27th March 2025: Comberbach

 Despite it being a sunny morning with the prospect of good weather all day, only eight members turned up at Delamere station, four moderate and four mod+ riders. Early on there were murmurings about just having a single group ride. Steve Hu was immediately disqualified from riding. He had turned up on a motorbike. Now we do accept e-bikes in our club but, sorry Steve, motorbikes are a definite no-no. Steve T announced that he would be riding with us but eventually Alan & Shane decided that the two of them would do their own mod+ ride. I had a vague idea for a ride that would take us to lunch at either Pickmere or Comberbach but without the benefit of a downloaded route I warned the others that I might have to keep stopping to check my map. Not easy when it’s on the small screen of a satnav.

 David M was going to do his own thing, heading off to the Whitegate way and would join us as far as Norley. He set of with the rest of us which included Keith, Mike D, Steve T and me. We passed through Hatchmere, Norley (where David M left us) and Acton Bridge before dropping down to cross the Weaver. As we started the climb up to Little Leigh Steve T had a problem with his gears which caused his chain to come off. After getting it back on he found that he couldn't change on to his large chain ring. He pushed his bike up the hill and then tried to carry on but it was clear that there were other issues so he took the decision to turn off and head for home.

 Keith, Mike and I carried on passing the little Baptist Chapel. We weren't far from Comberbach but it was far too early for lunch so I thought it would have to be Pickmere. So we turned left and headed up towards Frandley then across the main road and into Antrobus. A loop beckoned which would take us into and around the edge of Arley Hall. A right turn took us towards Pickmere but it was still too early for lunch so we turned towards Marston. After passing through Marston we turned into Marbury Country Park and followed the quiet paths to reach Marbury Road. Only a short ride now to Comberbach where we finally found our way to the Spinner & Bergamot. 

 After an excellent (but probably too large) lunch we retraced our route into the village and turned to head back towards the little Baptist Church. Keith left us here to head home while Mike and I turned up towards Little Leigh to rejoin our outward route. We crossed back over the Weaver and then faced the arduous climb up to Acton Bridge. Rather than retrace our route all the way I avoided the turn to Norley, instead carrying on to Crowton. We eventually regained the outbound route on the approach to the crossroads at Hatchmere at which point the official ride came to an end.

 Had we returned to Delamere Station we would have completed 31 miles. Not the longest of rides but Mike and I had both ridden from home and by the time I got to mine I had done 50 miles with Mike doing a few more. Keith's total would have been about the same.     

TC

See route map and/or gpx file 

20th March 2025: Farndon (mod+)

 What a gorgeous day for our Walk Mill  meet.

There was a real sense of Spring and Summer on it’s way. Surprisingly,  that didn’t encourage a massive turn out, for what ever reason. There was a dozen or so of us. The head count was tricky, as there was a split, with the majority deciding to sit inside, despite the stunning sunshine and a barmy 13 degrees outside. That aside, the groups still managed to form, all be it small ones. DH possibly had the majority, which included, none other than ‘three times in a row’- George!- Lol. The fast group was at least three or four, which included the deserter, Chris, who was clearly confident of keeping up, no doubt due to his recent ascent of Hill Lane (Helsby) This was as a consequence of me pointing it out on last weeks ride. So, he had clearly decided he was too good for the Mod + group anymore - Lol.

That left just Fiona and Elwyn for my group. 

Steve Hu had chosen to stay at home and watch paint dry apparently and the ‘Rayban Mugger’ (Alan, for those who might not of read last weeks blog) had a stomach issue or at least that’s what his last minute text said, but we all know he can’t ride without his pal, Steve- Lol.

 

We set off on one of my local small hill meanders involving the Sandstone Ridge. 10 minutes gone and we are in DM’s patch, settling in to a steady pace toward Chapel Hill, not that I intended climbing it.

However, before we could even reach it, we caught a young mountain biker.  As I pulled along side, I remarked about how laden his bike was and asked where was he heading. Well, the next few minutes was about his journey on LEJOG. He was a young German, on a gap year and spoke excellent English. He was not only on his lonesome, completely unsupported, but camping at the road side, unless he got offered a bed for the night. He told us of an App that offers a free bed to LEJOG riders, if you can be in the right place at the right time of course (who knew) He was a very pleasant young man, who we all wished the best of luck and left him in Kelsall.

Now climbing up Quarry Lane, although not before the obligatory costume change,  from Fiona this time. Half way up, Elwyn remarked about the hill, thinking he had never climbed it before, but then Elwyn never knows where he is- Lol. We swing right at the top and almost immediately right again at the Farmers Arms and continue our climb up onto the top of the Sandstone Ridge. We pass Chapel Hill, which was closed, but it is rideable, as I rode it last week ( nobody is working it, as usual, I wonder how long that will be).

We start to feel a bit of headwind, now on top of the ridge line. However, I let F&E know that we were not far from my favourite high speed downhill, which took the edge off the light headwind. I attack the downhill, as was my plan for the day ( no work on the uphill bits, but max effort going down, due to a still iffy hamstring. Once regrouped, we get back into a steady pace and meander our way through Eaton, Tarporley, Brassy Green, Beeston, via the ‘Shady’ pub and skirt around Tattenhall via Harthill, but the easy way- Lol. We then descended into Brown Knowl for yet another short climb and subsequent downhill blast. We make a right turn to allow us to get across to cross the A41 towards Tilston, where I tried to encourage Fiona to step on the pedals and follow me downhill ( one day she’ll let those brakes off- Lol)

 

Once in Tilston, it was time to discuss our options for lunch, either Carden Arms, Manorwood cafe, Lost Barn, which are all within half mile or so. Or push on another 3 miles to Lewis’s cafe in Farndon. As Lewis’s is a favourite of F&E, there wasn’t much discussion- Lol. This meant that poor old me had to ride back on our route, into the wind, to get home, because I knew the road to Bruera was closed for 4 days. F&E had fallen foul of the road closure on their way to Walk Mill, when an awkward labourer turned them back ( I never let them know about the closure, as they were supposed to get to Walk Mill via the Chester option, which is shorter for them, but alas they didn’t - Lol) That said, did they care that I would have to back track into the wind-? not a bit - Lol, Lol.

