It only takes one reckless idiot to ruin the ride for everyone.
We had enjoyed an excellent ride through Epney and Frampton to Frocester, then a not-so-enjoyable climb of the hill and the long descent to Dursley. After Stinchcombe, Tortworth and Leyhill, the section to Tytherington was spoiled by a visit from the puncture fairy, but the spectators were able to stand in warm sunshine sipping from bottles and shedding gillets, so no one complained too much.
We sampled a new cafe, Coffee#1 in Thornbury, and we will return – room for a few bikes on the pavement outside, good selection of cakes, plenty of seating.
The return through Berkeley was going well until Moorend Lane, where a speeding 4×4 pickup truck made no allowance for oncoming cyclists. We all took evasive action, but almost inevitably several riders ended up on the tarmac. Fortunately injuries were no worse than a few grazes, however a carbon wheel failed spectacularly and rescue by car was required. Needless to say the driver of the pickup elected not to stop.
We no longer had the appetite for the planned return via the Slad valley, so we made our various ways home by more direct routes. An unfortunate and upsetting end to what had been a very enjoyable day out.
59.9 miles, 2,723 ft, 16.0 mph
SP