Chase End hill on the approach to Hollybush (just before the rain!)
Mild but blustery was obviously deemed to be good weather for December, as there was a fairly large turn-out in King’s Square. A large sports ride departed for Frocester, an A and a B ride to Malvern and another A ride to the Stroud Carol Service.
The A ride to Malvern had 7 riders, who enjoyed the descent of Wainlode Hill, and the lanes to Forthampton. Bredon School proved to be a poor choice by the ride leader as the road was covered in mud and puddles, but luckily he was too far in front to hear most of the grumbling. Welland and the Showground took us onto the Wells Road at Malvern Wells, and this rewarded us with great views across the Severn Valley as we crossed the top of the common.
The B ride (8 riders) took the muddy lanes via Blackwells End and Redmarley to the slippery ford at Clencher’s Mill which was negotiated without incident. Eastnor and Colwall left them with the steep climb to the Wyche, and a descent to coffee.