23rd April 2015: Ribble Valley (mod)

With Dave’s recommended driving time just about spot on we all assembled at the café fairly close to 9 o’clock. With the prospect of a long day ahead Dave P was taking no chances with possible malnutrition and was already chomping his way through a full English when the rest settled down for the customary tea and teacakes. With Dave H threatening a 60+ mile route, four of us: Dave and Liz on the tandem, Trevor and Jim opted for a revised 45 mile version, to be followed at a much more leisurely pace. 

From Whalley we went east over the A671 and up the lanes towards Padiham Heights. The views were magnificent if a little hazy due to the surprisingly warm weather and we were soon removing our top layers as we continued to climb up to the top of the ridge. Soon, however, we were descending quickly, and after a short stop at the famous Clarion Room, pressed on northwards to Newchurch and Barley. The easy riding soon ended with a long slog up towards Pendle Hill followed by a welcome thrash steeply down to Downham. Here we paused briefly to study the unique design of the local toilets before pressing on through Chatburn to our lunch stop at the Higher Buck at Waddington. The service was excellent and we sat soaking up the sun by a dribbling stream, before leaving less than an hour later.  

Westwards to Hodder Bridge was very relaxing, tootling along enjoying the scenery, but we were soon faced with another long uphill round the north side of Pendle before dropping down to Chipping. We had just turned north towards the wild boar farm when the brisk group appeared. We set a very relaxed pace up the west side of the Hodder valley to give them a chance to get ahead (they had several more coffee stops to complete) and we were soon heading back south past the Whitewell Hotel and then eastwards to Bashall Eaves. We skipped a possible coffee stop here and instead opted to continue back to Whalley where we re-convened at our breakfast stop. 

44 miles of good riding, some downhills and great scenery: much better than tiling the bathroom!   

JD

16th April 2015: Bodelwyddan (brisk)

I was a little late arriving at the Gallery Café at Hawarden after a front flat tyre passing aerospace. The Dynamic Tandem duo had even finished their coffee so they were very early today!

George was leading out for the Mod's and he advised it was going to be a slow ride to the Eagle and Child. This was taken as go your own way, so Tom and I set off on my route to Bodelwyddan and the Ty Fry Inn, not as quoted in the mod blog as Tai Bar, the Welsh pronunciation. It is surprising when we read the blogs, as their route was similar to ours.

Tom and I set off and via Wood Lane to Buckley. Crossing the Mold road and through Mynydd Isa and New Brighton. This route also avoids the A55 when heading to the Halkyns and Rhosemor. The views on the top provided us with clear views of the estuary and Liverpool. Heading towards Lixwm and the infamous climb out Tom advises he did this Tuesday with Clive and co.

Stopping on the top of the hill at Tremeirchion we had views of Snowdonia and the North Wales coast line from St Asaph to Llandudno.

There is then a good down hill run to Alt Coch crossing the St Asaph road. We then had to climb again going over a bump before dropping down to the Gates to the castle on the B5381.

From this point it was an enjoyable down hill roll to our lunch venue the Ty Fry. A good choice with a 2 for 1 menu and we enjoyed succulent gammon steak, egg and pineapple with chips and salad all for £4.00 each.

Photographs by Ivan Davenport

The ride was then a flat run into Kimmel Bay and along the sea front. We took a photo shoot on the newly opened bridge for route 5 and met up with Mike G who had been out with his brother and was returning on his way home.

Along the sea front passing Rhyl and Prestatyn before turning to Gronant and up the hills again.

We followed route 5 all the way to Halkyn and Northop before catching up with the Mod's near Ewloe.

Tom bid me farewell before the roundabout and turned towards Shotton and I rode on through Hawarden and home.

A good days ride of 85 miles to and from Chester or 65 for the round trip from Hawarden and 5,510 feet of ascent.

ID

16th April 2015: Gwaenysgor (mod)

A fine dry day had encouraged a reasonably good turn out of riders at the Gallery Tea Shop in Hawarden, despite the prospect of some Welsh hills to climb.  Brian Mac and Trevor were only there for the tea and tea cakes as they had other calls on their time.  The “brisk” group was much depleted in numbers today but Ivan had a plan to visit a Thai restaurant in Bodelwyddan, I think that was what he said, and he and Tom went searching for said restaurant.  That left eight of us: Dave H, Keith, Steve T, Dave and Liz P, on their trusty tandem, Jim, Steve H and yours truly.

I had come up with a route to get us to the Eagle and Child at Gwaenysgor with the aim of avoiding that horrible stretch of the A55 just west of Northop that has to be my least favourite bit of road.  So setting a very steady pace, as I knew what climbs lay ahead, we made our way through Northop Hall to cross over the A55 and into Northop.  Here I diverted from our usual route past the college and turned left up the Green.  We began a long, occasionally demanding, climb through the lanes to get up to Rhosesmor.  Crossing the B5123 we continued to climb and were treated to some fine views of the Clwydian Hills, to our left, as we gained the top of Halkyn Mountain.  With the climbing over for a short time we flew down the long decent into Rhes-y-cae.  A pleasant change, as we usually have to climb up this big ascent much later in the day.  However, hills are not absent for long in North Wales and two further steady climbs brought us to the Pentre Halkyn to Babell road.  This is one of my favourite rides on this my home turf.  Heading west along the top of the ridge on a good surface, virtually traffic free, we were treated to some spectacular views.  The Vale of Clwyd was laid out before us, rising behind were the Denbigh Moors and behind those the mountains of Snowdonia were clearly visible in the sunlight.

Photographs by David Pipe

Turning north we crossed the A55 at the top of Rhuallt Hill and followed a newly resurfaced lane northwest towards Dyserth.  I was anxious not to lose all our height gained by dropping all the way down to Dyserth and studying the OS map, the previous evening, I had identified a lane which would save us height but which was new to me.  Although little used, the lane proved perfectly serviceable, I am sure the recent dry spell had helped, and we turned right onto the A5151 for about 100 yards before turning north again onto the minor road to Gwaenysgor.

We were soon settled in our usual corner of the bar.  The landlord was as ever friendly and efficient.  As we awaited our food we were entertained by Keith who demonstrated for us the finer points of speed dating.  Some of our members lead such interesting lives!  Suitably replenished we called at the neighbouring viewing point to take in the panoramic views up and down the coast and the ever-multiplying wind farms out in the bay.  Leaving the village we turned left for a gentle leg stretching few miles to Llanasa, where we picked up National Cycle Route 5 and started the series of steady climbs, through Whitford and Pantasaph to get back onto the ridge at Brynford.  One more steady climb brought us on to the summit of Halkyn Mountain.  Here we could let the bike take the strain as we rolled down the B5123 back to Rhosesmor and retraced our outward journey via Northop to return to Hawarden.  45 satisfying miles on a fine dry day in some lovely countryside.

GW 

9th April 2015: Marston (mod)

It was a beautiful spring morning as I rode out to this week’s venue at the Windsurfing Centre and I anticipated a large turnout. I wasn’t surprised to find that there were 15 of us and for the first time this year we were able to sit out in the sunshine with our teas and coffees. I had come armed with a route which would take us to out to the far side of Northwich so was able to sit and enjoy my cuppa and the conversation while the brisk riders studied their maps.

We all set out together and made the short, sharp climb up to Sugar Lane. At this point the brisk group started to disappear off into the distance so time for a quick roll call. There were 10 of us left, these being Andy, Brian Mac, Bryan, Dave H, George, Keith, Liz D, Mike, Steve & Trevor. At the end of the lane we turned right heading down Dark Ark Lane before turning left for the run through Delamere Forest. From here it was straight across the junction at Hatchmere then right towards Norley and left towards Acton Bridge. Too busy talking, I missed the turning down Onston Lane but a short bit of back tracking got us back on course.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

As we left Acton Bridge the brisk group who had reached the same junction as us but via a different route cheered us on. We dropped down to the A49 and crossed the River Weaver on the Bartington swing bridge. Then it was back on to the country lanes and up the steep incline to Little Leigh. We crossed the main road, cycled on to Comberbach and turned right down towards Great Budworth. When we reached the A559 we were only 10 minutes ride from our lunch destination but it was too early for lunch. So we crossed over to Great Budworth and did a loop through Bate Heath, Pickmere and Wincham before heading back towards Marston and The Salt Barge. Opened in 1861, the Salt Barge sits opposite the old Lion Salt Works (soon to be opened as a tourist attraction) and adjacent to the Trent & Mersey canal. It took a while for our food to arrive (to be fair there were 10 of us) but the wait was worth it and we all tucked in to an enjoyable meal. 

