Ding Ding, Ding Ding went the bell signifying the midnight hour and the end of “Lockdown 2”. It was not quite fireworks but the moon was very bright. The “headmaster” had originally suggested our return to group riding for Thursday but with a poor forecast we opted for a Wednesday ride.
Like kids freed from school the motley crew “ran” to be first out. “I’ll be there” “Me Too” “And me!” Heather proposed the route taking us to North Cave Wetlands centre. After meeting at Manor House, we set off to Walkington then Little Weighton.
Mike set off full of vim and vigour leading the way. However, he’d not been paying attention to the pre-ride briefing and with “autopilot” engaged headed up Bluestone Bottoms instead of continuing onwards to Little Weighton. Having made our way to the top there was a mixed reception to Mike’s excuse that “he loves that hill”.
To get us back on track we headed downhill and round Rowley Road to the “Medieval Village of Riplingham”. It was here that Raymond decided he was not feeling at his best and headed for home while the rest of continued south towards Welton. After climbing the High Road we are normally greeted with a fantastic view southwards over the River, however on this occasion we were presented with a panoramic blanket of grey “driech”.
Matthew assumed “point duty” as he led us through Elloughton along the main road to Ellerker before being “usurped” by Mike as we made our way through South Cave to North Cave Wetlands. On arrival, as everyone parked their bikes, Mark grabbed his chance to place his order first. “That’s a good idea” thought Pugwash and promptly joined him.
We spent a pleasant interlude catching up and watching the local wildlife as we munched our way through our lunch. However, despite the warmth of the banter, the cool damp air started to seep through to the bones and it was time to head home. “Mega-ride” Mark tried his best to persuade everyone to continue on to Market Weighton then home but the consensus saw us taking the shorter option through Hotham.
At Newbald we were just getting ready to wave goodbye to Matthew who looked like he was heading for Trundlegate before making a last minute adjustment. “It’s all downhill from the top” he said. Whichever way we decide to go, there’s still a bit of climbing to contend with on our way home.
It was a joy to be out group riding again even though we are still limited to groups of six and unable to meet indoors. With the weather forecast set to take a downturn over the next week, it may be a while before our next opportunity.