21st August 2025: Utkinton (mod+)

 Not sure of the total but I figure there was roughly a dozen attendees for today’s meet at Delamere Station cafe, all split between the Mod and Mod+ group.

There was no fast group, with just Nick without any mates, so he joined my merry band of Mod+ individuals, which also included Chris, Shane and the Chuckle Brothers of course. Before we got to discussing routes, Keith had some sad news for us in that he had dropped the chain on his brand new Di2 Cervello, which as some of us know often leads to damaging the paintwork around the bottom bracket hence, he was not on his new steed.

All tears now wiped away, we got on to discussing routes, which in my case meant something a little different, with some new lanes and territory, at least for the likes of my group. I had never ridden the full length of the Whitegate Way, which leads right into Winsford, a place I have always avoided in the past, but thought that today would be a good day to check them out, especially after such a dry summer.

 

We set of the usual way out of Delamere, all be it a bit later, which of course meant that Chris made it in time-Lol. I lead the group up and around Norley on a couple of new lanes to some, after winging a quick change, due to Sandhole Lane not looking very passable. After a few meandering miles we make it to Waste Lane, but from the other direction to the accepted norm and hurtle down the hill, which consequently meant that some overshot the left turn, near the bottom of the hill. Chris made it with some dare devil braking. I suppose I should have warned them all in advance -Lol

 

As you’d expect the Whitegate Way is currently amazing to ride, after such dry weather, although the far end bits into Winsford are a bit disjointed and not such a good surface as I found out to my very near demise. I was carrying a bit of speed when I suddenly found myself going downhill, around a bend on gravel, with the back wheel locked up, heading for a barrier gate. I had no choice but to also lock up the front as well, in an effort to stop. Fortunately, I managed to get my foot out and brace the impact on the gate, just managing to avoid going head over heels and possibly bending my front wheel in the process. Suffice it to say I copped a few comments from my fans who clearly did not appreciate the bike skills involved in staying upright-Lol.

Just a mile or so later we missed the left turn that would have lead us onto Bradford Road. This consequently lead to a bit of extra physical activity, for some impatient individuals, lifting bikes over locked gates, which was not needed or my fault-Lol. Just as CB2 and Nick had got over, I realised where the missed trail was and turned back-Lol. Eventually on the right track, literally, we avoid the road for another half mile and then join it where it became New Road.

 

We then meandered through the south west suburbs of Winsford (clearly not the wealthiest part of the town) in order to pick up a very nice series of lanes that I and most had not ridden before. After about 5 miles we joined a very familiar stretch that lead us into the boundary lanes around the south side of Oulton Park, once we had stopped for another! Energy bar. I’ve never seen anybody eat so many. You would think that CB2 would go like the proverbial Energiser Bunny, but alas not-Lol, Lol.

 

It was at this time that Chris also had his major mechanical- Lol. His bar end plug had fallen out and we were wondering how he was going to carry on. However, after a deep dive into the bowels of CB2’s fanny bag, yes you guessed it, he was carrying a spare, which lead me to wonder what does Chris carries in that rucksack, besides his lunch - more on that later-Lol. We get going again and were soon taking on our only real climb of the day, Heaths Lane, which lead us up, the easy way, onto the Sandstone Ridge only to come straight back down again via Tirley Lane, for a fast descent into Rose Farm for lunch.

 

As usual the conversation was flowing well and the food came quickly, if a little disappointing for both Nick and I. Our ‘eggs royal’ had the smallest portions of salmon I have ever seen. We both had four 1” squares of smoked salmon (cut out with scissors can you believe) It wasn’t as if it was cheap at £12.50.

 

Anyway, just as we were finished bitching about our salmon and Chris stopped laughing about the missing corner of his brownie-Lol, what he did next was even more amusing, firstly because he was half way through eating his brownie and secondly because he suddenly lifted his rucksack and pulled out a spare saddle and then proceeded to go and swap said saddle for the one on his bike. I mean, who carries a spare saddle-Lol. This caused many looks of disbelief, ironically not from Alan, who as we have come to know, doesn’t believe most things-Lol. Saddle now replaced and lunch finished we left with at least me stating that we wouldn’t return for lunch there again, as we turned right down the hill towards Oscroft. 

 

Within 2 miles we turned left, opposite Chapel Hill and both Nick and I decided to wind it up, pretty much all the way to Dave Mathews house, where we part company with Nick and Alan, who were returning to Delamere for their cars via Nicks extended route. Shane, Steve and I all rode up to Delamere, so my route never included returning, especially as Shane and Steve were on one of their 100 milers again and none of us wanted to repeat any of our route. As for Chris ,who knows, what he was going to do, as we later discovered - Lol. So, it was cheerio to them two, which gave Steve’s chance to consume his 34th energy bar – Lol.

