10th October 2024 : Bunbury (Mod)

It was good to see rare bird Andy Whitgreave who was accompanying Dave Matthews after his challenging north Yorkshire adventure. It was also very pleasant to meet Chris Evans for the first time. I checked with Chris at the weekend, and he obviously enjoyed his ride, and I expect that he will turn out again when he can. Trevor was nursing a sore toe, so was riding solo locally. The moderate group for the day consisted of Keith, Andy Barber, Ray, Jim, Dave Pipe and me.

Our route out was via the A56, Hollowmoor Heath, Oscroft and Cotebrook. We meandered on little quiet lanes before reaching Alpraham and heading for The Dysart Arms at Bunbury. I had originally hoped that we would reach Tattenhall for lunch, but the troops were getting hungry and Alison’s now seemed too much of a stretch. 

Having lost their winter fuel allowance the lads were feeling parsimonious, so Dave Pipe managed to persuade them to save a tenner by carrying on to The Nag’s Head. Healthy eating Pipey decided to have a starter of black pudding slathered with a thick mustard(?) sauce. The pub atmosphere was very friendly and the food was indeed fine and good value. Keith later mentioned to me how lunch reminded him of relaxed eating with Dave and Liz over past years. 

Certainly, we were all quite laid back when remounting our bikes about four hours later! Our return was straightforward via Beeston Castle, Newton and Hargrave. It had been lovely weather for cycling all day, and the slightly cool headwind didn’t detract from our pleasure. Nevertheless, for a while I took shelter behind Electric Ray’s considerable bulk at an enhanced pace. 

Christleton was a madhouse with hundreds of pupils spilling out of school mainly into bloated SUVs cramming the narrow roads. Dave Pipe suggested taking the next road into Christleton in order to miss the school at this time in future. Andy at this stage had parted for Mold. Keith and I managed a late coffee at Meadow Lea. It had been a thoroughly enjoyable thirty eight miles of scenic cycling in relaxed company.

DH

10th October 2024 : Overton (Mod+)

Meadow Lea seems to be the “honeypot” destination for the CER crew. Today was another bumper turnout. It was great to welcome a new rider Chris to the club and to see Steve T who was that afternoon undergoing cataract surgery. Good luck Steve and a speedy and vision enhanced recovery. 

Two groups were formed, Clive had two options a 57 and a 51 miler. I had had hastily downloaded off the CER website a 47 ish to the Two Doves. Our initial mod + group of Kevin Alan and myself was soon doubled in size as the fast lads joined us. So Clive, Ray S, Kevin , Alan , John Mills, Chris and myself set off. 

Having only downloaded the ride that morning and having spent at least 30 seconds reviewing the route it was to my chagrin when asked where are we going that I answered with a knowing blank stare. I quickly realised the best way to avoid navigation questions was to go off the front, which I did for most of the ride. 

The route surprisingly circuited Chester and took us down to the Dee and then through Handbridge. Taking some previously unknown lanes to me we quickly cruised into Rossett and then headed out on Rossett road. Here a temporary traffic lights caused a tailback which another group of cyclists took to be an invitation to attack our peloton. However their speed was not matched by their riders visual acuity and one of them mistook a cone for the road and promptly crashed ending their title battle. 

Our sprinter and leadout man Ray was oblivious to the commotion behind and was nearly at Commonwood before he realised he was doing a Pogacar. Alan was despatched to bring him back. By the time we had crested Park lane the group of seven was back in the game. 

The normally pleasant roads around the industrial estate were unfortunately very muddy and at times flooded. However with Chris and Clive on the front we quickly swept into Bangor on Dee for a quick photo opportunity. From here it was a quick two and a half miles to our lunch venue. Ray remembered they can open a secure rear parking area obviating the need to park seven bikes on the pavement outside the front door , nice one Ray. 

Not the Lone Ray-nger!

Replete with a variety of sandwiches and salads we were treated to a local history gem by Clive, who informed us the yews in the church of St Mary the Virgin were one of the seven wonders of Wales. Apparently the yews are between 1000 and 2000 years old. In addition to banishing bad spirits Yew went on to provide Taxol a product in the needles which in turn was used in the treatment of breast and other cancers. Indeed to this day, Taxol is still approved by the FDA. 

Fuelled by a tuna sandwich I made a quick dive off the front only to be stopped rapidly by a pinch puncture after hitting a pothole. A pitstop equal to a formula one team ably assisted by Alan and his magic gas inflator meant we were soon up and away. By now the tail wind we had so enjoyed during the morning took its toll on our group.

Undaunted Worthenbury Shocklach and Farndon slipped under our wheel, helped at times by John Mills placing his “beic trydan” on the front, thanks John. At Farndon Kevin left us for a more direct route home, Clive also left us at Plough Lane. 

Soon Meadow Lea appeared and Steve Hu and Alan decided they needed a coffee to fuel the additional twelve miles or so home. A rather expensive hi tech carbon bike was parked at Meadow Lea , followed by its rider who appeared in a Team GB strip. The rider no other than previous World hour record holder , Olympic medalist and altogether a really nice guy, Dan Bigham. 

This weekend whilst most of us are doing weekend chores Dan is representing Great Britain at the World Championships. In August 24 he, Ethan Hayter, Ethan Vernon and Charlie Tanfield smashed the team time trial at the Paris Olympics coming home with a silver medal. So what a great end to a brilliant ride in the sun with great company . 

See route map and/or gpx file download

SHu

3rd October 2024: Aston (mod)

The truly moderate group at Holt consisted of Mike Dodd, George, Ray, Keith, Andy Barber and myself. Andy had a broken gear cable, so reluctantly had to return to Mold. I had an idea for a route, but was wary of being too ambitious as Keith was recovering from a recent knee replacement, and I hadn’t cycled since abandoning the Anglesey ride at lunch. The health problems some of us are negotiating remind me of my two old, hot Renaults: they are still quite feisty, but sometimes yellow flashing lights appear on the dash and can be difficult to diagnose and eradicate. I decided to give the Churton to Barton loop a miss: we could always extend the route in the afternoon if desired.

