An overcast, cool and blustery late May day saw a very good turnout of riders, necessitating the formation of four groups. Short Ride Report by John Once the other rides had departed just John C, Rosalind, Keith, Derek and John N remained. As the wind was in the south and there was a threat of rain, the shelter within the Methodist Church Hall in Birstall seemed attractive. The riders headed out through Shelthorpe and on to Quorn before climbing up past the Quarry and on to Rothley Court. From Rothley the group followed the A6 south and then took the bridge over that road taking them along a cycle track to Wanlip before the final leg south to Birstall. John leads Keith and Rosalind south into Birstall The Hall was quite full but there was a spare table available for the riders and they then proceeded to devour most of the remaining stock of cheese scones and lemon drizzle cake. John, Keith, Rosalind and Derek at Birstall Methodist Church Hall After their excellent repast the r...

A beautiful late spring morning awaited the Wednesday riders this week. Short Ride Report Report by John As it wasn't the school holidays, and we hadn't been there for several weeks, it was agreed that John, Jeff (a new rider), Derek, Eric, Howard and John Catt  would head for the Jade Cafe in Newtown Linford. Jeff (a new rider) and John in Bradgate Park The group headed south past Mucklin Wood to Beaumanor Hall and then on down Brand Lane where they were surprised to encounter what appeared to be a cattle stampede coming towards them. After hastily taking refuge on the verge the group was able to observe the local farmer driving his herd rapidly between grazing pastures. The Stampede The riders then continued through Swithland and on along the Ridings to the Ridgeway crossing Cropston Reservoir Dam to the north entrance of Bradgate Park. A smooth transition through the Park allowed the riders to enjoy the excellent fare at the Jade Cafe outside in the sunshine. Passing t...

Short Ride Report by John The forecast had been for rain and then showers and this probably resulted in a lower number turning out than has usually been seen over the last month or two. The rain had ceased by the time the group started gathering and it was decided that two rides would suffice. The short ride proved unusually popular, perhaps because of the uncertain weather forecast, with Margaret, Myles, Andrew, Howard, Rosalind, Phil, Betty, Leigh, John & David setting off. It was decided  to head to Bawdon Lodge Farm for refreshments and as it had been wet the ride took the tarmac route through the university and alongside the main road to Shepshed. Here Leigh left the group as he wanted to visit Shepshed. The riders then followed Tickow Lane and Charley Road to the Farm, which now boasts a business selling electric and standard bicycles, where Ray Clay also joined them. After their repast the riders continued east along Charley Road returning down Beacon Road t...