 

We headed off past DM’s place, with a passing nod of reverence to the home of one of the regions cycling demigods.  We were soon crossing the A49 and within a few hundred mtrs we turned left towards Okells garden centre and then on past the 50p shop and Huxley beyond. We were heading for Beeston, adding another lovely meander. We turned down to the ‘The Shady’ pub and I made my usual acceleration towards the hump back bridge over the canal, when Chris suddenly shot past me. How he got round the bridge was eye popping. I thought I took it fast, but he left me standing and romped up the hill towards Beeston, never to be seen again, despite a short regroup near the right turn to the ice cream farm, where I parted company with Shane and Steve, who I had advised to miss out Tattenhall, due to the high street being resurfaced for 5 days and therefore shut. I obviously swung around the south side to avoid it as well.

 

As for Chris, who didn’t turn up at the end of Bird’s Lane, where I stopped for 2 minutes, I later found out that he suddenly decided to try and beat a mates strava time hence, he flashed by me. The trouble was, his dash was to the gates of Beeston castle, which was left at the top and not right where we went. Of course, he failed to mention anything to us about his plans-Lol.

I got home with 55 miles on the clock and a very sedate AS of 14.5mph - must have been all those energy bar stops-LOL, although we did do a few small hills.

Cracking day again with great company and some very amusing moments, some at my expense and more than a bit of banter-Lol,Lol,Lol

 

Till next time ladies

Neil.

See route map and/or gpx file download

21st August 2025: Hatton (mod)

 As we got close to Delamere in the Berlingo, we saw a ‘Road Closed’ sign, but in true CER style we ignored it. As we will see ‘Road Closed’ was to be a running theme of the day. Arriving at the café, there are now notices saying that parking is for station users only and that payment can be made using the app or by phone. So, it’s a bit of an issue for those who’ve been in the habit of parking there.

About 15 CER members gathered at the Delamere Station Café. Jim was doing his own thing and Dave M was coming with us as far as Hatchmere before peeling off for home. So, the ‘mods’, consisting of Dave H, George, Keith, Ray B, Andy B, Trevor and yours truly set off (a little late, as usual) along our favourite bit of road (not!) towards Hatchmere and beyond. As we reached the B5152 where we would normally turn left down Guest Slack, the road closure was now operating, so we diverted to Kingsley. Whilst this was no problem, the drag up the hill past Kingsley School is a slog.

But we were soon reaping the benefit of altitude as we zoomed down towards Frodsham. At the bottom of Fluin Lane, we joined the busy A56 heading towards Warrington. We pulled off after the swing bridge at Sutton Causeway and continued climbing past the Holiday Inn and Dave H’s mansion.

At the top of Wood Lane, we went straight across Beechwood Avenue to pick up the path that runs between the railway and the Southern Expressway, soon reaching the bus depot. Threading through some of Runcorn’s finer suburbs, we were soon on to the old (Jubilee) bridge across the Mersey. Sadly, the new smooth cycleway across the bridge was closed and we had to take the old footpath that still hangs precariously on the outside of the bridge structure.

At West Bank we soon found our way to Spike Island, once the site of a major soap works, but now a municipal park where the St. Helens canal joins the river. At the far side of the park we joined the Trans Pennine Trail which runs up to Warrington alongside the canal. At this point there’s no water in the canal, as it used to come from Fiddlers Ferry power station which is now closed. The track here is quite rough, but it improves as we reach Fiddlers Ferry Sailing Club.

By this time, it was 12.10 and the peleton was hungry, so my plan to eat at the café in Walton Hall gardens was swiftly ditched in favour of lunch at The Ferry pub. The last time I was here with Clive and Alan, the offering was quite limited and today it was no different. They do pies and that’s it! No chips, or salad or other refinements. But you can have red sauce, brown sauce or even 'no sauce'.  So pies it was and they were okay. The place was full of cyclists, including a group that were down from Pennington Flash (near Leigh) The sun was shining and the tide was in, so the vista was beautiful and even Ray was impressed.

Leaving the pub, we soon reached the point where the track leaves the canal. It’s near the municipal tip and in an area which is trapped between the river and the Ship Canal. A sort of no-man’s land around the water treatment works. Here, the trans-Pennine trail goes through a couple of wooded areas and as we had almost reached the end of the second one, there was a cry from behind as Andy suffered a puncture. This turned out to be a slit in the inner tube.