Our route took us to Tilston, Duckington and Bickerton Hill. Goldford Lane across the Coach Road from Duckington is a special, lush climb with lovely properties studded in the escarpment and fabulous views. It was a treat just to be living the moment in this environment in such relaxed company on a fine day.  Bryan Wade would identify cycling like this as the essence of Chester Easy Riders. We were soon heading down past Cholmondeley Castle without losing Mike Dodd this week. After crossing the A49 we took a novel diversion along the quiet little lanes down to Gauntons Bank before riding alongside the Llangollen Canal to the lift bridge at Wrenbury. We were even able to give advice to a white van man on how to circumnavigate the roadworks on Station Road. The driver was very cheerful but had made the mistake of asking Ray in the first place. Ray had told him that he didn’t know what day it was, never mind where we were or how to get to anywhere else. We cycled the back way to Aston, turning left at Pinsley Green.

The renovated Bhurty at Aston was quite busy, so the food was a little slow in coming, but it was excellent and the friendliness of the staff appreciated. Conversation was wide-ranging including quotes from ancient philosophers about leadership and Rory Stewart’s recent book and podcast. Most of the informed conversation emanated from George and Mike as usual.

We set off on our return at about 2p.m. Ray needed to get back handily, and Mike was riding to Chester, so there was no appetite for an expansive afternoon route. We headed for No Man’s Heath by way of the pleasant route through Pinsley Green, Marbury, Swanick Green and Bickley Town. We by-passed Malpas and hit the Roman road at Kidnall in order to reach Tilston. We ignored the Lost Barn with some regret having spent an indulgent last coffee and cake in the sun at the back recently. At Crewe -by -Farndon we attempted the back route to the by-pass in order to rediscover it and avoid the usual boring speed bumped slog to the top of Farndon. Keith managed to fall into the brambled bank alongside the footpath with his foot stuck in the pedal on the leg on which he had his replacement knee.  Fortunately, he appeared to be unscathed. All that leadership discussion in the pub earlier had obviously not led me to cotton on about the risk of tackling a steep path to someone recovering from knee surgery. You can see the point of risk assessments when leading a group activity after all. To compensate, Keith was allowed to have the best cake left at Maggie’s, as those of us not in a hurry enjoyed a last coffee.  About thirty-six miles covered, and no flashing yellow lights on our virtual dashboards, although Keith may have had a temporary red.

DH

3rd October 2024: Plassey (mod+)

 Maggies was today’s meet venue and a popular one it was too. I lost count at 17 heads, as everybody kept moving- Lol.

I had a route to Staples cafe at Plassey, which appealed to Roy, Allan ( ‘the mugger’, more about that later) and Fiona / Elwyn, back from their  hols.

This meant we were the smallest group for a change, assuming there was just a fast group and easy rider group. Surprisingly, my ride to Maggies was, initially, a chilly 3!Degrees on my Garmin, but got to 6 on arrival. However, our departure from Maggies was a much warmer 8 degrees- Lol.

I have to admit to being a tad anxious, as our last departure from Maggies saw us reverse direction twice within 200 mtrs- Lol. Suffice it to say, I took some stick on that day. So, I was determined to make sure my Garmin did not throw another wobbly. 

I have since noticed that if you plot a route for a remote location, but select yes to plot a route to said location, it sometimes causes Garmin to flip out when you stop and restart after the cafe.

My remedy this time was to keep the screen active and Bob’s your uncle, we had no trouble- Lol

Garmin, now compliant, we were off, but not so quickly over the Dee bridge, due to even longer traffic lights than the norm ( more road works)

The promised light southerly winds were just that, as we progressed south along the Shocklach road. 

The flooded patches I had seen a few days before had drained sufficiently to provide a dry line and a clear run through to Threapwood.

 

Once over Wych brook we had a lovely little climb up to the top of Mulsford lane, where you find some of the best views across to the Welsh hills, with Overton below us, out of site,  in the distance is Ruabon at 90 degrees to our left and Wrexham at 20 degrees-ish to our front left.

Now well into a gentle descent, for approximately a mile+ on a lovely bit of lane, I couldn’t help notice the clouds starting to build, which made me wonder If my ambitions of an outside lunch venue was a bit ambitious- Lol.

No sooner up, we were down and rapidly approaching the crossroads of Whitchurch Road, with  Overton beyond. We bypass Overton via a very nice smooth lane that lead us to a very fast descent to yet another crossing of the River Dee at the Cross Foxes pub, where we turn left to Erbistock.

 

After another brief regroup we head up slightly toward the fabulous Boat Inn, but we turn right before the descent to the pub for our only bit of serious climbing for the day. 

A couple of short climbs that deliver us to the top of this small ridge, setting us up for a few nice easy miles down into Plassey, except for the nasty little climb up the driveway to the cafe - Lol. 

Staples cafe is within the caravan park, next to the pub, for those who have not been there. It’s a quaint cosy cafe, that always has some fantastic cakes.

I was for staying outside, but a certain individual who had foolishly removed his outer jacket, several miles back, immediately shouted “ inside!”- Lol. Not one for dropping names, but he did have a moustache that was straight out of the 2nd world war- Lol Lol.

So, now inside and orders made, the usual catch up conversations ensued. I think it was Wing Cmdr Biggles (Roy to those in the know- Lol)  who recalled visiting the caravan park many times as a lad with his family, to which Allan then piped up with similar memories.