Marbury Country Park

After lunch we turned towards Northwich but after a few hundred yards turned into Marbury Park. You can’t go anywhere in Northwich without being reminded of its salt mining history. (‘Wich’ is an old Anglo-Saxon word meaning saltworks or salt-mining town and salt has been mined in the area since Roman times.) Marbury Park is no exception. It is now a country park, criss-crossed with paths over what was once a huge brine field. We circled around the southern end of the park and onto the old Warrington Road, which cuts through the middle of the park and is now traffic-free, before emerging onto Marbury Road and heading back towards Comberbach.

A short stint back along the morning’s route out then we were heading along Senna Lane towards Higher Whitley passing the picturesque village pond with Willow Bank Farm behind it. We crossed the A49, passing Grimsditch Hall and reached Frodsham via Dutton, Aston and Sutton Weaver. We followed the main road through Frodsham and turned left up Tarvin Road followed by the steady drag up ridgeway. We were given a brief respite on the way up when we had to stop while some tree fellers dropped a branch onto the road. Then it was back onto Sugar Lane and downhill back to Manley Mere having covered 45 miles since leaving there that morning.

TC

9th April 2015: Winsford (brisk)

Like the warm weather brings out the caravans on the roads, there were a fair few of us at Manley Mere. It was definitely the “First Day of Shorts” after what seems like an interminable long cold period of bib tights. Trevor and the mod group were bound for the excellent “Salt Barge” pub at Marston, so I rustled up a brisk ride to Winsford for Tom, John, Steve T and Darren. 

We all start out the same way up Sugar Lane. We then turn left to Alvanley and down the fast descent to the outskirts of Frodsham only to slog up Howey Lane to take the top road to Kingsley. There’s definitely a spring in our cleats today as we rush through Kingsley and then off left towards the Weaver down two No Through Roads. We stop briefly at the top of Acton Bridge Hill to salute the Moderate group on their way to Marston. Out through Weaverham, we take Burrow Hill to Hartford. I’d planned to go through Davenham and Bostock Green to Winsford, but we would have arrived before we started out, so a loop goes in on the hoof towards Lach Dennis. The main roads are fast and quiet as we turn back towards Middlewich and the outskirts of Winsford. Clive Lane takes us down to the Weaver Park and out via an agricultural track by the Bottom Flash of the Weaver Navigation. 

The lunch time choice was the Diner at the Old Star pub, but in the absence of any bar staff, a couple of the clientele tell me that lunch finishes today at 12:30! So back to Winsford metropolis and the Queen Anne pub. So after 33 miles, we sit outside in the sun, and Wetherspoon’s does not disappoint on price, food or beer choice; all of which come PDQ. 

By Bottom Flash

Photograph by John Wilkie

As we congregate to leave, I notice a bald spot on Tom’s rear tyre; it had worn through to the casing and there were worrying bulges in the sidewall. Tom informs us that the tyre is “not very old". A local cyclist offers advice and informs us that Cyclone Cycles, next to the Salvation Army, should have a suitable tyre and thus will be Tom’s (and our) salvation. A Schwalbe Lugano is soon fitted and we are off for a flat ride back. Contrary to popular myth, brisk rides are not all hills! 

Steve T offers that it hasn’t rained since Saturday, so this confirms to me that the entire 5 miles of the Whitegate Way will be suitable, and indeed it is. The old track is rock hard and bestrewn with walkers, their dogs, and other cyclists. At the station stop, Darren decides that the previous two days cycling have taken their toll, and he elects to wend his own way back. After exiting onto Norley Lane, we eventually take the delightful Gallowsclough Lane to enter central Norley and thence on to the Delamere roller-coaster. Rather than going up the Mouldsworth Hill, we take a bypass lane to Ashton Hayes and thence back to Manley with 51miles duly executed. Tom, John and I then make our circular way back home via Cheshire Oaks for 70-90m on the clock. 

CA

2nd April 2015: Llanymynech (mod)

The clocks went forward at the weekend so this is the first ride of the year in British Summer Time and we’re meeting at Chirk.  The forecast is for fine, dry weather, warmish and little if any wind: indeed it’s the only dry day forecast for the week!  A good turnout then?  Not a bit of it: with only three of us present by 10:30 it was going to be a very select group indeed.  None of us had prepared a ride so with the maps out, as we finished tea, we planned a circular route that would take in some of the lowland areas east of Oswestry and some of the hills to the west.  Steve wisely suggested we ride anti-clockwise to get the hills in early.

With the route agreed, the group of John, Steve and Bryan set off south at a moderate pace to Weston Rhyn and on to Selattyn where the real hills started.  While Steve and John forged ahead I struggled on the hills but the views and sound of the new born lambs more than made up for the heavy going. By Llawnt we were back together for the descent to Llansilin, slowing as we past the site of the crashed Wellington bomber (January 1943).  A few miles further and we took a left turn onto new lanes south to Llansantffraid-ym-Mechain by way of an exciting, and not to be repeated, encounter with a heavily laden tractor coming up a narrow chevroned lane as we came hurtling down desperately trying to brake on the wet and muddy surface.

Good time was being made as we approached Bryn Tanat Hall on the A495 where we planned to cross the Afon Tanat on the footbridge, shown on the map, to the public road on the other side.  Well it was just possible to see the bridge in the Hall gardens by standing on the wall outside but access was clearly impossible other than over the manicured lawns and through the house gardens.  A diversion was called for so we retraced our route back to Llansantffraid-ym-Mechain and followed the B road to Llanymynech adding a few extra miles but still arriving for lunch at 13:00.

The mechanic at the local garage advises that the best real ale pub in Llanymynech is the unlikely sounding Bradford Arms so that’s where we end up.  A traditional pub, with workers at the bar, plenty of banter, three cask ales on tap and substantial good value food.  We stick with the excellent Black and Golden Sheep ales noting for next time Ditch Chaser brewed down the road at the Six Bells brewery Bishops Castle.  Well worth another visit I’d say.

John decided that he would make his own way back, at a somewhat faster pace than the outward leg, as he was riding back to Chester.  Steve and I sorted out a pleasant route on lanes we had done before.  It was 14:00, or thereabouts, when we left the pub and before we knew it John had shot off heading south to Four Crosses!  We hoped he knew where he was going as there was no chance of us catching him.  Steve and I headed east to Maesbrook, then north to Maesbury Marsh, Maesbury, Whittington and finally, skirting Gobowen, back to Chirk from the south.  Although we had ridden all these lanes before the route, as a whole, surprised us both comprising a delightful set of lanes with little traffic and almost completely flat.

We arrived back at Chirk by 15:30 in plenty of time for coffee and elderflower cake with 40 miles done.  A superb ride of contrasts from the lambs on the upland hills to the lowland lanes with the first signs of oilseed rape in the fields.

BW

26th March 2015: Audlem (mod)

With the majority of the brisk group basking in sunny Spain, the remaining group of 9 decided on a single ride to the Shroppie Fly by the canal at Audlem. 

We were met at the Ice Cream Farm by signs of extensive building work to produce “a new 180 seat parlour, a sand and water park, quad bike track, shopping street, and adventure golf course,” according to the local papers. No cyclists petting area though!  Perhaps that’s in the next phase. 

Dave M led the way followed by Dave H, Clive, Paul, Steve T, Keith, George, Trevor, and Jim.

The route took us out past Beeston Castle, Bunbury, Stoneley Green, Ravensmoor and Sound before dropping onto the A525 for the last mile into Audlem.  The journey was interrupted a couple of times by calls on Dave H’s phone but it wasn’t the Top Gear producers despite Dave being eminently suitable to replace someone who rants on about cars. Instead it was Dave’s mechanic ringing to tell him that his wife’s head needed taking off! (Perhaps he’s been watching too many episodes of Wolf Hall!)

The early rain had petered out to be replaced by a stiff breeze making the run south quite speedy, arriving at the pub a little after 12:00. Service was good and the group were fed and watered within the hour and we were soon back in the saddle again. We had hoped that the wind strength would have dropped after lunch, but no such luck. It was bordering on gale force and head on. We tried to plot a route involving the most sheltered lanes but we still had 20 miles to cover into the teeth of the wind. Progress was quite noticeably slower as we proceeded through Aston and past Cholmondeley castle. The lane down the east side of the ridge gave us some shelter but it was a relief to return to the Ice Cream farm for afternoon tea.

Suitably rested, we set off again into the wind for the last few miles home. A total of 42 stiff miles, or about 65 for the Chester riders.

 

JD

19th March 2015: Pant yr Ochain (mod)

A good-sized group assembled at the Roodee café, no doubt encouraged by recent forecasts of warmer weather at last. Dave H even broke out the shorts!

