2nd April 2026: Holt

Bit of a chilly start for TT1 (The Thief) and I , as we rode up to Meadow Lea, ahead of what was promising to be a very nice day indeed. 

 

There was a split amongst those gathered, due to the table arrangements, which meant I forgot to get a headcount, as we were on opposite sides of the room. So, I am trying to picture the scene as I type. I figure there might have been 15/16 in total.

 

Last minute.com and Ivan were later arrivals, who I believe became the fast group of 2, as Clive and RR decided to come with me on a flat one to Commonwood Fisheries, or so we thought; more on that later. The rest of my group were TT 1 of course and TT2 (Teflon Toby) and a mystery ‘other’, who I didn’t discover until a few miles down the road- Lol. 

The notable absentees were the Chuckle Brothers, one on holiday in France and the other sat at home crying for his soul mate -Lol (Alan was in fact sick). He was still getting over the lurgy that I had the week before. There seems to be lots of it about at the moment. Clive had decided to abandon his fast chum buddies because, I believe, Ivan had worn him out on a long one on Tuesday- Lol.

 

DM was there in his civvies, promoting his Bob Cliff memorial event (31 May) which is a fair bit cheaper this year at £23. For those who might not know, there is a 50 and a 80 mile option. GPX route files can be downloaded, for those who don’t use the paper version of a Garmin or one of those wind up Wahoos - Lol.

 

Back to the ride. All the groups set off pretty much together, with me holding up my group for a change (bloody Garmin had dumped the route, yet again!). We eventually set off to the right, heading for Cheshire Oaks, via Picton. However, after a mile or so, I found myself wondering who the extra rider was in our group. He was wearing a colourful kit that I didn’t recognise. Just as I was about to drop back to find out who it was, he pulled up alongside me and I discovered it was Paul. He seemed to just appear in the group, as I didn’t clock him at Meadow Lea. I also haven’t seen him for at least a year. I’m guessing he arrived just as we were leaving.

 

Anyway, after a brief discussion we settled in to a nice rhythm, with a very light tailwind.

It wasn’t long before we reached Cheshire Oaks and took the footpath to the left, avoiding the main highway and delivering us into Rake Lane, almost immediately passing the pub of the same name, which is probably the largest of the Brunning & Price chain. A few miles later we were through Backford and settling into our stride, which gave me a chance to chat with Clive about his local area, coming from Mollington. We hit Saughall, where Clive pointed out a free library in a bus stop, they are a bit of a thing around those parts apparently-Lol.

 

We turned left, heading for Saltney Ferry, via Blacon, just after Lucy’s cafe or is that Lynda’s - Lol. I then decided on a last-minute change and took the Greenway for a half mile, avoiding the centre of Blacon. I was getting some back-seat driver suggestions, so I did the complete opposite of course - Lol.

 

After I almost turned up the wrong exit from the Greenway, we got on to the road and pick up our pace down to Sealand Road, where we came to an abrupt stop, due to a stationary traffic tailback, all the way into Chester. Clive took to the pathway and before we knew we had passed the lot, turning right into Ferry Lane. We crossed the river Dee , which was flowing fast at near full tide, via the footbridge of course and continued south toward Saltney, skirting the perimeter via a little foot path that even Clive didn’t know - quote, “that’s a new one on me” - Lol.

 

It wasn’t long before we were passing through Dodleston and negotiating our second level crossing of the day.  Less than a couple of miles further on, through Pulford, passing Fiona & Elwyn’s gaff at Lavister.  As we passed by, I mentioned to the group that our only hill of the day was just coming up, to which somebody remarked “what Marford Hill”.  “Yep” from me, “but only half of it”.   A mile or so further on, I catch the group up, waiting at Hoseley Lane, half way up Marford Hill.

 

After our regroup, I think RR pointed out the infamous Pistyll Hill, just a few hundred metres further on. It must be one of the toughest short climbs in the county, only a couple of hundred metres, but a twat!  Anyway, that prompted me to mention climbing Pistyll Hill 4 times in one morning, when I test rode the whole Whyte range from Alf Jones Cycles ( it was only a 2 mile loop each time- Lol) I did eventually purchase a Whyte Wessex, some 7 years back now. The same one you see me riding in winter. Nowadays, my current leg issues won’t allow me to attempt Pistyll Hill - Lol.

 

Anyway, I digress again. We were only a mile or two from our lunch destination, which was to be the Acorn Cafe at Commonwood Fisheries, after descending Borras Hill, plus another mile of tarmac.  That said, we arrived in lovely sunshine, looking forward to a halloumi wrap, only to be told the cafe was shut, but open on Fri- “you’re kidding” was my response.

