Sunday 29th May Melbreak Hotel.
On a hot sunny morning with a cool north easterly breeze, members set off from different locations.
Maurice having parked his car in Whitehaven followed the cycle way out of Whitehaven to Winscales, turning left by the wind farm to Stainburn.
From Stainburn he followed the old road to Great Clifton, before dropping down the hill to cross the River Derwent into Camerton.
It was then up the hill to join the cycle way back to Whitehaven passing through Workington and Distington on the way.
John and Roy left Braithwaite to meet up with Maggie and Stewart at the Castle Inn who were sat waiting soaking up the sun.
Maggie led the group leaving the Castle Inn up the steady drag towards Bewaldeth where Roy took over, dropping his chain on the short climb by the Craggs.
Crossing the A595 at Bothel the group followed the quiet lanes through Threapland, Plumbland and Gilcrux.
At Greengill the group turned left, turning right after a short distance towards Dearham, after the gradual climb through Dearham, it was across the A595 to Broughton Moor.
Turning right at the cross roads in Broughton Moor the group continued on towards Seaton, turning left before Seaton to Camerton.
From Camerton it was over the River Derwent, followed by the steep climb to Great Clifton and onto the Melbreak for lunch.
Already sat having lunch were Maurice, Tracy, Brian and Raymond sat in the conservatory that was like being in a greenhouse.
The new arrivals decided to have lunch outside where it was much cooler, who were joined by Dave having cycled from Whitehaven.
Eventually after lunch the rest came outside to chat, Tracy and Brian were first to leave heading for Keswick with their bikes in the van, to go for a ride.
The rest began to leave Maurice and Raymond by car, Dave back to Whitehaven the way he had come.
While the Maggie group took the most direct route back to Embleton, leaving Roy and John to continue on to Braithwaite.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 25th May. Circuit of Skiddaw.
Well the warm weather didn't last long, with overcast skies and a cold wind coming from somewhere out of the North, members gathered at Roy's.
They were Paul, Maggie, Stewart, Anita, Steve and the two John's, Roy provided everyone with mugs of tea.
After a long chat the group started to make a move, not having quite decided on where to go, Borrowdale or Caldbeck.
The majority decided on Caldbeck, so Roy led the group off heading for Keswick into a cold wind.
Leaving Keswick it was climbing almost all the way, following the A66 using the cycle path and old road to Mungrisdale road end.
Having left Roy's late, by the time the group reached Mungrisdale, Paul decided he would have lunch their and then head back to Braithwaite.
Anita and John decided to join Paul, leaving the rest to continue onto Caldbeck, stopping instead at Hesket Newmarket for lunch.
They found a small cafe in the village, 'The Village Shop and Tea Room' that also incorporates the Post Office.
Plaque on the wall in the toilet read ‘Loo Rules’ Gentlemen. Stand closer it’s shorter than you think. Ladies. Please remain seated for the entire performance.
After a welcome lunch the group of five left heading for Caldbeck this time with a following wind, after ridding most of the way into the wind.
Leaving Caldbeck the group climbed steadily with Maggie setting the pace onto the open common, turning left before Uldale to Longlands.
It was then along the narrow undulating road through Orthwaite to join the A591 at High Side.
Again Maggie lead the group along the A591 to Crossthwaite roundabout, turning into Keswick for the final run back to Roy's at Braithwaite.
Maurice we missed you, if it was only for you being on the front sheltering us from that cold wind.
Stats: Provided by Bikehike. Miles 38. Ascent 2913ft.
Sunday 22nd May Wheatsheaf Lorton.
After a couple of wet and windy days, Sunday turned out to be a perfect cycling day.
Maggie and Stewart back from their holiday in Mallorca decided to visit the bluebells at Rannerdale, having missed out on Wednesday's ride.