The moderate riders were Dave and Liz on the tandem, Trevor, Keith, Dave H, George, Liz D, Brian Mac, Dave M and Jim.  Dave H had to adjust his back brake before we set off, which appeared to be catching on the rim. Closer inspection revealed a slight warp on the rim. No problem as long as he didn’t use the back brake, and we were heading up into Wales!  Undeterred, we set off over the Old Dee Bridge towards Handbridge and then took the lane to Higher Kinnerton and then Hope. We crossed the Alyn valley here, and after a short distance along the Mold Road, turned up unto the lane that took us up over the shoulder of Hope Mountain. Coming down the other side into Treuddyn Dave made another inspection of his rim to find a small crack about an inch long. As Dave P hadn’t put his welding kit in his bag this week we pressed on cautiously westwards as far as the B5101 towards Ffrith. We then crossed over The Steps into Windy Hill and then down to Alyn Waters Country Park. We continued through the park and into the Wrexham suburbs of Bradley and Gwersyllt before crossing the footbridges over the A483 and a short run down the lane to the Pant yr Ochain. A more detailed inspection of Dave’s rim led to the conclusion that it was not safe to be ridden any further and he would have to stay at the pub until we came back with the van. Life is full of little inconveniences!

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

The restaurant was very busy, but we were soon sitting down at a table for 12 where we had our Xmas lunch a few years ago. The food was good quality if a little pricey and plans were drawn up for the afternoon. Trevor, George and Dave M were to continue with the original ride down to Holt returning past the Ice Cream Farm, while the rest of us set off for the shorter ride down Gresford Hill and along the Pulford Road to Chester. Brian Mac and Liz left us here for the bridge at Queensferry, while Dave and Liz P peeled off at Queens Park leaving myself and Keith of the original 10.

We picked up the van and set off back towards the pub along the Eccleston Road just in case Dave had managed to fabricate some sort of temporary repair. We had just reached the Old Dee Bridge when he appeared pedalling towards us, having managed to strengthen the rim with some garden zip ties! Quite an interesting afternoon of about 37 miles or 42 miles or 47 miles depending on which route was selected for the journey back. 

JD

19th March 2015: Marbury (brisk)

Arriving at the Roodee café it was overflowing with keen riders even though the morning was chilly and with a fog.  Hopefully the weatherman will be proven right and a glorious days riding should be enjoyable.

With Clive returned from Norfolk the brisk group consisted of Clive, John, Tom, new rider Lee Scragg (Tom’s neighbour) and Ivan.  I had a route covering 35 miles for lunch at the Swan Inn at Marbury followed by 45 in the afternoon.

Leaving the Roodee we cycled along the riverbank heading for Boughton following the river Dee to Alford. We diverted via Saighton as the B5130 direct to Alford was covered in fog so took the quieter lane. Reaching Churton we took the left route bypassing Farndon and on to Shocklach. The lanes were dry and quiet and by 11:30 the sun was out and the fog lifted. We were pacing along passing through Wrenbury and Aston and skirting Whitchurch before heading to the Swan Inn.

I had contacted the pub previously to enquire if they were open and available for food and advised yes but we have a funeral party in from 11:00.  Our expected time of arrival was 12:30 - 13:00 so not a problem.  On arrival and ordering a pint of station ale the landlady advised they could only cater for sandwiches - OMG we have to leave!!!!  

Fortunately the partner saw £s and rushed to the kitchen to see what can be rustled up - we were provided with reasonable food and the beer was good as was tea and juice for others.

After lunch we returned to our bikes in warm sunshine and were soon heading out via Wirsall to arrive into Whitchurch from the south then out via Ash Magna, Ighfield and Royals Green.

The season is progressing and already the hedges are showing green and with lambs bleating it is great to cycle through the seasons although we don't enjoy the wet and cold days. 

We pass through Aston again and head towards Ravensmoor but had a little diversion from here out via Burland and Long Lane to Bunbury where we stopped at Tilleys for milk shakes and cakes (Dave take note!! all wanting to partake).

We then took the usual route home to Chester via Beeston, the Ice Cream Farm and Waverton.

The ride was minimum 78 miles for me but 80+ for the other riders with an incredible 3,192 ft of ascent - we did notice a couple of rolls but surprised at the elevation.

An enjoyable day at 16.9 mph average. 

ID

12th March 2015: Ellesmere (mod)

There was a good turnout at Hildegard's. Jim had a route, but he also had a pain if he breathed deeply. My Green Party propaganda must have influenced him, because he had injured his torso by passionately hugging a tree. John appeared to have the flu, and Steve was still cautiously rehabilitating his back. Dave Matthews thought that he had a hundred day cold, but enjoyed a few miles with us. 

Those doing the full route were: Paul, Bryan W, Andy, Ray, Steve Tan, Martin, Trevor, Dave H, and Dave & Liz P. A quick glance at Jim's proposed route, and we were soon heading across the river to Farndon.

It was very pleasant and sociable, and it was nice to have a whole group ride. Andy was doing a bit of stirring, trying to be a wit, but I reckon he was only 50% there! We made steady progress south, sometimes into a steady headwind.

Basically, we headed for Hanmer via Shocklach, Threapwood and Three Fingers. This meant we avoided the muddy lane that follows if you cross the A525 at Eglwys Cross. Still heading due south, we managed to navigate to the edge of Northwood without the need for much map-checking. It is always reassuring to have Bryan around, when you are trying to lead on a route that you haven't prepared for. It was a bit intricate now. I wasn't sure if Jim had favoured climbing to Lea, west of Colemere or to just head up the main road. Expediency took over as the lunch break beckoned, so we headed directly northwest to Ellesmere from Lyneal, still on a quiet back lane for the most part. We managed to confuse ourselves over the pub of choice, as some pushed ahead, but we all ended up in The Red Lion which couldn't be faulted.

The brisker riders took their leave for a pacier ride back, whilst the rest of us headed up a narrow lane at the north end of The Mere toward Penley. Our route back was via Holly Bush and Bangor on Dee. We were soon on familiar back lanes from Sutton Green north to Holt. On reaching Hildegard's, Steve Tan was waiting after his ninth cup of coffee! Once again we had enjoyed a satisfying day out in good company, managing our fitness differences with mutual respect and common sense.  Distance: 40 miles.

DH

5th March 2015: Whitchurch (mod)

It was well before 10:00, on a cloudy, coldish day when I arrived at Rose Farm to find one or two fellow CER waiting for the cafe to open its doors.  By 10:30, 16 cyclists were poised but two went home early, leaving five to embark on a brisk ride and nine of us to ride leisurely anti-clockwise to Whitchurch.  Our group was composed of many with “excuses” needing to keep the pace down to a leisurely 12-13mph average.  The reasons were either medical (not surprising considering our age) or because at least two had recently returned from NZ and were well out of practise.  Andy, Brian, Bryan, Dave H, Jim, Keith, Paul, Petar and Trevor set off south while the speedsters headed east.

A rather uneventful pleasant ride took us through Clotton and Clutton to Tilston, where the old pub was now a row of luxury detached houses with ornate filigree woodwork.  My original plan was to loop further west but as time was pressing we simply headed south up the long drag to Malpas.  Forking right we flew down through Higher Wych passing Iscoed Park which had been requisitioned, like many stately homes during WW ll, for use as a US Military hospital and POW camp.  We soon found ourselves in Whitchurch, which like many settlements in England, was founded by the Romans as a half-way point between the major camps of Chester and Wroxeter (near Shrewsbury).

This market town has a few decent CER pubs already but Jim suggested a recently renovated one by the parish church.  I’ll try anything once and The Cock & Greyhound (SY13 1LL) did not disappoint.  Not sure about the name though: it’s one of a chain of 10 pubs in the “Atwillpubs” group of Chester that have “Cock” in the pub-name.  As we were the only folk for lunch between 1 – 2pm, they are going to have to trade a long time before the investors recoup their expensive outlay.  The food and blond was excellent, as was the beer of that name.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

Suitably refreshed, we set off NE to Wrenbury, then tacked north past the three prominent castles and the Shady Oak for a well-earned afternoon tea at The Old Fire Station in Tarporley.  As my earlier photos of the group were rubbish, I took a picture of this flowery VW outside the cafe.  After negotiating round the Bentleys and Range Rovers, we returned to Utkinton, while Paul and I headed for Chester.  An enjoyable CER day with a bonus mile ridden above the original 45 promised.

BMac

5th March 2015: Marston (brisk)

The ride out from home to Rose Farm was with Tom and it was a pleasant meander on a chilly morning.

Arriving at the cafe there was already a good turn out and by 10:15 too many riders for one group so a hasty brisk ride was considered and I was voted to lead to the Salt Barge at Marston.  Clive, Tom, John, Mike G and Ivan set off heading into Tarporley taking the left turn up Forest Road and round Eaton Golf course. Within the Brisk group a mentality of racing against Strava times is emerging and Clive came roaring past me followed by Tom at +27mph to record the Sappling Lane descent, quick push on the pedals to catch up and hope it does not go on like this all day!!!

Round Oulton Park (not racing now) to Little Budworth towards Whitegate where we get excited again for the Cinder Hill dash. Passing through Whitegate and heading for Weaver taking the sharp Left / Right turn we ride along Little Dales lane, turning left at the T junction Tom collides with Clive but thankfully no scratches on his bike or himself.  Along Wallescote Road passing Winnington and the Northwich town centre we head out to Wincham and Marston.