Joining the A56 at Lower Walton we soon picked up the cycle lane which runs alongside it on the way towards Chester. Peeling off near Walton Hall Gardens, there we more ‘Road Closed’ signs, this time due to the ‘Creamfields’ electronic dance festival which takes place every August Bank Holiday. Crossing the Bridgewater Canal using the hump-backed bridge which is currently under repair (more ‘road closed’ signs!), we cycled uphill next to the fields where the dancing will start today. At Hatton, there were even more ‘road closed’ signs as the organisers funnel festival goers to the entrance via their approved route. Here we crossed over the M56 and took Summer Lane which runs next to the motorway.  When we turned up Newton Lane, Andy carried straight on to join the A56 at Preston Brook as the most direct route home. This is a busy road, so I hope Andy got home okay.

Passing the site of the birthplace of Lewis Carroll, we took the small lanes, crossing the A49 at Dones Green. Keith left us here to head back to his car which he'd parked in Helsby. Pressing on, we soon reached the A49 (again!) at Little Leigh. Rather than taking the usual route up to Acton Bridge and Kingsley, we decided to ride alongside the Weaver Navigation, heading for Dutton Locks where we paused for a drink and group photo.

Dave H had said that we might need machetes to hack our way along the footpath to Pickerings Lock and, until we reached the railway viaduct, he was right. The ferns, bramble and nettles seemed to be hell bent on pulling you into them. Past the railway, the field was full of sheep, many of which were asleep under the bushes next to the river. In the past we’ve ridden this way when there have been cows or horses there, which can cause some issues.

We now started the climb back up to Delamere. The first part, up to the B5153 wasn’t too bad, but from there to the top is a long drag and, in some places, very steep although there are no chevrons on the OS map. Reaching Hatchmere, Trevor and George headed for home/car, Ray continued to find his car at Delamere and Dave and I went to the Berlingo.

35 miles covered with about a quarter of the being ‘off road’. Fortunately, the recent warm weather meant that the off-road parts were dry. Thanks to the ‘mods’ for their company and tolerance as we made plans ‘on the hoof’. Next time, we’ll try to get to Hatton  Arms for lunch as they do an excellent ‘small’ fish and chips.

ST

See route map and/or gpx file download

14th August 2025: Loppington (mod)

 There was an encouraging turnout at Castle Bistro considering that it was the height of the holiday season. Steve Tan was unavailable, and Big Ray was bursting the buttons off his shorts on another over-fed cruise. I knew Clive was going to turn up because I met his charming wife and himself in WH Smiths in Chester on Wednesday; he was looking for an electric bike magazine!

Keith arrived with me in the old banger Berlingo. It was good to have Mold Andy and Dave Pipe back on board for the moderate ride. Dave Matthews had made the considerable effort to turn up but was riding home. Dave Pipe had forgotten his wallet; as someone noted for leaving things by mistake, my empathy stretched to lending him some dosh and waiving my normal payday loan rate of 1,500%.

We set off on familiar lanes to Hindford passing the long-closed, canalside and characterful Jack Mitton Inn which some of remember visiting over ten years ago. The well-surfaced rural lane south from Welsh Frankton is always a delightful downhill cruise. The extremely steep bridge crossing the canal has to be attacked at speed, or you risk coming to a halt just before the top and falling on your nut. It’s a fast, easy run to Bagley Marsh and all very enjoyable, although the huge, unmarked grey shed we pass en route gives me a shudder at the thought of the mass slaughter and butchery of animals inside. I intended to clock a few more miles by reaching down to Stanwardine in the Fields before heading north-east to Cockshutt. A “Road Closed” sign, and Andy coping with penicillin and a frayed gear cable deterred me, so we turned left, passing the moated Stanwardine Hall on our way to Cockshutt and across to Loppington.

Lunch was excellent at The Dickin Arms, as ever. There was a great deal of reminiscing over past rides and personalities over lunch as some of us could go back over sixteen years with the club. We should be more assertive and order food before drinks when we arrive though, as we were there for ever. Dave Pipe had swigged down a couple of pints before we were ready to go. When I got to the till, Dave had spent his loan and required a further sub to pay his bill. It crossed my mind that Dave would probably forget that he had borrowed money by Friday, and I decided I wouldn’t be asking for it: I hadn’t acquired a copy of the bill anyway. The true gentleman that he is, he rang me and transferred the correct money into my account the next day. Oh! Me of little faith!

