10th August 2023: Dunham Woodhouses (mod)

There was a good turnout on a warm morning outside Delamere station cafe. Andy, Peter and Jim were having to return after coffee, and  Dave Matthews would be peeling off early. It was good to hear that Peter was riding more and making progress with his recovery, and also to see Ray return from injury. The rest of the group consisted of Ever Ready Ray, Steve Tan, Trevor, Alan, Clive and myself. I suggested The Rope and Anchor as a lunch stop. I had led a group there in the past, and ridden out to lunch with Keith to this destination adjacent to the Trans Pennine Way. There was a very pleasant outside area, and the food had been fine.

We headed out via the attractive backwater around Norley Hall, and diverted at Crowton down Ainsworth Lane. Surprisingly, Steve spotted a friend of ours from Runcorn turning his car around in this quiet lane. We think that he must have been visiting the home of Mick Miller, who had, sadly, very recently past away. Mick, in his prime, was a larger than life, big-bearded, blue-eyed Viking of a character with his own coal business, and was a master chimney sweep. R.I.P. Mick. From Acton Bridge we headed for Cogshall Hall, and turned into Comberbach along Senna Lane. We avoided the plunge down and up to Great Budworth, passing the Cock O' Budworth on our way to Bate Heath. We turned north and reached Little Bollington by way of Hoo Green and Booth Bank. All very scenic, lovely little lanes, time to cruise and chat to Ray S, about the culture of our club, and our experiences riding up Ventoux. I was also able to share with Alan the challenges of living with partners who are always keen to 'disappear' your stuff, and of maintaining family cars that are probably past their sell by date.  

Photo by AO

At Arthill, I consulted about lunch, and we decided we would try my suggestion of the Rope and Anchor, although on passing The Swan with Two Nicks I noticed it wasn't too crowded, and was tempted. As our destination was only ten minutes away, it was decide not to bother wasting time ringing, as we usually had no problems just turning up. Not this time! The Rope and Anchor was obviously understaffed in the catering department, we would have a long wait for food , and they couldn't serve us in the garden. And, it wasn't even busy! Clive had mentioned  The Vine, and as we had only just passed it, about 300m back, we finished up there. Ray Baird's pie and chips seemed fine, but the roast sandwiches were simply awful. I won't be going back! As I had to miss last week's ride, this was consecutive rides for me with a disgusting lunch (The Lord Combermere being the previous one).

After luch we set out across the sun-soaked fields towards towards Lymm on the Trans Pennine Trail. Sparky Baird was feeling the heat, and it was an exceptionally hot day, when the need to stay hydrated was a priority. I came off the old rail route a little early, thinking that a brisk mile on the main road would be direct and quick, but road works thwarted us. After climbing out of Lymm from The Cross we took the back lanes to Sworton Heath, crossing the A50 and taking Swineyard Lane toward the old airfield and Antrobus. Clive and Ray Stigter excused themselves, and headed for the A56. We returned via Antrobus, Frandley and Little Leigh. Steve, Alan and myself treated ourseves to ice creams at Delamere. Trevor had carried on for home at Hatchmere,  so had clocked some extra miles on a hot day. We covered about forty five miles from Delamere and back on mainly quiet, rural lanes. The company was enjoyable as ever, but the lunch experience is likely to make me even more conservative in my choice of future pub destinations. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

DH

3rd August 2023 : Baschurch (Mod+)

There was a good turnout of CER riders for this far flung start point. Ken & Nick had ridden over and were doing their own thing, this left Clive, Steve Hu, Alan, Trevor and Andy B as a mixed group. Steve Hu had a route up the Ceiriog valley, 35 miles with 3500 ft of climbing. Even Steve thought that was a daft idea! Clive suggested Moor Farm Cafe just outside Baschurch, a 46 mile route. This was unanimously adopted. 

On leaving the Castle Bistro a few drops of rain could be felt, however little did we know this would be the last precipitation we would see all day; moreover we spent the bulk of the day in glorious sunshine. Cold legs and Chirk Bank are not a good combination and soon Clive had the peloton strung out along the road. Riding through Weston Rhyn and Wern, we enjoyed some lovely CER lanes. Clive’s orbital route around Oswestry was challenging as he avoided the town centre and the one way systems. Soon we were back on small lanes heading for Maesbury.

 
Between Maesbury and Montford Bridge, we began to notice the brisk tailwind that we were benefiting from and reminded ourselves this was a circular ride. This section of lanes is really quiet as you are rarely near any villages and really just out in the wilds. At Montford Bridge, we had arrived at our most southerly point and from now on we were heading back north. Just outside the village of Baschurch, to the west Clive showed us the correct way to enter the lunch venue “should you be arriving by horse”! A quick photo opportunity was taken by the Polo field and we sat down to consume our lunch.

The food at Moor Farm was excellent and provided us with the sustenance for the windy return leg. Over lunch Clive regaled us with the history of Baschurch or Eglwyssau Bassa. It is famous for the early work of Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt in the establishing an Orthopaedic unit in early 1900 at Boreatton Park. The successor and much larger sister site of this can now be found nearer Chirk known locally as just Gobowen. Boreatton Park continues to provide a service , now as a PGL (Children’s activity centre) .

As we skirted West Felton, the full effect of the North West wind could be felt on the long exposed section up to Whittington. From here it was a gentle run past the modern Orthopaedic Hospital at Gobowen an on towards Chirk. Mindful of the last hill following the A5 roundabout (or should that be called the Dave Heath chicken run ), Clive turned left by the pub to allow us to enter Chirk over the canal viaduct, a most pleasant alternative to the long drag. 

An excellent route led by Clive with great company.

SHu 

See route map and/or gpx file download

27th July 2023: Audlem (mod)

The weather was pretty dire as we gathered at Alison’s, but by the time it came to leave the rain was down to a light drizzle, so waterproofs weren’t needed. Seven ‘mods’ offered themselves for a 40-odd mile ride I had planned down to Audlem, although a late counter offer from Mr & Mrs Pipe for a 30-odd miler to The Bhurtpore nearly saw Dave H defect from the group, which also included Steve Hu, Alan, Andy B, George, Mike G and myself.