Photographs by Ivan Davenport

We arrive at the Salt Barge inn at 11:35 and a little too early for lunch so continue doing a loop to Higher Marston, Bate Heath and back to the pub for 12:10 and it is getting busy!!  Service was very good along with a selection of cask ales and a reasonable menu. 

Ready for the off, we go along the loop again up and down higher Marston and towards Great Budworth passing the recent venue of the George and Dragon.  Continuing with the usual route home from Budworth we choose to ride along the Weaver. The surface was hard and dry and a pleasure as it has been a few years since last ridden by me.  We took the route after passing Kingsley heading for Manley with the last two assaults of hills to climb for the day.

A coffee at Meadow Lane cafe was needed and the final Strava dash along Station lane from the Methodist chapel to the Greenway.  A good record of 25mph and a 60th placing!!!  All in all a reasonable 62 miles to and from Chester but another 20+ for Mike who had parked up at Northop and ridden to Rose farm for the additional mileage.

ID

26th February 2015: Llanasa (leisurely)

It was 10:00 when I arrived at The Gallery Coffee Shop in the rain to find John busily repairing a puncture at the back of the café.  Next to arrive was Brian Mac still suffering from a virus and planning an easy day with the idea of a downhill ride to Chester.  Next up was Dave H with the news that although Jim had planned a ride to Llanasa other commitments meant he was unlikely to make it today.  Notwithstanding that, Llanasa sounded a good choice.  Dave confirmed that the Red Lion was under new management with good reports, and we could ride out without venturing over the tops and come back with the wind behind us.  By this time Clive and Ivan had appeared and decided to join us.  John meanwhile was still out the back struggling with his third inner tube of the day; after which he gave up muttering something about the tyre bead!

So with only four of us riding today we set off into the wind heading directly for Northop and the short section of the A55 by the Motel.  At this point Clive and Ivan decided they had had enough of my snail pace and decided to head off on their own with the intention that we would meet up for lunch.  Dave and I continued on past the Britannia Inn until the turn off to Pentre Halkyn, which Dave insisted, was better than going straight ahead on the flat.  Half way up Dave stopped and announced that he didn’t think this was the right way.  Too true, but having climbed so far we continued further upwards to the next turning (as it turned out our highest point of the morning) and then descended a narrow lane to where we should have been.  By now the rain had stopped and the weather was improving as we made our way steadily through Brynford, Pantasaph and Whitford to Lanasa.

The Red Lion didn’t look too busy but there were two familiar bikes outside and a warm welcome inside from Clive, Ivan and the relief manager who charmed us all.  Only one cask ale available but a wide choice of main meals plus free puddings on a Thursday.  No complaints on the food side then and we all chose bread and butter pudding to finish.  Dave and Liz please note.

For the return journey the plan was to head south through Trelawnyd, crossing the A55 and then onto the Babell road to return via Windmill and Northop.  Clive and Ivan agreed to stay with us until the A55 pointing out the best crossing (not clear on the map) and then doing their own thing.  With the wind behind us, as predicted, the return journey was much easier than the outward leg.  By 15:00 the sun was out and the views across the Dee and the Cheshire plain were stunning causing us to stop and take in the vista.  Before long we were over Windmill and dropping down through the winding lanes to Northop and back to Hawarden.

In all we had clocked 40 miles and 3,727 ft of ascent for a great day out albeit at a leisurely pace.

BW

19th February 2015: Great Budworth (mod)

The weather forecast was grim, and if it hadn't been for our commitment to the club, I guess most of us would have chosen a different day to ride. It was heartening to see a decent turnout at Manley Mere. Steve H was still having physio for his back, but had ridden out to meet us. Dave Matthews was in civvies. Next week he may Skype us over his boiled egg at breakfast. By the end of April he will be just a virtual image in the corner of the café.

Once again the staff were very welcoming. Alistair, who appeared to be in charge, was the catering manager who had very successfully organized Steve Tan's retirement do at I.C.I. That must have been difficult on a budget of five Yorkshire shillings a head!

John kindly lent me some gloves, as I had managed to leave mine at home. We set off together as most of the fast lads had been knackering themselves on speedy long rides earlier in the week. I have long recommended that the fast group consider using Thursdays as a gentle recovery ride to make the pace more inclusive. Nevertheless, by the time we had reached the top of Pingot Lane reality had kicked in! I found myself urging Clive to go ahead, as it was already apparent that an average pace would be taxing for some, and pedestrian for others.

The moderate group became Jim, Mike and myself. We headed for Kingsley via New Pale, dived down Dark Lane, and left the village down Roddy Lane. Next, we took the quiet roads to Actoncliffe and crossed the River Weaver and Trent and Mersey Canal. We reached Arley Hall through Frandley. Wherever possible the very quiet lanes, like Keepers Lane, were chosen. It had been a bit damp, but not enough to stop our enjoyment so far. We now began to head for The George and Dragon, past the scene of my hospital crash, and out of the estate at Moss End. 

We had covered 23 miles by lunch, and were soon ensconced by the fire with our drinks. The brisk group then appeared, having travelled a little further and being delayed by Steve sustaining a puncture. Clive then recalled one of his first rides with the club, when only the two of us turned up on a wet day, and we both ordered liver and onions. The pub has gone up-market since then, to the extent that I decided to return there with family and a very muddy dog for lunch on Saturday. The food was excellent and the service very friendly. They even made a fuss of the dog and gave him treats.

Steve changed his inner tube in the pub car park and joined the moderate group for the return journey on his mountain bike. Our route back was direct via Comberbach and Little Leigh, although we did take the picturesque route down the river before reaching Kingsley. We had a stiff climb through Newton, but were soon speeding down to the B5393, and then up the last steep bank at Simmond's Hill and on to Manley Mere via Sugar Lane. Mike waited for Jim, as Mike was also heading for Mickle Trafford, and then taking The Greenway to his car parked in Wales. Steve and I stopped for coffees and cake in front of the log burner. We had covered an enjoyable, if modest 35 miles.

DH

19th February 2015: Great Budworth (brisk)

The weather forecast was for light rain, heavy rain, dry then light rain: it wasn’t wrong!  So, I was a little surprised to see a lot of riders at Manley for the off. Dave H proposed Option One, the "George and Dragon" at Great Budworth, and, in the absence of Option 2, it was carried unanimously. So we set off in the pouring rain up the road and hill towards Manley School. 

It became clear that splitting into two groups was a better option so John, Steve T, Ray, Paul R and myself pushed on towards Kingsley, and, via the Dark Lane traverse, out via Roddy Lane. We then took the familiar "no-through" road route up Cliff Road to Acton Bridge. Out via Little Leigh, we were in danger of arriving at the pub far too early and so a diversion was called for. A handy, yet defunct, bus shelter appeared and I got out the iPhone from its protective enclosure to plot the diversion. I had to get out of the rain because, although the clear cover allows you to operate the phone through the clear cover, it doesn’t do so when the cover is wet, and it was wet and we were wet!  So now we head northeast towards Antrobus on our roundabout way to Arley Hall. I espy a footpath in Reed Lane and the “shortcut” to Laurel Farm. It was OK, but will be better in summer when it’s dry under the tyres. 

We now go round the compass down new lanes to enter Arley Hall. There seems to be a lot of prohibition notices about cyclists and private bridleways but my OS says that the back lane around the hall is a public footpath and so, because it was wet, we continued to cycle over the cobbles to exit east of the estate. It’s now an easy 2 miles to Great Budworth. I switch off the satnav as the battery is a bit down and we end up in Pickmere!  Across the vale, I can see Great Budworth church, so apologise for the minor diversion. Steve T arrives walking with a flat tyre. John and Paul shoot off to bag a table at the pub whilst Ray pumps up the errant tyre and we then send Steve off to maximise the cycling time on a punctured tyre. Ray and I catch him up after a quarter mile stationary, at the roadside, with the same flat tyre. Steve offers to use the "pump/ride/pump/ride" strategy to get to the pub and sends us on our way. Well, there are no direction signs, and we initially take the wrong lane to the pub but realise that it’s the next one 25m up the road. So Ray and I are not surprised to find Paul and John arriving after we start supping our pints. We have arrived after 27m and about 15 minutes after The Moderates. 

Photograph by John Wilkie

The pub looks after us well, as we all tuck in to decent fare and use the hot radiators to dry out the “waterproof” gloves. Steve T repairs the puncture and elects to go back to Manley with the Moderates. The journey back, thankfully in the dry, takes us for a brief stop at the Anderton Boat Lift and then out to Weaverham and a quiet run down to Sandiway. Here we elect to go straight back to Chester so take the main drag to Kelsall. John splits off to power down the bypass, Saughall bound. We three take the old Kelsall road, and then loop out via Barrow to find the Greenway. The route back to Manley would have been 47miles but to Chester it was mid 60’s. As ever, it’s the banter and the other riders that take your mind off the rain, pain and the mud to make the ride thorough enjoyable.

