19th June 2025: Malpas (mod)

 There was a decent turnout at Alison’s as Keith and I arrived late due to traffic delays. It was expected to be the hottest day of the year so far and most of the guys were sat supping in the shade in the front garden. The potential moderates consisted of Andy Whitgreave, Dave Matthews, Andy Barber, Keith and myself. Andy W and Dave M were intending to cycle back to their respective homes. Dave M had a planned audax ride approaching, so despite his advanced age and medical constraints continues to be an admirably active enthusiast. I think that he is on his bike most days; the extremes people will go to in order to avoid the washing up!

It was a toss-up between Whitchurch and Malpas, with the nearest destination being considered in case the exceptional heat required made a short return prudent. We headed up to Bolesworth Castle and Brown Knowl. As Andy W was heading to Tilston via Duckington we decided to accompany him and forget Whitchurch. Andy turned for home at Tilston as we made a decent mileage to lunch by riding a quiet loop via Shocklach, Upper Threapwood and a new ‘first’: a gradual diagonal climb into Malpas up the appropriately named Sunnyside. We found one free table in the Little Deli enjoying our modestly priced English breakfasts and the friendly service.

We ensured our water bottles were refilled before our shorter route back on this beautiful but baking hot day. Our return was via Chorlton Lane, Horton Green and Tilston. These lanes capture the essence of Chester Easy Riders, as we cruise through the lush green countryside with only the very occasional vehicle disturbing our day-dreaming progress. It is surprising to note the number of discreet halls and lodges that we pass in a small area: usually we only get a glimpse, and often only view the end of a long drive. Newton Hall, Stretton Hall, Preston Hall, Cuddington Hall, Chorlton Hall, Chorlton Lodge, Overton Hall and Grafton Hall and so on. What sort of people live in these grand homes? How did they acquire their money? Are they part of “The Cheshire Set”? Late morning we had passed a young glamorous couple, finely dressed, riding magnificent shining chestnut horses, who politely acknowledged us with high-class accents and dazzling white smiles; were they part of the Cheshire Set? Do they only mix with their own? Perhaps they socialise at a Cheshire Hunt meet or at the Cheshire Polo Club. Do they ever slip down to Waitrose in their Bentley Bentaygas or do they have everything delivered? We completed our return to Tattenhall in brilliant sunshine by way of Barton, Coddington and Chowley. I didn’t envy Andy B with a long leg to Mold ahead in the heat, and unfortunately Alison’s was locking up, so we couldn’t easily share a last drink with him; good job he’s a certified masochist. A shortish but completely satisfying ride in glorious weather and totally relaxing company.

DH