Maurice parked his car at Dubwath and crossed the A66 to ride up to Castle Inn to turn left onto the A591 (Keswick/Bothel road). Turning right he then passed through Bewaldeth to slowly climb up (chasing rabbits and he was sure a couple of Hares). A right was taken to pass through Rigwood Farm and after taking a track across a couple of fields he passed through High Bewaldeth and then to slowly climb up to the Castle Inn/Ireby road to take another right turn for a fast downhill to turn left along a road that passed between Robin Hood Holiday Park and Robin Hood Farm to go down a hair raising downhill called 'The Rake' which changes it's name part way down to 'The Hill' (which is the steepest part) comes out at Bassenthwaite Village.
After crossing A591 again Maurice rode to Scarness and then to the track which led him to visit St. Begas' Church. After this he then climbed up the track passing Mirehouse House to arrive at the A591 again at South Lodge. Again another down Hill passing the Calvert Trust and and Long Close Farm after which the road flattens passing passing Little Dodd Garden Centre and then to cross the A66 at the Crossthwaite Roundabout and into the outskirts of Keswick. On to Braithwaite along the cycle path and the old road through Thornthwaite and then onto A66 through the dual carriageway to reach the car at Dubwath. Then it was a drive to the Wheatsheaf Inn, Lorton.
Roy and John drove out to Little Clifton to join Michelle and Peter, Peter having done a route, not aware of the climbs involved.
After the usual hospitality drink the four set off for Dean, to avoid the first climb, they made a detour through Greysouthen to Dean.
From Dean it was on through Ullock, turning left after crossing the River Marron, for the climb up to Dean Cross.
This was followed by the fast descent to Woodend, followed by more climbing before reaching the A5086 at Crossgates.
Crossing the A5086 the four continued on through Lamplugh climbing steadily to the top off Fangs Brow.
This was followed by the welcome descent to Loweswater, only to meet up with the Whitehaven group (Anita, Steve, Dave and John).
They had stopped by the phone box just below Waterend to discuss the placing of a defibrillator in the box.
They had all met up at Moor Row on the cycle track they then cycled up to Rowrah where they joined the main road to Lamplugh and onto Loweswater.
The group now eight strong set of following the shore line of Loweswater, splitting up on a short steep climb just before the turn to Thackthwaite.
Stopping again by Crummock Water Cottages to take in the view, it was realised that Roy was missing; John R and Michelle our search and rescue team did a u-turn to go and look for him.
A phone call from Tracy saying he was in the pub, having not seen the rest turn left towards Thackthwaite, he had gone straight on.
All reunited in the pub, including the eight were Maggie and Stewart, Maurice, Tracy and Brian.
Ten members left the pub together heading for Rodgerscale where they turned left at Sandy Beck, saying goodbye to Maggie and Stewart.
It was then up Mirk Lane to Brandlingill, turning right past Threlkeld Leys, then left to Paddle School, crossing the A5086 to Eaglesfield, and onto Greysouthen.
Turning left out of Greysouthen along the narrow lanes back to Little Clifton, for a welcome mug of tea and biscuits, and a lively chat in the garden, before the Whitehaven group left.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 18th May. Buttermere.
AFTER THE OBLIGATORY COFFEE DRINKING--our group of riders: Maurice, Dianne, Sue, John M, Roy, Anita, Steve and John R set off from Dianne's place towards the greenway and so onto the Lorton road and valley.
We stopped at Lorton Bridge in Lower Lorton to meet up with Peter P [who cycled in from Eaglesfield]
Eventually along Buttermere Valley---to stop short at Rannerdale Knott
above Crummock Water---what a sight! BLUEBELLS by the million on the lower
slopes of Rannerdale ("the secret"} Valley.
Left bikes locked up at approach path and walked towards the full scene. Photos duly taken we retrieved our steeds and pedalled on past Crummock to village coffee shop for lunch break.
Returning same way until we met the Rogerscale option detour--a lovely roundabout approach to Eaglesfield School junction and so our route
past our old stamping-ground--dear old Sheep Centre--and so to Cockermouth and Dianne's house for more coffee.
A really special and memorable day out!
Sunday 15th May Waverley Hotel Whitehaven.
On a sunny morning but with a cold northerly breeze members met at Dianne's for a ride to Whitehaven, they were Sue, John and Roy.
