The club group, amounting to ten to start with, took off south and made their way through Kingsway and over the M5 towards Stonehouse. All was going well to this point, when Paul had to head for home to change machines (a slow deflation, and keen not to catch a Bruce’s Bonus point). The President was next to depart near Stroud, as the hills loomed. A short stretch of canal towpath took us to the Sainsbury’s round-a-bout, then up the first incline to Rodborough. The Butterow lane was a true delight with remarkable views across the Stroud / Chalford valley. But it was soon time to take in the next climb, to the top of Minchinhampton Common. A close encounter with a car and trailer caused the lead riders to pull in and stop, as the driver had no intention of passing us in a safe manner. Along the top to Tom Long’s Post, through town and on to Hampton Fields, giving Princess Ann a wave (I’m sure she was close by!). An exciting descent and another stiff climb took us to Cherrington. The final run-in to Tetbury is known as the longest two miles of road in the UK, as several marker points indicates “2 miles to Tetbury”, despite having travelled at least half a mile. The Goods Shed ‘Whistle Stop Café’ won the contract, there being no significant queue on arrival, bang on 11am, and ahead of the Sports riders! Plenty of cakes on offer but no bacon rolls. Paul joined us in good time on a replacement machine – I hesitate to say ‘new’.
Departure was somewhat confused as to the correct exit direction, such that the Captain became detached form the group and had to make his own way. Saved by his good knowledge of the area, his route was via Chavenage, Avening, Ball’s Green (steep), Minchinhampton and Burnt Ash. Here he re-joined the main group. So it was back for a re-visit of Minchinhampton, then skirting the top of the common on the south and west side, trying not to drop into the valley. Eventually the Bear was gained; then a fast descent to then take a very well hidden right – a true gem of a tiny road, contouring around the sides of the slopes. The wild garlic was at its best. At The Street we turned left and down – still a very small road, now with houses. As if by magic, the destination pub appeared: The King’s Head at Kingscourt. Another hidden gem with the picture-perfect terrace in the afternoon sun.
Suitable replenished it was up and out of the village, then down to join the A46 for a short stint, before a traditional run home with a helpful tailwind.
58 miles, 2,900′ ascent @ 12.2mph. A perfect spring day.
TW