Meanwhile I was catching up with F&E about their recent cruise of the Med and few lovely stop offs, which inevitable got us on to the subject of restaurants and some choices for a future trip we were planning. 

After a brief chat about whether F& E would stay with the group or not, I suggested they decide on the fly and got us all going again, after a good lunch with potato and leek soup being the popular choice for Roy and I.

Roy’s shout for “inside” was the right option, as it was well cosy in there.

We were soon down the road and turning left on Overton road, which lead us up to our right turn to Bedwell and Cross Lanes beyond. As usual the traffic lights stopped us. However, this allowed time for a quick conversation about our left turn towards Pentre and the quiet lanes beyond. F& E therefore decided to go straight on and take the easy, fast shortcut to Holt, as Fiona was feeling the pace, after 3 weeks of cruising the Med- Lol.

 

Now only 3 us, we found ourselves tapping out a steady rhythm, with Roy leading the way and meandering around Wrexham industrial estate, which you would never know was there on these little lanes and high hedgerows. 

After a few miles we are passing Clays golf club and I shout out that we take the pathway to the right, at the dual carriageway. This allows us to cross the carriageway at the round about and turn back on ourselves, up past Francis lane and on to the now infamous spot where the Flying Bombaliny (Steve T) once took a little tumble, which I still argue was not my fault- Lol.

We were heading for a loop through Marford, in order to get our mileage up to 40 and give us a couple of little of extra inclines- Lol. 

It didn’t take us long to tick off this 4 mile loop, which brought us back to Borras and the fast downhill towards Holt, our pace was still good, but I for one was beginning to feel the legs.

So it was a complete surprise, at the junction of Rossett road, to get ‘mugged’ by Allan, from behind, where he had been for the whole ride, I might add.

It took us a moment or two to collect ourselves at the sight of this Cavendish/ Elwyn like blur getting smaller, as he pulled away. 

However, once Roy realised I was on his wheel, he took off after ‘the mugger’, with a turn of speed that smacked of determination- Lol.

He was not going to let the upstart get to Maggies without us. However, my legs were almost cooked and I still had another 10 miles to get home, so I sat up, but not before we caught him ( job done- Lol) leaving Roy to claim the spoils at Maggies.

I rolled in and before I could put ‘the mugger’ in his place, Roy was already doing the honours- Lol, Lol. Allan’s response was “that’s what the pro’s do, when near the finish”. “We’re not pro’s & you don’t ‘mug’ the ride leader, having sat on the back for the whole ride”- it’s not cricket or is that cycling- Lol, Lol. 

 

Roy and Allan then decided on another coffee, but I didn’t fancy cafe legs again, so I continued on home, after thanking the boys for an enjoyable ride, even the chase - Lol 

 

The ride route was 40 miles with about 500 mtrs of assent.

I got home, after an easy wind down and a total of 59 miles.

Thanks to the group for a great day out, including ‘ the mugger’, bless him- Lol, Lol, Lol.

I assume F&E got home without event.

 

Cheers all, till next time- Lol.

Neil.

3rd October 2024 : Whixall Marina (brisk)

A dry day was in prospect as I set out from Chester on a cool morning. I briefly met up with Trevor and Jim at Churton arriving at Maggie’s around 1000. A fair few were already supping their hot drinks as more riders turned up. 

The Brisk group were somewhat disorganised as no one had a route ready. I said I’d brought one to Whixall on my phone and emailed it to Nick who tried to upload it to his Garmin - with little success. By the time we had sorted ourselves out, the rest of the riders had slipped away and it was well past 1030.

So uploading the first part of the route into my neural satnav, Shane, Ken, Nick and I set off bound for Borras sliding by the enormous quarry. A quick ride down Borras Park Road led us to Cefn Road and thence to King’s Mills in the dip by the river on the old A525. A short uphill section of A525 takes off right towards Sontley. A left along the tiny Woodhouse Lane brings us back to the A525 again at Cock Bank.

The routing now is straightforward in that it's the A525 then the A539 taking us in and out of Overton and Penley before delivering us at Hanmer. These roads were a delight to ride being mainly smooth and devoid of traffic. We dive down passing Hanmer Mere and out via Arowry to Bettisfield and Northwood. A left then takes us to Dobson’s Bridge and Whixall Marina cafe - a firm favourite now as it is an oasis in a dearth of eating places in this area.

The staff are always pleased to see us and hot food comes quickly in the form of the popular thick mushroom soup combo whilst I take a cheeseburger. Given that we have arrived at 1230 after 26 miles we're soon away on a northerly track. We take in Fenn’s Bank, Redbrook, Higher Wych and thence to Malpas. 

Just before Malpas, we stop to try and sort out why my front derailleur won’t move across to the big chain ring. Try as we might, I’m now left with riding all the way home on the lower gear setting. At Tilston Nick peels off, then Ken dives down Wetreins Lane and Shane rides onto Stretton. I ride on to Chester via Coddington and Churton.

I decide to take my bike in to a cycle repairer to get the front and also the rear shifting sorted out. So I think where can I go and decide to go to the bike shop off Sealand Road in Minerva Avenue - I think it was called the Bike Hub. I knew where it was was - but it’s no more! What to do - I don't fancy Evans Cycles or the Bike Factory, so decide to go home, get changed and drive the bike to Graham Weigh Cycles in Shotton fully expecting to pick it up sometime next week.

In the shop, Mark takes my bike from me then put’s it on the stand and proceeds to sort the transmission issues out there and then. A replacement rear derailleur cable is also diagnosed as necessary which explains why shifting hasn’t been smooth recently. So within 20 minutes or so all is rectified at a reasonable price. I have used them before and will again as their customer service is excellent.

