Well, they associate April with showers, and today didn’t disappoint! Four club rides set off from King’s Square, by different routes to Tewkesbury. The ride led by the Vice Captain experienced sleet and hail in Leckhampton, where they caped up, then removed the capes in Battledown, and had sufficient sun on the descent into Tewkesbury to tempt them to stop for coffee purchased at the excellent “Hide” coffee house.
Bright sun on the snow-capped Malverns provided a stunning backdrop as we crossed the Mythe, but was followed by more hail on Frogfurlong Lane.
The Captain’s ride saw eight depart for Tewkesbury by way of Innsworth and Frogfurlong road. The usual route to Gotherington was enjoyed, although the air was mighty cold at 4c and there was a niggling light WNW wind. Turning left to Dixton we encountered a short rise, followed by a long gentle descent to Alstone in the sunshine, having narrowly missed a shower. The Malverns swung into view, snow-capped they made a fine backdrop to an interesting cloudscape – see photo. Onwards to Overbury and a fast run in to our destination, again holding off a particularly black cloud – this caught one of the other groups. It’s all about timing!
Coffee and cakes were taken (paid for) at The Hide by most, an overspill decanting to another coffee house on the High Street that was also highly recommended. 30 miles, no precipitation.
A group of five set off for home via Mythe Bridge, Long Green, Pendock, Lowbands, Ashleworth and the final climb of Woolridge Hill. The City was reached, again without precipitation although the temperature was still low for mid April.
A cold but very enjoyable morning.