Six riders elected to ride the steady B ride to Ross on Wye. The route started on the A40 and then the A48. One rider rode on the pavement to Minsterworth and said it was OK. Next time we go that way we should use it. It is certainly safer and would be appreciated by motorists. We were soon on the lanes we know and love around Northwood Green, Ley and Blaisdon. Flaxley Abbey looked beautiful in the autumn sunshine and turning leaves.
The ride then steadily climbed to Mitcheldean and on to Drybrook where the route took in the “other side” of Howle Hill which was a reasonable ascent, unlike that in the opposite direction.The descent was fast but speed was limited by the debris of twigs, branches, leaves and mud from the recent heavy rain. A short cut to the coffee stop, The Engine Shed, was missed as the road was no entry so a little meander through Ross Xmas Market was enjoyed by all.
After coffee four set off for Hatpury but two joined the Tempo riders to cut short and go straight to Gloucester. The route out of Ross was over the A40 and then over the M50 to Rudhall and Aston Crews, up John’s favourite hill, Newent and Hartpury.
Mileage was 54 and 3524 feet of climbing.
AG