All round for me it was 76 miles today with the official route being just a fast 44 miles. It was enjoyable being out with the lads on dry, smooth roads (for the most part) with little traffic and the bright autumnal countryside to savour. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

26th September 2024: Bunbury (mod)

 I arrived early at Rose Farm to a warm welcome from the staff.  Are you on your own today? I was asked “the weather is so wet”  “No” I responded confidently “the lads are on their way”. 

The two dependable’s Steve Hu and Alan followed me in having cycled the 7 miles from Waverton.  Clive, Jim and Trevor arrived shortly thereafter the later two only out for coffee.  Trevor limping noticeably having damaged his left knee while walking in mid Wales.  A little later Electric Ray clocked in and then Dave M joined us in his civvies.  So “the lads” dressed to ride were a little thin on the ground today.

I was now the de facto leader of a Moderate Group of two.  There was some discussion about today’s weather with little agreement among the various sources.  I chose to go with Alan’s App which showed a clearing picture from the south.  So I suggested to Ray a southerly loop as far as Churton and then swinging north east to Tilly’s.  I had heard that Tilly’s was up for sale and wondered if it would be open.  Again, Alan thoughtfully checked their website which confirmed that they were indeed open for business.    

Without further ado Batman & Robin mounted their steeds and headed south without map or compass steering only by the stars.  I managed to get us to Waverton and across the A41 today mercifully quiet.  Our trajectory ever southwards as we passed over the river at Aldford and following the B5130 arrived at Churton.  Here we turned left on to Pump Lane and travelled east and north east on deserted lanes now drying out nicely as the rain had stopped.  We re-crossed the A41 and cycled into Tattenhall.  I did discuss with Ray whether we should lunch at Alison’s or push on to Tilly’s.  Having just read Clive’s report of the Mod+ ride had we chosen Alison’s we would have joined them for lunch.  However, the Mods may be slow but we are tenacious once a lunch stop is agreed upon and gritting our teeth we eschewed Alison’s and pushed on.  Our route to Bunbury following that taken by the Mods+ a little earlier in the day.

Tilly’s was open and doing brisk business largely due to a septuagenarian group of bikers.  A tip here – don’t get into a toilet queue behind a group of ageing bikers – all that leather it takes them a age.  Watching them trying to mount their huge bikes was an education.  Upon enquiry I was informed that Tilly’s is now under new management and cyclists are welcome.  The only difference to the old Tilly’s appeared to be some new furniture.

We had covered over 26 miles to lunch so a more direct route back to Rose Farm was decided upon.  Leaving Bunbury we retraced our route to Beeston Castle but then dropped down to the Shady Oak and crossing the Shropshire Union canal climbed up to Huxley Lane.  Here on familiar lanes, Ray declared more than once ”I know where I am now” we made our way back to our cars.

My thanks to Ray for his excellent company and his unfailing trust in my navigational skills.  We covered just over 40 miles at an average speed of 10.8mph.  A very enjoyable day’s riding. 

GW

26th September 2024 : Tattenhall (Mod+)

It’s always difficult to decide whether to ride out to the start point of a ride knowing that it is going to rain at some point during the day. I decided that I would risk it and suitably cocooned in wet-weather gear and bib-tights, the rain didn't disapppoint. By the time I was in Waverton the rain had started albeit gently but persistently.

At Rose Farm cafe, I was surprised to see that Steve Hu, Alan, George and later Ray were ready to ride with Dave M, Trevor and Jim in civvies. Outside the rain had been developing nicely as Steve and Alan suggested a circular ride back to Waverton where they had parked their cars. So on the fly, I cobbled together a route based upon Alan’s suggestion of going via Tarporley and Beeston. George and Ray went somewhere else - I know not where.

We three set off down the hill and then left and out towards Oulton Mill and thence Eaton where I decided to veer left and down the long Winterford Lane to Alpraham. Recalcuating, we head for Bunbury via the long way round down Birds Lane. Passing by Tilly’s, the next leg comes to mind - Spurstow, Peckforton and Bickerton. Here we take Alan’s favourite Goldford Lane to slide to the south around Larkton Hill. It's then a drag up to Brown Knowl.

By this time the rain had already stopped and dry roads appeared. The route is easy now sliding around the less steep side of Harthill beside Bolesworth Castle grounds. A short sprint brings us into Tattenhall and the warm inner sanctum of Alison’s cafe by about 1230.

Alan and Steve chose the curry and I had the meatballs in tomato sauce smothered fries. We were ready for the warmth and the calories. Time to go and ride the short leg back to Waverton for the canal side photo and Alan and Steve’s cars. I rode on to the other side of Chester in sunshine. 

So the route round was 34 miles for Alan and Steve with 49 for me to home. So, we all felt vindicated in giving the rain short shrift by getting out there on yer’ bike

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

19th September 2024: Amlwch Special Ride (mod)

Having walked, run and cycled on Anglesey/Ynys Mon for about 30 years; I have always enjoyed visiting Amlwch because of its history and culture, it was an easy choice of where to go for our Special Ride (Steve Hughes advised he has family associated with the town). 

The island has many interesting places to visit, but it’s finding the right combination of car parking, café stops, lunch venue, not to arduous cycle routes with plenty of long distant views and ‘lightish’ traffic.

The routes I planned for the ride were a combination of parts of regular routes I use when I visit the island. The only unknown was the weather and we were fortunate of having a dry sunny day.

Of the 15 members who turned out and started together, there were five for the Mods ride. Andy Barber, Mike Dodds, George Walker, Dave Heath and myself. We took it steady and some enjoyed the blackberries that were plentiful. On the way out, we visited Parys Mountain to observe the results of the copper ore extraction and George advised that some was processed at Holywell. 

Photos by Mike G

The Amlwch harbour followed before going for lunch at the Dinorben Arms Hotel. They treated us very well and the food was excellent. There, Dave Heath was feeling unwell so he decided to give the afternoon a miss. Steve Tan sorted the transport home. Dave later advised that the Hotel made him very welcome and looked after his needs. 