Our way back was by way of Kenwick Park and up a lane never used by us before, crossing Tetchill Moor to Tetchill village. The grass centred lane was eerily empty with just the odd farmhouse. Much as I love the countryside the thought of living a life along this isolated lane spooked me. At Tetchill I was able to confirm our location was correct with a local resident, nevertheless, it is obviously very easy to miss the turn to Onston, because we did. We decided to cut our losses and follow our outward route from Horley. Rain suddenly battered down somewhere north west of Welsh Frankton. We huddled under big trees, but the prospect of the downpour passing seemed remote for a while. Keith and I had a laugh watching Andy assisting Dave with his ancient but totally waterproof yellow cape. The cape may have been waterproof, but the back was a bit tangled, so torrential rain was being funnelled down Dave’s bum!  The rain eventually eased and we were quite warm before long, even those who hadn’t bothered bringing a waterproof. Andy had coped amazingly well without any low gears all day and Dave said that he had enjoyed the ride, but unfortunately, I hadn’t time for a coffee at Castle Bistro where other club members had also returned. Keith had kindly agreed to drive my wife’s car home for me if we could get to a specialist garage I use near Malpas before it closed. A rapid cross- country drive from Chirk meant we were just able to make it, and after I paid a king’s ransom of a bill, get both cars back to Runcorn without Keith ramming me from behind. At least we were able to relax on a bench in the sun at Peacock Farm waiting for the garage owner to return, watching horses being groomed and reflecting on another successful CER outing.   Thanks to the guys for their company and support.

DH

14th August 2025 : Sleap Airfield (brisk)

Well what a turnout at Chirk, and a first for me to see Dave Pipe arriving before Dave Heath! Both groups were well attended at a venue that can see some of the lowest turnout being its a farthest flung start point. 

I had previously recce’d Sleap Airfield as lunch stop as this weekend (16/17 Aug) they were hosting a 1940’s weekend and I wondered if there would be some vintage aircraft around. 

As we waited to depart the cafe under mild drizzle, nothing could take the shine off Keith’s new bike; what a beauty and stealthy looking beast. So our group consisted of Briskers Nick and Clive plus apprentice brisker Chris, Mel & Kevin, Shane and myself. A Chirk ride wouldn’t be a Chirk ride without hills and these were soon felt at the turn by Castle Mill to Bronygarth. This climb pulls for quite some time and set the tone for the early miles. 

It was great to see Chris back on form today, so much so it looked like a Pogachar/ Vingergaard duel as we entered Whittington, I can’t tell you won as we were all so far behind such was the ferocity of the attacks!

Whilst the roads were dusty and sandy in the crown of the road with the occasional bits of grass they were empty and provided a lovely way of zooming through the countryside. Our progress was halted for a short while, whilst a hapless learner blocked the road. However clearly a former teacher or Headmistress took control and directed us through before sorting out the roadblock. 

Some large sections of busier roads soon had us passing Marton and on to Myddle. Here a quick plunge again on a busy road took us into Sleap airfield. Whilst there were no 1940’s aircraft the Green Goddess type army trucks were arriving and setting up for what I’m sure will be a fabulous weekend of nostalgia. 

Over lunch were were lucky to be in the company of former aviator Shane and father of a soon-to-be qualified commercial airline pilot, Nick. Both had been to Sleap before either taking off and landing or watching nervously whilst his son and heir did the same. After a pleasant lunch sat outside, Kevin and Mel decided to make their own way back to Chirk meaning we were now down to a quintet of various abilities. 

Clive did an excellent job of leading us out through Nonely to Loppington and English Frankton. At this point we espied another group of athletes ahead this being none other than the mod group of two Daves, Andy & Keith. After a brief chat, we took the “families” route to Colemere and then onto Ellesmere. Just after Dudleston Heath, the rain that had threatened all day shifted up a gear. In the matter of two minutes we went from dry roads to flooded roads. Clive, always the bringer of good news, also advised it was now “uphill” all the way to St Martins.

Leading us out, Clive powered up the hills seemingly flattening them, then our apprentice brisker Chris took to the front and dragged us along all the way to St Martins. The canal finish was the chosen route as it avoids the last pull into Chirk by which time the sun had come out and we were all pleased to see our cars after 49 miles. 

That is of course if you exclude Chris who was now planning his ton for the day. Including his ride to the station Chris managed an admirable 100 miler on a mixed weather day.

A brilliant days riding in excellent company , enhanced by Mel joining us for morning. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

Steve Hu 

7th August 2025: Burton Manor

By my count, the total was 17 gathered at Alison’s this week and nobody in civvies. Fiona was without Elwyn, who was at home with a bad back, she had braved 13 miles to get to Alison’s. I had a route that was unusually flat for me, in fact, pan flat, as it was more in the tradition of a classic CER ride, with plenty of pathways, tow paths and ‘rights of way’. 