 

Hence, we ended up at Maggie’s, which was lovely anyway. We sat outside and basked in the sun. Our food was very quick. Clive’s half breakfast looked very nice indeed. Both TT2 and I went for the vegan sausage roll, which was a tasty, spicy number.

 

For the life of me, I can’t remember a single conversation, I think I was too busy stretching my legs and enjoying the gorgeous sunshine. I do remember the brief discussion on who was heading home or needed to get back to Meadow Lea. Only Paul was heading back to Meadow Lea, although Clive and TT2 were passing by en route to the Chester suburbs, which meant I could leave Paul in their capable hands, as I decided to bail at Bruera via Platts Lane. My legs just didn’t have anything, from the start to be fair.

 

After a pacey restart up to Churton, we turned right over the bridge of Aldford Brook and continued at pace to Bruera, where I left the group and immediately knocked the pace off to a crawl. We had in fact managed 15 mph average speed up to me leaving the group, which became 14.7mph by the time I got home, 6 miles later.

 

Well, that’s that folks, another enjoyable meander logged in the old memory banks, with a few good laughs and great company.

 

Till next time gents.

NT 

See route map and/or gpx file download

2nd April 2026: Malpas

Editor's note: Due to a communications mix up, we have two reports for this ride from Meadow Lea to Malpas. It would seem churlish to publish one and note the other, so here are both of them. The gpx file came courtesy of Trevor

Today’s meet was from Meadow Lea and the weather report was sunny, but Baltic out of the sun, so no rain wind or any other inclement weather to deal with. So our group of mods, meandering, flower smelling posse consisted of myself as group carer (well that’s what it seems like sometimes) George, Andy Whitgreave, Trevor, Ray, Dave H, who was ride leader. There were others at the meet, but they were from the other motley crew who, no doubt will be mentioned in their blog . So off we set, heading for Malpas. I remember in days of old that certain people absolutely detested going anywhere near the place. How the world has changed. (I wonder if Donald was even behind this decision by phoning said person and saying ‘go to Malpas or I will put the troops on the ground in your little village’.) The route took us from Guilden Sutton to Christleton, Rowton, Waverton, over  to Harthill territory, where a slight mutiny was avoided by us going via the sedate route to Brown Knowl (spelt correctly). Then, according to my Garmin, to a place or area called Ducking Hell, which I usually use when climbing Harthill. No Man’s Heath came and went as did some other little rural retreats on to The Little Deli cafe in Malpas . 

This little place has been used by Chester Easy Riders for many a year and every time it never lets us down, as was the case this time for our little pack of little athletic Adonis moderate cycling group. Dave H had contacted them earlier seeing if they could accommodate said athletes, which they did and really looked after us. Food and drinks came and went during which time the usual mods drivel was mentioned. We don’t half sort the problems of the world out or is it total bo**ocks? Answers at the next meet will do, as I suspect the other groups talk as much drivel or more as we do .

The route back to Meadow Lea was out via Chorlton, Horton Green through Tilson and on towards Tattenhall. Then on towards Huxley using the usual route back to Guilden Sutton. We covered approximately 44 miles for me, having ridden in from ‘the fishing village’. Slightly more as did others likes of Trevor who commuted and Andy who also ridden from home. Another fantastic ride containing good banter, a good lunch stop and a good route. So yes that’s it really, which is surprising for the mods as we didn’t have any of our usual little mishaps of losing property, people, or making the lady from the cafe having to run up the steep little climb from her place to give car keys, wallets, phones or the usual things that our group tend to forget.

 Next week is the special ride so hope to see you then.

KB

Dave Matthews had arrived for coffee despite still recovering from his heart-rate monitor replacement operation. Dave’s simpleton side-kick Andy Whitgreave intended to ride with us;  George, Trevor,  Big Ray, Krazy Keith and me completed the moderate group. I had a route that had two or three lanes unridden by most just to add a bit of spice. We set off toward Jim’s house before turning for Vicars Cross and Christleton. We then headed down Rowton Bridge Road, but the novelty quiet diversion past the Rowton Hotel was totally subverted by road closure barriers, and vehicles trying to circumnavigate the A41 road work lights. Never mind, we were soon into Waverton and cruising alongside the Shropshire Union Canal before passing the Ice Cream Farm. 

