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.
Steve leading off after repair stop 
Dave, Paul, Bob & Heather following
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.