However, my route wasn’t without its risks, besides riding with the Chuckle Brothers that is,  as we would have to survive the radiation threat, stray bullets, sheep and waterlogged decking boards-Lol, more about that later-Lol. There was a stiff south westerly, that was only going to get stronger, which required a bit of wind whispering - Lol.

 

My destination would therefore be, Burton Manor cafe.

I had a full compliment of mod+ riders starting with Kev (such a nice man) - Shane ( the groups lunch time entertainer & clown, more on that later) Chris ( just made it in time again) & the Chuckle Brothers of course. We set off right out of Alison’s and got into a nice steady rhythm with the wind behind us, which for some seemed to be a bit pacey. Allan (CB 1) asked if I’d had spinach for breakfast because he was struggling to keep up- come on, it was flat, with the wind, of course it’s quick- to be expected that ‘the mugger ’ would complain- Lol. It wasn’t long before we were in Waverton and watching the ominous dark cloud forming to our left, which a mile or so later  started to drizzle. We pulled into Meadow Lea for a con flab on the weather. However, within a minute of stopping I then made the unilateral decision to get going again, as I needed to be back by 3pm and I reckoned there was a hint of blue sky coming- Lol.

Only 2 minutes later we stopped for rain jackets, because I was with a bunch of tarts-Lol. 

We were now in the very wet village of Guildon Sutton, which meant we were catching more water from the road than the sky, as they seemed to have had a deluge.

No sooner out of the village we enter Picton Lane, which was closed and a few hundred mtrs later we found out why ( flooded, a burst water main, we were clearly doomed to get wet - Lol). We were able to get by and only a mile or so further, I stopped to take my jacket off, only to realise I had lost everybody and turned back. Apparently they were having a tea party or something, I never did find out what the reason was.

Now tackling our biggest climbs of the day (2 or 3 bridges over the motorway around Cheshire Oaks-Lol).

Anyway, time to turn into the wind and therefore left at Little Stanney in order to head along the 2 miles of cycle path,  in order to get to Dunkirk Lane, where I point out Fox’s Tea Rooms, just a hundred mtrs closer to Costco. Now we can settle into some nice lanes, which provided pretty good protection against the wind, almost unnoticeable in fact. It wasn’t long before we were passing the nuclear processing plant, where you get that warm fuzzy feeling all over and strangely always need to pee within a few mtrs of passing it (our first risk of the day- Lol)

 

We crack on, or I did, trying to encourage the pace, but some were decidedly jaded it seemed. Strangely it was Mr ‘Just in time’ who was having difficulty. The young blood couldn’t keep up with the old guys quote; “just an off day” Then he blamed a game of football the night before- just don’t make youngsters like they used to, football, I ask you-Lol, Lol.

Shortly after rallying the troops on another regroup, Allan took to the front on one of his classic short spurts and I seized my opportunity to deliberately stick close to his back wheel in order to keep him on the front-Lol. We were now only a mile or so from our lunch destination, which meant Steve came to the front as is his way, clearly he could sense the cafe was close- Lol. Just as we arrived Chris passed me in an effort to beat Steve to the front of the queue-Lol.

Although we set up camp outside, we ended up inside, due to the annoying wasps, although not before the hilarity started after I got the Spanish Inquisition from CB1 when I told everybody about Nick, a contestant on the TV show ‘Destination X’. He has the proud claim of being the first person to have run a marathon in every!!country, in the world!( hard to believe, I know hence, why I was telling the story) However CB1 knew better, virtually calling me a liar (I was reiterating a stated fact on a TV show- come on!) 

This prompted a few slagging comments and more than a few laughs, after CB 1 insisted on looking it up on the internet- Lol.

 

Now inside and tucking into our various choices, the frivolity prevailed, with some completely vacant on the jokes. Yes, you guessed it, the Chuckle Brothers of course.

Our ring master for the day was Shane, who I thought was going to bust a rib at one point. Both he and I found it particularly funny when a women in the far corner started to admire her newly purchased retractable tape measure, as she was extending it across the cafe. It was clearly a very pretty tape measure, with nice big numbers. Perhaps she was checking all the numbers were there- Lol.

Just as the laughter was dying down and Chris swiped my chocolate cake, the Chuckle Brothers woke up, wondering what all the laughter was about-Lol. CB 2 had an excuse as he had his back to the women, but CB 1 was facing directly at her and didn’t see a thing-Lol. Anyway, it was time to halt the fun and frolics and get underway.