Andy, who is impressively knowledgeable about the Cheshire countryside, suggesting the quiet Carrs Lane heading up to Cheshire Fisheries, which matched my intentions. We avoided Harthill by crossing Nantwich Road to Brown Knowl . As we headed down the Old Coach Road, Andy was banging on about getting to Malpas via Duckington, as if I didn’t know of this option. However, it was my intention to get a few more miles under our belts including a couple of lanes not ridden by us before. So it was, we followed the Old Coach Road all the way to No Man’s Heath, crossing the main Whitchurch road and passing the closed Wheatsheaf Inn where Keith reminded us of past lunches of sausages in large Yorkshire puddings. It reminded me too, of good times with Bryan Wade. We re-crossed the A41 to Bickleywood and took the first right following a quiet lane which is part of the Sandstone Trail. We crossed the main road again following the little used Bradley Lane. The weather was sunny and the spring landscape delightful. The troops began to grumble about lunch, so on hitting Old Malpas Road we headed directly north to The Little Deli where I had made a booking for us earlier.  

Despite the small premises we had plenty of room that had been set aside for us. The service was friendly and the food helpings were generous and good value. On leaving I picked up the mobile of the member of staff who last year chased us up the road with my car keys. We made our way to Cuddington Heath before my care home staff came to collect me. Our way back was on wending sun-dappled lanes to Tattenhall via Tilston and the Carden climb to Clutton. From Tattenhall we took a familiar route to Hargrave and Greenlooms. Keith took off for Stanford Heath while the rest of us headed for Littleton and past Ivan’s house for sale. We nearly torpedoed Keith as we swooped down School Lane and met Station Road. It had been a very relaxed day out. I enjoyed the banter with Andy, and reflected on the enterprise of our members, with cycling challenges ahead for Trevor and Andy,  George with his walking adventures, and Ray with his sea-born voyages of discovery and  stomach enlargement. It had been good to cruise the sunny green lanes and chat. About 44 miles covered.

DH

See route map and/or gpx file download

26th March 2026: Loppington

 After several days of torrential rain and high winds, it was a pleasure to wake up on Thursday morning to bright sunshine and a forecast for a dry and less windy day. Turning up early at Maggie’s at Holt, I was soon joined by a good crowd of CER members. As usual some were not riding - Dave M having just had a new pacemaker fitted; and some were doing their own thing - Dave P and Liz on the tandem, Trevor getting home early and Ivan doing his own thing.

That left a mixed group of brisk and mod+ folk, comprising of Nick, young Chris, Ray S, Steve Hu, Elwyn, Fiona, Keith and me for a ride I’d planned down to The Dickin Arms at Loppington. We set off through Farndon, Tilston, Chorlton and Tallarn Green, with the north-westerly wind behind us helping to push us on at a good speed. As we crossed the A495 approaching Fenn’s Bank, we paused to phone the pub to ensure that they could accommodate us for lunch. ‘No problem’, they said, so we pressed on, arriving in Loppington about two hours after leaving Holt.

Service was a bit slow, but the food was excellent when it arrived with the group variously enjoying halloumi, fish and chips, scampi and spring onion, leak and potato chowder. Prices have gone up (again) since our last visit, but that’s normal these days.

After a group photo (thanks, Steve), we set off for English Frankton, the wind now in our faces. Steve Hu kindly went to the front to take a wind off me, but I was so focussed on his back wheel that I missed a turning and we ended up in Cockshutt, rather than English Frankton. My Wahoo computer is usually very good at re-routing in these circumstances, but it seemed to keep wanting to send us back the way we’d come. Looking at the map now, I can see that this was because there isn’t a convenient alternative route!

Eventually back on track we pressed on, although the road surface in some places was quite poor. Between Welshampton and Penley the lanes are through some woods and the road/track surface was awful, prompting complaints from the peleton behind me. ‘When you get home, delete this route’ said Fiona.

Things improved when we reached Penley and we took the usual route back through Worthenbury and Schocklach. Again, Steve Hu took the wind for a while until the brisk boys took off to stretch their legs. After all, the ride so far been like a recovery ride to them!

At Schocklach, Nick left for home; at Wetreins, Steve Hu and Chris speared off in pursuit of a 100 miler for the day. Approaching Farndon, Keith and Ray S headed for Churton and points north as they set off respectively for the car and home. That left me alone heading back to Holt until Elwyn and Fiona appeared next to me at the bridge over the Dee, them having called at the chemist in Farndon to pick up a prescription.

So, 50 miles covered on a dry, cool but sunny day. As usual a really enjoyable day out with a great bunch. Thanks to all for their support and especially to Steve and Keith for taking the wind as we headed home.

ST

See route map and/or gpx file download

19th March 2026: Llay (mod+)

 This weeks’ blog is a tad different in more ways than one-Lol. For starters the meet venue was very popular, with my head count reaching 21+  At one point I thought there was going to be four groups.  I overheard DH mention Audlem Marina and the fast boys were talking about Sandbach. I also believe there were a few doing their own thing or a 4th group?