 

So, after another cracking ‘full gaz’ dash,  down Wetreins Lane, we naturally regroup near the end of the lane, after I caught a woman who was on her first ride for months (forgotten why it was her first, but left her as she turned left to Shocklach and we went right, of course)

 

Lewis’s was quiet, so we got served instantly, once we found somebody who could cook a poached egg (- Lol, the staff had to discuss their capabilities). F&E had their usual scrambled version, which did look good. Conversation seemed to revolve solely around my buggered shoulder and the ridiculous pain I was having every time I lifted my arm from the table. Thankfully the most comfortable place for me is on the bike, so I was keen to get going again and face the uphill headwind of Wetreins Lane - Lol. While F&E had the much easier fast tailwind dash of Rossett Road all the way to their door in Lavister.

I had 9 miles to get home and all up, as I decided to go through Stretton, Carden Park and Tattenhall of course. I got home with 48 miles on the clock and just over 2000’ of assent, which was less than expected - Lol. I think F&E just tipped over the 50 miles.

 

What a cracking day out, in lovely sunshine, a tad warmer than expected, with light winds, which meant we were all a bit over dressed. It was no less a day, despite not having the Chuckle Brothers with us, sat on the back of the group, verbally abusing everybody’s ears- Lol, the silence was bliss- Lol, Lol, Lol.

 

Cheers guys,

Till next time,

 

The Wind Whisperer.

See route map and/or gpx file download

20th March 2025: Aston (mod)

 It was good to see Peter sitting in the sunshine at Walk Mill. Ivan was dressed to cycle, as if his near- death drama in Spain had been just a passing bad dream. Everyone so pleased to see him. The Steady Eddies this week were George, Keith, Mike Dodd and me.

Pete thought that “The Bhurty” at Aston was too far at this early stage of his renewed rehabilitation, but it was great to have him riding with us through Burton as far as Huxley. The A49 was met at Tiverton, where we whistled down to the Shropshire Union Canal and the railway bridge before slogging up to Bunbury Common. A ferret around attractive Bunbury village was by way of the quiet Bird’s and Wyche lanes. At Haughton we kept left for a change and headed for Burland and after a brief stretch of the A534 were soon back on narrow, peaceful lanes.  The weather was sunny and warm as we headed south to Sound Heath via Ravensmoor.  The Farmer’s Arms at Ravensmoor used to be one of our watering holes and a favourite of the popular Mike Morley. Covid broke the spell, but perhaps we will call again. The Bhurty was busy but still we had plenty of room and we were served by lovely people. It was nice to chat to Mike again, and he mentioned how moved he had been by the National Theatre’s production of Dear England based around Gareth Southgate. The production will have a four-week run at the Lowry in Salford from May 29^th to June 29^th.  Conversation is always relaxed and easy in this group, and civilized in volume without Big Ray. We wish him well with his tooth implant.

Readying our bikes for our return Keith was lampooning my inclination to leave things at a lunch stop (e.g.car keys, Malpas; mobile, Ellesmere) so much so that I couldn’t think straight. Time was wasted as I was pounded into a world of anxiety, checking things I had already checked. The only thing I had actually forgotten was to have a wee! So, that was another four minutes gone. It was a good job that the sun was still shining. Talking about fluids, it was wonderfully warm all day and important to keep hydrated. I noticed George ordered a pint of tap water at lunch, and I should have replenished my bottle.

Our way home had three little intended diversions.  We first took the pleasant back route to Wrenbury via Pinsley Green Road. The second possible diversion would have been a small semi-circle passing Frith Farm, but I thought it better to just “crack on” to Brindley by way of Chorlton Bank. As we approached Pear Tree Farm just before Haughton I was intending a third exploratory diversion down the quiet, narrow lane to Bath House Farm. Unfortunately, Keith had wandered off far ahead, drifting around and out of touch like Harry Kane on a bad day (although Harry always has a chance of scoring, while Keith……). Mike kindly chased him down, and he returned as contrite as a fired-up Jude Bellingham disagreeing with the ref. So it was that we, eventually, passed The Salt House near Spurstow Lower Hall. Further investigation after the ride states that the  spa spring indicated on my OS map was believed to contain rare salts with healing powers, and baths were erected here by Sir Thomas Mostyn many moons ago. My continued diversion was intended to be to Radley Wood and across the A49 to Peckforton, but we decided on coffee  and cake at Tilly’s instead. Some of you may remember, some time ago, that the tiny lanes I had planned to ride were so heavily flooded that two local women applauded us for riding through. Neil was with us at the time and couldn’t understand the perversity of not using the obvious and dry route to Spurstow; I think we understand each other’s idiosyncrasies better now. It was a pleasant surprise to meet Dave Matthews and Andy Whitgreave at Tilly’s on their way to completing a Cheshire Cycleway Ride. Dave currently features in the national audax magazine describing his impressive recent Walney Island to Whitby ride. From Tilly’s we rode to Beeston Castle and then down past the Ice Cream Farm before reaching Greenlooms through Hargrave. A slight breeze  had been behind us since lunch so it was very pleasant  late afternoon finish and still warm and sunny as Keith and Mike took their leave. George and I returned to our cars at Walk Mill. 43 miles for the actual route; more for Keith and Mike. A perfect cycling day.

DH   

20th March 2025 : Wrenbury (brisk)

The sun turned up today, and so did a few of the CER part-timers, myself included. My own excuse for missing so many meets is that it's the silly season at work (end of financial year, security patching, new timetables, etc). And that's the same excuse I'm using for the brevity of this report.