We turned left out of the cafe and immediately turn left down Station Road towards what I call The Wash. However, no sooner had we turned when I heard the chatter box shout from the back, where he was all day BTW, he claimed he was helping Chris- Lol. Anyway he demanded we stop and admire a small pond in the woods.

Ok, it was a very old pond, but did we need to stop- Lol. Turned out to be 8 or 900 years old can you believe, Allan didn’t of course, but there was no internet in the woods, so he remained a disbeliever, despite the photographic evidence below- Lol, Lol.

After what must have been our tenth stop on this adventure, we finally get going again and through the first kissing gate on to what I think is NT land, I believe. Where the sheep lurk, ready to pounce on the unwary cyclists and where the occasional ricochet might be heard off the military range (our second and third risk-Lol.)

However, before the range, we had to negotiate a hundred Mtrs of chattering decking boards, which actually keep the wheels above the waterline and yet another risk, on occasions- Lol.

 

After a few more scenic miles and a brief passage through the industrial backwater of Deeside and past the Toyota plant beyond, we reach the Greenway on route to the river Dee towpath. Time for a nice 5 mile blast, due to a cross tailwind, but alas, only Shane was interested. So, after a few regroups, on every bridge, we eventually get to Chester and we say goodbye to Chris, as he headed home. 

 

After a few more decking boards, along the river front, we reach the race course.

Kev then lead the way onto the cobbles under the Roman wall and on to the corniche-Lol ( slipping back into my Middle East days) All back together again we cruise along the river front and up the hill, beside the Boat House pub. However, not everybody got the memo-Lol. For some reason, both Kev and I end up outside the Bike Factory, ready to cross the road, but everybody else ended up there in dribs and drabs. We eventually regroup and head down the hill and up through Huntington.

I turn left for Saighton, with Kev in tow and the others dragging their heels again-Lol. 

Did I mention I needed to get back for 3pm hence, I kept pushing the pace on all day. It was now just past 2:40pm and 6 miles to go, so I was not about to ease up. However, I got carried away by Bruera and realised I had lost Kev and the others. I turned back on Platts Lane and see Kev come into sight. It turns out the 3 remaining amigo’s decided to carry on into Holt as that was where Steve left his car. Shaun followed suit because he was obviously feeling the pace and needed to trim a mile or 2 off the route and go directly home and of course CB1 wouldn’t leave his brother- Lol,Lol,Lol.

 

Now Kev and I had got rid of the deadwood - Lol, we could push on and I might still make my deadline. Kev, bless him ( what a nice man) urged me to push on and leave him, which I thanked him for and off I went, except I didn’t- Lol. He caught me up within a couple of hundred mtrs. I didn’t have the legs, somewhat embarrassingly. 

So there was nothing for it but to jump on his wheel and take advantage of a tow for the last 4 miles into Tattenhall (how nice, you can come again Kev- such a nice man-Lol)

We said our goodbyes at Alison’s with 15.6mph and 46 miles on the clock. I got home after 50 miles and bang on 3pm, just as Paula was getting in the car- perfect, like the rest of the day to be fair.

 

Despite the rain and lack of hills, I really enjoyed the route.

The company was exceptional, with everybody taking some stick-Lol.

It was a great cafe stop for more than one reason -Lol.

Thoroughly enjoyable day.

 

Till next time ladies-Lol

 

Neil, 

aka The Wind Whisperer.

See route map and/or gpx file download

7th August 2025: Whitchurch

 There was a healthy turnout at Alison’s. It was good to see Mold Andy again, but he needed to return home after coffee. Dave Matthews had also made the effort but had a repair to complete on his old car. Jim was joining us as far as his daughter’s new secret abode not far from Tilston; apparently Sophie had a nightmare vision of the moderate group turning up demanding cups of Morrison’s strong tea and devouring her jammy dodgers. The group consisted of Steve Tan, Mike Gilbert, Fiona and me. Fiona had left Elwyn at home flat on his back and unfit for cycling.

The steady climb up to Bolesworth Castle was a chance to have chat and catch-up with Jim. My route took us to Brown Knoll , around Bickerton Hill and past Cholmondeley Castle. There was a long, premature queue of mainly expensive motorhomes at Cholmondeley waiting for DevaFest to open. Fiona just managed to avoid clouting a wandering child, but we didn’t get held up. Beyond the A49 it became a little busy for a rural lane, so we headed off for Gaunton’s Bank, Marbury and Black Park on small, scenic little lanes. Mike and Steve are useful lieutenants when trying to negotiate off-piste twist and turns. The Black Bear was friendly, and everyone seemed happy with their food; having said that my selection of a mushroom risotto was underwhelming. I was reminded of Ray Stigter and me having chilli con carne at The Black Lion in Ellesmere many moons ago and thinking that it was a Vesta ready meal. Fast forward a dozen years or so and, my Black Bull ‘Vesta’ Risotto and a cuppa cost me £22 plus tip