It was a glorious day and the best for months, which meant all groups got going pretty sharp, all keen as mustard.

 

My group became the ‘CB’s, who had ridden in from Waverton, TT1 (the thief) who rode over with me, ‘RR’ (Rapha Ray), John Mills and Toby.

 

Before I get started on the ride and the day’s inevitable mishaps, faux-pas and simply daft moments. I would like to introduce our latest honorary member, which as most of you already know, is a form of fond recognition for individual acts of heroism, loyalty, benevolence or simply embarrassing moments or stupidity- Lol. The Mod+ group has a hard core following, which started with the Chuckle Brothers, their moment of ‘note’ long since forgotten (something to do with Solero ice lollies-Lol) but now in need of an update. As for why they’re known as brothers- more on all of that later.

 

Those followers of the Mod+ ethos, intentional or not, inevitably become honorary members by earning themselves a pseudonym. These are awarded by yours truly in a similar way to that of our illustrious King when bestowing a title on his special citizens, except a Mod+ title involves no sword and is usually less gratifying or welcomed. Our democratic committee of one deliberates long and hard, with tireless dedication, in order to proudly award a personalised pseudonym -Lol. It doesn’t take long, for some, to earn an appropriate title, in some cases several, although it can be tricky to make such an award because some individuals are simply more reliable, capable, self-aware and simply down right more competent-Lol.

 

So, without further a doo, our latest honorary member is Toby, who, hence forth, shall be known as ‘TT2’ (Teflon Toby) as per the Mod+ ethos trope! Number 2, due to ‘the thief’ of course. Such recognition is usually all my work, but on this occasion credit goes to Steve Hu aka ‘the chatterbox’ aka, one half of the ‘chuckle brothers,’ etc etc-Lol. He commented to me, in passing, “nothing ever sticks to Toby, in the blog. He’s like Teflon.” And so it became - in the best words of Jean-Luc Piccard “make it so”- Lol,Lol.

 

I mean, TT2 goes about his cycling in a very unassuming way, a gent who never shoots himself in the foot, always does his turns on the front, although most of the time he is too quick-Lol. No wonder it’s taken 6 months to become an honorary member.

 

While I’m at it, there are a few initialisms that need an update, or have simply been superseded, as it is all too easy for some-Lol. Kev, aka ‘the very nice man’, is hardly ever seen these days, since he got married and so he becomes ‘TIM’ (the invisible man). CB1 has earned a more appropriate initialism; ‘KK’ (Kit-Kat) because he is all too often at the back of the group taking a break- Lol.  With one half of the brothership left, it seems logical to consolidate his initialisms and just recently has more than earned his new honour of ‘MM’ (Moaning Mertle) Lol.

 

Shall we mention the ride? -Lol.

 

We arrived at the cafe after 20 miles, just before 12 noon and made it back to Tattenhall by 2pm, where we all split for home -job done -Lol,Lol,Lol.

 

Apologies to John, who I only discovered had turned back at our first regroup in Oscroft. I didn’t know he was finding the pace tricky. I’m used to his 'fast boy' days.

 

Oh yes, lunch was very enjoyable and everybody seemed very pleased with their orders, after grabbing the large table, which no doubt contributed to the myriad of amusing conversation and cross banter. One memorable subject was from TT2, who tried to educate ‘TT1 & MM on the nastier aspects of fish fungus, whilst ‘RR’ (or was it ‘MM’?) were trying to outbid each other on the different types and size of motorbike they had each owned in a previous life-Lol. How ironic that ‘MM’ has recently downgraded to a Vespa scooter, albeit a nice one- Lol.

 

TT1 brought us all back to a more sober Earth, when enlightening us all about the Anthrax outbreak in the  fields adjacent to the cafe. Thankfully, this was a lot of years back apparently and now there is a housing estate there.

 

As for the brotherly aspect of the now de-funcked ‘CB’s’ initialism. Light was thrown on the subject when ‘MM’ (CB2 of old remember-Lol), produced a photograph from his phone of him and ‘KK’ on mopeds in their teenage years, which is a hint as to why they have been known as brothers. They both went to school together, bless-em.

 

So, there we have it. What a cracking day in gorgeous sunshine, with great company and more than the usual hilarious moments. TT1 was in particular form on the day.  I loved his story about a younger him and his drunken mates nicking Xmas gnomes. However, the police caught them quickly because they forgot to take the batteries out and were flashing brighter than the police car -Lol,Lol.

 

Till next time ladies- Haseeb Sadeek (‘take care’ in Welsh-Lol,Lol)

 

PS, I’m not sure about you guys, but I’m doubtful even I will keep up with this diatribe- Lol. 

