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

15th May 2025 : Runcorn (brisk)

It was going to be another very sunny day as I set off for the 14 mile ride out to Delamere Station cafe. I decided to ride into the Delamere parkland via the Yeld and the 2 mile forest track in preference to riding through the forest to Hatchmere crossroads. As I was ordering coffee Ivan arrived so we sat outside in the sunshine.

Very soon Dave M arrived along with Mike D. Both Ivan and I had overtaken Mike along the way into Delamere and not fully realised it. Apologies Mike! As we waited for more Easy Riders to arrive, Ivan recounted his near-death experience in Spain and how the NHS is now closely looking after him upon his return. Dave M and Ivan then compared their cardiac monitoring hardware and the scars that they now have where the kit was inserted into their chest walls!

Standard departure time of 1030 came and went, and it became clear that no other riders were going to arrive today.  Dave mentioned riding to Whitegate, maybe with Mike, as Ivan and I saddled up bound for Runcorn the long way round. I'd planned this route a while ago as I wanted to ride around Runcorn as close to the water as possible and this we did.

It was a classic route out to the edge of Northwich with the mega-surprise that part of the road up to Hatchmere crossroads was now baby's bottom smooth! Not so the rest of the Bag Lane or Hodge Lane. Just at the traffic lights at the bridge over the West Coast Line, I noticed that Ivans's rear tubeless tyre had sprung a leak and his dark bike frame was speckled with white tyre sealant. The puncture was found and judged to be self-sealed so we motored on via Winnington and Anderton to Combermere. Skirting Great Budworth we now head towards High Legh.

The next three miles was ideal cycling down lanes anew as we head through the countryside towards Sworton Heath to access Swineyard Lane. It's now a fast burn to Appleton Thorn on smooth roads which was just as well as more white spots appeared on the back stays of Ivans' bike i.e. the tyre hasn't remained sealed. Running parallel with M56, we enter Daresbury village to cross the A56 Chester road. There are mega-road works here all due to the enormous area of house building known as “Daresbury Garden Village”. Crossing the roadworks, narrow Delph lane runs downhill into the back of the Sandymoor edge of Runcorn. 

I had now plotted a course to keep as close to the Manchester Ship canal as possible as we access cycle lanes and poorly surfaced roads into the Astmoor Industrial area. Ivan snaps the old Runcorn Bridge from The Decks area where there were several old locks enumerated from Lock 3-8. We arrive at the Spoons “Ferry Boat” pub with punters spilling out onto the pavement in continental fashion. A pint of refreshing lager (one with and one without ethanol) slakes our thirsts after 30 miles from Delamere. 

To prove we went!

Time to go, as we now hug the shoreline sliding under the road and rail bridges way above our heads. Riding up to Higher Runcorn is a cinch for Ivan these days but not so for me! We pass Beacon Hill and slide around Weston picking up the cycleways to get us down to  the Sutton Weaver swing bridge. As I didn't fancy the two inclines into Frodsham, we hang a right over the river and take the NCR5 to pop out by the Bear's Paw pub. The Thursday market is still just alive with a plethora of white vans as we eschew the route back to Delamere and motor on back to Chester. 

The route back to Delamere is straight forwards at about 7 miles but it's preceded by a two mile slog towards Kingsley. All round the route would be 44 mls. Ivan and I had either 60 or 65 miles on the clock. It was remarkable that his rear tyre had kept sealed (and re-sealed itself) and it didn't affect his riding speed at all!

So a truly enjoyable day's ride with no hiccups. I knew that most of the Brisk group were otherwise engaged today but we were all somewhat surprised that other regulars were absent on such a fine cycling day

PS: As I took a shower at home, I noticed white spots on my legs and arms - Ivan's tyre sealant!

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

27th March 2025: Little Bollington (mod+)

A modest turnout at Delamere, despite the weather being set fair. Although the prospect of a slightly stiff breeze may have put certain club member off. Lol.

Steve Hu just out for a coffee due to other engagements and good to see Steve T out after his medical sabbatical.

So, with just Shane and myself representing the mod+ crew we set off with a vague idea of going east.

