newbie turned out for the start at Market Cross. The initial route saw us taking the Molescroft road to Cherry Burton then Etton before heading to Kiplingcotes.
The pace was gentle with everyone savouring the spring like weather. The peace and tranquility was soon disturbed as the puncture fairy rained down on Stephen.
Heather & James enjoying the sunshine 
David, Bob and Jim waiting patiently
Once repairs were effected, it was off along the Spring Road and down into Goodmanham. Thoughts of the climb up Intake Hill soon began to appear in the forefront of everyone’s mind as each proceeded at their own pace. The long drop to Burnby provided the reward for our efforts. Unfortunately, the puncture fairy had other ideas and decided to spoil David’s trial run. Eventually he opted for the “broom wagon” and called his “missus” to come to his rescue, while he enjoyed a few moments in the sunshine.
The rest of the group continued through Burnby to Pocklington. The road surface on this stretch was littered with potholes and damaged surface and left a lot to be desired. Turning into Pocklington Market Place we found ourselves in the middle of the #Snakelane10 mile running race with crowds of people and barriers all over the place. It made for an interesting period, though not really conducive to cycling. In the words of Oliver Hardy “This is a fine mess you’ve got us into”.
The puncture fairy was not finished with us yet, as Pugwash’s front tyre began to deflate but managed to limp his way to the Lakeside cafe at Allerthorpe. While Pugwash made the necessary repairs, James was kind enough to place his order, many thanks. It was somewhat idyllic sitting by the lake watching the world go by, enjoying the sunshine and discussing how to put the world to rights.
All too soon, it was time to head home. With a flat ride through Bielby, Everingham and Harwell the pace was quick with Stephen le POWERs making the initial running. With everyone taking a turn at the front we very soon arrived at the Cliffe Road. Common Hill seemed a bigger challenge than usual, after such an fast effort forcing a regroup at the top.
Stephen leading off 
Jim & Bob following 
James & Mark tagging along
After a short breather, we were off to Hotham and South Newbald. Jim and Mike then left the group as the rest reluctantly heeded Heather’s cajoling to tackle Trundlegate. “It never seems so bad after you reach the top” said Stephen, ever the comedian!
The final leg saw us head downhill on the Middlehowe road. On the approach to Walkington, there was a bit of a wacky races moment as Pugwash, Heather, James and Mark vied to maintain the front spot and be first to reach the village sign.