Leaving on time Dianne led the group out of Cockermouth, before negotiating a gap in the hedge to cross the A66 to Brigham.
It was then on through Brigham and Bridgefoot into a cold wind, warming up on the climb up Chapel Brow to meet Michelle and Peter.
Crossing the A66 again the group headed for Camerton, stopping on the footbridge to view the damage caused by the floods.
Leaving Camerton by the cycle track it was all downhill to Workington, stopping at Seaton on the way to inspect the painting done by Dianne and Roy.
At this point Sue got a rear wheel puncture having picked up a thorn, with no service car available John carried out the repair.
Stopping again in Workington, for Sue to collect some bits and pieces for her holiday in Cyprus, when Steve and John R appeared, having cycled from Whitehaven.
The group now eight left Workington following the cycle track to Distington, then onto Lowca and Parton for final mile along the sea wall into Whitehaven.
Joining the group for lunch were Dave and Steve H, after a good meal and Chat the two wheelers left leaving Steve to walk home.
The group decided to take the direct route back, following the cycle track back to Chapel Brow, saying goodbye to Steve and Dave at Lillyhall.
More goodbye's at Bridgefoot, seeing Michelle and Peter turning right to Little Clifton, while the rest continued onto Parkside for a welcome cuppa.
On a hot sunny morning with a cool north easterly breeze, members set off from different locations.
Maurice having parked his car in Whitehaven followed the cycle way out of Whitehaven to Winscales, turning left by the wind farm to Stainburn.
From Stainburn he followed the old road to Great Clifton, before dropping down the hill to cross the River Derwent into Camerton.
It was then up the hill to join the cycle way back to Whitehaven passing through Workington and Distington on the way.
John and Roy left Braithwaite to meet up with Maggie and Stewart at the Castle Inn who were sat waiting soaking up the sun.
Maggie led the group leaving the Castle Inn up the steady drag towards Bewaldeth where Roy took over, dropping his chain on the short climb by the Craggs.
Crossing the A595 at Bothel the group followed the quiet lanes through Threapland, Plumbland and Gilcrux.
At Greengill the group turned left, turning right after a short distance towards Dearham, after the gradual climb through Dearham, it was across the A595 to Broughton Moor.
Turning right at the cross roads in Broughton Moor the group continued on towards Seaton, turning left before Seaton to Camerton.
From Camerton it was over the River Derwent, followed by the steep climb to Great Clifton and onto the Melbreak for lunch.
Already sat having lunch were Maurice, Tracy, Brian and Raymond sat in the conservatory that was like being in a greenhouse.
The new arrivals decided to have lunch outside where it was much cooler, who were joined by Dave having cycled from Whitehaven.
Eventually after lunch the rest came outside to chat, Tracy and Brian were first to leave heading for Keswick with their bikes in the van, to go for a ride.
The rest began to leave Maurice and Raymond by car, Dave back to Whitehaven the way he had come.
While the Maggie group took the most direct route back to Embleton, leaving Roy and John to continue on to Braithwaite.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 25th May. Circuit of Skiddaw.
Well the warm weather didn't last long, with overcast skies and a cold wind coming from somewhere out of the North, members gathered at Roy's.
They were Paul, Maggie, Stewart, Anita, Steve and the two John's, Roy provided everyone with mugs of tea.
After a long chat the group started to make a move, not having quite decided on where to go, Borrowdale or Caldbeck.
The majority decided on Caldbeck, so Roy led the group off heading for Keswick into a cold wind.
Leaving Keswick it was climbing almost all the way, following the A66 using the cycle path and old road to Mungrisdale road end.
Having left Roy's late, by the time the group reached Mungrisdale, Paul decided he would have lunch their and then head back to Braithwaite.
Anita and John decided to join Paul, leaving the rest to continue onto Caldbeck, stopping instead at Hesket Newmarket for lunch.
They found a small cafe in the village, 'The Village Shop and Tea Room' that also incorporates the Post Office.