In the absence of any other suggestions, Clive, Ken, Nick and Chris joined me (Matt) for an anti-clockwise circular through Wrenbury, aiming to get all the climbing out of the way early and enjoy a flat tailwind-assisted return after lunch. It didn't take long for that plan to go out of the window, as roadworks at Bruera forced a diversion via Tattenhall and Barton. We eventually picked up the planned route just southeast of Tilston and from there it was a fairly straightforward ride to Wrenbury.

Bare arms and legs outnumbered tights and sleeves for the first time in months. Another Springtime tradition - councils desperately splurging their leftover road budget (y'know, that money they've been claiming all year isn't there to fix potholes) - was a topic of conversation en route to lunch. It seems to many of us that some of the schemes chosen don't appear to be of the highest priority.

The lunchtime venue was the Canalside Café, in a garden centre alongside the Shropshire Union / Llangollen canal just west of Wrenbury. And a lovely venue it was too; a sun trap with indoor and outdoor seating, a proper cycle rack, and excellent hot and cold food including cooked breakfasts and massive sandwiches. They even had some good GF/vegan options. I'll go there again. Lunchtime chats covered subjects as diverse as heat pumps, solar panels, Slow Horses and the slug forecast for the coming year.

A rarity - no potholes!

Ready to roll!

After lunch, Nick departed for home whilst the rest of us headed on through Wrenbury, with a brief pause to check out Berries café (formerly No 15 The Park), which looks like another promising mid-ride lunch venue. Then we caught that tailwind home via Bunbury and Beeston Castle. Overall, a very good day out - more like that please, Weather Gods!

See route map and/or gpx file download 

MT

13th March 2025: Malpas (mod)

 Five moderate riders turned up at Alison’s intending to take part on the day’s ride: George, Keith, Big Ray, Mike Gilbert and me. It was good to see Jim riding again, but he was returning to Guilden Sutton after coffee.  Dave Matthews was also riding home.

As usual I had a rough idea for a route, rather than a rehearsed and refined plan. As the mods are easily led and can’t be bothered writing ride reports if they can help it, they acquiesced to my suggestion of a circular route to Malpas and back. Clive was leading a small brisk group elsewhere, but Neil was bereft of mod plus companions. Evidently his intended ride was similar to my route, but if he was riding solo he was considering refining his signature tight circular route shtick to the ultimate: returning home to ride around inside his own garage on a unicycle for three hours. This would have the added advantage of not needing to strap on a helmet (a clown’s hat would suffice); he could also avoid the wind which he normally finds so worrying. He was invited to ride with us but thought that at our modest speeds he may not be able to stay warm; this was a realistic judgement not an insulting one.

We started out on the road to the A41 passing “The Rhigi” on our right. Dave Matthews had peeled off left before this. At Chowley we turned off for Coddington, Barton and Tilston. At Barton, George exercised his senior civil servant influence which meant we didn’t break the rules of the one-way system as we usually do. The result was a slow little slog on the main road with big lorries snarling up our backsides! There’s a moral there somewhere. Below Shocklach we turned down a small lane on a whim.  It was reassuring to have Mike’s orienteering skills at hand to verify my direction choices squinting at my OS map through watering eyes. So it was that we reached Threapwood without any mistakes but rejected the direct, pleasant lane to Malpas via Oldcastle Heath. We needed a few more miles before lunch, so headed down to Tallarn Green, and then off-piste past Tybroughton Hall and eventually running down the gulch to Lower Wych. It had been a nice and easy flat fair-weather cruise so far. The first challenge of the day was the slog up from Wych Brook which seemed to cause Ray to suffer more than usual; too many cruise ships and too much food recently I suspect. Of course, Ray is no longer an electric junkie and also didn’t have a very small inside chainwheel like mine at his disposal, so it was bound to be tough; It wasn’t Ventoux though. Fortunately, there was no need to set up a shrine for him at the side of the road. Mike was able to get through to The Old Fire Station in Malpas to ensure a table, and it was unexpectedly empty when we arrived. The food was very good and the service friendly.  The discussions at lunch were surprisingly well-informed and covered many of the pertinent issues of the day. I was thinking of giving Newsnight’s Paddy O’Connell a call; he could have us as a vox pop panel and save the BBC a few bob on expensive guests.

Photos Mg

Our return was via Ashton’s Cross, Gallantry Bank, Peckforton and Beeston. Mike kindly took our photograph at Beeston. Although the road surface is not great the lane on the edge of the Peckforton Hills is very scenic, sheltered and studded with beautiful little cottages. Despite Keith acting as my considerate carer and reminding me to regularly drink water I wasn’t at my most frisky at Beeston, so the option of covering a few more miles via Tiverton and Huxley didn’t appeal. I headed back to Tattenhall by the shortest route which passes Owler Hall and Ray accompanied me. Keith and George will have clocked thirty-seven miles, Mike considerably more, and Ray and me a modest thirty-three. It’s a pity that Alison’s closes so early in the afternoon, it would have been nice to end with coffee and cake before our final departures. Nevertheless, it had been another very pleasant day in the scenic Cheshire lanes in trusted and relaxing company.

DH

13th March 2025 : Whitegate (brisk)

A cool start to the day for a ride out to Whitegate accompanied by Clive, Ray, and Nick.

Leaving on time, we headed north out of Tattenhall crossing  the canal and railway bridges before weaving our way through Hargrave where we saw Chris cycling in the opposite direction.  Chris was hoping to join us but had  been delayed on the roadside by a faulty derailleur and had to resort to converting his bike into a “fixie” to enable him to return home.  Hope you made it home ok.

Continuing on and cycling into a headwind, we passed  through Oscroft prior to the hillier section of the  ride which took us up and down through Kelsall, Mouldsworth and Manley, before being able to enjoy the  long descent  through Kingsley and Crowton  into Weaverham.