The remaining four of us set of just after 2:00pm passing an unusual church in Amlwch, ‘Our Lady Star of the Sea and St Winefride’ in the style of an upturned boat, a Grade II listed reinforced concrete structure built in the 1930’s designed by Giuseppe Rinvolucri. As we climbed and went west the wind was in our favour. It was being noted that the road surfaces were generally of good quality and very little traffic.

After Llangaffo we visited Bodowyr, a Neolithic burial chamber with long distant views to be had across to the Eryri mountains. Slight wind against going towards Llanfair PG but we arrived safely just after 4:30 pm with the Briskers and Mods+ having gone.

My thanks go to Dave Heath for the advice and support he gave me and those of you who turned out, making my efforts worthwhile.

See route map and/or gpx file download

Mike Gilbert

    

19th September 2024 : Amlwch Special Ride ( Brisk )

What can one say! Steve Hu has said it all in his blog for this excellent ride around the “hinterland” of the Breadbasket of Wales but I’ll try to add little brisk colour to the ride experience

The weather was near perfect - wind on the nose on the way out and almost at the rear on the way back. The Famous Five consisting of Ivan, Nick, Ken, John M and myself set off with all the other riders, in a magnificent display of herding Welsh sheep up the main 20mph drag and then off sharply left into the interior of this lovely island.

It took a while for the brisk group to fully form and charge ahead on bascially the same route out as the Mods but with an added loop before rejoining the common routing at Pentraeth. We then rode several "Grand Old Duke of York” sections of ups and downs before peaking at Parys Mountain. I’ve often seen this from the sea but hadn’t appreciated its colour and extensive workings from the landward side. 

Swooping down from its 417ft summit, we head for the coast before a diversion into the port area of Amlwch. From the sea side, its entrance looks very forbidding but it was good to see quite a few fishing boats bobbing at anchor in the inner port.

The Dinorben Arms was very grand - not sure that we should have taken our shoes off - yet the welcome was warm and the plates of food enormous! John M was trialling his eco-powered Super Specialized road bike, and I for one was jealous of John effortlessly powering up those hills on the 31 mile rollercoaster back to Llanfair PG. So we set off again on a similar and longer but more westerly route than the Mods, and not quite so hilly route to base arriving about 1500.

So a big thank you to Mike G for planning this outing and organising the weather to behave itself. Thankfully there were no incidents or accidents, and even the A55 ran freely back to Chester.

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

Photos CA and JM

19th September 2024: Amlwch Special Ride (mod+)

World traveller Orienteer’er and Civil Engineer extraordinaire Mike G could not have been happier when fifteen cheerful CER hopefuls turned up for this Mike’s second organised ride of 2024. The crew descended on the Edinburgh Woollen Mill complex where coffees and breakfasts were enjoyed. It was great to welcome Mel, Kevin’s partner for the ride. 

As many of our avid readers to this blog (like me) know little of the roads of Yns Mon I will skip the blow blow by blow road directions, trusting the attached gpx file show the route. With fifteen riders we had enough for three and arguably as you will see later four groups. Mel, Steve T, Kevin, Alan and Steve H formed the mod+ group. Anglesey is probably more notorious for its sandy beaches and secluded coves, however the roads that circumnavigate the east are very busy A roads. Thus Mike had devised a route to travel down the spine of the island on lovely quiet roads. 

These quiet roads had a surprise in that the profile resulted in an elevation gain of 2800 feet over just 47 miles. This was delivered by lots of short sharp climbs. On one of these climbs Steve T’s chain became detached, resulting in the mod+ group stretching out. At this time fast lads were also just overhauling us at warp speed.  Kevin hadn’t released there were two routes and took Mel on a peloton chasing exercise to tag onto the tail of the fast group. Later they would make their own way to the lunch stop hence four groups on the road. 

Mike’s route took us high up to Parys mountain and the swooped us into Amlwch. A quick navigation error by the writer was quickly negated by years of holidaying on Anglesey and coupled with cries of “I know where I'm going” led us the wrong way up a one way system and up to the Dinorben Arms. 

The staff of the pub were lovely and soon settled us in with refreshments for all fifteen riders as they came in in disparate groups. It was clear our erstwhile secretary Dave H had “peaked” too early on the climbs and wanted an extended stay in the pub to recuperate. His man Steve T volunteered to bring his chariot “ Berlingo Passion edition” to the pub. 

Thus the return leg resolved to four groups, Alan and Steve T direct to LLanfair Pg, Mel Kevin and myself on Mike's original route, plus the now “rowdy fast lads” having furnished themselves of “guru Cymraeg”. Lastly the mods, who were still awaiting their food when we left!

The route home involved less climbing and crossed the magnificent plain of Anglesey. Of particular note was a mile long Roman Road which then crossed the River Cefni which Mel correctly spotted had been canalised in 1824 and so looks like a wide canal running east to west and is apparently home to a variety of wetland birds and a RSPB reserve. 

Arriving back at LLanfair Pg the fast lads were just leaving and we reflected that between our five rider group , we had four different mileages, as diversions and differing routes had taken their toll. 

So on a day blessed by Welsh Sunshine we have to thank Mike G for a grand day out, and trust our secretary Dave recovers quickly for next week's ride. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

Steve Hu

12th September 2024 : Dunham Massey (Brisk)

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

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

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

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

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

See route map and/or gpx file download

KP

Photos KP and ID

12th September 2024: Goostrey (mod+)

One often questions the sanity of going out for a club ride in bad weather. This salient point was driven home to me as I decelerated to 50mph on the A55 due to the visibility being reduced by the torrential rain and spray. If reinforcement were needed the complete flooding of the road leading from Ashton Hayes to Hatchmere should have been another telltale!

