An easy ride in prospect for today but would the weather cooperate? The forecast was bad with wind and rain promised, rising to gale force in the afternoon. A number of members had already called to say that they would be driving to the lunch venue rather than riding. As it turned out, the ride out to Rose Farm was really quite pleasant particularly with the wind behind and before long Clive had caught me and we completed the ride together arriving at just gone 10:00am. Dave Hill was already there and soon we were joined by Mike G, Ivan and Dave & Liz P. An easy route of about 18 miles was agreed and just after 10:30 the seven of us set off through Tarporley heading for Beeston. From Beeston we turned southwest for Tattenhall into a distinct head wind and with a darkening sky ahead. By the time we crossed the A41 it had started to rain and we stopped to cape-up before continuing on to Chowley and Coddington in good humour. By Churton the rain had eased and with the wind behind us again, we swept effortlessly along the road to Aldford with the prospect of Christmas Lunch spurring us on.
We arrived at the Grosvenor Arms by 12:15 to find the rest of the club at the bar well into their first pint. The Grosvenor Arms had just managed to squeeze all 19 of us onto one large table: a good job we are all fairly slim though! The meal was excellent as the photos show and even the collection of the monies was accomplished without problems. The Christmas Lunch is always a good opportunity to chat to those members not able to get out with us as often as they would like: and so it was today. Where was Dave Browne though?
All too soon it was time to leave with the riding group heading back to Chester via Saighton where Clive left us to put in a few extra miles before it got too dark. The rest of us continued back in pleasant cycling conditions with no sign of the forecast gales. Mike G was heading for the station to get a train back to Rhos on Sea, but given an enforced hour wait, Ivan and I took the opportunity to join him with a chat over a jar or two while he waited.
Another great day with Chester Easy Riders, more social than active, but with a modest 36 miles done.
BW
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