 From here we headed straight  into Sandiway  along Weaverham Road and, after crossing the A556, we arrived at our lunch venue the “Station Cafe” at  Whitegate. This very cosy cafe is run by volunteers and was reasonably quiet so our food and drink orders were taken and delivered promptly by the very friendly efficient staff.

The return journey back to Tattenhall was only 13 miles via  direct a route  passing through the villages of Little Budworth, Eaton and  Tarporley.  We  arrived back in Tattenhall at 2pm having ridden a total of 40 miles and accumulated 2000 ft of ascent although all of us will have an individual daily ride total  of at least 65 miles. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

KP

6th March 2025: Bangor-on-Dee

The sun was shining, hardly a cloud in the sky, and with a forecast of temperatures in the mid-teens it was hardly surprising to find Meadow Lea teeming with cyclists. Mostly CER members but supplemented by a group from the local CTC. It was particularly good to see Ivan, back home safely after his recent Spanish 'adventure'.

I'd heard that Dave H wouldn't be there this week. As it happened he did turn up but clearly not dressed for cycling. As expected the others turned to me. Had I got a ride? Fortunately, I had come prepared with a ride to Bangor-on-Dee. The Royal Oak is right next to the old bridge and river and a lovely spot on a sunny day. The wind was also a factor with a strong southerly wind in our faces on the way down but behind us for the return.

Six riders (Andy B, George, Mike D, Jim, Ray and myself) set off towards Guilden Sutton and turned right into School Lane.  We crossed the A41 and over into Hoole Lane heading for Dee Lane and the river. We crossed the river by the 14^th century Old Dee Bridge, passed through Eccleston before turning left onto the Rossett road. This can be quite a busy and fast road so I avoided some of it by turning down the Straight Mile, rejoining it in Pulford. We turned left just before reaching Rossett then took the country lanes to take us up to Hoseley Lane.

At Borras Head we went straight on and down to the new roundabout near Wrexham Industrial Estate. We crossed this and found our way onto the little lane that skirts round the edge of the estate. At the far side we got onto another new and busy road but quickly found the old road which would take us up to the traffic lights at Cross Lanes.

Lunch was beckoning and from the lights it’s not far down the A525 to the Royal Oak at Bangor-on-Dee. Despite the pub being virtually empty service was quite slow but when it came, the food was good. After lunch I thought we should have a group photo (we hadn't had one for some time) and what better backdrop than the old Dee bridge. However, we crossed the road to find the banks of the river piled high with debris, presumably washed down after the winter storms. It spoiled the view of the bridge somewhat but I managed to hide most of it behind the wall.

I had been right about the wind. We had battled all the way down into a head wind. Now as we left Bangor-on- Dee we could feel the wind coming in from the side. After passing through Worthenbury we turned north and now the wind was behind us. Our pace increased and we were soon passing through Shocklach to reach Farndon. Andy B left us here and the rest carried on towards Aldford. We passed through Saighton and Waverton before crossing the A51 to return to Meadow Lea, having completed 42 miles.

TC 

See route map and/or gpx file download

6th March 2025: Kelsall

Where do I start today? I’ve got so much ammunition from this ride that it might take me a week to write this up- “what’s new” you say- Lol. Let’s start at the beginning of time, well maybe a bit later and at Meadow Lea cafe, where at least 20 of us came together. It was a lovely blue sky day that would provide plenty of opportunity for me to poke fun at a few of our members-Lol. 

 

Amongst the 20+ were a few not riding, namely DH+ the pooch, Steve T and Ivan who were all in their civvies. Clearly they had been kicked out of the house-  “what do you mean you're not cycling today. You're not staying here, get out”. - Lol.

It was especially nice to see Ivan back from his holiday ordeal, which I dare say we all hope is well behind him now. He even got his bike back, after the local police tracked it down to another police station, so it hadn’t been stolen as he first thought.

And a special note for Mr.& Mrs. Pipe, who turned up on time, can you believe- Lol.

 

DH also introduced a new member  (Paul, who subsequently joined my group of 6), who I shall call ‘The  Pantomime Crew’, for reasons that shall become apparent as you read on. And to be fair I have to include myself in said pantomime- surely not- Lol.

 

So it was that Alan, back from his hols, Shane, Chris, Paul, Clive (who joined us for a nice easy day) and of course  Steve, ‘I’m a bit shy and short of words’, Hughes, all became ‘The Pantomime Crew’- Lol. As usual I had planned my route around the expected wind for the day, which was a stiff southerly, right in our faces from the off, but only for a mile, as we head out left to the A51.  I shouted “left, on to the cycle path” of the A51, in order to safely get to the traffic lights and swing left up to Great Barrow. 

My target being Helsby and my promise of a few short hills, on the Sandstone Ridge, all the way to our lunch destination of the Farmers Arms, at the top of Kelsall. This enabled us to cheat the wind.

 

Now moving well with a cross tailwind, we are soon beyond Manley Mere and tackling the ‘devils elbow’ as I call it, which I remarked to the group, is the nearest any of us are likely to ever get to climbing Alpe d Huez, although I have driven up it and that was enough to make me feel sick- Lol.

 

It was only a mile or so later that we pulled over for Alan to take off his top, Well! for some reason everybody seemed to take it in turns to undress, after watching each other. This seemed to take an age, so long in fact that I then made it worse by needing a nature break. Paul was almost naked ,at one point, still astride his bike, with kit all over the place / ground (why didn’t he get off his bike?-Lol) 

I’ve never seen such a pantomime, not since Steve Hu stripped on the Greenway, a year or so back- Lol.

There were that many costume changes, I half expected Widow Twanky to ride past me, as we finally got going again. At least the view over the Cheshire flats was nice. 