 Almost instantly the awful potholed Blakemere Lane caused me to puncture, however whilst we were mending it a new plan was considered.  So, we set our compass for the Swan with two Nicks, the directions provided by google with the volume tuned up on max. Shane had the route on his phone using OS maps, but as it was in his pocket this meant stopping at most junctions to get our bearings, as it was hard to hear the google maps gal with the wind in our ears. Lol 

Despite the navigation issues, we set a good pace down to Acton swing bridge and through pretty Great Budworth, now fully recovered from the bitter disappointment of not having a wheel to follow. The Swan wasn’t too busy and the service very fast, subjects discussed included the demands of family life and the effect the orange buffoon was having on invested pensions.

Shane managed to save and reverse the route on his Garmin, so it was straight back the same way. By now the light breeze had stiffened somewhat and was in our face all the way back. The out and back plan also meant riding up the steep Acton lane, a reminder to have some rides saved for every start point.

A good day out all told with the excellent company of Shane, 43 miles for me and 56 for Shane.

 Alan

12th September 2024 : Dunham Massey (Brisk)

Ivan and I drove through to Delamere in torrential rain and with an outside temperature of 8c; this dampened our enthusiasm for today's ride out to “The Vine” at Dunham Massey.

The Met office had forecast the rain to ease with only occasional showers from late morning but  we weren’t convinced  and came very close to abandoning our day out. We used a route designed by Ivan which  led us through Norley and out to Acton Bridge. It was here the sun emerged allowing us to remove our waterproofs. Continuing on, we  skirted around the eastern side of Lymm  arriving at “The Vine” just after midday.

The weather forecast was obviously correct as the sun was now shining and the roads had dried considerably throughout the morning making for an easy trouble-free ride. Our venue was not to busy so our order of food and drink was delivered promptly and we were back on the bikes in no time.

Initially heading south east, we skirted around the boundary of Dunham Park and through the village of Hale.Turning to the south west we then weaved our way past Tatton Park and through Great Budworth  stopping briefly to admire the Anderton Boat lift. After crossing over the River Weaver we navigated our way  through Northwich and Hartford to join our outbound route at Norley. Here we came across the Mod’s who were returning from their ride to Goostrey. On reaching Hatchmere  Ivan and I parted company as he decided to make the most of good weather and ride home.

I’m glad we made the effort  to ride this morning  because the change from appalling to good weather conditions did allow us to enjoy an uneventful 50 mile route.

See route map and/or gpx file download

KP

Photos KP and ID

18th April 2024 : Tiverton (mod)

There seemed to be slight desperation and apprehension in Ray B’s email in which he was asking who will lead a ride today as Dave H was away. So, I couldn't let Ray be there with no ride leader could I?

I’d only ridden to the Station Cafe from the top of Kelsall Hill as I had driven over today not relishing an hour’s ride back in the advertised late afternoon rain. I was at the cafe first and a bit worried that I would be the only one. I needn't have worried because soon there were eleven of us - Ray B, Steve T, Mike B, Andy B, Alan, Shane, Matt, Jim, Trevor, and Dave P.

After a bit of discussion, Steve agreed that his ride to Goostrey was a bit far east given the afternoon rain’s 1500-1600 arrival, so I put forward a circuitous ride to Tiverton - no, not the Devonian town but that just south of Tarporley where the Lockgate cafe is nicely situated at the bottom of two hills.

So with the usual disarray, we set off up towards Hatchmere and Norley enjoying the first of many Road Closed signs and road repairs of the day. We turn right up Gallowshough Lane where there is supposed to be a Neolithic and Bronze Age round barrow in the field - but I think it has been ploughed out but there is a reference here. 

At the end of this tiny lane and after two cars and a big tractor, we re-group and turn right down and up Stoneyford Lane thence crossing the A556 road onto a short section of the A49. Passing Cheshire Polo Club, it’s into Longstone Lane bound for the Whitegate Way where we briefly meet Dave M and Andy W on their Bob Clift’s Ride check-out ride.

At the bottom of Whitegate Hill, we turn off right for the run down into Winsford passing the rock salt mine with its allied deep document storage business. Jim and Trevor decide to go their own way here as we circle the roundabout to kiss the edge of Glebe Green and Hebden Green areas of Winsford. It's now a run down Blakenden Lane behind Cheshire Constabulary’s HQ. This lane in common with many back lanes in Cheshire, has seen better days. A short stretch of the A54, quaintly called Chester Lane, takes us towards Little Budworth and Oulton Park motor racing track. It’s a short run now passing east of Tarporley and crossing the A49 and a fast descent after 22 miles to Tiverton Bottom and the Lockgate Cafe.