Turning right out of Alison’s we’d only gone half a mile when a cry came from the back about some kind of problem. We waited at the left turn into Bird’s Lane and a few minutes later Dave H appeared having gone back to the car park to collect his water bottle.

After this hiatus, we moved on swiftly through Beeston and Bunbury, aided by a tail wind. We continued on through Haughton and Burland to Ravensmoor and Sound and we arrived in Audlem about 12.10, having covered 20 miles in warm and mostly dry weather. I’d planned to eat either at the Lord Combermere pub or the Old Priest House café, depending  on how many riders we were, as the café has limited seating. 

As we were a group of seven, I opted for the pub, which seemed eerily quiet as we arrived. Parking the bikes around the back, we got menus and then went inside to order. Well, to say it was slow was an understatement, the guy behind the bar not being able to work the card machine and writing down each order on a notepad. Steve Hu clocked this early on and ducked out of the queue to go and find an alternative source of lunch.

The rest of us ordered either a burger or a ‘flat bread’ and a soft drink. Andy and Dave had wanted a pot of tea, but that wasn’t available as ‘the machine was broken’. How difficult can it be? Kettle, water, tea bag, milk….

While we waited for the meals to arrive, Steve Hu came back to report that the Old Priest House was, indeed, closed. Having changed hands quite recently, the new owners ran it for 14 weeks before deciding to shut.

The food arrived about 45 minutes after ordering it. Whilst the beef/chicken burgers that George and I had were just about passable for £8, the flat breads were about six inches in diameter and covered with the ‘topping of your choice’ and cost £10. The pub isn’t on our list of favoured lunch stops and is not going to be added on the basis of today’s repast. In fact, no-one else came into the pub whilst we were there and the car park was empty as we left. The collective view is that it will be closed down when we next go to Audlem and The Village Chippy seems like the likely lunch venue.

We cycled past The Old Priest House along Stafford Street (which had ‘road closed’ signs across it) to take a loop around the south of Audlem. There were no signs of road works or other obstructions by the time we peeled off up Paddock Lane to go through Kinsey Heath and Swanbach, after which we turned north heading for Aston (and the Bhurtpore, where there was no sign of Mr & Mrs Pipe) and Wrenbury.

We stopped for a group photo as we crossed the Shropshire Union canal at Wrenbury and managed to hijack a passer-by to take the picture. It turned out that he was on a narrow boat and had come to lift the road bridge to allow his barge to pass through, so that provided us with a second photo opportunity.

Photos by Steve T

Our route then took us towards Gaunton’s Bank and The Cholmondeley Arms where we crossed the A49. Pressing on past the gardens and Egerton Green, we were approaching the crossing of the A534 when a cry came from the back to watch out for some ruffians on bikes who were tearing up the tarmac.

This turned out to be the ‘fast lads’ heading back from their trip out to Alsager (see Clive’s report), so a small race ensued to the top of Harthill.  The result was a draw and all that remained was to roll down Bolesworth Road into Tattenhall to complete 43 miles on a day of mixed fortunes. Great company, reasonably clement weather, but an awful lunch.

See route map and/or gpx file download

ST

27th July 2023 : Alsager (brisk)

For the first time since the April Special Ride there have been two consecutive Brisk rides. Last week it was Ivan’s ride to Crewe, and this week mine to Alsager. With a little WhatsApp prodding, five of us supped at Alison’s  - John M, Richard, Ken, Ivan and myself - Nick was enjoying his birthday day out and Ray was “enjoying” a nasty horsefly bite to his thigh.

The weather was iffy to start with and it didn’t disappoint as I donned my rainwear in Christleton. Ivan and I enjoyed rain all the way to Alison’s cafe. I’d advertised the route to Alsager to lunch at Hall Farm cafe with the route first taking us the usual way to Nantwich. In and out to Wybunbury (Winbry) which is reckoned to be one of the earliest settlement in Cheshire, we take the four mile Wrinehill Lane to Wrinehill. Betley is left but we go right for a bit on the main road sliding off towards Madeley Heath. A left into the rising four mile long Heighley Lane (circling the ruins of the 13C castle hidden in the trees) finds us in Audley, named after the former family owners of the said castle.

It’s another 4 miles before we slide left through Alsager to find Hall Farm shop and cafe. It’s a popular place as we take the last free table. The menu is interesting with a busy kitchen bringing out our repast quite quickly. We have now ridden 31 of the 58 miles so we saddle up riding westwards passing a brand new "chic” warehouse estate advertised as “Radar Crew” on the PlotaRoute mapping. Looking at the map you can see that we are riding parallel to the massive munitions site of the former Royal Ordnance plc since bought and run by BAE. Wicki informs me that it makes all sorts of small arms ammunition for the army.

We cycle on going through Oakhanger, bypassing Weston to arrive in Shavington - but minus John. He’s a mile back repairing a puncture - thankfully the only excitement of the day. Ivan leads around Willaston and Nantwich as we depart Nantwich via the same way we came into it via Acton. It’s another 4 mile run to the Cholmondeley Arms pub crossroads and then yet another 4 miles to Bickerton. Along here Ken peels off back to Rossett.

Shortly we espy the bedraggled ranks of the Mods crossing the main road readying to ascend the “easy’ side of Harthill. We stop for a catch-up chat about their ride and disappointing lunch venue in Audlem, before hurtling down the hill and another 4 miles back into Tattenhall. So back in Tattenhall, we four ride on for home with John accompanying us for a short while to get his 100km up before driving home. We three then ride back into Chester via Saighton. 

For us riding out and back from Chester it was about 80 miles today at 16 mph average. Despite the wet start, the rest of the day was thankfully dry. So my thanks to Ken for acting as pilot for a lot of the day and also to Ivan, John and Richard for deciding to come out for a CER Brisk Ride. Hopefully they will now have a taste for it and turn up in Chirk next week!

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

20th July 2023: Malpas (mod)

Recent rides that I've been on have not been particularly well attended but today no less than 18 members turned up at Meadow Lea. I had a ride of 44 miles planned to the Wheatsheaf Inn at No Man's Heath. Four members were not riding, two set off on a brisk ride and four of the moderates wanted something a bit longer and set off with Steve T for Church Minshull. That left eight of us for my ride. I was joined by Dave H, Dave P, George, Jim, Matt, Mike and Ray as we set off south through Guilden Sutton, across the A51 and on to Waverton. Here we turned left, passing the Crocky Trail before turning into Martin's Lane.