CA

12th February 2015: Pontcysyllite Aqueduct (mod)

Although this was our last ride from Alyn Waters this winter, a good sized group of eight, consisting of Dave and Liz P, Dave H, Steve T, Keith, Ray, myself and Andy (on his first ride for some time) met for tea and crumpet at the café, to be joined by Brian Mac who was doing a short ride.

The plan was to aim for Llangollen, but with the fall back choice of the Telford at Pontcysyllite if time was short. We set off for Windy Hill to be met immediately with ‘Road Closed’ signs. This was not on the agenda so we decided to press on regardless; a good choice as it turned out as there was no sign of road workers though some grids had been tampered with. Onward and upward onto ‘the steps’ which seem to get steeper every year, then Minera, Talwern and Rhosllanerchrugog before dropping down into Acrefair. Heading for the canal basin we realised that time was slipping away so stopped for lunch. I would like to say that the pub was warm and cosy but it wasn’t, though the food was welcome, and we were soon back in the saddle and heading across the famous aqueduct towards Chirk. 

Photograph by Steve Tan

Once over the Dee valley at Pentre we took the old main road, past the local landfill site and uphill to Cefnmawr, passing the well-known caravan sales site at the top of the hill. We noticed the usual large range of second hand vans on offer in any colour as long as you like mossy green! 

Northwards towards Ruabon, the town with more nail salons than population, and onto the back lane past New Hall recycling site, the two well known slag heaps that we all pass alongside the A483, and the old brickworks; a journey full of interest and architectural heritage! To the west of Wrexham we followed the lanes alongside the main road until we reached New Broughton. Here we went north along quite pleasant lanes and suburbs until we picked up our outward route at Windy Hill. 

However, the trials hadn’t finished yet as the mysterious road workers had appeared and were laying a lovely smooth layer of tarmac down our off route, and they definitely didn’t want several sets of tramlines spoiling the pristine surface. Carrying our bikes up the hedge bank we passed without any aggravation and arrived safely back at Alyn Waters in time for afternoon tea. All except Ray that is who had ridden out and set off for Caergwrle and Chester; a total distance of 60 miles for him but only 30 for us although they were very hilly.   

JD

5th February 2015: Burleydam (mod)

A good turnout today allowed the group to split into a moderate and a brisk ride. Jim had planned a ride to Burleydam but was unable to make it so Dave P, Steve T, Keith, Paul and Andy took an impromptu route via Harthill and Wrenbury. With favourable conditions and a slight tailwind we were ahead of schedule so took in an additional loop south of Audlem and back to the Combermere Arms at Burleydam. 

To return we took a more direct route via Ravensmoor and the southern side of the Peckforton hills where three of us took a leisurely excursion to admire the cottages and views of this delightful lane before retracing to cut around the eastern end of the hills to return to the Ice Cream Farm to join the others for coffee and cake.

Combermere Arms Tel: 01948 871 223: Good menu and 6 real ales. Cosy and warm in the traditional Pub Group style. A bit pricy for food and beer but a good choice for a lazy winters day. 

About 40 miles round trip to/ from Ice Cream Farm

DP

5th February 2015: Northop (brisk)

There were a lot of us at the Ice Cream Farm and so the Brisk group, consisting of Ivan, John, Tom, Ray and myself, set off slightly ahead of the Moderates bound for the unusual lunch stop of the Boot in Northop. I must admit to being a bit self-indulgent with the lunchtime target as I hadn't been to the Boot for several years. Due to its location, Northop is unlikely to be a lunch stop on a "normal" ride. The other reason for the choice was that I wanted to get back home in good time as I was off to Norfolk that evening, and, Ivan needed time to get his glad rags on to take Mrs D out for her birthday treat. Also, he had been kindly let out on licence for the day even though it was Mrs D's birthday! The ride split neatly into three sections. 

We set off for gentle climbs bound for Beeston and via Peckforton, the slide around Larkton Hill and then down into Duckington. The Moderate group slide by us at Bickerton church as we were stopped briefly to tighten my boots ready for the climbs I know will come later in the long ride before lunch. Through Tilston we motor on towards Holt. Once at Holt, the second section of the route is now "flat" as we take the old lanes past Wrexham Rugby club to sidle around Wrexham to get onto the Llay road and then onto Gwersyltt. Here the final third of the ride begins i.e. the hilly bit. Up towards Windy Hill we take the delightful Glyon lane to arrive half way up the Minera Steps. We run down briefly into Ffrith and then the long climb out to the Llandegla road just outside Treuddyn. Through the village I know that most of the climbing is now over as we head down and up dale with the final fast downhill run into Mold town centre to almost finish with the hill for the day. Here Ivan advises that there is a Wetherspoons and I say, "next time" as we head out up and past the Glasfrynn pub and continue the tiny lane up past Theatr Clywd towards Soughton. We're 5 minutes from the pub now but the rough lane takes its toll on Tom's rear wheel. 

After 50 miles from home and 37 miles from the Ice Cream Farm, we arrive at the Boot around 13:30. I check if the food's still on and a not-so-welcoming Mein Host advises that it is. We are the only diners so I worry that the food will take forever. There's Doom Bar behind the bar so all is not lost. The fare reads well and is a bit more expensive than I recall, but it has had a makeover thus explaining the pricing. Nevertheless the lights bites look inviting and come quite quickly and most importantly are substantial enough and taste fine as well. The lunchtime banter covers the usual range of topics from current affairs to mobiles. The run back to Chester (as no one needed or more specifically wanted to cycle 37 miles back to the ICF) was uneventful, running through Ewloe, past Aerospace and down the Dee path. We had 65 miles on the clock with a decent amount of altitude on yet another cold but dry day. Oh, and we got home relatively early as well!

CA

29th January 2015: West Kirby (mod)

With Brian Mac’s warning of gales, snow, rain and plagues of locusts, it was with some trepidation that myself, Dave H and Steve T set forth onto the Greenway into the teeth of a stiff breeze. The cloud cover threatened, but we arrived at the café at Ness a bit late but dry, and hopeful that once again the meteorologists had got it wrong. However, hardly had the brisk group helmeted up but it began to snow in Alpine quantities. The car park was soon covered in about an inch of wet snow, but they bravely set off into the unknown. Steve decided to go for a burn and joined the group leaving Dave and me to fly the flag for the moderates. We hung around for a while waiting for the blizzard to go over and set off southwards for Burton. The riding was tenuous to say the least not helped by the local drivers who clearly had little understanding of how to drive in wet slush. We slowly climbed up to the old station at Willaston, the snow steadily turning to rain and the going becoming easier as we continued north to Thornton Hough. Any thoughts of abandoning the ride were forgotten as we headed up to Brimstage and Storeton under steadily clearing skies. 

We ignored any temptation to take the unsurfaced Landican Lane at this point and turned west towards Barnston and then Irby. We even had a few sunny spells as we continued northwards to Pensby, Greasby and Meols. Our enthusiasm got the better of us briefly and we took to the sea front just outside Hoylake. The ‘breeze’ was well into double figures here and after struggling into a freezing head wind, we soon moved inland to get the shelter of the suburbs. Once into West Kirby we opted for a café instead of the usual pub lunch and found a very enticing establishment sporting a Victorian veranda that is probably very pleasant in summer but not at the end of January.

The service was speedy and despite the cosy interior we were soon heading back along the Wirral Way with a strong tail wind. Back at Ness we received a message from Clive that Steve was heading straight back along the Greenway, unfortunately having to stand around for a very cold hour before we arrived. Dave stoked up the Mazda however and Steve soon thawed out. A total of 56 miles in probably the worst conditions for a long time.

JD

29th January 2015: Wirral Périphérique to New Brighton (brisk)

The weather forecast was for snow, high winds, hail, and rain; and for once it was spot on. As Steve T, John and myself battled around the familiar Wirral Périphérique route in a clockwise manner, we got the lot. I was the first to arrive at Ness, and then a solitary rider, aka Mike, asked if I was from CER. Mike knew of us from John who soon arrived. The Moderates arrived (Jim, Dave H and Steve T) and were doing their own thing, but Steve T decided to chance his ride with the three Briskers - little did we know how much of risk the ride might turn out to be! Just as we left, there was a huge deluge of hail rattling on the cafe glass roof. Did we sit down and take another coffee? No! We set off down towards Burton Marsh and the Nets café lane to the Harp. Mike decides he’d already had enough and peeled off for home. 