I had booked ahead for 12 riders and we were now only 9 riders, but our tables were reserved in this busy cafe. The food came fast enough and was judged to be of good quality. I was using the time at table to work out how I had misread my original route for today which meant that we had arrived at the cafe a little early and how I could now make a passable return ride. This is the problem with complex cross-over routes especially those assembled in a hurry. 

The problem had been that I had cobbled together today’s ride in about 10 minutes before I drove off to Kelsall - I didn’t want Ray to be leaderless and disappointed, or worse, that he would have to plan a route and lead it! So with a failing phone battery, I now cobbled a corrected return route back to Delamere. We set off up the A49 and into the back of Bunbury using the delightful Wyche Road village bypass and thence Bird Lane; lanes which were first introduced to me in 2009 by Ray Hardman no less. Here Andy, Shane and Matt struck out for home shortly after the group photo.

They are a trusting group!

At Alpraham, where we use a short section of the A51, we head north for Oulton Park again via Rushton. Crossing the A49 once again at Cotebrook, it’s a straight run back to Delamere with nearly 37 miles ridden. About 1430, a light rain is evident - so quite a bit earlier than advertised. I branch  left onto the A54 to Kelsall Hill and my car, where now the rain has upped its game, whereas the others head for Delamere Station car park and home.

I can’t remember the last time I led a Mod ride with 10 riders trusting in my routing. However it does make you appreciate how the Dave H’s and Steve's tirelessly put up and lead routes for your delectation. 

No one will mind if one of you were to offer to lead a ride - it’s how we all learnt to do it!

See route map and/or gpx file download 

CA 

Photo AO

29th February 2024: Bunbury (mod +)

On this a leap year many of the CER faithful leapt at the chance to visit Delamere on this nice day sandwiched between yellow weather warnings. An additional bonus was seeing Steve Ha out and joining in the craic with Dave H and the guys. 

The turnout was sufficient for two groups and thus a mod + group was formed of Matt, John M, Neil T, Alan and Steve Hu. Prior to leaving Delamere Stn cafe the assembled crew were captured on Alans “soft focussed bokeh camera ;) “ 

Neil had promised Matt T a clean and mud free ride, which to an extent he delivered. Choosing a route that ordinarily takes in the Whitegate Way he safely navigated us up to Hatchmere and along the pleasant mud free B roads towards Cuddington. A quick diversion through Sandiway brought us out on Dalesford lane at the head of the Whitegate way. 

Photos by AO

Normal lanes resumed we meandered through the towns of Little Budworth crossing the Shropshire Union Canal just outside Calveley. Looking forward, if the high prices experienced yesterday at Tilly’s becomes an impediment, then the farm/cheese shop at Calveley offers a superb cafe as a possible future lunch venue.

Replete with sandwiches, eggs benedict and other exotica the decision was taken to return via Beeston. This allowed Neil T to divert to Tanner Town and Matt to head off to Chester. The plunge to the now renamed “Shady” was followed by a pleasant ride through Tarporley and back to Delamere.  A modest 33 miles but excellent company and thanks to Neil's guidance a mud free route. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

Steve Hu 

Mod + ride No 2 

Not to be outdone our foreign correspondent Steve T embraced the spirit of Thursday CER rides with a Lanzarote epic. Braving winds of 30 mph he completed a 49 mile loop and added in 3300 feet of climbing for good measure. all of this on a hire bike. 

Not content with his cycling achievements , Steve went on to form a CER outreach group in the local bike hire shop consisting of himself Elwyn & Fiona. What are the chances of meeting other members of our highly regarded club. The reach of Easy Riders knows no bounds. 

Thanks for the mini ride report Steve.   

29th February 2024: Little Bollington (mod)

There was a strong turnout at Delamere, and conditions were fine for cycling. It was great to have Dave Pipe on board again. The chilled cruising group consisted of Dave Pipe, George, Trevor, Andy, Dave Matthews and myself. I had missed Ray’s email on Wednesday evening, which explained that he had just had a large tooth removed, so would have to give the ride a miss. 

It was going to be possible to cover a few more miles today than we had been doing, so with this in mind we started out in the direction of Kingsley before turning down Forest Lane. There was the usual steep climb under the main railway line at Cliff Lane, before plunging down from Acton Bridge to the A49. We somehow managed to lose Dave Matthews and Dave Pipe at Willow Green. We made a few phone calls to both, but to no avail, and thought that there was a strong chance that they had gone through Little Leigh, and we would cross paths near Crumleyheath Farm.  It was not to be, but phone contact was made at Comberbatch, and Dave Pipe said that he would meet us at our lunch destination. Dave Matthews had intended to peel off anyway. After well thatched Great Budworth we made quite brisk progress to Knutsford, and turned into Tatton Park. The deer were an attractive sight with two impressively antlered stags prominent. We passed through pretty Rostherne and crossed over the A556 to Booth Bank, which in years past would have been almost impossible but was now facilitated by a bridge over the Mere by-pass.  

