Twelve riders left The Square promptly at 8.30 and headed into the wind along the not too busy A40 to Birdwood. We lost one rider who had to return home with a mechanical. Into the lanes we know and love took us through Northwood Green, Blaisdon and into the sheltered Flaxley Valley. Gradual climbs took us to Speech House where the 17% descent was enjoyed. Lydbrook was reached but the descent down to the Wye was spoilt by very rough surfaces much in need of a major overhaul. At the river the option for the adventurous track and railway bridge crossing of the Wye was declined in view of the gloomy weather forecast.
Coffee at the Dot and Hen was excellent but the weather forecast proved 100% accurate with rain starting as we left. Walford and the lovely valley was taken with wind assistance but not sufficient to get us to the top of Hoover Lane. The lunch stop was reached by all at 12.30 which was really too early so once again the delights of the Penny Farthing were missed. We will get there one day. Rain and wind accompanied us back through Longhope but at Huntley the group separated inadvertently but all took the same route back via Tibberton to Gloucester to be reunited at the Pelican.
60 miles 3,200 feet of climbing.
AG