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Retired, work part-time or shifts, enjoy being out in the countryside? Then cycle the lanes and byways of Cheshire and surrounding areas with Chester Easy Riders: you won't get left behind.
Chester Easy Riders is an independent cycling club affiliated to Cycling UK. We cycle every Thursday throughout the year with moderate and brisk day rides of 40 to 80 miles.

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Saturday 19 December 2009

17th December 2009: Frankby

Extra layers were definitely called for today. It was cold enough first thing but the forecast was for a cold north-easterly in the afternoon taking the wind chill down below zero. Despite the forecast four of us met up for elevenses at Ness Botanic Gardens in surprisingly good humour. Over tea and teacakes we decided on a moderate ride with the aim of getting back to the Botanic Gardens no later than 3.00pm. Bryan suggested we ride up the centre of the Wirral returning down the Wirral Way to give us some protection from the wind in the afternoon.
With the route agreed, Bryan led off towards Neston before turning inland in Ness to take the lanes across the A540 heading for Raby. From here it was the well-established route through Thornton Hough and Brimstage to Storeton, however instead of taking the rough track to Landican, today we reached Irby via Barnston and Pensby. So far so good: the weather had turned out to be much better than forecast – cold but clear with good views across to the Dee Estuary from the high spots.
The last couple of miles to the Farmers Arms in Frankby were made in conditions suggesting that the weather might turn but we reached the pub all right. A good choice of ales and food from all day breakfast to the day’s special were available. Clive and Dave debated why the “special price” for two meals was 1p higher than the cost of two separate meals. Luckily they asked before ordering as the “special” included drinks!  Noting that the 2010 rides list was now on the blog conversation turned to the special rides.  A repeat of the Mersey Estuary ride was thought a good idea. Dave agreed to lead another ride in the Ribble Valley and Jim offered to lead one in the Peak District.
Leaving the pub we emerged to find that the weather was still being kind as we dropped down to Caldy and onto the Wirral Way.  From here it was a very pleasant ride back to Ness Botanic Gardens to finish off with afternoon tea and a mince pie before the final leg back home to Chester.
Distance from Chester and back an easy 48 miles.
BW

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