We were very pleased to see Dave Pipe waiting for us at the top of the lane down to Little Bollington.  The service was friendly and the food fine at The Swan with Two Nicks. The young woman taking our order was bursting with personality and was clever enough to remember our orders without the need for pen and paper.  There was just one fly in the ointment: in a typical Pipesque act, Dave had disappeared to the toilets just as we were ready to order!  Never mind, the waitress passed the frustrating old fogies test and soon returned with a smile to take Dave’s order.  Lunch was very pleasant with interesting conversation. It was unusually quiet without Ray’s decibels, but at this stage we didn’t know about his tooth extraction, and the concern expressed about his absence was quite touching. I was just pleased to eat in peace.

The first leg of our return was on nice quiet lanes to Sworton Heath.  A straight flog into a slight headwind on Swineyard Lane, and then we were winding along the narrow lanes toward Arley Road, and beyond to Antrobus, Frandley and Little Leigh. George and I had recollected at lunch the run of wet afternoons that we had suffered returning from the Swan with Two Nicks in past years. One day I had watched Dianne Oxberry’s weather forecast, and I reckoned that we would find a dry window between fronts on our return to Delamere. We set out in drizzle anticipating a change for the better, but it never came, it just battered down instead. I think Kate from Neston, with the beautiful smile, was with us that day. I remember coming across a taxi, and I swear that on my own that I would have climbed in. Some of you will remember another extremely wet afternoon in the Lake District when Brian MacDonald had a little crash, and we took shelter in a hotel at Newby Bridge. We watched Wales beating England 1-0. Kate and George were on that ride too. Anyway, thankfully, today was dry.  After the hard climb to Acton Bridge, we returned to Delamere via the challenging Marsh Lane from Crowton to Norley. Andy was a bit concerned about reaching Mold before dark, as he was without lights. Dave Pipe and I managed a swift coffee thanks to the kind staff at Delamere Station Café who were just on closing. Forty-six miles covered on the day. Trevor, once again, was getting more miles in, about sixty-five. Andy, after a day with his Ruthin chums the day before, must have covered over a hundred miles. Where does he get the motivation?                                                                 

See route map and/or gpx file download 

DH

4th January 2024 : Church Minshull (brisk)

An excellent day was in prospect for the first ride of 2024 given the weather forecast was for a cloudless though cool day with light southerly winds. Eight to ten riders arrived at the Delamere cafe, some just for coffee, and unusually, there were more brisk riders than mods.

With a lack of ride options on offer, I put forward a brisk ride of 46 mls to the Aqueduct Marina at Church Minshull. Shane, Alan and Matt took up my offer and we departed on time. Initially we headed out through Kelsall before turning south via Beeston to enter Bunbury. Here we changed direction crossing over the A51 and, following a speedy meander through the lanes around Wettenhall, we arrived at our lunch venue at the Aqueduct Marina with 27 mls completed. Our food orders were very speedily delivered and within an hour we were ready to depart for Delamere.

Considering the amount of rain we have been subjected to recently, our route was in a surprising good condition with only a few areas standing water and debris to negotiate. Our return leg was out past Oulton Park race circuit where Matt, who had cycled in from Chester, decided he would leave the group and head for home making his a ride of approximately 75 miles.

Myself, Shane, and Alan had left our vehicles at Delamere, so we continued on, crossing over the A54 through to Sandiway and Norley before arriving back in Delamere and completing today’s 46 ml circuit.

The first ride of year was ridden in near perfect conditions as the forecasted weather proved to be correct. There were only a few pockets of standing water to negotiate and there were no mechanical or navigational issues. So all in all, a totally uneventful and peaceful start to the New Year cycling programme.

Thanks to Shane, Alan and Matt for their company today.

See route map and/or gpx file download

KP

Photos AO and MT

16th November 2023 : Wrenbury (briskish)

A low turnout at Delamere of 5 riders meant that John M, Alan, Steve Hu, Electric Ray and I would ride as one group. Dave M also came to the cafe but only for a coffee and a chat before heading home to lavish some TLC on one of his fleet of vehicles.