We were immediately into a very fast downhill and only a mile from Helsby. Once we turned left we rode through on  Old Chester Road, negotiating the worlds longest running bit of road works, which as Clive remarked, “it must be at least 3 years now, but at least we get a skills test out of it” as we weaved through the red and white bollards. Now past the obstacle course, we descend to our next right turn and swing around the back of Helsby, where I point out ‘Hill Lane’ to Chris, which we pass on our right. One of the nastiest dead end climbs that I know of (ridden it many times and it never gets any easier)

 

Moving on, we head down hill toward Frodsham, only to turn right after a half mile, on to one of my favourite uphill lanes  This was the start of a nice steady climb (1.5 miles on the ‘Ridgeway’,  to the top at Birch Hill). This obviously lead to a nice descent and a bit of a chase, in order to pass a mountain biker we were closing on, before the very short & steep Brines Brow Lane. Ears back and nostrils flared, I set off after said mountain biker and as I pass them, with a good bit speed, I thought, Chris flashes pass me. Suffice it to say, I was slightly surprised - Lol.

 

Fun over, we settle into a pace that allowed a regroup and a steady pace to our lunch stop at the Farmers Arms, after passing through Kelsall via the main drag up. We pull into the pub, which is also called the Crows Nest cafe and find the place empty. Within 5 minutes and just getting our orders in, there were 30+ cyclists in there. Apparently ‘Carols Crew’ had dropped in. Feeling chuffed that we had beaten a rush, we settled into some interesting conversation and banter, thinking our lunch may take a while, but not for some, as next thing I knew, Chris was tucking into sandwiches of his own. Now I know why he always has that little ruck sack on his back, which explains why he never tries to beat Steve Hu to the front of the order queue, which normally starts from about a half mile out- Lol.

All the food came promptly, so we didn’t have the expected delays, that came later on, thanks to Alan- Lol.

Photo NT

No sooner had we descended Quarry Lane, I realise I had cocked up the route (yes! I Am fallible- Lol )

This meant we weren’t going to pass very close to Rose Farm, as originally planned. However, in the ensuing discussion on a re-route, I offered up a change, but then Alan piped up and wasn’t shy in showing his disappointment for missing Rose Farm cafe. Little did we know that he had planned on us stopping there, because he wanted to visit Kelsall Bike Repair, which as most know is now behind Rose Farm, in their swanky new unit. So, after a fairly one way discussion, we were forced to climb back up the ridge, but not to restore the integrity of the route, no,no, no, but for Alan to buy a pair of sunglasses can you believe???? “What! Unbelievable”, I hear you all say- precisely - Lol, Lol. 

I felt sorry for Clive who didn’t pick up on the discussion and simply followed my wheel, as we set off again. However, he was gobsmacked when we pulled into Rose Farm. I think he shouted “what are we doing”, as we pulled in behind the units and stopped at the bike shop. He stood across his bike, with his hands in the air. It was left to me to fill him in with some sign language that I can’t repeat. Suffice it say, I was pointing in the direction of Allan- Lol. Clive’s chuckle, suddenly made everything feel good again.

Mind you, while we were there, I learned that Tom Pidcock comes from the area and in fact his parents still live at the bottom of Yeld Lane, where the Kelsal Bike Repair used to be. Anyway, and after a 15 minute delay, we set off again with the ‘Rayban Mugger’ in tow at the rear. We were quickly backtracking along John Street and hurtling down the hill, that we had recently ridden up- Lol. We turned left heading for Duddon and Walk Mill beyond, which is where I leave the ‘Pantomime Crew’, saying good riddance - Lol. In actual fact I was sad to be leaving them, because I was worried they might not find their way home- Lol.

 

Everybody had a different homeward plan from Waverton, so I can’t enlighten those of you who might still be reading this diatribe - Lol. Except that is, that Chris was talking of following Clive home, so he could attempt to beat him up a particular hill. I’m guessing Clive dropped him on a previous occasion, who knows- Lol.

 

What a great day out, with a new lunch venue and a good bunch of cyclists, except Alan of course - Lol and despite my occasional dismay and verbal abuse of my fellow companions, I thoroughly enjoyed it. We had a few good laughs all round.

I got home with 45 miles on the clock and 700 mtrs of ascent (Thanks Alan- Lol)

 

Sorry this took so long to post, but you guys simply gave me too much to write about and I left a lot out- Lol, Lol

 

Till next time,

The Wind Whisperer

 

PS.

I later learned that both Steve Hu and Shane went on to complete 100 miles, after we were all showered and finished. This was in fact Steve’s second 100, as he did the same after last weeks CER. How does he manage to ride 100 miles, with at least 40 of them without anybody to talk to?-Lol.

Shane also deserves a special mention for his 100 on the day. I believe he not only finished in the rain but also in the dark- what!! Is he mad?? Each to his own, I suppose. However, well done to you both, especially in that stiff wind.

See route map and/or gpx file download

27th February 2025: Mickle Trafford (mod+)

Maggies was the venue of choice today and more than 2 months since I joined everybody- Oops!  (weather and injuries preventing my attendance). I counted 17 of us when assembling outside for departure, having taken over the cafe, which was fortunately empty, when I arrived. I had an unusual route prepared for anybody interested. Firstly because it was pan flat and secondly because of some new trails, that I figured most of the club members have never been on. So, as is traditional with me, we head into the wind, in order to ensure a nice cross tail wind for the second half of the ride back to base.

 

My group of four were Fiona, Elwyn, Steve ( I’m not really a chatter box Hughes- Lol) and our new member (to me at least) Chris (who can turn a mean pedal, when he wants). We set off for Holt bridge, heading for Chester. We settled into a steady pace, once I stopped chasing after the fast boys, who passed us, just before Churton. I suddenly realised I was in danger of dropping my group- Lol.