I am more used to following this route to reach our starting point at Alison's but today we were avoiding Tattenhall and after passing through Hargrave we turned left towards Huxley. Here we turned right and before long we came across a very colourful verge where someone had planted masses of wildflowers. We couldn't resist the photo opportunity before turning down towards the Shady Oak, now reopened and renamed The Shady (for some reason best known to the new owners. The oak tree is still there). After skirting round the back of Beeston Castle we again turned towards Tattenhall. This time we avoided it by turning up Carrs Lane and taking the quiet top roads towards Bolesworth.

Photo by TC

Several of my fellow riders had expressed surprise that the Wheatsheaf was open although my searches on the internet suggested it was. However I thought it best to try ringing them but failed to get through. So a Plan B was discussed and Dave H suggested The Lion at Malpas. We rode round the back of Bolesworth castle and across to Brown Knoll. Here I had intended to turn left and take a loop round Bickerton Hill but in case we had to end up going further to reach Malpas I decided to turn right to head through Duckington.

At Hampton Green crossroads we stopped. Malpas was to the right and No Man's Heath straight on. I tried ringing the pub again and again I failed to get through. We turned right. As we rode up the hill into Malpas we found the road busy as the school appeared to be finishing early for the summer holidays. We soon arrived at the Lion and opted to sit at the tables outside. The weather was warm, the food was good and the conversation flowed as we tucked in to our various meals.

After lunch it was uphill through Malpas then the long downhill run to Tilston. Not the usual fast descent as a cool wind tried to force us back up the hill. In Tilston we turned towards Stretton then turned left into Wetreins Lane heading for Farndon. When we reached the centre of the village we turned up towards Chester but as we were leaving the village we realised that we were down to five riders. Jim and the two Daves were missing. They knew the way alright so we waited several minutes for them to appear. No sign of them so we tried ringing but without reply. Eventually they returned our call and we discovered that they had gone to Lewis's for a coffee. I should contact the secretary to have them thrown out of the club but unfortunately one of them is the secretary. Not for taking an unauthorised coffee break but for not inviting the rest of us.

We carried on without them (and without a caffeine hit) and before long George decided he was going to go back through Tattenhall. I'd done my best to avoid all morning but he was obviously missing it. Matt and Mike left us at Saighton leaving just Ray and me to continue on to Waverton where we returned to Meadow Lea on our outward route. Well, not quite. With a quarter of a mile to go I turned off myself leaving just Ray to complete  41 miles.   

See route map and/or gpx file download

TC                 

20th July 2023: Group photo

 A larger than normal number of Chester Easy Riders gathered at Meadow Lea on July 20th, so we took the opportunity to make a record of this. A cyclist with another group offered to take the photo, but he got his finger over part of the lens - hence the image in the top left of the photo.

20th July 2023: Church Minshull (mod +)

There was a huge turnout of CER members at Meadow Lea café on a warm and sunny morning. A cyclist from another club offered to take a group photo which can be seen elsewhere on the blog. The large number of riders brought its own problems, as managing Easy Riders is like herding cats!

I had brought a 42-mile route to Church Minshull and Trevor had a route to No Mans Heath, whilst Matt had yet another route to Buckley.  Ivan and Clive looked likely to form the first fast group ride for some time. To forestall a prolonged discussion about who was going where, I corralled Steve Hu, Alan and Andy to make up a foursome for a mod+ ride.

We set off at 10.30 whilst the others were still getting organised, heading north and west passed Manley Mere, up Sugar Lane and down Dark Ark Lane before joining the humpy road through Delamere Forest. The run through Norley took us along Bag Lane at the end of which we crossed the A49 before turning towards Sandiway. Crossing the A556 we followed Whitegate Road which took us to Winsford. Getting through there was fairly straightforward as there was only one of the towns infamous roundabouts to negotiate, which we did without mishap.

From there it was a straight run along the B5074 to Church Minshull and The Badger pub, where we arrived just after 12.00 having covered 23 miles. As we were early, the pub was quiet and we were soon served with lunch, the battered haddock sandwich being the universal choice – and very nice it was, too. Lunchtime conversation revolved around tourism and poverty in the Caribbean islands, the Tour de France and other topics. Andy gave us a physics tutorial on fissile materials and Steve Hu made us recite the Periodic Table (which he knows by heart, having been made to learn it at school as a punishment for an unspecified misdemeanour).

 Background St Bartholomew's Tower, dating from 1702 
Photo by by Steve T

As we set off from the pub, it became evident that our swift arrival at the pub had been at least in part due to the tail wind which we’d had the benefit of, but had not noticed. Our route back was north and west, directly into the wind. This became most noticeable when we left Wettenhall heading for Eaton.  We relied on Andy’s passable imitation of Wout van Aert to shelter behind, with Steve Hu taking one for the team at one stage.

From Eaton, we took the steep hill up to Portal Golf Course, crossing the A49 and heading towards Utkinton. Turning left into Wood Lane, we headed towards Duddon. Just before we got there, my bike computer showed me the chequered flag and declared that we’d reach the end of the route! Fortunately, we knew the rest of the route without needing guidance, so we pressed on towards Waverton, pausing only for well-deserved refreshments at The Walk Mill Café.

The familiar route through Brown Heath and Guilden Sutton took us back to Meadow Farm Café, where we arrived just after 3pm. 42 miles covered at an average speed of just over 14 mph on a warm, dry and sunny day. Classic CER riding!

See route map and/or gpx file download

ST 

20th July 2023 : Crewe ( Brisk)

Do you recall these "slightly amended lyrics" from yesteryear?

Where have all the Fast Lads gone?

Long time passing
Where have all the Fast Lads gone?
Long time ago

Of course it was Bob Dylan and Joan Baez who sang the original song waybackwhen. I think I can still play it on my guitar as well.

For many weeks, whenever I have been out on a Thursday, there is usually a question “Where are all the Fast Lads”. As I am not on Strava or other cycling apps, I usually didn’t have an idea. I will admit that I’m often away either in Norfolk or on a boat. Well today there were two Fast Lads and this is the blog of the ride that Ivan suggested for he and I (there were no others, except John W who was just out for coffee) to ride to Crewe and have lunch in the cafe in the spendid Queens Park.