Prior to arriving at Delamere, I had given some thought to a route given that the storms of Babet and Ciaran had played havoc making the road conditions more hazardous than usual. The route of 42 miles was nothing exciting but one ridden many times from Delamere to Wrenbury.

On leaving the cafe, we faced roadside construction on Fishpool Road. The Highway Authority have turned this  road into a one way system while  the repairs take place. This meant our options were 3 miles of busy A roads or sneaking through and cycling against the traffic while keeping within the safety of the barrier. Needless to say we did the latter.

Once free of the road works we went down the lanes that pass Oulton Park race circuit and continued through Wettenhall towards Nantwich. We were expecting  standing water and a trail of storm debris but were pleasantly surprised to find the roads dry and clear. The only issues we had were a close pass by an aggressive driver and a few GPS hiccups with my phone but we arrived in Nantwich unscathed. The quiet cycle path through Nantwich that runs alongside the River Weaver, kept us away from most of the traffic enabling us to join Marsh Lane as our exit route out to Ravensmoor.

At Ravensmoor we had an option to extend the route by another 10 miles but time was against us so we kept to plan A and made our way straight to Wrenbury and lunch. “No 18 The Park Cafe” was  very busy  as usual but fortunately we had pre-booked the table and we were quickly served. Since my last visit, in the summer, I noticed a marked increase in the menu prices with most items up by about £1.50; a sign of the times .

Once lunch was over and John had sorted an issue on his radar/rear light unit, apparently it wasn’t talking to his GPS unit, we departed. Our way home involved crossing the Llangollen Canal going through Chorley, Faddiley, Bunbury, Tilston and Eaton. The highlight for me on this route is the  view at Tilston where the road dips down to the canal.

Yours for £4.5 million

We had a short stop for a photo shoot near to Faddiley outside some impressive gates which led to Ash Hall. This beautiful property with stunning grounds is on sale for around £4.5 million! Shortly after joining our outbound route at Cotebrook I left the others as they continued on to Delamere while I turned off up Heaths Lane to Kelsall to my  car. 

Unlike the morning the  roads our return route was littered with storm debris and standing water consequently some serious bike cleaning would be needed once we arrived home.

Todays ride was 42 miles with no rain or wind only the cold to hinder our progress. Thanks to all for their company and help today.

See route map and/or gpx file download

KP

28th September 2023: Comberbach (mod)

Despite some riders being away, there was a reasonable turnout at Delamere. It was great to see Steve Haywood, and on his bike as well. Steve's recovery is going to take more time and treatment, but it's a welcome start. Evidence of what is possible after a long physical setback was provided by Matt, actually on two wheels not three! Peter had a struggle making it from home, but his effort just to meet us for a coffee was appreciated. Dave Matthews was not feeling great after a Covid jab, but had also cycled out for coffee. John Wilkie, Ken and Ivan were out from the fast lads group, and Ray Stigter was joining the moderate riders. The moderate group for the day constituted the two Rays, Alan, Steve Hughes, Andy Barber, Matt and myself. I had a scenic, circular route to Comberbach in mind. On our way out we passed filming going on in the forest. Did anyone find out what they were actually producing? We cycled through a film set once in Bunbury, and that did actually finish up on our television screens.  We wound our way to Acton Bridge via Norley Hall and Ainsworth. After crossing the River Weaver it was all quiet, little lanes to picturesque Higher Whitley. Shortly after I suffered my first puncture in a long time. Many thanks to the guys for really getting stuck in to help. Some aspects of the teamwork were more reminiscent of Frank Spencer than Christian Horner, but I was genuinely grateful to Alan, Andy and Big 'bull at a gate' Ray. The riding north west of Arley was flat, quiet and easy, but the troops were getting hungry, so we turned,  south via Hollins Lane, Pole Lane and Gibb Hill. We arrived at The Spinner and Bergamot at one o'clock, fifteen minutes early, but the service was prompt as well as friendly. Andy and myself ordered  a little late, as my tyre needed reseating over the valve following my puncture. The food was spot-on.