Our return had us climbing to Wirswall with a fine view across Cheshire - see below

After crossing the Llangollen Canal at Steer Bridge we crossed the A49 and took a very quiet route through Heatherson Green which Mike enjoyed. Fiona informed us that Elwyn had managed a four-mile walk, which was good news. We arrived on our familiar steady climb past Egerton Green having by-passed the festival entrance at Cholmondeley. Dave Matthew’s well-known ‘secret lane’ took us to Gallantry Bank and then we swooped down to Peckforton and Beeston on that lane with the views, studded with lovely cottages on the side of the escarpment. We enjoyed coffee and cake at the outside café. We had welcome shade, as it was warm and sunny; the only damp we had experienced all day was some fine rain when approaching Whitchurch at lunchtime. Steve had gone well, but later informed me that he had been out of breath at the top of the odd climb, with Fiona conducting a one-way conversation with him unable to reply; still, he will be back with the heart-tuner soon, and is hoping to eventually be more Ferrari than Haas. At Tattenhall Mike, and Fiona in particular, had more miles to cover. I would have liked to offer Fiona a lift, but Steve had to feed a cat, and without my bike rack, three bikes and three riders in the Berlingo requires a lot of wheels being removed and is only worth it in an emergency. We covered thirty-seven easy-ish miles, more for Mike and sixty or so for Fiona. The company was very enjoyable, and Fiona added a welcome spice to the familiar stew.

See route map and/or gpx file download

7th August 2025 : Wrenbury

A decent weather day was in prospect as I cycled through Christleton towards Alison's cafe in Tattenhall. I next found I had a wasp in my helmet which resulted in a very painful sting just at my hairline. Boy, did it sting! and was painful all day. I stopped at the pharmacy in Waverton to buy anti-histamine tablets.

Arriving later than planned at Alison's cafe, the outside area was full-to-busting with CER riders. Ivan arrived at about 1030 and so with Nick, we had a trio for my 50+miler circling Nantwich with lunch near Wrenbury (not at the Bhurtpore!)

We were soon on our way out and through Tarporley and Eaton bound for Church Minshull. We were bowling along quite nicely although the southerly winds were quite strong. We now had to ride around the western ring road of Crewe passing the road sign for the Bentley Motor Works curiously twinned with a Recycling sign! This is Ivan's territory, so he expertly guided us around and out via Wistaton to Willaston. We take the footbridge over the Shavington Bypass to head briefly towards Wynbunbury before arcing back via a couple of new lanes to Ivan, to enter Nantwich via the park.

I had planned to go to the "Bromac" canal side garden centre just outside Wrenbury but the web told me it was permanently closed, so we headed for Berries cafe in Wrenbury arriving via Ravensmoor and Sound with 34 miles ridden. Berries was fine (and quiet) as we sat outside in the sunshine trying to ignore the wasps! One was enough today for me!

We head out passing the Dusty Miller pub and hanging a left over the lifting canal bridge where we pass a very open "Canalside" garden centre and cafe. It turned out that the Plotaroute map has not been updated to the change of name from "Bromac" to "Canalside" and hence when I checked on the web  and by phone, I received the incorrect info!

We motor on towards No Mans Heath and take the eastern lanes bypass around Malpas to head for Tilston where Nick drops off. Ivan and I travel back via Barton to Tattenhall arriving by 1500 with 52 miles ridden. There is just the 14 miles home now, and, as we arrive back in Chester it will be 75+ for Ivan and 80+ miles for me today with Nick lagging behind at around 60+.

My sting was still hurting right up to bedtime and only went away overnight. The moral here is to carry some Cetirizine (non-sedating anti-histamine) tablets with you on your ride, along with the rest of the clobber that is!

So it's a thank you to Ivan and Nick for letting me catch them up at the top the inclines and hills today.

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CA

31st July 2025: New Brighton

 There was a low turnout  today for the MOD+ group which left Chris and myself to take on the Wirral. As we had both cycled in we already had a few miles under our belts and decided to try for a ton ride.

We selected a previous ‘Clive’ route which saw us venture through Thornton Hough, heading NW - into a 15mph gusting 25+ headwind (thought I’d put that in for the Wind Wisperer) lol. With Chris tucked in behind we powered our way forward to reach the Moels Beachhead. Expecting to be battered by the unforgiving tempest. To our surprise, it was serene calmness as we effortlessly headed East across the top of the Wirral. Well at least it was effortless for Chris.lol.