My stinking cold has clearly affected my artistic writing bent -Lol.

 

‘NT’ aka Waffling Wind Whisperer (triple initialism-Lol) 

See route map and/or gpx file download

19th March 2026 : Sandbach (brisk)

Just like all the caravans and motor homes seem to come out onto the roads when the sun shines, so it was today as two thirds of the club were at Rose Farm cafe with their bikes. Some riders were still in bib tights, but a few of us were sporting our bib shorts – probably for the first time this year!

I’d curated a brisk ride to Sandbach to my favourite pub–The George. Ken and Nick were also up for it, as was Young Chris who joined us as well. We set off ahead of the herded cats on a standard route to Eaton. I missed the planned turn, but took the next which took us down a better surfaced road. We head south to Barbridge then east to join the Wettenhall to Nantwich road.

Crossing into Welshman’s Lane, I had espied a smooth short cut through the Kingsbourne housing estate which worked well. We wiggle through Nantwich but a shout from behind informs me that my rear mudguard is rattling and very loose. I’ve had this problem before with my Specialized Creo. The bracket that supports the mudguard on the rear stays has snapped off. So this is my replacement bracket that has snapped since I bought the bike in October 2025– not impressed with the quality of the design. Help is offered as a cat’s cradle of colour-matched cable ties hoists the mudguard just clear of the tyre. But, will it hold for the next 30 miles! I resolve to acquire some more ties in Sandbach as I’m now out-of-stock – just in case!

We are now on an eastern trek via Shavington to Weston where we head north to Haslington, Winterley (with its pool), Wheelock Heath, Wheelock, and into Sandbach. Down the High Street we rock up at The George and bag an outside table. The pub is always busy but our food is served up quickly. Ken and I use the time to try to find a cable-tie shop locally. There is B&M and Handy Household shops locally. As the Handy is on the way out, we stop and I enter into an Aladdin’s Cave with a magnificent display of cable ties – mudguard insurance sorted!

We now head north west along the long Bradwell Road into the edge of Middlewich. As the next checkpoint is Winsford, the route is a familiar one. We access the Whitegate Way where the next 3 miles are actually uphill all the way to the Station cafe. The bikes know the route back as we head for Oulton Park where Nick peals off for home. We three arrive back close to Rose Farm where, after about 60 miles already ridden today, Chris decides to ride off into the sunset while he can so heads for Kelsall and beyond– after all he’s on holiday this week.

Ken is parked up in Waverton so we head back together. I then head for the Specialized shop in Boughton where I bought the bike from. The service is superb – no issues arise as the bike is on the stand and a different, and hopefully sturdier, bracket is fitted there and then.

Shiny new bracket - let's see how long this lasts

So many thanks to Ken, Nick and Chris for their help and company today. The route round is 47 miles but was 76 miles for me and much more for Chris.

CA

See route map and/or gpx file download

19th March 2026: Overwater Marina (mod)

It was a bright, sunny morning when a large group of CER members gathered at Rose Farm Café. The forecast was for plenty of sunshine and very little wind, so ideal cycling conditions. In the end, there were four groups (brisk, mod+ , mod and mod-) which set out for different destinations around the Cheshire countryside.

The ‘mod’ group consisted of Dave H, Ray B, Trevor, George, Keith and myself. Our destination was Overwater Marina near Audlem, as both Dave and I had, independently, thought it would be good to sit outside the café there for lunch.

So we set off down Wood Lane, heading for Clotton. This road is probably the very worst in Cheshire, with lots of ruts and potholes and, in several stretches, no tarmac whatsoever. On the other side of the A51 at Clotton, Corkscrew Lane has recently been resurfaced and is now as smooth as a race track. Keith suggested that we should roll it up like a carpet and re-lay it down Wood Lane. If only!

Our route took us through Huxley, Brassey Green and down past The Shady pub to Beeston Castle. From there we pressed on south through Bunbury, Brindley and Chorley, arriving at Wrenbury soon after 12. Nearly there, I thought, but the six miles or so from there to the marina took a while and it was nearly one o’clock by the time we’d got through Wrenbury Heath and Sound to the Bridge 80 at Overwater Marina.

Keith was worried that it might be busy at the café and that it would take a while for our lunch to be served, but in fact our orders were taken quickly and the food came in good time. There was some confusion about who had ordered what, which amused the ladies who were serving us. On the plus side, the food was good, especially George’s vegetarian breakfast.

On the way down, George had been catching up on the happenings of recent weeks, as he’d been away in the Far East. In particular, the recent saga of Dave H’s dog slipping its lead and getting lost on Runcorn Heath was news to him. Trevor suggested that George should follow the aphorism ‘Get in the loop, stay with the group’ to avoid missing out in the news.