 

It wasn’t long before we were crossing the A55 and heading into Huntington, however, my little surprise was to turn right, at Spice.com ( Indian take away, with a difference- you can get a curry with Quorn in it) on to the cycle path of Caldy nature park. This would avail us of a different way through Chester without riding any of the major A roads. This delivered us into Churton Road and ultimately the canal bank. This was when we discovered that Fiona happened to live in said road, in a former life ( who knew, it’s a small world - Lol). A few hundred mtrs on the canal path saw us turning right to cross the canal of course and head up through the suburb of Hoole in order to pick up the Greenway at Newtown.

 

The Greenway allowed us to head westerly and cheat the headwind ( I had a plan- Lol).

We came off the Greenway at Blacon, where upon we discover this is where Chris lives, literally a couple of hundred mtrs away ( that’s a few hundred yards, for the older readers / DH, think his maps are still Imperial - Lol). 

 

After a short consultation with my Garmin, which was directing us straight on into a hedgerow, I decide to zig zag right and follow the main drag through Blacon on towards Saughall. This was the tough bit of our journey, due to the full on headwind, but thankfully Chris stepped up and relieved me at the front, thus pulling us nicely to our next right turn through the housing estate of Saughall, which is a much quieter traffic route, cutting across the corner toward Parkgate Road, which we chink left and right on and finally get onto the more enjoyable half of the route and more importantly, with the wind.

 

We were now destined to weave our way around some lovely lanes, via Backford and Rake Lane, skirting Cheshire Oaks by hopping on the one foot wide pathway for 100 mtrs, dropping us into Little Stanney Lane. No sooner in the lane and beginning to wind up the pace, along side Chris, I realise I can’t hear the usual dulcet tones of Steve Hu, which as I pointed out to Chris, is a sure sign that we were dropping the group - Lol.

 

We sit up and wait for a regroup before passing the landfill site on our left that is, dare I say it, starting to look good under it’s basic landscaping. We were now only a few miles or so from our lunch destination of Meadow Lea cafe when Chris prompted a short sprint, as we dip down and up past the Bunbury Arms, just before the tiny hamlet of Picton. He must have read my mind, because I always hit the pedals through that little stretch.

We regroup again and reassure Elwyn that we only had 2 miles to the cafe, as he can’t go more than twenty miles without eating- Lol.  For once it wasn’t Steve Hu, asking “ how far to lunch”- Lol.

We arrive at the cafe and it was packed, which to be honest, has been the case on my last few visits.

This meant that the group split to a table inside and a table out. Steve and Chris opted for outside as apparently they're hard men.

I don’t know why Meadow Lea is suddenly so popular, but Fiona did notice a lot of mothers and push chairs. Anyway, service was still good, so Fiona and I were soon tucking into beans on toast, while Elwyn ate the rest of the menu- Lol.

After a quick discussion about who was going back to Holt or not, I mentioned to Chris that he had the option of the Greenway for a direct short route, virtually to his door, as I knew he had a night shift to go to- ouch! However, he chose to stay with the group.

 

We set off south for Waverton and the crossing of the A51, which is where I discovered a slow puncture. I decided to gas up the tyre and crack on( fingers crossed). However it wasn’t long before Fiona was dropping back and, after regrouping, decided to continue at their pace.

Clearly my worries about my tyre possibly deflating had me subconsciously pushing the pace on.

I also then decided to take a different route to the plan of Saighton, Aldford and Holt, by taking the canal road to Tattenhall and home. Steve and Chris decided to crack on with me, as it seems both wanted more miles out of their days efforts.

We managed to, at times, really crack on a fare pace all the way to Tattenhall, where I said Farewell to them both, having put them on the lane past what used to be Old Ma’s cafe, in order for them to get to Platt’s Lane and Bruera. After that was anybody’s guess- Lol.

After a flying goodbye, I dropped my head for a last dash of 3 miles home, but the direct headwind in Frog Lane hit me hard, despite not being that strong (my legs were clearly done) 

I got home after 45 miles and an AS of 14.9 mph ( Frog Lane robbed me- Lol.) And my front tyre was still perfect- what!

 

Anyway, a very enjoyable day was had. I’m only sorry I had to push on the pace because of my slow puncture, which split the group. However, that probably meant Fiona and Elwyn got another cafe stop- Lol. I’ m glad I wasn’t doing the extra miles Steve & Chris were doing, let alone the night shift, as my fitness is sadly a long way off.

 

Cheers everybody, til next time,

The Wind Whisperer - Lol Lol.

 

P.S.

A few hours later my tyre did go down, I found a very small pin hole in my tube, which needed a bucket of water to find. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

27th February 2025 : Aston (mod)

There was a decent turnout at Maggie’s, and it was nice to catch up with some that I hadn’t chatted with for a while. Inevitably, unless you are riding with a particular group on the day, catching up is limited over morning coffee. Steve Hughes kindly came over to ask me about my recent eye treatment, and it turns out that he is something of an amateur ophthalmologist. Seriously, Steve is obviously, and helpfully, well-informed, due to his experience with an elderly family member. Nevertheless, I won’t be asking him to inject my eyeball to save me attending future Thursday clinics. For what it’s worth, my visual acuity is 6/6 in both eyes, and my treatment is successful.

I had a route to The Bhurty at Aston that was “oven ready” as Boris would say, i.e. wasn’t fully thought- through and may not turn out well. Trevor, George, Keith, Dave Matthews, Andy Barber and John Mills were prepared to risk it. It was great to have John on board, and for various reasons, Dave, George and Andy have hardly ridden with us at all for weeks. It was heartening to have their company once more. The route out was via Tilston, Duckington and Bickerton. The lovely little lane up the side of the Larkton and Bickerton hills escarpment was a bit of an ask for Dave who must keep an eye on his heart rate, but he was fine. We then turned south-east past Cholmondeley Castle before crossing the A49. I took a mileage check with Keith and Andy, but their answers differed and both underestimated the actual mileage we had covered. Nevertheless, I thought we could do with a longer loop on little, quiet lanes before lunch, so it was that we cruised around Marbury before reaching Aston via Pinsley Green. We were fortunate that workmen allowed us through a flooded section after passing a “Road Closed” sign at The Swan. Keith recalled a cold day having lunch outside The Swan in Covid times, and how that was, very sadly, the last time we spent with Erik Borg.

