Eight expectant riders assembled at the Square, with increasing concern that the ride leader was not among them! A short wait past 9 am, in case our man was delayed, and the Captain decided to step in. Thinking on the hoof (no Garmin, just the OS map in his head), it was out of town and into the cold – very cold – to Maisemore where our first hill helped raise temperatures.
Well used lanes took us to Blackwell’s End and Highleadon – another hill we were grateful for. No sign of sun breaking through the dense murk. So onwards to Newent, via the cutting, resplendent with snowdrops (it felt cold enough to snow) and under the old railway into town.
A helpful tailwind sped us south to Huntley, where JW caused some disruption with a jelly-bean spillage – but none were wasted, the 5 second rule being liberally applied.
A spot of main road, then to Blaisdon – a close pass by a large buzzard was enjoyed by some observant riders. Then it was the lovely Flaxley valley and the little road through Beulah (Green Bottom) and to Littledean. A final hill, of substance, beckoned: first High Street, then The Ruffitt – it was rough; and there was one walker for this long steep ascent to the very top of the ridge at the edge of Cinderford. The views east over the river would have been dramatic had the conditions been suitable – as it was, the river was just visible through the murk.
Regrouping, a short spin down to the appointed café – to find it closed on Sundays in February! To say this was a disappointment would be to master the understatement. A rapid decision to head for Soudley – a much nicer establishment – and a rapid and long descent in the cold, touching 1.3°C according to someone’s equipment. Now that’s on the chilly side. Fortunately the café was open, warm and had capacity inside: the ride leader was indeed relieved! 30 miles covered.
On departure it was no warmer, indeed maybe colder. Home by the usual roads, back to Flaxley and Northwood Green; three to lunch at the Red Lion in Huntley. Still no sign of any sun, a cold final 10 miles back to home. Well done to all that braved the conditions. It was at least not raining! 51 miles.