However undaunted I rode the mile or so from the Sandstone trail car park to the Station Cafe and managed to get thoroughly soaked . Once the lenses on my specs has cleared I saw a brace of easy ridders sat in a mix of civvie clothes, or ready to ride. 

The suggestion of “go east young man” held the promise of drier weather and potentially some sun. The fast group of Ivan and Ken set off first. 

So the intrepid four set off, Steve T, Alan Mike G and myself. Steve T had proposed a route we last did on the 27th August 2020 with our sadly departed member Eric Borg (RIP). Steve led us out of Hatchmere and onto Forest Lane, a little used lane for us. At this point it was raining slightly and I noticed the air temperature was a stirring six degrees Celsius. 

Beech lane soon opened into Crowton and we started our route North as this route circumnavigates Northwich on fairly quiet roads. Cogshall lane found us whizzing through the lovely village of Comberbach before the even nicer parish of Great Budworth. 

Great Budworth has its history documented in the Doomsday book , however more recently it has featured in advertisements for Nat West Bank and also in the 2019 BBC adaption of War of the Worlds.

As we crossed the busy Chester road we descended into Goostrey. The Pastime cafe is a lovely facility favoured by locals and visitors alike. A cursory glance at the menu resulted in four identical orders of Welsh Rarebit with a poached egg on top plus what seemed like limitless tea!

Photo by AO

The food was delicious and the attentive staff were first class. Replete and ready for the seventeen mile return journey we started by getting undressed! Over lunch the sun had come out and despite a slight headwind we were now enjoying temperatures of 16/18 deg C a 12 deg C change in three hours! 

Steve T went to the front and led us along Holmes Chapel Rd a busy little section and then through the intricacies of beating the one way systems in Hartford. Before long we tackled the last hill of the day (unless your name is Mike) Maddocks Hill which allowed us to breeze through Norley and go our separate ways. Mike was off to Shotton, Steve T to Runcorn and Alan and myself to the comfort of a warm dry car. 

A lovely route, thanks to Steve T for leading, with 41 miles covered on a day when any sane cyclist should have stayed at home!

See route map and/or gpx file download

Steve Hu  

5th September 2024: Loppington (mod)

There was a strong turnout at the Castle Bistro for our last visit to Chirk for the season. We have certainly cycled some very wet and muddy lanes around here during the last year.  Nevertheless, the venue presents us with varied and attractive selection of routes, which we have particularly appreciated on fine days. Today was expected to be dry, if cloudy with a strong wind from the north. The Moderate group consisted of Mike Dodd, Andy Barber, Dave and Liz Pipe and myself. Dave Matthews had made it for coffee but would not be on the ride itself. Andy, had a new map, but refused to lend it to me; I wasn’t surprised.

We set off across the Russian roulette roundabout on the A5 and were soon relieved to be on the quiet lanes to Hindford. The tandem, understandably, had to be dismounted for the particularly narrow and grotty surfaced lanes at Gannow Hill. From Welsh Frankton we cruised down the smooth tarmac before carefully attacking the severe humpback bridge across the canal. Unusually, the wind was in our sails on this south-west route to Hordley. I discussed with Mike the fact that a number of club riders had been, or still were caravanners, and that we all enjoyed riding past green fields, but hardly any of us chose to live in the country (or “the middle of nowhere” as Moreton Ray calls it). Mike liked having facilities close to home in Chester, such as coffee bars and alehouses; particularly alehouses.  Those of us in our late seventies or early eighties generally like to be near a ready supply of Eccles cakes, the Countess of Chester or a local graveyard. We took to the lanes bordering Kenwick Park to reach Cockshutt, and entered Loppington via English Frankton and Brownheath .

As ever, lunch was delicious at the Dickin Arms, and it was great to catch up with Dave and Liz. Mike and Liz were discussing following the latest Netflix films, and education in Switzerland and Singapore. Alongside his globetrotting, including being in an internationally performing choir, I don’t know how Mike finds the time and energy for everything. I blame the dog for making me so boring in comparison. Of course, my wife would say Scousers always blame someone or something else for their deficiencies. Andy was well-informed company as usual. Liz resurrected a once regular Easy Riders’ indulgence of ordering pudding. I joined her in enjoying a melt in the mouth ginger sponge and custard.

 The way back was by the more westerly route to Colemere and was very pleasant, and mostly well-surfaced. We were soon passing my favourite spot near the side of White Mere at Spunhill. Some stiff banks followed on our route to Perthy and New Marton. Liz and Dave coped commendably, until a puncture on their tandem halted progress. The busy road section from St.Martins to the A5 has a swoop down followed by a demanding rise. My attempted run at the hill was sabotaged by my map flying off across the road. Mike and Andy generously rescued it for me, evidently only half a dozen lorries had run over it. It was a relief to join the canal towpath at Rhoswiel (a first for me) and cycle in on the peaceful towpath. With pedestrians and dogs on the spectacular viaduct it was no surprise that Dave and Liz walked it. Impressively, Dave managed to ride the tandem solo up the steep path to Castle Road.  It had been a very enjoyable day, and I really appreciated Dave and Liz making the effort. Of course, the very patient Steve Tan had been waiting sometime after our day which had included a map retrieval, a puncture, tandem walking and two sponge puddings. I must leave him with a car key, a flask of coffee, and a couple of novels to read in the Berlingo next time. About thirty-five miles covered in very agreeable company; many more for Mold Andy as usual.

DH 

5th September 2024 : Montford Bridge ( Mod+)

I arrived at the Castle Bistro around 1000 after completing my customary warm-up ride through Chirk castle grounds. A gaggle of CERers were already esconsced with coffees and tea cakes. Steve T, as the gentleman he is, had allowed my proposed ride to hold sway over the prospective brisk and mod+ riders. So I ended up with Diane, a guest rider from Frodsham Wheelers, Roy, Nick, Alan, Elwyn and Fiona, and Steve T opting for a 47 Mod+ ride to Montford Bridge.