Lunch was a “cut above” at the refurbished Bhurtpore, and the staff were lovely. We cycled back the way we had come for a couple of miles, before heading for Wrenbury. At the lift bridge over the Llangollen Canal, Dave and Trevor chose a more easterly track home, as the rest of us went west to Gauntons Bank and then turned up to Bickley and Heatherson Green. I had to apologise for my micro navigating in this area and up to Tilston, as we stitched together a mostly narrow laned course via |Hampton Post and Edge Hall. The hard bit was climbing up from Egerton Hall to pass Michael Owen’s Manor House spread. George said that it had been a while since he had ridden this stretch, and the fact that it is an unrelented uphill slog is probably the reason we don’t often choose it. John Mills was extolling the merits of electric bikes to me; I knew that he had hired one in Tuscany and enjoyed his holiday despite his adverse health diagnosis at the time. John was on his own snazzy electric bike today, which enabled him to ride despite his treatment the day before. John’s treatment has been effective, but obviously his strength and speed have been reduced. Fortunately, I remember from a Ribble Valley special ride that John could still appreciate a slow, scenic ride even when his natural pace was much higher, and he has told me that he enjoyed today’s ride as well, which is very gratifying. For myself, I think I have got the electric bike recommendation loud and clear from a few of you over the past eighteen months, but I need to factor in if and when my right hip joint is replaced. 

The last leg of our ride was from entering Tilston at Lowcross Hill to returning to Maggie’s by way of Wetreins, Crewe-by-Farndon and Farndon itself, where I thought we could see if Lewis’ was still open, or continue to Maggies. As it turned out, Andy was already ahead in Holt, so we just had a last coffee and cake there. For the record, Maggie’s is open until 9p.m. and Lewis’s only to 4p.m. We assumed that John had headed home, but I learnt later that he would have joined us if he had known. The assumption was no doubt partly due to my belief that any rider from the Fast Lads stable didn’t like to waste time eating and drinking on a Thursday. We must eradicate these last-minute misunderstandings, as it’s all grist to the mill for that sad satirist and would-be ophthalmologist from Hawarden.

DH 

27th February 2025 : Tarvin (brisk)

A pretty full and noisy Maggies saw myself, Ken and Ray set off in a northeasterly direction towards Kelsall, thinking we might not get the full effects of persistent  NW headwind. A lovely sunny day with perhaps the first properly dry roads of the year. A keen and chilly wind remained though. We briefly followed the mod+ group through Farndon before Ray made attacked and formed a breakaway. We charge on through Churton and then familiar roads to Aldford, Bruera and a short stretch of A41 to Tattenhall.

Going over the bridge at Newton, we were held up by an escorted heavy loader transporting a canal boat to the adjacent marina. On the other side of the bridge, we nearly came off our bikes as we had to break quickly as a large group of cyclists (even older than us), were for some reason, stood all over the road.

Through Huxley and along Cork Screw Lane to Willington Lane, we had yet more hold-ups, first cars trying to pass each other, we clear that to more cars held up by a reversing tanker. We were planning lunch in Kelsall, but after deciding it was a bit early, we cut back southwards to Oscroft then across to Tarvin.

 Lunch was in a café by the post office on the High Street, perhaps not often used by CER, called, according to Ken, ‘50’. A small cafe, but good value. Pot of tea and bacon bap costing just over £6. The lunchtime special, broccoli mask and a local pie was tempting, but not if you want to cycle afterwards.

Back out the way we came, with a brief stop as I lost pressure in my rear tyre. A quick injection of air sorted it, and if the sealant did work in preventing further loss, I don’t know as  I never saw any escaping, but never look a gift horse I the mouth! Across the A51 towards Waverton, where Ken and Ray turned left towards Christleton, I went left towards Tattenhall and home.

I would have missed this if it wasn’t for the very helpful arrow!

Mileage around 40 miles form my home and fairly flat as you would expect at an average of 15.9mph, and a pleasant ride around our local lanes, not withstanding the pot holes. 

Caption for image: I would have missed this if it wasn’t for the very helpful arrow! 

See route map and/or gpx file download

NH

20th February 2025 : Davenham (Mod+)

I had a very early hospital appointment, so decided to drive out to Waverton and ride on from there. On the way, I espied Ray S cycling in the outskirts of Guilden Sutton on his way via Waverton to Utkinton.  I set off and few miles on from Waverton I only caught up with him as he had stopped to adjust his clothing as it had started to rain (the first of many times today!). I donned my rainwear and we made our way up the ever deteriorating roadways to Rose Farm to find John M already there.

Very soon Alan and Steve Hu arrived, along with Dave M, Trevor, Nick and finally Keith. The weather forecast was not encouraging as we looked out across the Cheshire Plain but six of us decided to take on my ride to Davenham. The route was out via Kelsall in a clockwise direction taking in some roads we haven't been down for a while. The route was very familiar out via Delamere Forest and down to Acton Bridge. There was the odd stop to take off outer layers as the air temperature rose to double figures (at last!). However, this didn’t last as the rain became more persistent as we waited for the Weaver bridge to be re-closed after swinging open for river traffic.

Before Comberbatch, Alan decided to return as he had to get back home for an unplanned appointment so Steve decided to accompany him back to Rose Farm and their cars. We four cycled on in the light rain to Marbury Country Park. We take the old lane through the park towards Northwich diverting off across the salt marsh via Neumann’s Flash to Wincham where we pass through the industrial estate bound for Wincham village proper.

The lunch stop was planned to be either at Riverside Organic cafe or to visit for the first time Oakwood Marina cafe nearby. As John said he had been there before and it was ok, Oakwood it was then. To get there we have to negotiate the A556 at Smoker's Brook traffic lights and then meander through pleasant Plumley and onwards to Lach Dennis. It's a short run then to the marina at 28 miles ridden.

