Departing at the early time of 11.30am, it was back into the cold and slightly lighter drizzle compared to the outward trip. Still hardly pleasant! The two heading for lunch at The House in the Tree (which based on the original rides list would have been a short trip, but from Welland was considerably further) made good use of the Captain’s local understanding of the road layout: no artificial intelligence required! We latched onto the riders heading for home for a couple of miles on the Pendock road, then turning for Birtsmorton. It was tempting to halt at the Farmers Arms – but we resisted.
Onwards to Berrow where a good-sized buzzard watched our progress keenly – maybe looking for a weakened rider as a mid-day snack? So, onto Netherely Lane and over the mighty M50 to Pendock; then Eldersfield. At last, the low cloud was lifting, affording limited but welcome views in the winters light. I can’t say sun, as there was none.
Passing what used to be The Greyhound, now The Butcher’s Arms, it was swiftly down to cross the mighty Severn at Haw Bridge. The climb to Apperley seemed a struggle for damp legs. Then down to Deerhurst and a stretch of B road and a wee bit of the A38 before turning onto Cursey Lane.
As both riders were feeling fine (really?) it was a joint decision (maybe) to take in Elmstone Hardwicke, with the climb over the mighty M5 just before the village. A right turn onto the A4019 is increasingly difficult nowadays, and will only get worse…but we eventually made it across safely. A half mile sprint to the turning for our destination is required here. It was most agreeable when the tree house hove into view, although MG seemed not to spot it and sailed past. No matter, he was hailed back and we joined two club members who were already established – outside! Fortunately we managed to secure seats in the bar and enjoyed good ales and banter with the locals.
A remarkable 57 miles covered in cold, damp conditions. Goodbye November!