The route is pretty straightforward in getting us to and through Nantwich. Ivan’s intimate knowledge of the back streets of Crewe then came into play. We arrived at Queens Park before 1200 at the very large cafe in the landscaped park complete with a large ornamental lake. The cafe was quite quiet and we got our lunch quickly sitting outside on the large deck overlooking the lake in the sunshine.

 Credit: www.webbaviation.co.uk

As Steve T remarked that the group was going to The Badger in Church Minshull, Ivan crafted a route back so we could pop in and surprise you all (and have a pint) - but you surprised us as you weren’t there! So we soldier on along familiar lanes arriving back in Guilden Sutton by 1430, and I’m home with 66 miles ridden by 1500. 

One highlight of the route back was the spectacular patch of wild flowers resplendent near Huxley on Huxley Lane.

So, thanks Ivan for being out today, and dragging me at 16.7mph average around for 60+ miles.

CA

Photo ID

13th July 2023: Ellesmere (mod)

I sensed that today was not going to be straightforward. Steve Tan had to rush to meet me on time, as the early morning arrangements for dropping of his wife's car at the garage had resulted in the car being in one town and the lift home waiting at a different garage in a different town! John Mills had contacted me on Wednesday to say that Facebook seemed to indicate that “Cleopatra's” was not yet ready to open, despite their previous assurances to me. When I picked up his message it was too late to ring the cafe direct or communicate alternative arrangements for the morning. Two calls by Steve on the drive to Holt confirmed that Cleopatra's wasn't quite ready for opening, and that Lewis's of Farndon would  be happy to have us. On passing Alan on his bike, we told him to turn back up the hill from the Dee bridge, and we would tell any riders at Cleopatra's to join him at Lewis's. I even had a notice with me to stick on the outside of Cleopatra's in order to redirect late arrivals. When we got to the triangle in Holt many of our riders were already sitting at tables outside “Maggie's”, supping coffee in the sun. Instead of phoning Alan we turned the Berlingo around, and went to tell him, but he was already eating and drinking. We finally parked at Holt a little late, as we had already had to wait at the traffic lights on the bridge three times. I think we all know that these lights are never on green when you approach them!  We settled on my offer to head for the Red Lion at Ellesmere, but I didn't have a properly resolved route, there and back, in my head. Not very Bryan Wadeish! 

Clive joined our moderate group of Steve Tan, Ray, Mike Gilbert, Andy Barber, Trevor, Alan, Dave Matthews and myself. Unfortunately, Dave Pipe had a saddle issue, so didn't ride with us. Nick and Andy Whitgreave had ridden out for coffee with us, but were not riding with the group. Understandably, we headed out a little late, for Shocklach, Threapwood, and Hanmer. Dave Matthews peeled off along the way. We ran into a little rainfall around Little Arowry, but it stayed warm and dry for the rest of the day. It was interesting to hear from Ray about his Scandinavian trip, but I couldn't be persuaded that a Cruise ship holiday would be my cup of tea. From Northwood we reached Lyneal, and then took the most direct route past Newton Mere before hitting the main road into Ellesmere, and arriving at the Red Lion. I was about to order food, when I realised that Mike was not with us! On ringing him, it turned out that he was in the centre of town, unaware that our destination was the Red Lion. We sat out at the back where it was warm and bright, and the food and service well up to scratch.

Our route back was via the very pleasant back lane which is the left turn after the cemetery, and heads up to the Penley road. Unfortunately for me, I was stung badly on the lip, by a wasp I presume, and for days after I've looked like someone who has spent fifteen rounds with Brian London. I then welcomed Clive's suggestion to head west of Penley on a lovely little lane alongside Lionlane Wood finishing up at Sandy Lane on the Overton Road. Andy's crank fell off , but he told me to carry on, as he would soon fix it and catch up. What dawned on me a little later, that neither Andy or myself knew at that moment where Clive was intending to go next! At Lightwood Green we turned right off the main road to Holly Bush. I started to receive phone calls, but was having trouble in trying to reply, and didn't want to hold the group up in order to speak to a house insulation firm, or the like. Then the penny dropped, and I stopped  in order to get through to Andy, who had not caught us up as expected. Andy wasn't too far behind as it turned out, and he had heard me talk of returning via Tilston, so said that he would try to catch us up there. 

Unfortunately, Mike and Trevor had already started north on our normal direct route back to Farndon, as I directed us to “carry on”on the Malpas road ( by now the day had become like a “Carry on Cycling” film). So it was, that the reduced peloton turned left at  Cuddington Green, and eventually arrived at  The Lost Barn just north of Tilston. I rang Andy, and he had decided to ride straight up to Farndon instead! For once we gave the Lost Barn a miss, as Andy would not be joining us, and Steve had to get back to the garage near Runcorn in order to pick up his car. Mike did well to turn out and complete the ride having to cope with a combination of serious issues. We hope he obtains successful treatment. Despite the Matt Hancockian feel to the day, the route was largely quiet, scenic and enjoyable. The coffee was very good at Maggies, as was the lunch, and the camaraderie was as enjoyable as ever when we were actually together! 42 miles covered.

DH

Photo by AO

See route map and/or gpx file download 

6th July 2023: Audlem (mod+)

Rose Farm or should I say “Coffee House @ Rose Farm”, as it is now known, was the venue of choice today. It was a lovely morning, so we all sat outside, approximately 10/11 of us, I believe.I had a speedy mission in mind, which appealed to Allan and Steve Hu. We must have all had a wannabe moment, with no fast boys making an appearance today, although we briefly saw John. So it was that we three quickly became the Mod++ group- Lol. This left the others trying to decide where to go and who to follow. I did hear the Cock O Barton mentioned, which is a favourite local of mine in fact- Lol.

