On a sunny but chilly morning nine riders left the Square via the Cathedral to cycle along Sandhurst Lane. One scantily clad rider admitted feeling cold but a good climb ahead would soon warm her up. The riders all elected to tackle the rough track up Sandhurst Hill and were rewarded with clear views in all directions. As the group were about to depart the summit J announced that he had a puncture, which meant longer to admire the view from the comfort of a table, bench and chairs. Repaired quickly, the group set off to see the bluebells that were quite spectacular in the sunshine in a secret glade. A rough descent was made down a track unknown to the Captain to emerge near the top of Wainlode Hill.
It was then on to Deerhurst via Apperley where we discovered that there are two churches in Deerhurst and that the Captain was waiting at the other church, which the group had missed. United the group crossed the M5 for the first of nine crossings that day.
Coffee and baps were taken at Sherdons golf club in a lovely sunny lounge. The sign there said “Cyclists Welcome” and it lived up to it’s promise, complete with Sheffield stands for many cycles. This was a first for the Club and will certainly not be the last.
The lunch group set off to Ashchurch, Aston on Carat, Overbury, Comerton Bredon and Tewkesbury only to nearly retrace the earlier route to Elmstone Hardwicke and lunch at the House in the Tree.
AG
Other pictures from the day are in the Gallery.