Photos by Alan O

The choice after lunch was whether to cycle a few more miles exploring the lanes around Budworth, or to just head straight back. Many had more cycling to do after returning to Delamere, and with a possibility of late afternoon rain, it was a unanimous decision to return directly. I was a bit slow on the return for the usual reasons: age, weight and not cycling enough, so I encouraged the group to press on without me. It's always a slog up from the Weaver to Delamere station, but overall it was a very enjoyable day. It was good to discuss dogs with Ray Stigter, talk cars and driving with Steve, float Special Ride possibilities with Andy and insult Ever Ready Ray at every opportunity. Thanks to Alan for the photographs. About 34 miles covered.

DH

20th April 2023: Delamere (mod+)

Today saw a good turnout at Alison’s on a lovely sunny day, although fairly windy. I think there were approx 14 of us, which included Jim on his stunning new electric Ribble, ( most of us didn’t even realise it was electric, which I believe weighs an incredible 12k - that’s half the weight of Paula’s Orbea- Lol)

I had a 50 mile route in mind, around my favourite Sandstone ridge, via the Whytegate way, if no other options. However, Nick & Clive, fancied my route and as there were no other fast boys we agreed to make a Mod+ group (agreeing that us mere Mods would try to step up a bit, but they also had to throttle back a bit- Lol). So the Mod + group were 5, with the addition of Alan & Steve Hu, heading for Delamere Forest cafe ( not the railway station cafe) 

Photos by NT

We set off to the right out of Alison’s and therefore straight into the winds. Once heading directly toward Beeston Castle and a full headwind, Nick stepped up and took the front, as there would be no way of us keeping the pace up in those stiff winds. That said, we were soon  into Bunbury, diverting around the back of the village and Tilly's cafe, due to the road past the Dysart Arms (superb pub & food BTW) being closed. I was aware of the roadworks, but expected them to be finished (semi prepared- Lol). The detour lead to the discovery of a nice bit of resurfaced lane (Bunbury Common, leading into Tilston Bank lane), which until this ride has always been a stinker. 

Anyway, well on route and now, whizzing down over the river Gowy for the third time and through my all time favourite road section of Tilston Bank (a cracking half mile stretch of sweeping hilly bends over a couple of narrow bridges, into a gorgeous canal lock setting). Just as we hit the lock bridge, we have to abruptly pull up, owing to a couple of builders blocking the road. As we scramble to get around the van, struggling for the right gear, somebody cursed our loss of speed, just as we all climbed out of the saddle for a very short 15% gradient- Lol.  ( think it was Clive cursing, as he passed me- Lol)

It was not long after that Steve piped up,  thinking about his stomach as usual ( I refused to tell him how far and where our lunch stop was, which didn’t stop him bending my ear still further- Lol). The next few miles to Oulton Park raceway, were simply a delight as always, apart from the headwind. This is a lovely stretch of very scenic, open countryside lanes, on gorgeously smooth tarmac. Nick again lead us through the headwind, making it much easier and not even batting an eyelid- Lol. Now past an unusually quiet Oulton Park, it wasn’t long before we were upon the Whytegate Way. We joined it at the quaint Station House cafe & proceeded at a steady meander, as there were a few walkers and horses about. The gravel path of the Whytegate Way now behind us, we  start our gradual assent of the ridge, along a few of the best lanes in the county, one of which, according to Clive, was where Gary Barlow used to live ( famous pop star for those who have never heard of him-Lol)

We are now not far from our Lunch stop and the worst bit of our journey ( that dreadful rough, potholed road through Hatchmere, which is the only route into the cafe in Delamere Forest ( on this route, before anybody cry’s out “ no it’s not”-Lol) What’s worse is that we had to ride out on the same road, despite Clive requesting that we take the gravel track that leads out of the forest, to the opposite side and into the bottom of Yelds lane ( also happens to be where the Kelsall bike repair cafe is located)

The big advantage with Delamere Forest Cafe is the size, space, speed of service & quality of the food. However, much to mine and Nick’s despair, they won’t do poach eggs after 12 ( “sorry, breakfast has finished” was the explicit reply) but that wasn’t the worst of it. Alan & Steve had ordered the potato hash, which came with a poached egg on top, can you believe- What!! No doubt you can guess the conversation I will have with them, the next time I drop in- Lol. Anyway, lunch was served in a flash and was considered by all to be very good. My somewhat forced choice of a jacket potato was a cracker in fact, as they oven bake them over night. We sat outside, but the wind was almost howling through the pagoda we were sat under, so we didn’t waste any time and were soon on our way again.