We set off left and straight into that nasty little hill to Tarporley, where we immediately turn left for the easier, but much longer climb up to Portal golf club. We bear left at the golf club,  for the fast downhill into Eaton and Nantwich beyond. This made for a change to the normal club route, I believe, and a chance for Steve to point out a cafe I didn’t know about, which was at the traffic lights, just on the edge of Nantwich. We were skirting the very edge of the town, running parallel to the canal. I’m guessing the cafe was up on the canal bank  ( can’t remember if he gave me a name- had a sleep since then- Lol.) We had cracked on at a fair pace, with me setting the rhythm. However, we now turned more into wind, in the direction of Wrenbury and full on headwind. So it was time for a bit of team work on what I consider fairly exposed lanes. Both Steve and Allan got there heads down and we all pushed on; almost reminiscent of a TDF team - Lol, although it was more like a minute on the front, as opposed to 10 seconds each -Lol. We briefly sat up to pay homage to the Bhurtpore Inn, at Aston. It was like a ‘rest in peace’ moment, as DH wasn’t with us of course- Lol, in fact he wasn’t with anybody today, but we did spare you a thought Dave, assuming you will read this-Lol.

This area of the county, around Wrenbury, is some of my favourite cycling, as it is more open and flowing, although not so keen when the wind is up like today hence, our teamwork, which paid off in the end. We were soon turning with the wind for the final approaches into Overwater Marina, which I always thought was named Audlum Marina- Lol.

No sooner done when, you guessed it, Steve asked how far to lunch. Although to be fair, he was on one of his 100 milers again. We found the Marina fairly quiet, although most of the tables inside were taken. Although no sun and windy, we still sat outside, after a little adjustment to the table and chairs- Lol. We all tucked into a full English, which was absolutely fab, probably the best I have had in any cafe, although Jamoleys comes a close second because of the value. Don’t get me wrong, it’s good and large, but the quality of the Marina breakfast is top dog, with the perfect triangular hash browns as well, which didn’t go down well with Steve & Allan, as it appears you only get them on the Veggie breakfast- Lol. 

Suffice it to say, most of the conversation revolved around the awesome breakfast/ brunch. We also chatted over upcoming and past cycling endeavours, as Steve filled us in on his recent 5 day adventure with a mate, in Kent, putting in some good rides indeed. Upon the arrival of a very well ladened bike, I was prompted to mention the incredible LEJOG endeavour of my friends from Oz, who were starting it the following day. It had particular relevance as I planned to join them to Runcorn; Yes, that’s right Dave, I was going to brave Runcorn for the first time, as I always stop at Frodsham, when I head north on the bike. I have since completed that ride, in shocking rain as well.

Must thank Steve T for his confirmation of my route through to the Silver Jubilee bridge, where I was dropping off my friends. Next time any of you have a bit of a tough ride just think about this; One of my friends is a 70 year old type 1 diabetic and he, by all accounts, was far from the weakest in the 5 man LEJOG group, which saw the so called strongest drop out after the first Cornish stage. They rode 235k, with, get this, 3600 mtrs of total assent- incredible, but another 6 days to go. 

Anyway, back to the story and lunch now over with a fly past by 2 Oyster catchers, which stole our attention and confirmed as such by our expert ornithologist- Lol ( Allan is a bit of a twitcher, but we won’t hold it against him in these modern times of LGBTZWPM or what ever- Lol,Lol). The Marina has now provided more bike racks and just as many signs, ordering you not to lean your bike against the ornamental rope fence, as we have all done in the past,  which I still managed to miss, until gestapo Steve pointed it out, just as we were trying to get a team photo- Lol. By the way the ladened bike guy, turned out to be trialling his new saddle & frame bags as he was also starting LEJOG next Thursday ( small world). A very interesting lunch indeed, for many reasons and soon forgotten, as we set off on a slightly adjusted route, as we realised there was no need to return to Rose farm. Allan was parked at Guildon Sutton, so I set off for Ravensmoor, via the immediate Hollings Lane, which was supposedly closed- Lol. We came across several vehicles with people sat inside and nothing going on as usual and annoyingly still a cross wind, although only for a few miles, then all was good from then on.

 

Photo by CER

We were rapidly through Ravensmoor and up to Brindley, when Steve requested a drug test, inferring that the pace was a bit quick. I thought it was due to the tail wind, but then realised it must have been the veggie sausages Lol- Lol. We ease off a tad and carry on to Bunbury, still enjoying a lovely tail wind. We cruise through Bunbury, while waiting for Steve to catch up- Lol. To be fair, I shouted straight on when in fact we turned right into Bunbury. I think that was my only mistake of the day- Honest Gov- Lol. We soon pick up the pace again and heading down Moss Lane, we couldn’t help but admire Beeston castle, as the sun had just come out, which lit it up like a beacon. Past the little cafe in the field and main entrance to Beeston, we are zooming down toward Bates Mill Lane, where I leave both Allan and Steve, but not before stopping the Garmin to check our average speed, as a group and surprisingly, our initial wannabe ambitions were not that far off, as we averaged 16 mph - move over ‘fast boys’- Lol, Lol.

I say cheerio to them both ,heading West for my 6 miles home and now a cross wind leaving them two to their lovely tailwind back to Guildon Sutton. However, Steve would then have to finish his ride home into the cross wind (he’s a strong old boy though- well old at least- Lol) Seriously though, well done on another great ride Steve. I got home just after 2:30 with 58 miles on the clock and a little tired- Lol. Hopefully you guy’s made it home without incident. 

Great day out again with a few good laughs, some on me as usual.

Till next time,

Neil.

July 6th 2023: Manorwood (mod)

An excellent turnout gathered at Rose Farm, Utkinton in the sort of weather that makes it tricky to know how many layers of what thickness to wear and whether to pack a rain jacket.

 It was good to see John W out and about and hopefully starting to come through the other side of his recent travails.

 Pre-ride talk featured Neil describing the challenges of DIY carbon fibre repairs, a comparison of C2C routes and collective gasps at the recent exploits of Roy's younger, fitter, madder cycling colleagues. Roy also provided a comedy moment when he couldn't remember which of his 30+ bikes he'd ridden here today.

 About half of attendees had their own things to do and departed, whilst Neil led a small group on a Mods+ ride which sounded a bit too challenging for some of us. That left Trevor, Roy, Ever-Ready Ray and myself (Matt the Trike) to come up with a plan. As nobody had a better - or indeed any - alternative to my suggested 80km/50mi ride to Barton, we agreed to set off that way, albeit with a few minor tweaks ...