Plaque on the wall in the toilet read ‘Loo Rules’ Gentlemen. Stand closer it’s shorter than you think. Ladies. Please remain seated for the entire performance.
After a welcome lunch the group of five left heading for Caldbeck this time with a following wind, after ridding most of the way into the wind.
Leaving Caldbeck the group climbed steadily with Maggie setting the pace onto the open common, turning left before Uldale to Longlands.
It was then along the narrow undulating road through Orthwaite to join the A591 at High Side.
Again Maggie lead the group along the A591 to Crossthwaite roundabout, turning into Keswick for the final run back to Roy's at Braithwaite.
Maurice we missed you, if it was only for you being on the front sheltering us from that cold wind.
Stats: Provided by Bikehike. Miles 38. Ascent 2913ft.
Sunday 22nd May Wheatsheaf Lorton.
After a couple of wet and windy days, Sunday turned out to be a perfect cycling day.
Maggie and Stewart back from their holiday in Mallorca decided to visit the bluebells at Rannerdale, having missed out on Wednesday's ride.
Maurice parked his car at Dubwath and crossed the A66 to ride up to Castle Inn to turn left onto the A591 (Keswick/Bothel road). Turning right he then passed through Bewaldeth to slowly climb up (chasing rabbits and he was sure a couple of Hares). A right was taken to pass through Rigwood Farm and after taking a track across a couple of fields he passed through High Bewaldeth and then to slowly climb up to the Castle Inn/Ireby road to take another right turn for a fast downhill to turn left along a road that passed between Robin Hood Holiday Park and Robin Hood Farm to go down a hair raising downhill called 'The Rake' which changes it's name part way down to 'The Hill' (which is the steepest part) comes out at Bassenthwaite Village.
After crossing A591 again Maurice rode to Scarness and then to the track which led him to visit St. Begas' Church. After this he then climbed up the track passing Mirehouse House to arrive at the A591 again at South Lodge. Again another down Hill passing the Calvert Trust and and Long Close Farm after which the road flattens passing passing Little Dodd Garden Centre and then to cross the A66 at the Crossthwaite Roundabout and into the outskirts of Keswick. On to Braithwaite along the cycle path and the old road through Thornthwaite and then onto A66 through the dual carriageway to reach the car at Dubwath. Then it was a drive to the Wheatsheaf Inn, Lorton.
Roy and John drove out to Little Clifton to join Michelle and Peter, Peter having done a route, not aware of the climbs involved.
After the usual hospitality drink the four set off for Dean, to avoid the first climb, they made a detour through Greysouthen to Dean.
From Dean it was on through Ullock, turning left after crossing the River Marron, for the climb up to Dean Cross.
This was followed by the fast descent to Woodend, followed by more climbing before reaching the A5086 at Crossgates.
Crossing the A5086 the four continued on through Lamplugh climbing steadily to the top off Fangs Brow.
This was followed by the welcome descent to Loweswater, only to meet up with the Whitehaven group (Anita, Steve, Dave and John).
They had stopped by the phone box just below Waterend to discuss the placing of a defibrillator in the box.
They had all met up at Moor Row on the cycle track they then cycled up to Rowrah where they joined the main road to Lamplugh and onto Loweswater.
The group now eight strong set of following the shore line of Loweswater, splitting up on a short steep climb just before the turn to Thackthwaite.
Stopping again by Crummock Water Cottages to take in the view, it was realised that Roy was missing; John R and Michelle our search and rescue team did a u-turn to go and look for him.
A phone call from Tracy saying he was in the pub, having not seen the rest turn left towards Thackthwaite, he had gone straight on.
All reunited in the pub, including the eight were Maggie and Stewart, Maurice, Tracy and Brian.
Ten members left the pub together heading for Rodgerscale where they turned left at Sandy Beck, saying goodbye to Maggie and Stewart.
It was then up Mirk Lane to Brandlingill, turning right past Threlkeld Leys, then left to Paddle School, crossing the A5086 to Eaglesfield, and onto Greysouthen.