The plan was to thread our way to the Ferry Cafe for lunch. However, at this point the Garmin had a pesky dose of the navigation gremlins and we spent a good hour making a couple of detours, including a hawthorne bush I fell into whilst trying to squint at my Garmin. After Chris had stopped laughing we moved on through Central Park and eventually found the Ferry. The pub that is!

At this point Chris looked little disappointed and pointed out that the other group may be having fish and chips at the Seaside Cafe in New Brighton.  I couldn’t disappoint the lad, as he’d been my wingman all morning. So off we set to NB.

On arrival there was no sign of the other group but as Chris was salivating over the fish special - we both tucked into a portion each. Well we had another 60 and 50 miles to go respectively, we needed the calories.

We then headed South along the Mersey where a camping trailer crossed our path without a car attached to it. The owner was very apologetic as he arrived breathless from a steep side road.(see photo).

On we cycled, wind behind us now through the Birkenhead docks and back through Eastham before turning West again towards Ness. We detoured to Netts for a brew before setting off back into Wales and down the Dee path to cross the river at Saltney. We then skirted Kinnerton down Stringers Lane and into Rossett.  Marford hill was the last climb of the day as we headed down into Holt/Farndon crossing the A583 to Weitreins Lane and on to Tilston.

 Chris and I parted ways at Carden Park as he was making his way back to Chester for his 100.

 A great days riding with good company, I’d just wish he’d slow down a bit.

Chris - ‘ You can be my Wingman any day’

SP

31st July 2025: Ness to Hoylake

 After some gentle persuasion from ST and DH, I plotted a route starting and ending in Ness. For reasons unknown, we had a strong turnout from the Mod riders this week—ST, DH, TC, GW, Keith, and Roy (joined by his partner, Carmen). Shane arrived with young Chris, who turned out to be the only fast riders in the group

We set off at a lively pace from Ness, heading through Burton and onto Willaston, where we turned down Mill Lane—an intriguing route featuring several historic buildings and an old windmill, sadly now without its sails.

From there, we continued towards Raby and Thornton Hough. Roy pointed out that the Wheatsheaf in Raby is known for serving up a solid meal, popular with local bikers.

We passed through Thornton Hough, then on to Brimstage and towards the Lever Causeway. Dave H began to worry we’d be forced onto the old Roman road through Landican, but I reassured him we’d be staying on the Lever cycle path toward Prenton Mount Road.

As we approached Burrell Road, I warned everyone—especially Trevor—to stay in a higher gear, as the left turn brings some sharp climbs. The houses along this stretch are massive, with many still featuring old servant entrances.

Down Waterpark Road, we entered the Woodchurch Estate. Dave commented that it reminded him of Beirut—though whether that was about the architecture or atmosphere is still up for debate. One house did feature a striking mural of Tranmere Rovers players, including (we think) Johnny King. DH later Googled it during lunch to confirm.

We continued on to Greasby, then on through Saughall Massie. This quaint village has a house dating back to 1539, the time of Henry VIII. Entering Garden Hey Road, we moved onto Carr Lane, where Dave noticed a sign restricting traffic. Being a local, I assured him bikes were welcome, and we continued over the Meols railway line toward Hoylake Promenade.

At this point, the wind picked up considerably, testing everyone’s strength. Roy mentioned that Chris Boardman had recently purchased the old Hoylake Lifeboat Station—but he wasn’t in when we passed, so no chance to say hello!

Our lunch stop was Barbetta’s Café, a first for many of us. Thanks to Trevor’s top-notch navigation, we parked the bikes safely in the back garden. The café was a pleasant surprise—great menu, reasonably priced, with a mouthwatering selection of homemade pies and hearty meals.

GW, however, repeated his classic mistake and ordered chips. Few were eaten, despite them being excellent.

We rolled on, climbing Frankby Hill—one of DH’s favourite areas on the Wirral and a welcome diversion from the usual Wirral Way. Riding towards Irby, we veered right past Pensby School and then on to Heswall Dales. I commented to ST that a million pounds might just get you a modest house in this area.

From there, we took Oldfield Road through Heswall and down to Gayton. I believe Mike McCartney (Paul’s brother) lives nearby. Passing the historic Gayton Gates, we cycled along Boathouse Lane. DH seemed briefly disoriented, but I reassured him he was in good hands—after all, I’ve looked after GW before!

We then cruised into Neston and back to Ness Gardens. Final mileage: 36.7 miles, and for once, ST—no rain!😁😁

Ray

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