We started off on a loop of the town to access a fast descent down the Glyn Ceiriog road before slogging up hill into Weston Rhyn. Already there were complaints about hills but not from Elwyn who powered passed me into the distance - he must surely have a hidden battery drive on that bike! Together again and with the promise on nearly no more hills to lunch, we access the tiny lanes via the ancient Iron-Age hill fort that bring us out into Oswestry.

We endure acres of modern housing exiting Oswestry on a long quiet lane out over the A5, and after Aston Square, we cross the said ancient highway again heading for Maesbury and its marsh bound for Knockin via Woolston Bank. I can’t resist the photo opportunity outside the shop, which has a very good yet small cafe. After a piloting error, we eventually take the correct road to Kinnerley.

No comment!

We now have 6 miles of small lanes running either side of the extensive army training camp at Nesscliffe before Shrawardine village turns us east then south to Montford village then east again and over that A5 once again to Montford Bridge.The bridge was Thomas Telford's first bridge design and although now reinforced, still spans the River Severn. Charles Darwin’s parents are buried in the local church.

To get to the Montford Bridge cafe, we have to ride a half mile of the busy A5 before slipping off left and round and under to the cafe. I have been to this cafe several times and notice that they have added inside seating to complement the covered outside seating. I also notice that the smoking sign which stated “Please use the ash trays when the floor is full” has disappeared. The cafe has a 4. 3 stars over 800+ reports on Tripadviser and I think all of the group were happy with their luncheon repast.

The tricky bit is now to ride back along the A5 and then cross the road back into Montford village. It’s only 21 miles back but the route is unfortunately into the strengthening wind but deep lanes and high hedges ameliorate the experience. It’s a long run up to Ruyton XI Towns were I note the pub is open for lunches again. The way out is via Grug Hill  - a long lane ever upwards but not especially steep. Alan has a gearing misfunction that needed sorting which he successfully fixes.

We kiss by Queen’s Head before the long drag up the old A5 into the wind and into Whittington. The advance party pull up half way along here to allow the rear party to catch up and zoom by - guess who was leading that 3 rider peloton. Our group eventually catches them up in Gobowen as we ascend the bank onto the last part of the route parallel to that which we took on the way out. I always favour the aqueduct option back into Chirk where we arrive at around 1500 with 47 miles ridden.

So a cool, overcast and windy day which did not deter this octet group from sampling a lot of excellent Salopian lanes and a quick lunch at a very good transport cafe. Many thanks to the long suffering group for allowing me to indulge my love of the Shropshire countryside.

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

Photo AO

29th August 2024: Whitchurch (mod)

 There was a strong turnout at Alison’s including the Moderate riders: the two Mikes, Andy, Ray, Dave Matthews and me. Our destination was The Black Bear at Whitchurch. The route out had us pegging up Harthill and then then tumbling down left toward Cholmondeley, only Mike Dodd didn’t! Evidently, Mike’s rear light fell off and when he remounted the rest of us had disappeared. After we waited a few times, and tried to make mobile contact, Mike sent a text saying that he would make his own way and meet us in Whitchurch. At Wrenbury we took the very pleasant route through Pinsley Green. An intended detour to Black Park was prevented by hedge cutting. The weather was ideal for cycling being sunny and dry with a welcome light breeze. When we arrived in the pub Mike was already ensconced and drinking beer, which is one of his principal pastimes. The food at the Black Bear was of the usual reliable high standard.

Photos by Mike G

Conversation at lunch was unusually political, a sort of amateur Newsnight, but without the essential preparation. Fortunately, views were exchanged in good humour, and none of us caused offence despite our obvious differences. Andy was asked about the successful birth of his new grandchild for which he had returned last week. I had a route out which would take us back west of the A41. I had viewed the one-way system around Whitchurch centre on my laptop the night before, but I was still glad to have the expertise and experience of Dave and Mike Gilbert to ensure that we found Alkington Road, and the later turn to Fenn’s Bank sans bumbling

no bumbling here....

The route is quiet and scenic, crossing the Shropshire Union Canal. We were soon passing Iscoyd Park and heading north for Malpas. Dave Matthews peeled off for home as we turned off just before Malpas for Threapwood . We must have been very close to John Bourne’s renowned Cheshire cheese making farm. I was to later buy some excellent blue Cheshire from his stall at the Nantwich food festival where his wife or daughter said that I should have dropped in for a cup of tea! I didn’t tell her that I had been part of a Dad’s Army cycling group! Just short of Upper Threapwood we turned north past Crabtree Farm and Cuddington Hall, ending up at Tilston. The Lost Barn was just too tempting for me, and with three riders with some distance beyond Tattenhall still to ride for their return home there were no arguments. It seems a long time since we have sat outside in perfect weather relaxing with cake and coffee before the last leg. Barton, Coddington and Chowley traced our way back to Tattenhall. Andy left us at Coddington for his return to Mold, and the two Mikes still had a ride ahead as Ray and myself turned into the car park at Alison’s. Apart from mislaying Mike D on our way out it had been a perfect day with a traditional Easy Riders’ feel to it. Forty-one miles covered from Alison’s and back, but considerably more by most.

DH

29th August 2024: Church Minshull (mod+)

Todays venue was my local cafe of Alison’s, which I have missed this year more times than I have ridden, mostly due to weather, if I am honest.

Anyway, a fine day was forecast, with a bit of wind, but nothing severe, although it was still enough for me to reverse my planned route. My destination was the Aquaduct Marina, directly east, which none of my group had been to before.