We set off back long Cool Lane now with the wind (mostly) behind us. On reaching Nantwich, we avoided the town centre by wiggling our way through the lakeside park to cross the River Weaver, emerging through the houses on the north side, where we crossed the A51 and ran past Rease Heath College.

Crossing the Shropshire Union Canal (again) at the Venetian Marina, we continued north to Cholmondelston and Wettenhall. Approaching Eaton, we had the choice of taking the long steep hill up to the summit on Tarporley Road or the slightly longer (?) but less steep route via Cotebrook. After taking a vote, we took the Cotebrook route, where Keith left us to return to his car just outside Frodsham and the rest of us headed for Rose Farm.

Just under 45 miles after a ride through the Cheshire lanes on a sunny and warm day. Is this the start of a long, hot summer, or is there a sting in tail of winter that is yet to come?

ST

See route map and/or gpx file download

12th March 2026: Comberbach

 So todays ride, yet again I just couldn’t be bothered to check the weather. Otherwise, like so many, I wouldn’t have set out from the house, but put ‘Loose Women’ on instead of recording it for later . The hardy souls that did turn out in a moderate breeze and awaiting the rain were myself, electric Dave, Dave H, Toby and a 'new lad' called Chris otherwise known as ‘last minute.com’ to the mod+ lads. I said new, due to the fact half his body has disappeared now that he’s all hair and a lean mean cycling machine . So we set off against the wind - yes it wasn’t a breeze - heading for a circular route to Comberbach via Norley , Acton Bridge (downhill) , around Little Leigh , Higher Whitley and Antrobus . 

It was around here we stopped for a mothers meeting. Toby and Chris, who usually are out with Neil’s or any of the slightly faster groups were unsure of what to expect, but were given a vote on where to go. Not that it meant anything to me or Dave H, as we just said it’s going to be a few extra miles the way we were heading and that the weather was going to be against us on the return. So we headed for the Spinner and Bergamot (ok, it’s a named after a spinning loom between Pickmere and Wincham owned by the Smith family who had a jockey who’s best horse was called Bergamot). Here, we left Toby who was cycling with last minute Chris back to Chester, so they didn’t dine with me and his lordship. Their mileage was done via new money i.e. kilometres, so they probably achieved in excess of 80/90 kilometres in old money, around 50/60 miles according to Google.

Me and club royalty got a decent seat as the pub was empty and under new ownership, so it wasn’t difficult. We then ordered our grub which took ages. It was one of those moments where we had got warm and comfortable, so let’s order an Uber. But being stupid, we went back out to dark skies and head winds .

So our route back to Delamere was as follows;  Little Leigh but this time through the village then back to the river at the Acton swing bridge where we had the climb up the hill we had descended earlier. But hats off to us both - even against the wind we didn’t get off. Then the weather gods thought ‘oh that’s it now, I’m putting heavy rain into the mix for the rest of the journey’. This was via Acton Bridge station to Crowton, then up another hill we had descended earlier which was pot holed, missing tarmac, mud- covered and now wet and puddled - oh, that’s us two, sorry. Anyway, you get the idea. The rain and wind made my mind wander to the last time I rode up this hill. I had shorts and sleeveless cycling jersey on, getting sweat in my eyes, not cold wet rain. Anyway, at the top yet again neither of us had dismounted, so we headed on the short run to Hatchmere lake where Dave had parked. I’d ridden out, but with being the nominated carer, I accepted a lift back to the ‘village by the river’. So my mileage today was 46 miles and Dave around 32 all told. With the wind and rain later, it wasn’t a bad effort by us all .

One final note I forgot. Steve H had arrived at Delamere knowing that none of the mod+ hierarchy were attending, but he came anyway to see what idiots where stupid enough to venture out. His mode of transportation was a very nice Vespa (mods & rockers age).  

Footnote: I know it’s not clever not looking at the weather forecast, but as we all live in the UK, we expect variations in the weather.  Mostly, this year so far, the weather gods have taken a great pleasure in making me use all my winter cycling attire, but I can say it was  another top cycling day. So cheers to the guests from the mod+ mob who learned things today from the really moderate duo .