We remaining three then literally battled along the track being shot-blasted by the hail stinging our faces. We reached much needed cover near the Harp and the wind dropped a little but the hail turned to heavy snow. As we battled on near to Allans Meadow, I was tempted to call at Brian Mac’s house and seek sanctuary. We have a quick conference, and after brushing off the rapidly accumulating snow from our wet weather gear, we elect to get onto the Wirral Way that would offer us grip in the snow and hail. The snow eases off and we agree to keeping going to West Kirby and make a decision there. The newly widen trackway is somewhat bumpier than I recall, but we make good progress and arrive in West Kirby with the sun out. We elect to go on as the wind will be behind us all the way to New Brighton. So, taking the cycleway past Hoylake station, we end up on the North Parade prom. Here I easily manage 35mph under wind assist, and John a bit more as he glides by me. We quickly arrive in New Brighton somewhat frozen even with the sun out and opt for the familiar but distinctly cold and draughty Seaside Cafe and the all-day breakfast while our gloves dry and warm on the single radiator. 

Wot No Snow!

Photographs by John Wilkie

As we leave in the sunshine, the wind gets up as we trundle easily along Magazines Promenade, past Seacombe and Woodside ferry terminals for the familiar Wirral Wander trail back towards Chester. Around Rock Ferry Park, the clouds darken ominously and we get shot-blasted again with hail until Eastham Ferry. Here it’s a quick run to Childer Thornton. As none of us need to get back to Ness Gardens, we access the NCN 56 cycleway towards Mollington.  

Mersey Ferry Smiles

Steve motors on to pick his car up at Jim’s, and John breaks for Saughall as I trundle down into the Mollington metropolis. If we had gone back to Ness, it would have been along the Wirral Way again thus completing the 40-mile loop. We were lucky with the weather as it didn’t get any worse after Parkgate, but it could have easily turned out differently. Steve found an inch of snow back home in Runcorn!

CA

22nd January 2015: Hanmer (mod)

The bridge was closed between Farndon and Holt, and there were significant delays at the junction of the A55 and A483, but everyone made it on time to Hildegard's. Well, I say everyone, but obviously not our tandemists, yet. Dave and 'Liz duly arrived at 10:26, and Dave ordered porridge, a kipper, toast and marmalade and continuous coffee top-ups. (O.K., I am ever so slightly exaggerating!). We were very happy to welcome Martin and Sarah, a friendly and athletic looking couple who appeared to be proper cyclists, so inevitably went with the brisk group of Ivan, John and Ray.

Jim, George, Liz Donaldson, Dave & Liz P, Steve Tan, Brian Mac and myself set out north, mainly on the pavement as the road was up. At Churton we tuned east for Coddington and headed south for Tilston via Barton and Stretton.  We turned right at Tilston and then worked an intricate web of small lanes in order to avoid Malpas and enjoy some peace in typical easy rider terrain. Horton Green, Chorlton Lane, Cuddington Heath, Oldcastle Heath, then left along Bishop Bennet Way, right at Manor Farm to the usual hilly challenge of the area around Lower Wych. On reaching Eglwys Cross we headed down what was the grottiest surface of the day. It started to dawn on me as we approached the sea of mud at Hanmer Hill Farm that this was part of a previous Clive route in reverse. No surprise there! Never mind; we were soon racing down the hill with pretty Hanmer Mere on the left, before turning up to the Hanmer Arms with 20.5 miles recorded. 

The service and food at the Hanmer Arms was really good, as ever, at one of our favourite pubs. Liz and George instigated an interesting discussion ranging around books and films, with Wolf Hall and the character of Cromwell at the fore. I then overheard Dave Pipe interrogating the waitress about portion sizes; after my comments about eating last week, you couldn't make it up! 

Dave H's wish comes true a week late

The route back was intended to be relatively direct and speedy. We returned via Three Fingers, Tallarn Green, Threapwood and Shocklach. Some of us started to wind up the pace towards Farndon, as is now the tradition. It was only 8/10ths stuff, but it at least it raised our heart rates for a sustained few miles. Between my map and reading glasses tied around my neck with shoelaces, and Jim's GPS a hundred yards back, we had navigated without any hitches or delays.

Photograph By Brian MacDonald

It had been a very enjoyable ride, and back at Hildegard's we had a good laugh with our excellent hostess, and plenty of tea and cake, of course. Conversation covered the pros and cons of dog ownership, and the hokey cokey of the Sun's page three. Actually, I've just realised that you can't mix the images on page three with the lyrics of the hokey cokey and expect to go to Heaven!

Our ride back was once again shorter than our fitness levels required in order to improve. We probably need to stretch ourselves a little further now as the days become lighter. A lovely day with friends, nevertheless and 32 miles done.

DH 

22nd January 2015: Tilley (brisk)

Riding out from home with Ray the temp was 5˚C and it was chilly. Clive was sailing today so someone else needed to lead the ride and I had a ride prepared in case needed.  Arriving at Hildegard’s John was already tucking into his tea and tea cakes and soon the cafe was full with riders taking advantage of an expected dry day with little wind, albeit cold.

The Brisk team today would consist of Ray, John and Ivan with new riders Sarah and Martin.  A big welcome to both new riders, they are long distance cyclists and very fast with Sarah demonstrating her speed sprinting up all the hills and today we covered 791 meters!! on a route to Tilley (Where!!).

The road from the river bridge at Farndon to Holt is under resurfacing and pretty bumpy so leaving the cafe we departed along the Wrexham Rd to the main road for the chosen route out via Crewe by Farndon and Shocklach. We are soon enjoying the frost free and relative quiet roads and soon rolling down hill at Sarn Bank. 

Our route is direct to Hanmer and passing the Hanmer Arms Hotel I advised the group that this is where the moderates are heading for their lunch, it was 11:20 so we carried on. The lanes passing Bettisfield and Nortwood were excellent and a pleasure to be cycling along.

We arrive at Wem and the Garmin did not let me down, following a path in the direction of a dead end car park supposedly, we got to a gate that required we had to lift our bikes over if we were to go through so we about turn back into the town.

Photograph by Ivan Davenport

It didn't take long and we were on Tilley lane and approaching lunch at our lunch venue the "Tilley Raven" last visited 8th September 2013. As then we were made welcome providing a big table for 5, although all tables were shown reserved, and our lunches were ordered. As per Clive’s write up of this inn nothing changes, we had arrived at 12:05 and lunch arrived 13:00 but it was worth the wait enjoying good cask ales and Ray selecting a Rump steak to build his stamina up for the return ride home. No puddings today!! so we rejoined our bikes and returning via Wem town and turning right for Creamore Bank we are again enjoying some lovely tarmac. The only dirty road was experienced at Welsh End and a single track taking us over the Shropshire Union Canal via a wooden drawbridge.

We were fast going down Shothill and trying to read the route on the Garmin at speed in sunshine I call a wrong turn and bring our down hill roller coaster to a halt only to advise the group we are carrying on - Sarah and Martin lead us up the hill but if any of you can recall this bank it is a long steepish climb.

Once over the brow we are then heading for Malpas with a good view of the church from this direction then on to Tilston and Stretton where our new riders leave us heading for Pulford. Prior to arriving at this juncture we had an altercation with the BMW mentality driver. We were running at 24+ leaving Tilston and just as you approach the right hand little bridge the idiot overtook us and nearly took a car out approaching in the opposite direction. He then slowed and held up his two fingers but kept far enough in front of John otherwise he would have found them elsewhere in his anatomy (he did take note of the number plate!!).

The trio arrived back into Chester and all departed for home after completing a 72 mile journey from home although from the cafe it was probably a 49 mile round trip.

A good day out for January at an average of 15.4 mph. 

ID

15th January 2015: No Mans Heath (mod)

Telephone commitments had been made, barring snow and ice. There was also the forecast of very strong, gusty winds to consider: enough to deter our intrepid tandemists for once. Keith, Steve and myself arrived at Utkinton in the big, black van. John, Ivan, Clive, Jim and Liz also made it, with Bryan in civvies as he was preparing to go to the Caribbean. Jim had already briefly mentioned a couple of possible destinations with me the day before, and we had since independently decided exactly the same route. It is slightly disturbing to find one's thinking processes to be synchronized exactly with Jim's! The splitting into two groups was needed as the pace differential between the fastest and slowest was likely to be considerable. 

The moderate group comprised Liz, Jim, Keith, Steve and myself. We set off on a route that we often return by: Rhuddall Heath, Tilstone Fearnhall, Bunbury and Brindley. We then navigated our way to Larden Green and up Chorley Bank before heading west for Bickley Moss and The Wheatsheaf at No Mans Heath. We had selected this route so that any strong wind or wintery showers would not be directly in our faces after lunch, but so far we had enjoyed some blue sky, and only a little rain, and the wind had not really bothered us.  Our hosts at the Wheatsheaf were friendly and helpful, and the food was very good and excellent value. I made sure that I ordered my food first, but was served last - there's a moral there somewhere for pushy people! There was a choice about portion size, but without Dave and Liz to collude with, we all seemed too self-conscious to order the larger meals. 

