Forty eight members turned up in Kings Square for various rides and not one had expected the rain that met them. Undeterred they split up into appropriate groups with eight going on the AA ride to Tewkesbury, the weather and flooding convinced the leader to keep to higher ground. Churchdown was the first point and the group negotiated the double roundabouts at the Hare and Hounds with ease. Reluctantly the leader chose to avoid his favourite lane (Cold Pool Lane) so that the group could get the miles in. Shurdington was no problem, and out of the head wind. Chalgrove Lane, devoid of dog walkers was very pleasant. This led to the underworld of Arle Court, recently revamped at enormous expense, which when complete will be a job well done.
The leader’s new planning tool “Komoot” guided us through a labyrinth of alleys in Springbank to pop out on Hayden Lane. Elmstone Hardwicke took us to Walton Cardiff where the flooded Lane presented a challenge to which Theo gallantly rose, finding the water to be above bottom bracket, so wet feet. Wisely the group turned round and went through Wheatpieces to emerge on the bypass. It was then along the cycle track to that excellent Cafe Chocolate.
Five then continued to lunch via Twyford and Strensham to Defford. Unfortunately, Eckington Bridge was closed due to flooding so a long detour via Pershore and Comberton was made but we soon reached the Cross Keys Inn, now helped by a tail wind. Malcolm and Colin were already there keeping a table for everyone. The pub is an old-fashioned Inn with no food but great ales and company who insisted in blocking our way to the bar in a good natured way.
By the time we left, the sun had come out and we were blown home.
58 miles 1,589 feet,