KB

5th March 2026: Nantwich

 It was great to meet Liz and Dave, who were up for a ride to Bunbury with the tandem. Jim had returned from holiday and was also pleased to join in on a short route. I had a route reaching Nantwich, but a rough estimate using Google indicated it would be about thirty-seven miles. I was slightly in denial of this as I had an appointment in Widnes at 3.15, not 3.50 as I had first thought, so I needed to return to Walk Mill for 2.30 which was probably too optimistic. Despite getting out to my bike early, we didn’t manage to leave on time; the first base for needing to crack-on hadn’t been reached. Poor old Mold Andy had arrived in a sweat, and by the time his cup of tea was served didn’t have time to drink it, (although he wasn’t the cause of delay). The mod group consisted of Trevor, Andy B, Dave Matthews, Ray, Steve Tan, Andy W and me. We set off for Tiverton via Burton and Hoofield, before swooping down to the canal and railway on the A49 and climbing to the left turn after the former Wild Boar now being developed into apartments. We soon reached Alpraham where to avoid a rough lane and save time we headed down the A51 to Long Lane, not far, but unlikely to please Andy W with his ‘A’ road aversion neurosis. (Unlike Andy B who often uses main roads to return to wet Wales expediently). We finished up at Cholmondeston and then headed south for Venetian Marina. Dave Matthews was made up with his electric bike but decide that he needed to eat; although we had only been out for about an hour and forty (he had been up since 6a.m. and must have only eaten half a Dairylea triangle on a thin slice of toast for breakfast). He did have a point though, Tilly’s for lunch was a bit of a stretch.  We could go to the nearby café Imagination Lane  at Gates Farm and think of shortening the total route. A little pow-wow about a re-adjustment of our route was made difficult by having two riders out in front way up the road. In the end Dave headed back for Taylor’s Tearoom at Venetian Marina and was later able to recommend it under the newish ownership. We finished up at the marina on Chester Road opposite Dorfold Hall at the edge of Nantwich. The weather had been fine and it was a very nice spot for a lunch stop close to the narrow boats. I ordered soup for expediency, but it wasn’t on the menu and although very nice took a little time to be made from scratch. Steve by this time had decided to have a proper lunch and ride back to Runcorn from somewhere on the return route. I had to act quickly as I was going to miss my medical appointment. I indicated my simple intended return route for the group to Trevor by way of my OS map and quickly cleared off.

The only way I could get back in time was straight down the A51 to Duddon before turning left to Walk Mill, which, with a following wind, worked out, as I was just about able to drive out of Walk Mill on schedule. Having spoken to Trevor, the return in the direction of Bunbury via Acton and Haughton went smoothly.  Andy W returned by way of Cholmondeley, and Andy B and Steve headed home at convenient points; Ray was the only one needing to return to Walk Mill for his car. Trevor reckoned the basic route was 37.5 miles. Thanks to Trevor for taking over, and to Steve for being so tolerant about me driving home without him.  It was a lovely, sunny day on some enjoyable lanes in the usual good company.

DH 

See route map and/or gpx file download

5th March 2026: Little Budworth

 At last a lovely day at Walk Mill, although I set off in thick fog and 6 degrees, but within 2 Miles the sun came through and the fog vanished in an instant, This, ultimately meant I was overdressed for the day-Lol. 

For the first time since Xmas and beyond there wasn’t a serious threat of rain or at least not until 3pm. And so a good gathering, once more, with at least 18 by my count, which included Dave and Liz Pipe aboard the electric tandem- does that signify Spring is officially here-Lol. A noteable absentee was Keith, as I seem to remember him always making Walk Mill, but I could be wrong- never!- Lol.

 

Almost all of the Mod+ crowd had gathered, all bar ‘the very nice man’ who clearly still has ‘post honeymoon disease’ -Lol, but the rest all keen to follow me to the Station House cafe, on the Whyte Gate Way. 

 

However, that got scuppered by the Brisk boys deciding to also follow me. This meant a tactical change to the option cafe, ‘The Hollies’, as it is huge inside and out and can easily handle my group of 9.

 

My peloton therefore became Shane aka ‘the thief’, the ‘chuckle brothers’, Toby, Chris aka ‘last minute.com’, Clive (non-elec this week) Rapha Ray, Nick and yours truly.

 

We set off toward Oscroft and yet again I had to stop and reboot my Garmin after the route dumped itself again!  I think it is time for a new one. I can’t complain after 35000 miles+ on that one (almost all my retired years in fact, I have just realised). I noticed, only the other day, that Garmin have now come out with a pared down, no frills, version of the 1000 edge range, for half the price - OMG! Guess whose birthday is only 2 weeks away-Lol.

 

Back to the ride and it wasn’t long before we were passing DM’s pad and heading towards what used to be my favourite hill climb (not!- Chapel Ln). Alas, injuries have kept me away for the last year +. A mile or so later we turn left toward Kelsall and after a mile the first of our uphill bits. We turned left at the Citrus cafe and continued up for what became a few miles, by the time we got through Delamere forest and regrouped at Hachmere.