Photo by AO

Now ripping through Delamere Forest, chasing Clive, who decided to show us a clean set of heals ( clearly doesn’t get cafe legs- Lol) We in fact thought he had taken off for home, as he had mentioned leaving us, but he was waiting at the next junction. We turn left, up another short sharp hill, heading for Kelsall. This was another loop on the route, that would lead up to Manley Mere cafe, just so I could fit in another favourite stretch of lanes, much to Clive’s confusion. This also meant we would pass the fabulous Blue Bell cafe, which I point out to Nick, who had not heard of it.

Anyway, we are rapidly through there and heading up through Tarvin and past 2 more cafe’s ( not tried them yet- Lol). We cross the A49 and speedily approach the river Gowy again for our 4th or 5th? crossing, once we manage to trip the traffic lights, by me doubling back- Lol. Now feeling the pace ( me at least) we pass Walk Mill cafe ( have you noticed the cafe theme yet- Lol Lol) Steve obviously did as he asked me if I had deliberately planned this as a sight seeing cafe route. It just so happens that the  amalgamation of the best local lanes, from numerous routes of mine, does in fact also take you past most of the local best cafe’s ( honest gov- Lol)

This is where we lost Alan & Clive, who headed off home, through Waverton to Chester and beyond in Allan’s case. This left the 3 amigo’s, to weave our way across the wind through to Hargrave and on to Tattenhall. My legs were now toast, clearly my fitness is not quite where I thought it was. We head straight into Tattenhall, now with the prevailing tailwind, which was very welcome and made for a nice easy finish. We got to Alison’s shortly after 2pm with 48 miles on the clock. 

Steve decided to call in for a coffee, leaving Nick & I to head off home. I said cheerio and a big thanks to Nick, only a few hundred mtrs later, as he departed up the hill for Tilston, which left me 1 mile to home, down Frog Lane. I only had a couple of extra miles on the clock with a total of 51. I am guessing Nick must have got roughly 65 miles in. As for the others I’m not sure of their totals, but still a fair bit more than me. As for Steve, he was again using CER to get a 100 miles in ( silly bugger- Lol)

Lovely day, if a bit tough towards the end. Some great scenery and a good group. Till next time ladies

NT

16th March 2023 : Wrenbury (brisk)

It always feels a long way out to Delamere from home. I met Jim and Trevor on the Delamere Forest leg and pushed on to the cafe at 15 miles. Not as far as some come – but enough first thing in the morning. Ken was already in the cafe and quite soon a goodly number of riders were ensconced in the warm cafe environment.

There was just Ken and I to represent the “Fast Lads” as others were doing their own thing or away skiing. Ken had cobbled together a route as I had done and both going broadly north south to mitigate the southerly wind on the return trip. We agreed to head for Whitchurch on my route and when at Wrenbury, evaluate whether to continue on or cut to a cafe.

So south we went to Cotebrook, Eaton and onto Barbridge. Here we take the A51 for a short distance before sliding left and over the canal to eventually join the Wettenhall to Nantwich road in all its pock-marked glory. At the busy Burford Crossroads, we head south towards Ravensmoor down Ravens Lane which was in a really poor state. We take the long way round to Sound and into Wrenbury.

This was the cross-over point for my original ride, and we have decisions to make now: a) carry on down to Whitchurch or b) cut that loop out thus saving 9 miles. As the sky as looking decidedly black south of us we decide to cut out the loop. The second decision was of Shakespearian proportions : “To B or not To B?” Aficionados of these blogs will know that “B” stands for Bhurtpore Inn. We decide to check out No.18 The Park and if it is not busy, to lunch there instead. Despite the car park being quite full, the cafe has a lot of tables free – so it was decided to lunch here.

Food at No.18 The Park

You are always assured of good food here and so it was today. Ken suggested that we use the return section of his route back to Kelsall and so we set off just as the rain starts – only lightly, but still really wet roads now. We head for Bunbury down familiar lanes and out round the east of Tarporley sliding past Eaton again. 

As Ken had driven over today, he kindly offers to give me a car-assist back to the outskirts of Chester. I’m definitely up for this as the rain comes and goes – the price for this offer was the climb out of Cotebrook and up Heaths Lane to where he had parked his car.

So Ken drops me near Hoole roundabout where the last few miles to home are enjoyed in a heavy fine rain and I arrive home with 59 miles ridden whereas Ken would have managed about 45 today. So a joint effort on piloting today cycling in a relaxed mode, and the correct decision being made to stop and enjoy lunch at The Park.

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

Photo ex The Park website