 Dave M, although not riding with us, suggested that Manor Farm would be a better lunch stop than the "posh" Cock O'Barton, a shortcut lopping off the Wettenhall leg was agreed to placate Ray's fear of too many miles, a quieter route from Bunbury to Beeston was suggested by Trevor, and we abandoned the entire Farndon/Lavister section in favour of a more direct path to Waverton, with the net result of reducing the ride to an easy-going 58km/36mi ... apart from all that, we stuck rigidly to the originally planned route!

 It's traditional for CER rides to start in a farcical manner and today's was no exception. Before setting off, Roy had to fix a puncture, having packed inner tubes with insufficiently long valves for his aero-wheels, and then I missed the first turn due to computer lag, forcing us all to u-turn past a bemused lady in a Mercedes who'd been waiting patiently for an overtaking opportunity.

An easyish pace allowed for plenty of conversation, which included the state of the roads (as always), Roy's cycle projects and tales of past glories, Trevor's grandchildren, how to get the best photo of Beeston Castle, and the latest sports-washing plans of Ineos billionaire sociopath Jim Ratcliffe.

Lunch was taken indoors at the campsite cafe of Manor Farm, where the four of us must have looked slightly out of place amongst the young families of campers. At least Roy's dad jokes helped give us a little family authenticity. The food was good and unexpectedly vegan-friendly, and the water lillies provided a pleasing backdrop for our group photo.

It was at lunch that Trevor suggested short-cutting through Waverton which, amongst other benefits, would avoid me escorting Ray back to Utkinton. So it was that we doubled back towards Tattenhall then endured the crater-strewn Pump Lane to Churton. A downhill dash through Aldford on the main road followed by a tailwind-assisted scoot through Saighton brought us to Waverton where we bid good afternoon to Ray, slightly alarmed at the prospect of navigating for himself. Having checked that Ray could manage three instructions all at once, we left him to solo back to his car at Rose Farm and headed off in the direction of Guilden Sutton. I peeled off at Christleton for home, whilst Trevor guided Roy to Mickle Trafford and his route back to Ratcliffe's Runcorn.

 The weather gods treated us to a little bit of everything throughout the ride but it was decent enough to be labelled "good cycling weather" as we managed to dodge any significant headwinds and all but the lightest and shortest of showers. A short but satisfying ride in the end and one in which Ray finally earned his "cycle navigation" cub scout badge! (@Ray, you did actually make it back didn't you?)

 MT

See route map and/or gpx file download

July 2nd 2023 : Vets 100 mile Ride

It was the 56th Bert Bailey Memorial Veterans' 100 mile Cycle Ride 2023 ( aka Vets 100 ) on Sunday. Three Easy Riders took part and two officiated.

Steve T, George and myself were part of 65+ group of local riders who set off in 9 different groups all waved off by Dave M in his official capacity as President of Chester and N Wales CTC. Dave P was in attendance as a ride marshal i/c the car park.

The route is not so arduous consisting of four 25 mile sections between refuelling stations. Although the weather on Sunday was none too warm, it did't rain.

This ride doesn't really need stamina for the riding per se, more for the food stops in Overton  (out and back) and Four Crosses. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

29th June 2023 : Llandegla (Mod+)

The start point for today was the Gallery Cafe in Hawarden, and this would be the first time I had been here since the change of ownership. Access was still allowed via the kitchen and the internal cafe configuration had been changed around a little. With a warm welcome from the staff, it was essentially the same as when Spiros was there.

Only a small group of CER members today though – Dave M, Trevor, and Andy W – who were all out for the ride over and back – with Alan and Steve Hu (in civvies). So just two of us then for a ride. Ken had contacted me to say that he was hoping to be out if the builder arrived and left promptly that morning. I messaged Ken to say that Alan had a ride to the community cafe in Llandegla village; then Ken advised he would would be able to make his way there as well.

So Alan led me out via the usual way to Northop and thence to Sychdyn where we take the drop down via Blackbrook Lane. A left and a right finds us at the bottom of the innocuously looking Gwernaffield Road where there is a 2.5 mile long uphill section. Turning left into Cadole Road, we eventually end up close to Loggerheads. 

A pleasant cycle along this smooth main road takes us left towards Llanarmon yn Lal. Alan’s route would have taken a back road into it, but I persuaded him to take the main road to enter via the old castle. This castle, nestling on a tree covered rocky outcrop, is called “Tomen y Faerdre”  See link here.

Entering Llanarmon via The Raven pub and fine church, who should we espy but Ken, who had arrived a few minutes earlier – immaculate timing. We set off from outside the community shop for the four mile haul up towards Llandegla village. The Llandegla community shop and cafe is a real find (we have been there several times before) and as it is barely 1230, the cafe is not busy so the good food comes quickly.

Taken by a helpful local

Leaving before 1300, we retrace our route back through Llanarmon then turning right and “all up hill now” (according to Ken) bound for Ffrith. The steep down section to Llanfynydd was very pleasant but not so the climb out into Cymau. Alan was dropping off somewhere around here as we three drop down into Hope. So as we don’t need to get back to Hawarden, Ken and I head for Kinnerton with the fast run down into the Higher Kinnerton. Ken turns off right towards Rossett and I continue to Saltney Ferry.

So thanks to Alan for recycling an old route which took us on very quiet roads. It was about 38 miles all round and 3000ft of climb so enough really today. It wasn’t as warm as I had expected but thankfully no rain today.

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

22nd June 2023: Tour de Runcorn - Ferrybridge (mod 2)

A good number of CER members gathered at Delamere Station Café on a warm if humid summers day. Steve Haywood, back from bagging Munros had a ride planned to The Dog at Over Peover, but I had been waiting for a dry period to coincide with the start from Delamere to be able to offer a ‘Tour de Runcorn’. This is because part of the route goes along the Trans Pennine Trail, which can be muddy when the weather has been wet. Steve Hu and Alan were keen to join me, as this isn’t part of their usual stomping ground. Clive agreed to join as the plan was for the ride to be at a ‘mod+’ rate, which put Dave H off. 

So, the four of us set off towards Hatchmere bound for Norley, Acton Bridge and Dones Green, where we crossed the A49. This took us up Marsh Lane to join Higher Lane and then Morphany Lane. Here, we stopped briefly to look around the site of the old vicarage where Charles Ludwig Dodgson, alias Lewis Carroll, was born when his father was the vicar of Daresbury. 