This clearly had an impact on some and so my group became 6 in total. I believe both the other groups also had 6 riders, so a nice even split. So it was that Alan, Steve T, Steve Hu, Roy and ‘the lympit’- Lol ( more about that later) joined me for a new club destination.

We headed out in a right hand direction only for me to immediately make my now customary leaders blunder and turn the wrong way. One should not plot a route where the return route intercepts the outward route- Lol. It would help if I simply checked the direction arrow on the screen- plonker- Lol.

Can you believe it- Lol, I make another error within a mile because my Garmin was indicating two directions. I did eventually notice that when I zoomed in on my route there was a small plotting error. Message to self; must zoom in on route and check the plot properly-Lol. “Yes Steve”. 

Now heading in the right direction, we are soon passing the Huxley Inn, which prompted a few comments about the nice food, but rather expensive- Lol. Within a few miles we were heading downhill for the hump back bridge over the canal adjacent to the Shady pub, almost always makes it into my routes, as I love to chuck my bike around those bends and then climb up the short hill to Beeston, which gets the lungs going a treat- Lol.

 

We had a tailwind for most of the way to Church Minshull, which meant we were making good progress without that much effort and so we were soon beyond Bunbury, where we had to briefly ride the main road through Alpraham in order to pick up Long Lane and a series of lovely flat lanes thereafter, all the way to Church Minshull. We passed the Badger pub, which again sparked a bit of chatter about the pub being a previous CER lunch destination, not that I have been there, but I have heard other recommendations about it’s lunch menu. A couple more bends, a short uphill stretch and we are suddenly on top of the Aquaduct Marina, which surprised Roy, despite the obvious signs and entrance- Lol. A quick shout “ left” saw him just make the turn. 

I had only been to this cafe once before, so we found it a little confusing  and had to be redirected to the cafe, which of course gave Steve Hu a perfect excuse to slag off my navigation skills with a total stranger, who found it rather amusing, either that or he was laughing at Steve’s fanny bag- Lol.

Finally seated outside the cafe with a lovely view over the harbour- Lol, we get our orders sorted.

I was soon pointing out that the only time we saw Steve Hu on the front of the peloton was when we rode into the Marina, after he had cut me up on a speed bump. Clearly trying to get first in the queue for his lunch- Lol. 

He did redeem himself a little when he did a good spell on the front with Alan on our return leg, which was predominantly into wind. Their effort provided some amusing conversation between Roy and I, about the granny gear they were both using. I think I may have pointed out to Roy that they are a pair of old farts and there was at least 1 mph of headwind- Lol- Lol.

  

Photos by NT

Anyway, back to lunch, which went down well, with plenty of conversation, often interrupted by low flying house martins, which we eventually realised were swooping in to land on their nests under the roof gutters. There was at least one nest with young, so mum and dad were working hard trying to feed them (see photo)

 Photo by NT

We set off again toward Nantwich on a lovely few miles of smooth lanes, before turning on to Wettenhall Road, which I had previously warned everybody was in poor condition. It was at this junction that I pointed out the alternative cafe option of the Milking Parlour, just a half mile in the other direction to our current course south. Imagine how pleased we were to find the road had been resurfaced, all the way to Nantwich- Yipee!

A brief hiatus as we negotiate the traffic light junction on the outskirts of Nantwich and head up the Chester Road, which was not ideal and since improved on the route I sent through for the blog.

It was only a short stretch on the Chester Road when we turn left at Acton, into a familiar series of lanes that ultimately lead us up to the Brindley crossing.

Bunbury was now only a few-ish miles away on a very familiar back lane to most of us. No sooner said and we were there and our first set of road closure signs, which we ignored of course- Lol. 

Again, like the route out, I decided to take the less familiar route around Bunbury, which meant using long lane down to Spurstow and then right along the back of Peckforton ridge, for a bit more sight seeing. After turning left up towards Beeston, our route completed a full circle of the castle mound. I then decide to kick start the dash for Alison’s, which was 5 miles away.

 

The first mile or so is a fast, slightly downhill stretch, with a couple of fast favourite bends. When I got to the bottom, I realised Roy was on my tail and keen to take up the lead ( thank god for that- Lol) I tucked into his slipstream and suddenly saved at least 3 gears, as he pulled me along, all the way to the junction at the end of Birds Lane (nice one Roy)

What neither of us realised was that we were also dragging John Mills behind us hence his new name of ‘ lympit’- Lol. Lympit of course, as he did not come through and do a turn on the front, firmly glued to our back wheels ( he reckoned he was on his limit & couldn’t come through- what!  One of the ‘fast boys’ - Lol). Not bad that, Mod+ riders dragging one of the ‘fast boys’ in their slipstream- Lol- Lol.

That last 5 miles are a cracking scenic stretch, especially in the other direction, when you can see Beeston and Peckforton Castle and even nicer when you have bested a ‘fast boy’-Lol- Lol. 

To be fair; ‘ Lympit’ has been through a rough time recently and is just getting back into his cycling.

We had to wait about 15 minutes for the other 3 to catch up- well, maybe it was just long enough for me to water a few trees, which, as most of you know, can take me a while- Lol. Steve T had an excuse as he is also getting back up to speed.

Once all regrouped, I decided to go left, around Tattenhall, causing Steve Hu to cry foul. His legs must have been tired turning that granny gear, bless him- Lol. Unfortunately, my extra detour, along what is usually a lovely quiet clean lane, turned out to be plastered in farm crap, the culprits being two muck spreaders that had passed us just a mile earlier.

 

We arrived back at Alison’s in time to order a coffee, just before 2:30 with 45 miles on my Garmin, although the route was a flat 42 miles and an average speed of 15.5 mph, so well done all.

Thoroughly enjoyable day, with some good chat and banter. 

Till next time gents- Lol.

Neil.

 

 

 

 

 

See route map and/or gpx file download