‘Well, what a great weather forecast does- we were blessed with a great turnout of fifteen riders this morning.
Knowing that the first part of my ride followed the same route of town as the tempo ride we let them go, then left the city past Kingsholm. Soon, we took to Sandhurst lane and after a couple of miles of rough surface we took advantage of the nice new tarmac before joining the A38 for a short while, before turning off to Wainlodes. It was here we discovered our first bit of water on the road, which was a bit weird given the long dry spell.
Anyway, onto Apperley where Mel decided she’d carry on the main road, and a wise choice it was too as we found more water. This was even stranger, coning as it did on top of a hill. Having regrouped we made a second visit to the A38 but for only a short stretch to the Odessa Inn, taking the right to Tredington. It was at this point that, unbeknown to me, we lost two riders – my humblest apologies as I was not made aware they’d stopped for a mechanical adjustment.
Bozard Lane has now re-opened after its lengthy closure so down there we went before being stalled at the level crossing for two trains. On to Woolstone before entering Gotherington by the Shutters. Once again we were rewarded with lovely tarmac and the road well traveled through Prescott, Gretton then the left to Greet. It was in Greet we took a cheeky left before the usual one and took in the much older part of the village. We rejoined the usual route past Winchcombe Pottery then the Broadway Lane before the right to our destination where we met the Tempo riders waiting on the corner- thank you.
After the cafe some decided they would continue to enjoy the sunshine to the lunch stop. Not too sure whether the choice of Corndean Lane was appreciated!!! I took the route back to Gotherington before turning off through Bishop’s Cleeve, thinking I would try my luck with the racecourse. Well, I got through – but I’m not sure I’ll manage that next week. Across Albemarle Gate to pick up the Honeybourne Line then home via Hatherley and Cold Pool Lane. What a great day to be out cycling’
JD