A grand set of nine departed for the forest edges, taking in the Highnam maze – but perfectly navigated by the leader, much to his relief. A spin on the B road and then, to see if the dog from hell was out, on Whitehall Lane. The ASBO was clearly working, the dog was a no-show: more relief all round. The usual lanes to Birdwood proved easy, then a couple of short bumps to Huntley allowed for a bit more silence amongst the ranks.
It was onto the road to Newent that proved a test for the Treasurer’s gear changing skills, found deficient, as was his ability to disengage the feet. Fortunately the bank broke his fall – it was more of a gentle topple in the end. Bruised pride and greasy fingers from the unclean chain were the only lasting marks. We continued and then took the left hander to climb gently to Glasshouse – a wonderful little road. The ascent into the roads flanking May Hill saw two of our fast boys zip by,out on their May Hill training circuit.
So into Cliffords Mesne and the long descent to Newent. The leader just overshot the hidden turn for Newent Arboretum, but it was soon rectified. Good to find the President tackling what was for him a new road!
Past a new building site, then a new estate (will the house building never end?) and over to Oxenhall. A sneaky right turn provided the challenging Coldharbour Lane, down and up with limited tarmac: not one for a wet winter’s day! All survived and we popped out on the Dymock road, in sight of our destination of Rose’s Garden Centre. Excellent navigation and timing, bang on 11am. 23 miles.
A swift service saw five head for home and the remainder to lunch at The House in the Tree. A devious route, as per the morning ride, was concocted on the hoof. A tour of Pauntley, family seat of Dick Whittington, then Upleadon, over the Leadon and on to Hethelpit Cross. Here over the A417, devoid of racers due to the cancelled Open 25 (shame on you, Severn Trent!) and into Worcestershire. Here John W attempted to escape by taking a bad turn – but was hauled back by the ever-vigilant Captain. Then to Eldersfield, Corse Lawn and the seldom used lane to Chaceley Hole. Another delight. Less of a delight was the newly gritted road to Tirley. Over the bridge at Haw and up, unnecessarily to Apperley; back down to our old 25 course (remember that?!) and a final sneaky right onto the ridge of Deerhurst Walton, another rarely used road. A quick nip along the A38 southbound and then to Elmstone Hardwick. Soon we were onto the busy Cheltenham to Coombe Hill road – this will be a nightmare once the development in the next few years arrives of several ‘000 houses – and on the straight road straight to the pub. Our dinner secretary was waiting for us, patiently.
Refreshments consumed and taking a tip from Marie, three gallant riders located the elusive short-cut from Staverton church to Up Hatherley. A delight – it seems to be an old road, good hardpack, no pot-holes, and a little tarmac in places. I’m a bit miffed I did not know about this 30 years ago! It will be well used from now on. A big thank you to Marie.
60 miles, 2,500′ ascent @ 11.2mph. Many smiles. No deflations.