With a proper tropical deluge under way at 8am, and scheduled to continue to 9, the Captain decided, in his wisdom, to defer the ride to 9.30. And then to 10am, when the weather reports suggested it would be safe to be outside. Good call!
As it turned out, this was largely correct. Seven keen riders assembled at a damp King’s Square and set off, southbound as opposed to west. This turned out to be most wise. A light shower was encountered on Southgate Street and lasted to Quedgeley. Thereafter it was into blue skies and puffy white clouds. The formations over to the west, over the forest escarpment, were most engaging – and best kept over the Severn! (PHOTO)
Progress was smooth if rather damp under tyre, with a sizeable ford on the Elmore circuit – carefully navigated. Then to Framilode and the Severn bank, up the climb and then along to Arlingham and to the Passage Inn for coffee and cake.
This was a mere 15.5 miles from the Square – but no matter, it was a delayed start after all. A scenic diversion to take in the northerly loop road in the village had the advantage of an additional mile and two seasonal ‘fords’ of substance. All made it through nicely, following the Captain’s wake. Then back up and out of the peninsula to Frampton to find the canal bridge open to boat traffic. A cunning diversion to cross the canal at Saul was declared, but thwarted by the bridge being opened as we hove into view. A short wait for a large vessel to progress south, then over and up to Whitminster. Across the A38 and on to Westend and Nupend. Here one member of the group led two others through the new estate to Stonehouse and home. Three others, the cream of the crop, continued to Eastington, Frocester and the Stanleys before entering Stonehouse.
The Woolpack was a disappointment, with only Doombar on offer – which would have pleased the ex-treasurer had he stayed the course. As this was not deemed a suitable tipple we pressed on, at pace, to Little Haresfield where the Member Sec. insisted a sprint was necessary to the incinerator. This put the Captain in some distress.
Taking to the lanes once again at the new sheds, built to house yet more imported goods of questionable worth, we soon arrived at The Beacon in Haresfield – and the stock of beers was not disappointing.
Having spotted many trains and enjoyed the autumnal sunshine, it was time to head home. The colours were quite splendid as we made our way back to base with a light tailwind.
A most fortunate day out, delayed but delightful – and virtually no rain falling on the riders that did venture forth.
46 miles; no mechanicals.