A dozen or so of the club’s hardier members were huddled in the shelter of Iceland’s entrance as the last of the overnight showers blew across Kings Square. Seven joined the Tempo ride and we made good progress along the well travelled route through Brookthorpe and Stonehouse.
At Coaley an unexpected phone call brought sad news to one rider who had to return home immediately, the rest of us pressed on, shedding rain capes like the last of the autumn leaves before the modest climbing to Cam. The weather continued to be kind to us through the faster roads from Stinchcombe to Tortworth, and then the fun descent to the A38.
Coffee and cakes at the Eastwood Garden Centre were very welcome, not so the automated blow-up Santa in the entrance, which offered an appalling rendition of ‘we wish you a merry Christmas’ to all who passed. Bah humbug.
A brief shower while in the cafe spread trepidation amongst us, but we chatted and ate slowly so it had cleared by the time we left. The ride home through Berkeley and Frampton was blessed with sunshine and tailwinds, most enjoyable.
By the way, riders are reminded to fit mudguards when the roads are covered in crap. Photo shows why. Thank you.
55.2 miles, 2,382 ft, 15.4 mph.
SP