Although quite small, the cafe was welcoming with all facilities to hand. The food was very good and reasonably priced. As we sat there enjoying lunch, the rain came through at 45 degrees as the wind had picked up and thus would be an unwelcome feature of the 12 mile ride back to Rose Farm. We set off as the rain had temporarily abated but not for long. In and out of Davenham I planned to get to Whitegate via the canal path and the golf course. 

The old roadway just after the blue bridge, was in a very poor condition and frankly, if I knew what was also in store a little further on, I would have re-planned the route. We carry on finding a tank training ground section of gravel and deep muddy pools followed by a very muddy section before hitting old tarmac again. We all got through unscathed and smooth tarmac welcomed us into the Vale Royal golf club grounds.

The run now is straightforward up Whitegate hill and through Little Budworth and Cotebrook and the final rise up and over to Utkinton with 40 wet miles ridden. Nick and John had driven over so they just had to climb up to the cafe whereas we continued on to Waverton. Here, I loaded a very dirty bike into the car's boot, and Ray cycled on back home with mid-60 miles ridden compared to my mid-50 miles.

I noticed now that the sun was out and the air temp was 15C! Despite the rain and the headwind and the poor roads and that Weaver-side track to the golf club, we all had enjoyed being out and about in wet Cheshire today with some sun and heady double figure temperatures for a change. 

So thanks to all for supporting the ride and apologies for the Weaver mountain bike section!

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

13th February 2025 : Knutsford (mod)

There were many walkers gathered at Delamere Station, and no vacant parking spaces apparent. Having popped my head into the café to ensure we had some candidates for a club ride, I managed to squeeze the Berlingo in between the line of cars and the far fence by the forest entrance gate. It was good to chat to Steve Hughes, Clive, Alan, Dave Matthews and Pocket Rocket Ray, but Dave was in civvies and there were no “moderate” riders around. George and Andy Barber have been rarely sighted recently, and Large Ray and Keith were somewhere (separately, thankfully) in the Caribbean. Then Trevor arrived having ridden from Guilden Sutton, so I no longer had to contemplate a solo ride. Three possible destinations were briefly considered, but as I would find it easy to fashion a route to and from Knutsford and write it up, Trevor went along with my preference.

This was my first ride on my Marin with last week’s snapped rear wheel spoke replaced, so fingers crossed! When we reached Crowton my steering felt so odd that I thought that I had a puncture, but it turned out to be the headset had been tweaked up a little too tight. From experience I know that extra lubrication will not provide the solution, so that’s an adjustment task for the week ahead. It is surprising how unnerving a tight headset can be at low speed; we make so many constant steering movements in order to balance that any variable resistance is hard to manage. 

While I’m on about mechanical issues, I have only twenty spokes in my back wheel. It is remarkable how it has survived for about two years with all spokes intact until last week. In particular, the wheel has had to cope with my Chris Hoy-like power and fifteen stone five pounds fully dressed weight. Trevor’s bike was built by the reputable Spa Cycles, and I could see at a glance that it had a zillion spokes in the rear wheel, and when I returned home I counted thirty- two on my spare road bike. So here I am, risking my neck on wheels for waifs. Marco Pantani on his 1998 Bianchi Mega Pro had sixteen Alpina spokes at the rear, which was considered “crazy!” but these were in some of the very first deep-section wheels, and Pantani was a sparrow(nine stone wet through). Even Pantani used twenty-four spoke Campagnolo Electron wheels for the Tour de France’s mountain stages.

Anyway, back to the ride description: from Acton Bridge we headed past Cogshall Hall and climbed up to Frandley, past the Quaker House. At Antrobus we turned down the quiet Keeper’s Lane passing Firtree Farm where family members once walked Alpacas with my son for a treat (he was nearly forty at the time!). We finished up in the grounds of Arley Hall, and I was able to point out to Trevor where I had crashed because I had stared too long at four birds in a field. I had been cleaned up in the equestrian centre at Arley Moss Farm where they were used to sending for ambulances after riding accidents, and I was eventually transported to Warrington Hospital where they spent hours trying to find someone qualified to stitch me up. This was no surprise as Warrington Hospital’s reputation has always been at Gregg Wallace level. 

The sign at Moss End showed only six miles to Knutsford. You can make good time on this stretch to the A556 Roman road, so we resorted to alternating the lead to help the pace and provide some shelter from the cold easterly headwind. We entered Knutsford from Tabley Hill, and locked our bikes to the railings at the rear entrance of Costa. Costa was friendly, clean, cheapish and saved time. The food? Just what you would expect, but I can’t see Jay Rayner making a visit anytime soon. Amongst other matters we discussed holidays, and it turns out that Trevor is shortly holidaying in Sri Lanka. Trevor so often has an imaginative destination or experience lined up, whilst some of settle for Tui, the Canaries, and finding someone to take the dog for a winter week away. 

Our return route was via Pickmere which once had a fairground on the banks of the mere, and you could take a ride on a large boat that plied the waters. There were dodgems, a ghost train, helter-skelter, and a café in the large house at the start of the lane down. We cycled through Great Budworth, passing the George and Dragon which has gone upmarket since Clive and I enjoyed liver and onions there on what I think was his first ride with the club. 

We took the Little Leigh route back to the A49 adjacent to The Leigh Arms. The climb up to Acton Bridge never gets any easier, but at least we had been wind assisted on our return and made good time before the inevitable slogs from the Weaver Valley up to Delamere. A slight misunderstanding climbing up to Norley meant we split up before Hatchmere, but mobile contact established that there were no problems, so Trevor carried straight on home and I returned to the Berlingo at Delamere Station.

 
A very pleasant, relaxed day with Trevor clocking up something like fifty-nine miles, and approximately thirty-nine miles for me.

DH