I was heading for my favourite northern lane. Gallowsclough Ln is a cracker, as long as there hasn’t been rain for several days and it didn’t disappoint. It’s of course up and down, but in lovely condition. 

 

Only 2 miles later we were hurtling down hill, past an often-used right turn, into the Whitegate way, which I felt might not be dry enough on this occasion. So, we head uphill again for a circumnavigation via Clutton and Sandiway, although not before the ‘chatterbox’ pulls us over for an Hors d'oeuvre, just before our lunch stop-Lol. 

 

Mind you, that wasn’t the first ‘CB’ pit stop. CB 1 needed a clothing change, just before Delamere forest, as is the way of the CB’s. I mean, what happened to simply sweating when you get hot, although it beats me how they get hot hanging on to the back of the grupetta- Lol.

 

Cereal bar scoffed, we set off again and it wasn’t long before CB2 aka ‘the chatter box’ decided to almost take out our peloton on a junction where we all turned right, except him of course. The strange thing was, he asked me if we were going to turn right, obviously spotting a stationary Chris in the distance up ahead, I responded with “yes, turning right.”

Next thing I know, Just as I turned right, he shouts “woh!” And before I knew it, somebody shouts “ease up, Steve has gone straight on for some reason.”-Lol. Baffled as to how his mind works, I was left thinking it must have something to do with all that Welsh stuff he’s learning- he   simply can’t understand English anymore - Lol, Lol.

 

We weren’t that far from our original lunch venue of the Station House cafe, which we shoot straight past. Our option cafe was only 2 miles away, which prompted a warning to Nick and Chris, who were heading off the front again, that there was a discrete right turn at the bottom of the fast right-hander, which most people don’t even notice. Sure enough, after we sort of regroup in Shay’s Ln, Nick remarked to me that he had previously wondered where said Ln lead too. My retort was, “you’ll shortly see”- Lol.

 

Not much more than a mile or so, we pulled into the ‘exit only’ entrance to the rear of The Hollies. This back route avoids the main entrance on the A49, which is not a road you want to be on, even in a car, let alone a bike.

 

We decided it was warm enough to sit outside and picked one of many under cover bench tables. Food orders made and electronic beepers in hand, we all sit down and await the call.

We were barely sat when the first beeper went off. I happened to follow CB 2 to the counter, where I found him trying to steal somebody elses order by confusing the women with the wrong number- Think he preferred Toby’s order to his own. Clearly, he has spent too much time eating alongside ‘the thief’, who, as we all know, is partial to stealing his mates lunch order- Lol.

 

Lunch conversation, (once we calmed Nick down from his rant about the waste of packaging, I guess he won’t be going back -Lol) was for the second time in as many weeks, about AI, most of the time - note to self, don’t allow Clive to join our group again, as he is AI obsessed- Lol.

After a quick team photo, we got going and head toward Oulton Park on very quiet lanes, which was pretty much the norm for the day. Clive seemed to particularly enjoy those few miles, commenting that he hadn’t been on those for years.  After just 5 miles we had passed through Eaton and on into Tarporley, heading for Beeston.  I was aware of Church Ln closure, so we  needed to go around it via the Ice Cream Farm, which is a much more scenic way and added a couple more needed miles. Again, the road closure, like many in the county, are all to do with replacing the water main.

 

Anyway, after a quick dash down to the Shady pub and a much slower, self-imposed, slog up to the castle for me, we then set about the lovely stretch to the ICF only 3 miles away, but first I set after Nick, chasing him downhill   through my favourite set of switch backs as I call them, with Beeston castle now on our left and Peckforton castle dead ahead. That bit never fails to inspire a burst of energy.

We soon turn right to the ICF having all regrouped, which prompted a short conversation between me and Clive about the old days when the ICF used to be a meet venue for CER.

Barely finished our chat, we arrived at the cross roads, where we all split up.

 

Toby, Chris, ‘the thief’ and the CB’s turned right to Waverton, as the CB’s were parked there. Toby / Chris were heading home to Chester-ish. Not sure if Clive didn’t actually go straight over or right with the others? Nick and I turned left to Tattenhall and home for me, Nick adding another seven miles to Tilston.

 

Another great day, with the weather holding again and a couple of unusual bits to confuse my fellow cyclists-Lol. The Chatter Box starred as usual and provided most of the entertainment-bless him. A big group this week, which didn’t hinder the ride at all, in fact it was enhanced.

 

I later discovered that “the CB’s’ did encounter some rain on their drive home, but it stayed dry in my patch of Milton Green.

 

Till next times ladies- Lol.

 

Neil T

See route map and/or gpx file download