                                                                        

Photo by Steve Hu

From here, we went on through the village of Daresbury, crossing the A56 to pass through the Daresbury Science Park, which is now very extensive. It was originally a nuclear science lab where a 35 MeV Van de Graff generator was built in the early 1970s.

Taking the back lanes through Moore, we eventually hit the A56 just outside Warrington, crossing the River Mersey there. From here, we wiggled through a number of lanes and tracks, emerging next to the St Helens canal and the Trans Pennine Trail. A short run down the cinder track found us at The Ferry Tavern at the side of the muddy River Mersey (it was nearly low tide).

Lunch offerings here are limited to pies of various sorts, sausage rolls (both with or without brown or red sauce!), crisps and beer – not somewhere that’s going to be added to our list of preferred lunch stops. Nevertheless, we were reasonably fed.

   

Photo by AO

Continuing along the TPT, we soon arrived in Widnes at Spike Island, an artificial island between the St Helens canal and the River Mersey. From here we threaded our way through the streets of the ‘west bank’ and found our way on to the Jubilee Bridge to cross the river. The bridge is currently closed to traffic during the week as work is being carried out, but cyclist and pedestrians are allowed across. 

Reaching Runcorn, we followed Moughland Lane up past the cenotaph and round past Weston Village before joining the cycleway running through Beechwood to Wood Lane where we could join the busy A56 heading towards Frodsham. As we reached the swing bridge at Sutton Causeway, Clive offered to lead the rest of the ride back to Delamere as we had only just passed my house. Since this meant that I would not have to ride up the hill out of Frodsham, I readily agreed. The route back would take them up though Frodsham, past the outskirts of Kingsley to Hatchmere and Delamere.

About 40 miles covered on a very sunny and warm day. Thanks to Clive for taking over the last 7 miles and to Steve Hu and Alan for their company.

ST

See route map an/or gpx file download

22nd June 2023: Peover Heath (mod 1)

A modest number of Easy Riders gathered in the sunshine outside Delamere Station Cafe. Not riding out were David M and Peter.  He’s gradually increasing the length of his rides as he recovers and had travelled over 30 miles to get to Delamere. Two rides were proposed. Steve T was offering the delights of Runcorn and set off with those keen to discover more.  I was tempted by The Dog at Peover Heath and led out Matt the Trike, Dave H and George. 

The route was a fairly familiar one - out via Acton Bridge and Comberbach, through Pickmere and Plumley, crossing the A50 and the A537, before looping back through Marthall to arrive at our destination.  Along the way, after we’d crossed the Trent and Mersey Canal, I passed a group of cyclists wearing the yellow Chester and North Wales CTC jerseys. I came to the next junction and waited for the rest to catch up.  After some time I retraced my steps and found that they had recognised Glenys and stopped for a chat. After we moved on we were grateful for the cooling breeze our movement generated on an otherwise fairly still day. Many on the villages we passed had bunting displayed as their annual fetes were coming up.

The Dog was welcoming as usual and we chose to sit outside under a large awning to keep the sun off. We chose from the lite bites menu and the food very quickly arrived - the service here is excellent. As we ate we chatted. We talked about the nicknames we had started to use for some members (Ever Ready Ray, Matt the Trike), about the missing Titanic tour submarine, and many more matters before it was time to move on.

We headed south towards Goostrey, passing the bridleway that George and I once took as a shortcut on the same route. George’s opinion was “never again”. Through Goostrey we turned north by the Trading Post, a useful cyclists stop for takeaway drinks and food. We shortly passed Glenys and her group travelling in the opposite direction. We crossed the M6 and passed through Lach Dennis when Dave suggested a stop at Riverside Organics for an ice cream - just the ticket on a hot day, and a pleasant backdrop for a photo.

Photo by Matt

From Davenham we crossed the A556 and passed through Hartford, the traffic getting heavy as school closing time was upon us. We crossed the A49 and for a change followed the length of Cuddington Lane. I’d forgotten how steep the climb here was, but we made it to the top and continued to the Forest View Inn. From Gallowsclough Lane, with some trepidation, we took the track through Delamere Forest. I was soon proved wrong in saying there would be no mud, but there wasn’t much, and we covered some rough stony ground before emerging opposite Blakemere Moss. Here George and Matt turned right to head back homewards, while Dave and I turned left to get back to the Station Cafe. 

We had covered a little short of 50 miles.  Although the sun was hot, the weather was pleasant if we kept moving, our stops excellent and the company great. A good ride to mark roughly ten years since I retired took up cycling and joined CER. 

See route map an/or gpx file download

SHa

15th June 2023: Chirk to Loppington

 There was an excellent turnout of CER members today at Chirk. This venue can be a bit Marmite. Like today we can have a good turnout , other weeks only three or four hardy riders tackle this far flung start point.

 Todays group consisted of Dave M, Dave H, Andy B, Steve T , Steve Hu, Dave P, Alan, Matt the Trike, Clive and Neil T. Whilst we sat at the Castle Bistro there was a decision to be made as to where to ride to on this fine sunny day?

 A consensus was reached on Steve T’s ride to Loppington, which, coincidentally, we did one year ago this very week on a similar hot day.

 As we shared the route across various devices, Neil T arrived, doing an admirable impression of the “Incredible Melting Man”. He had tales to tell of a tortuous 33 miles with climbs equalling the ascent of the north face of the Eiger. LOL

 Once we rounded everyone up, Dave M decided to do his own route back and Neil drank his body weight in fresh tea. So it was, the mighty eight set off and plunged down Castle Road.

 Any speed and enthusiasm was quickly erased by the crossing of the river at Pontfaen and the subsequent 16% climb up to Weston Rhyn. All quickly assembled at the top we set off through the pleasant lanes towards Maesbury. Steve T’s route was excellent and succesfully exploited the great network of lanes we have in the Chirk area.

 The lanes continued on towards Eardiston , only stopping to comment on Steve T’s nemesis road to Shotatton.(The less said about that, the better - ST)

 At Stanwardine in the Fields we had a decision to make, as it was now 12:30; a combination of a late start and gentle bimbling had resulted in our lunch venue still being 20 miles away and a quick phone call advised us the kitchens would close in 90 mins. Armed with the options of a Tour de France Peloton for 20 miles or a short cut , we opted for the short cut.