The uncertainty about the weather had us heading more directly back than if we could have been sure that we wouldn't find ourselves coping with possible snow and high winds. As it turned out it was a very pleasant ride back via Hampton Green, right at Ashton's Cross, and avoiding Harthill by heading north-east to Peckforton with the wind largely behind us. We were soon rounding Beeston Castle and diving down to the tricky humpback at the Shropshire Union Canal. We arrived early in Tarporley, but I was out-voted, so we didn't stop at The Fire Station for coffee and cake. Being a true democrat I accepted the group's decision, but really what's the world coming to? I suppose the hard up peasant culture of their youth is never really forgotten by natives of Yorkshire and Derbyshire, who enjoy being ' tight' even with themselves. Medics enjoy doing without in order to boast about their exemplary low blood sugar levels. Am I going to be the only fat man on a bike in this club? It's not as if the moderate riders are trying to emulate Chris Froome, or even second-rate horse jockeys. Where were the Pipes when I needed them!  32 very enjoyable miles in excellent, if slightly stingy company, finishing rather early, because of the tragic omission of a coffee stop.  It wouldn't have happened if Bryan Wade had been able to ride. . . .etc., etc.
DH for Jim

15th January 2015: Plumley (brisk)

The weather forecast for today's ride must have put some cyclists off venturing out today but the threat of severe winds and cold did not materialise for our ride.

On arrival at Rose Farm there were already 10 riders braving the wind. As the moderates had considered one ride I proposed a ride out to Plumley and the Smokers Inn.

Clive, John and Ivan set out with the wind behind us. Turning left and left after leaving the cafe I was following route along Utkington Lane. We were flying without any hard pedalling. Cycle route 71 turns right at the main A49 with a right hand join which goes along a real Clive track. We decided to reverse and go via Oulton Mill and Whitegate. Our revised route went via Little Budworth and Whitegate Road to pass Winsford. Following my Garmin it does read tracks as a road when researching a proposed route and we end up facing a proper boggy lane/track so Clive thankfully diverted us again round this style and onto the Whitegate Way which surface was very hard and clean.

Off we came at the end by the rock salt plant and crossed over the Weaver and under the two bridges. There followed a nice ride passing Moulton and Davenham and on to Lach Dennis. The wind was behind us all of the ride and good time was being made. After taking the usual route through Davenham and over the river bridges we turned left heading towards Plumley.

We arrive at the Smoker Inn at midday day but we're not the first patrons to arrive. We were soon enjoying an early lunch and thoughts now we're the facing wind for the 24 miles ride home.

After a good lunch and liquid refreshment we set off crossing the busy A556 and riding along the footpath before turning into Linnards Lane to Wincham. This road takes us into Northwich and we navigate our way through, reading the Garmin screen in bright sunshine on busy roads is not easy!!

However we get through without a wrong turning and we are up hill along Winnington Lane. We continue along facing a wind but nothing that we haven't faced before and we're still averaging 14/15 mph through Weaverham and Acton Bridge.

After passing the railway station John starts to have chain drop and over the next 10 miles he stops to put his chain on at least six occasions.

We pass over Norley and sprint along through Delamere ups and down and finally for those bound for Chester along Manley Lane and back to Mickle Trafford and home.

A good days riding cut short due to reported weather that really didn't live up to the write up but our ride did.

John got back in good time to Halfords and the Boardman is again all systems go.

ID

8th January 2015: Llanasa (mod)

A good-sized group of 10 met at the café, including Bryan, out for a short ride after illness, and Trevor. The moderate group, consisting of Dave and Liz, Steve T, Dave H, George and myself, decided to head for Llanasa in view of the somewhat limited hours of daylight available to us. I had a plan that if we did our usual route but in reverse, the climb up past the quarries would be all downhill but as Dave pointed out we have to gain the height at some point.

We set off for Northop with the tandem and George in the lead and me speaking from the rear: now there’s a novelty!

The lane to Pentre Halkyn led us steeply up to the top road and then downwards towards Babell. A right turn northwards took us over the A55 on the rather muddy farm bridge and then towards Whitford. A sharp left then took us down to the Red Lion for Lunch. Some enjoyed a tasty lamb stew though others went for the gourmet option of fish finger ciabatta!

As usual we spent too much time in conversation and the time was approaching 2 o’clock when we departed for the return journey. The first half-mile was a rather unwelcome steep climb on top of a full belly but we were soon bowling along the lane towards Whitford again. The promised strong westerly afternoon winds only occurred in gusts and were little help as we climbed steadily up to Gorsedd, past the old priory and east to Brynford. In Pentre Halkyn we turned south up to Windmill and the peak of our day’s climbing. Avoiding the narrow muddy lane by the fishing pond in Halkyn Mountain, we passed through Rhosesmoor and then turned left onto the Northop lane. 

This being winter the farmer had been doing some hedge cutting and sure enough, hardly had we reached the lane to Soughton before I felt my valve bumping along the road surface. Luckily Dave P had his ‘master blaster’ pump with him and with a few strokes my tyre was rock hard again. This Lasted until we got to Alltami at which point we decided to take the B road back to Ewloe and Hawarden High Street arriving back at the car park just after 4 pm.

42 stiff, hilly miles, but reasonable dry weather. A good ride for a January day.

JD

8th January 2015: Holywell (brisk)

I’d decided upon a circuitous route to a Holywell lunch stop with two options for the return making either a 38 mile or 45 mile ride. Lunch was planned at the old Woolworth’s in the High Street, which would be 26 miles of the route completed with Wetherspoon’s to look forward to. We four (Ivan, Ray, John, and myself) set off bound for Buckley heights. We head for Llong down new lanes out of the back of Buckley, then off towards Gwernymynydd. Ignoring the short double-chevroned hill at Fron Hall, we turn right down a small new lane bound for the Mold suburbs. We wiggle through some attractive housing areas before accessing the westerly Gwernaffield road then turning right off it at Bryn Farm. Here we take the delightful lane across and down to the A541 west of Hendre. Just before we get to the A541, ominously black clouds appear, and we get ready for an icy deluge. It arrives promptly and we have to endure the car and lorry spray on the A road before turning right and up the steep climb towards Lixwm. 

Thankfully the rain soon stops and the sun comes out as we head north for Babell down more new lanes. It’s a straight run to Gorsedd and Carmel before accessing the pedestrian High Street into the warm arms of Wetherspoon’s. As ever, service is prompt, there are good beers, and the price is right. The lunchtime discussion ranges through the history of religion in England, and in the wake of the Paris massacre, the need for understanding other peoples’ or country's viewpoints, but also not necessarily agreeing with them. 

Photograph by John Wilkie

I offer the two return options, and as soon as I suggest we go up onto the top, there is a preference for the going down route. Leaving briefly by the main road to Bagillt, we dive off down a single chevon lane and up the steep complementary climb out onto the top again, to good views of the Wirral and beyond in the afternoon sunshine. We wend our way down tiny lanes into the back of Bagillt and take the old road and contra-directional cycle path to the outskirts of historic Flint. Opposite Sainsbury’s I spot the NCN5 sign and dive off towards the Dee estuary. We cycle up the little inlet as the tide comes in at Flint Point to get a magnificent panorama of the Dee estuary with Parkgate opposite us and the “new” bridge and Shotton steelworks in the distance. I wonder out loud what the scene would have been like back in the 13C when Edward I built the castle and what the inlet had been used for. Was this where Griff Rhys Jones came ashore to start his Holywell Pilgrimage? We wander passed the forlorn castle and, as going back to Hawarden was unnecessary, we head the usual way home via the now newly cream Hawarden railway bridge and along the greenway. It would have been only 38m back to the Gallery, but I was pleased to ride some new lanes and to have sampled the forgotten past of Flint.

CA

1st January 2015: Tilston

The New Year was seen in with a party and champagne last night, but that was some hours ago.  Now it was New Year’s Day and time to set off for the first CER ride of the year.  With the Blue Moon Café closed for refurbishment the decision was made to join up with the CTC Chester Section at Christleton Pond for a leisurely joint ride out to the Carden Arms at Tilston to join the annual New Year’s Day meet of local cycle groups.  Of the eleven riders who met up at 10:30 there were three CER members (David M, John and myself).

Sue Booth demonstrated her new selfie stick before Martin led us out via Waverton and Tattenhall.  The weather was much warmer than it had been on New Year’s Eve and we soon had to stop to shed a layer of clothing.  Then it was on to Tilston via Chowley and Lower Carden arriving just after 12:00 noon.

