A clean dozen asembled with bikes of equal variety under cloudless sky in Kings Square and were soon heading briskly for Woolridge slopes before seeking the shady lanes of Murrell’s End. Crossing the Leadon for the first time before the seldom travelled Middletown Lane afforded a repeat crossing, a turn was made to run alongside Glynch Brook to Hethelpit Cross. Our single speed rider then cracked on to gain the first entry to Downhouse Lane, followed eagerly by pursuing hordes through Lowbands to approach Pendock. Another twist took us briefly onto the Newent Loop, part of our Pendock TT course, prior to a drag up to Holly Bush. Well muted celebrations preceded the descent to Rye Street turn and the flat run to The Ramplings, with one of our well proportioned descenders exhibiting a commendable turn of speed with the following breeze. Then it was just a matter of gaining the heights of Bushley Green to provide another enjoyable spell of coasting prior to Mythe Bridge and coffee. Riverside Cafe and Café au Chocolat divided our custom.

For the leader, leaving Tewkesbury provided the main challenge of the day. Being an allotment holder, it was understandable that he sought some comparisons, though taking four others on a wild berry chase was inexcusable. But he was brought to order by the Captain and an exit was accomplished. By way of Kemerton and Beckford, the Grafton turn was gained. It was then realised that a canny lad of 85 summers had taken the short cut. Unperturbed our leader, and other better sighted bird watchers, crossed the stream of traffic of the A46 and espied four, yes four, red kites on the way to Dumbleton. Turning into an increasing breeze Greet and Gretton passed in no time but at Prescott a caravan rally impressed. Hill climbing for caravans? But no such thought delayed us through Gotherington on our way to the House in the Tree. There, well settled into refreshments was the canny lad! Life changing conversation ensued.

A grand day out. 69 miles, 2,450′ ascent @ 14.1mph