 Paper Garmin Heath came up trumps again , despite shouting instructions such as “next left but keep bearing right!”. Clive, Steve H and Alan led the charge through Burlton into Loppington for lunch.

Lunch at The Dickin Arms

Following our Al Fresco lunch we turned right in front of Granvilles and headed towards English Frankton on Crosmere Road. Cockshut, Lee and Tetchill came and went on a glorious roller coaster of leafy lanes and fields spreading out on both sides of the road. The only sounds were the occasional buzz of Police helicopters , who seem to use this area for touch down and take off training.

 Just out of Welsh Frankton Dave H had a cunning plan to avoid the busy B road into St Martins. Steve Hu passed the baton of leadership to Dave H and for three quarters of a mile we enjoyed his sterling leadership, until a tree blocked our way, see photo. 

No way through here!

Plan A was re-enacted and the B road whisked part of the group back to Chirk, the remainder taking a short cut.

 An excellent day, thanks to Steve T for the route, 41 miles with 2000 ft of climbing, not too shabby on a day when temperatures were regularly hitting 28/29 Deg C. Matt T rode to the venue so would be on for a decent 99.37 miles.

 SHu

8th June 2023: Whixall Marina (mod)

 There was another fine day in prospect as we sat supping coffee at Alison's early doors. Nick was the only fast rider, and was going to do his own brisk spin. The moderates were Dave Matthews, Steve Tan, George, Andy Barber, Ray, Dave Pipe, Alan, Neil and myself. Ray had a piece of cake with a candle on for my upcoming birthday, which was very kind of him; I saved it for when I got home, and it was lip smackingly good! Neil had a plan, but most preferred to travel further out from Chester. So it was, that Steve Tan's pick of a route, lifted from the archives, was accepted. The intended destination was Welshampton. I thought that it went a long way west and east before turning toward Welshampton. I resisted trying to impose my “less is more” philosophy, as not everybody wants to align themselves with my lack of mileage aspiration. George, in particular, was keen to use the session as training for his upcoming Bert Bailey100.

The first test for those needing to take care of their hearts, was grinding straight up Harthill! We missed a left turn, which gave us a bit of the A534 to dispatch in order to get back on course, to the east of Bickerton Hill. From here, it was all straightforward progress to Wrenbury via Cholmondeley Castle. Steve did ask whether I wanted to change the route at this stage, but I couldn't see any any obvious short cut now, apart from one that would probably have us getting lost in Whitchurch's one-way system. We had a few hairy miles on the A525, complete with road works and a horn blaring nutter car driver, despite us being in single file. It was a relief to cut off to Ash Magna and The Raven by way of back lanes. Back in the day of widespread coach journeys and 'chara' outings, The Raven Hotel at Prees Heath was a famous watering hole, and a place to make connections for onward journeys, being at the junction of the A49 and A41. At Tilstock, as we were hot and hungry, I was delighted that Whixall Marina was being considered as an attractive destination substantially nearer than the Sun Inn. It was smashing sitting out at the marina having a chat and a laugh. The nicest waitress of the year took our photograph. It would have looked better on the blog if Ray had taken the photo and the waitress had been in the picture. 

Photo by 'waitress of the year'

I led home via a direct route including Jacoyd Park, Higher Wych, the dreaded Malpas, and Tilston. We were just in time for a nice last break for coffee at the Lost Barn, At Stretton we turned down past the Mill, before Dave Pipe led us through Neil's beloved golf course at Carden Park, which did look a picture in the beautiful weather. Our last leg back was by way of Coddington and Chowley. On reaching Tattenhall we had covered nearly forty-nine sun-drenched miles.

DH

See route map an/or gpx file download

1st June 2023: New Brighton (mod)

Ten Easy Riders turned up at Ness Botanic Gardens café, but not all would join today’s ride. Neil had already ridden 25 miles to get here and was meeting his mother-in-law for lunch at the Bluebell Café; Dave M was going home to mow his lawn with his new battery powered Makita and Duracell Jim was doing his own thing, revelling in climbing hills using battery power.

That left the Magnificent Seven (Dave H, Andy, Alan, Ever Ready Ray, George, Matt the Trike and Steve T) to set off on an anti-clockwise tour of the Wirral. We got onto the Wirral Way via the half mile railway cutting at the edge of Neston. Whilst the sun was warm, in the shade of the cutting it was quite chilly, so we were pleased when we emerged into the sunshine and stopped for a comfort break and a photo at Hadlow Road station.

Photo by AO

We left the Wirral Way just after Willaston and followed the lanes through Childer Thornton and Eastham Woods Country Park. 

Photo by ST

A little diversion suggested by Alan took us through the soap works at Port Sunlight before we wiggled left and right through housing estates and along the river side, eventually arriving at Birkenhead Priory, close by Woodside Ferry.  Weaving around the ferry station, we keep close to the water with wonderful views across the Mersey to Liverpool, where a group photo opportunity was taken, courtesy of a passer-by.

Photo by CER

We emerged by the swing bridge and onto the prom at Seacombe Ferry. It was then a pleasant run to New Brighton and our planned lunch venue, the Seaside Café. Although the café was very busy, we found a table outside without a problem and lunches were soon ordered. It’s worth noting that the café only takes cash, something that limited George’s repast and also forced Matt to head off to Mackie D’s.

The route back is familiar to all and we’re soon threading our way between walkers, dogs and children along the maritime cycle path to Meols and Hoylake, where we take the cycleway alongside the railway and then re-join the Wirral Way. Somewhere around here, Matt left us as he had to take a phone call. By now the sun is quite intense and the track is very dusty with plenty of pedestrians, dogs and children to contend with. Arriving at Neston, we had planned to ride through the town, but were advised against this by a local who told us that there was a parade taking place in the town to celebrate Neston Ladies Day. This is the highlight of the year for the Neston Female Society, which was founded in 1814 and is the only surviving female society of this type in the country. Each June, they march under their banner bearing the motto ‘Bear Ye One Another’s Burdens’.

About 39 miles covered on a warm summer’s day in excellent company. Special thanks to Alan for leading the ride after I had a ‘tech prob’ with my bike computer.

See route map and/or gpx file download

ST