Judging from the number of bikes outside, the pub was already busy and so it proved.  There was a queue of Wrexham Reivers at the bar and with only a single barman on duty it took a while to get served but at least the food order of beef or veggie stew could be ordered at the same time.  Lessons learned from last year when a separate food queue meant twice as long standing in line.  The stews were excellent and were served and consumed quickly.  Then it was time for the serious business of catching up with old friends from the other cycling groups; quite a few of whom I only get to meet once or twice a year.  Mike Cross made the presentations to the leading local female and male tourist competition riders: Lowry Evans and Peter Dilworth.  Soon it was 14:00 and time to leave.

Sue Booth led the ride back by way of Crewe-by-Farndon, Aldford and Saighton where we split up with some heading back to the start and others taking the direct route to Chester.  In all about 30 miles done; dry with the wind against us in the morning and wet but with the wind behind on the way home.  A great way to start the New Year.

BW

26th December 2014: Hanmer

Manley Mere was to be the meeting point but it was closed, so the ever-reliable Hildegard’s was chosen. I arrived just after 10:00 to find John waiting outside.  Hildegard opened up shortly after and gave us a warm Christmas welcome.  A little later Dave M arrived, and we spoke about our Christmases and cycling.  Both John and Dave were only out for a brew and made their ways home.  I needed a bit more exercise after too much Christmas cheer, and followed an old ride southwards out of Holt to the west of the Dee to Bangor, then on to Penley and Bettisfield before looping back north towards Hanmer.  The return was via Cuddington Heath, then northwards east of the Dee to Farndon.

Despite bad weather warnings the ride out was dry though muddy and cold.  After a quick stop at the Hanmer Arms (always a good choice) the return was wet and murky.  A lone walker flagged me down just north of Shocklach – she was lost and wanted to know how to get back to the Carden Arms! I put her on her way and my good deed done, headed back to Farndon and then on to home increasingly wet.  The snow started after my return. 

One of those days when it was well worth the effort to get out.  The round trip from Holt to Hanmer would have been about 40 miles.

See route map and/or gpx file download.

SH

18th December 2014: Overton

I’d emailed around to see who might venture out to Alyn, and the few positives duly arrived at Alyn Water. Colin and I had ridden out from Chester to find Steve H already there. The Tandem Two duly arrived near to departure time. I’d original planned a big ride as my last ride of the year, but with inclement weather promised, and the certainty of high winds, the Horseshoe Pass would have to wait!  

We set off bound for Ellesmere into the teeth of a south easterly gale. Just passed Sainsbury’s, the wind really got up as we struggled up to the Maelor Hospital. In theory I had found a short cut to the Erdigg road via the Puleston Industrial Estate and, in practice it actually worked. A useful shortcut for the future methinks.  Erdigg was in the Christmas mood and the ice-decorated gates looked quite realistic.

Photograph by Clive Albany

We go through the various Sontleys and here the hedge shearers had been out. So, as I was thinking, “one of us is bound to succumb to a puncture”, my front tyre goes down. The puncture was not due to a thorn however, but a nasty piece of shattered windscreen. Two punctures in two weeks - enough for a season that is!  I divert down to Erbistock and the Dee is swollen but not too high. We slog up the main road to Overton fighting the incline and the wind. Stopping outside the White Horse to allow the tandem to catch up, there is a presumption of “we’ve had enough and this pub will do”. So solely in the interests of heading off a mutiny, and at only 14 miles from coffee, I readily agree it’s time for a warm bar and a pint. As ever, the White Horse offers friendly service and decent Joules beer. 

As no rain arrives, we decide we can’t stay any longer so I modify the route to connect into my planned return from Ellesmere. We set off bound for Ellesmere but soon take a delightful lane (well in summer it will be) to Lightwood Green. A right and left takes on the lanes to Cloy bound for Bangor. A short section of A525 takes us up to Cross Lanes and thence onwards to the outskirts of Wrexham. I decide to take a distinctly un-pretty direct route through the acres of housing estates bound for the Llay Road. The Tandem miss our left turn, although we see them behind us as we turn.  I chase after them but to no avail.  A voicemail tells us not to worry, so we motor on back to Alyn.  Only a paltry 28 miles and one of the shortest rides I’ve lead in 5 years of CER membership. Although the weather forecast was warning of showers, we barely had any rain all day - the Met Office really does need the £100m computer upgrade.  Colin and I motor back to Chester down Marford Hill and through Dodleston to clock up 60 miles.

Enjoy your Christmas festivities, and I hope Santa buys you that lightweight carbon exotica you’ve always drooled over. See you in 2015.

CA

11th December 2014: Overton (brisk)

A wild day in prospect as four “Briskers" set off bound for The White Horse in Overton. The reason for the lunch location was to head into the stiff westerly winds on the way out and get blown home after lunch. The Moderates decided that they would also go to the White Horse and plotted their own route. So Ivan, John, Paul and myself set off on a non-obvious route up to the Pheasant at Burwardsley and over the top to Peckforton. This "footpath come cycle path" route is cyclable and is a useful shortcut. We have to share it with two white Discos today as their drivers practice their controlled-descent skills - why were they in white cars? - they probably won’t be at the end of the off-road training! At the Bickerton Poacher, we turn towards Bickerton and take the lane that shoulders Larkton Hill. Ducking down past Duckington, we cross the A41 at Edge Green bound for Kidnal. 

In Chorlton, I pick up a rear wheel puncture and don the latex gloves to effect the tube change. The wind is blowing now and the rain is in our faces as we try to make up time. At Cloy, I decide to cut out the experimental loop through Lightwood Green and go straight to the pub into the westerly winds. I’d phoned the pub earlier and was told that they had a Christmas party in but could accommodate us, and it would be OK. True to their word, we all were.

The Moderates were ensconced in one corner of the bar with their food order about to be delivered. We take the other corner and order the food, and Ivan and I sample Joules “Slumbering Monk” ale. The food comes quickly and a further two pints as well. Well it was soon time to get outside into the cold again and hurtle down Overton Hill, Wrexham-way bound. Ivan breaks off to go to Connah’s Quay to pick up his now mended Disco, as we three wend our way back to Holt via Cross Lanes. Eschewing the prepared ride, we now head for home. The route would have been 50 miles, but on a cold, wet, and windy December day the 60 miles I managed from home was quite enough today. The bike looks absolutely filthy - a jet-wash day tomorrow is in prospect.

CA

11th December 2014: Overton (mod)

When a shaven headed guy from Runcorn gives you a steely stare you know it is time to step forward and "volunteer" to write up a ride.  Only kidding Dave.  Not that I am averse to the written word.  I am from the educational era where writing was taught sitting in rows in wrought iron desks bolted to the classroom floor.  Most of the teachers had taught your parents if not your grandparents.  Writing implements consisted of a piece of wood with a bendy metal nib in the end.  Ink the consistency of watered down boot polish was held in a ceramic pot in a hole at the top right hand corner of the desk lid, the least useful place for a left-hander.  Lifting said desk lid revealed the names of the majority of the people who lived in the village, scratched into the wood.  I was related to most of them, we were a close-knit community.

However, I digress.  The weather forecast was for the westerly wind to ease to a moderate gale and the torrential rain to reduce to the occasional hailstorm.  Good enough then.  Eleven of us assembled at the Ice Cream Farm.  Dave M and Bryan had other matters to attend to and Jim looking very fit and tanned after his two weeks in the Canary Islands was off to the Gym where it was warm and dry - sensible fellow.  After a "debate" reminiscent of Prime Minister's Question Time but without Mr Speaker to referee we decided to split into two groups.  Both would head for the White Horse at Overton.  The "brisk" group, which consisted of Clive, Ivan, Paul and John, were going to take the long way round to get the miles in.  The "moderate" group, Dave H, Steve H, Liz & Dave P and yours truly, who just wanted to get to the pub were going to take the direct route.  So out of the Ice Cream Farm and left into the wind.  Then left again heading south through Tattenhall, across the A41, through Clutton and across the A534.  The long sweep past the golf course, through Higher Carden and Lower Carden took us into Tilston.  Still heading south we skirted Horton Green before turning west into the wind again to reach Shocklach.  Turning south again we made Worthenbury before one last adjustment on the compass took us southwest through Holly Bush to Overton.

A friendly greeting from the landlady and a warning that two Christmas groups had rather overwhelmed them and our food could be delayed.  This is a Joules pub with a fine selection of excellent ales so we weren't too disappointed.  In the event the food orders were taken after approximately 15 minutes.  The food arrived after a further 15 minutes just as the "brisk" quartet, who had been wrestling manfully with a puncture, clocked in.   Fully replenished we left our fellow club members to their puddings and the five amigos headed out.  Aware of the weather forecast foretelling of Armageddon after 3:30 pm we decided that retracing our steps would ensure the maximum benefit of any tail wind.  Steve H left us after Tattenhall to head straight for home and the remaining four amigos were enjoying afternoon tea and mince pies back at the Ice Cream Farm before 3:30pm.  A round trip of 35 miles largely dry, we all agreed a bonus ride on a deep winter's day.

GW