Turning left out of Greysouthen along the narrow lanes back to Little Clifton, for a welcome mug of tea and biscuits, and a lively chat in the garden, before the Whitehaven group left.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 18th May. Buttermere.
AFTER THE OBLIGATORY COFFEE DRINKING--our group of riders: Maurice, Dianne, Sue, John M, Roy, Anita, Steve and John R set off from Dianne's place towards the greenway and so onto the Lorton road and valley.
We stopped at Lorton Bridge in Lower Lorton to meet up with Peter P [who cycled in from Eaglesfield]
Eventually along Buttermere Valley---to stop short at Rannerdale Knott
above Crummock Water---what a sight! BLUEBELLS by the million on the lower
slopes of Rannerdale ("the secret"} Valley.
Left bikes locked up at approach path and walked towards the full scene. Photos duly taken we retrieved our steeds and pedalled on past Crummock to village coffee shop for lunch break.
Returning same way until we met the Rogerscale option detour--a lovely roundabout approach to Eaglesfield School junction and so our route
past our old stamping-ground--dear old Sheep Centre--and so to Cockermouth and Dianne's house for more coffee.
A really special and memorable day out!
Sunday 15th May Waverley Hotel Whitehaven.
On a sunny morning but with a cold northerly breeze members met at Dianne's for a ride to Whitehaven, they were Sue, John and Roy.
Leaving on time Dianne led the group out of Cockermouth, before negotiating a gap in the hedge to cross the A66 to Brigham.
It was then on through Brigham and Bridgefoot into a cold wind, warming up on the climb up Chapel Brow to meet Michelle and Peter.
Crossing the A66 again the group headed for Camerton, stopping on the footbridge to view the damage caused by the floods.
Leaving Camerton by the cycle track it was all downhill to Workington, stopping at Seaton on the way to inspect the painting done by Dianne and Roy.
At this point Sue got a rear wheel puncture having picked up a thorn, with no service car available John carried out the repair.
Stopping again in Workington, for Sue to collect some bits and pieces for her holiday in Cyprus, when Steve and John R appeared, having cycled from Whitehaven.
The group now eight left Workington following the cycle track to Distington, then onto Lowca and Parton for final mile along the sea wall into Whitehaven.
Joining the group for lunch were Dave and Steve H, after a good meal and Chat the two wheelers left leaving Steve to walk home.
The group decided to take the direct route back, following the cycle track back to Chapel Brow, saying goodbye to Steve and Dave at Lillyhall.
More goodbye's at Bridgefoot, seeing Michelle and Peter turning right to Little Clifton, while the rest continued onto Parkside for a welcome cuppa.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 11th May.
On a fine morning, Maurice, Steve L, John R, Dave S, Dianne, Peter, John and Sue M and Paul and Sue C met at Roy's house, and were joined by Dougie and Allan from Dumfries, friends of Roy's from his days in the Nith Valley C.C.
Dianne, Paul and Sue had met the Dumfries pair before in Mallorca.
After cups of tea made by Ruth, the group set of to see the new cycle track over Dunmail Raise.
The original plan was to take the Ambleside road while still closed and traffic free, but it opened two days early.
So a change of plan took the group up to Burns, then a right turn and into the Vale of St John.
The group stopped at Low Bridge farm while John R. walked over the temporary footbridge to find out when the cafe might open again, it will be September.
Then across the A591, round the back of Thirlmere with a wind that kept changing directions.
The track starts in front of Steel End Farm it is very narrow with a deep ditch on one side and goes up and down quite steeply, with several gates to open and close, not the ideal cycle track.
The BBC were at the summit to film the opening of the road. The group rode back down the main road to Thirlspot for a good lunch.
The group returned by the Vale of St John and Burns back to Braithwaite
Autumn Tints Wednesday 11th May.
On a fine morning, Maurice, Steve L, John R, Dave S, Dianne, Peter, John and Sue M and Paul and Sue C met at Roy's house, and were joined by Dougie and Allan from Dumfries, friends of Roy's from his days in the Nith Valley C.C.
Dianne, Paul and Sue had met the Dumfries pair before in Mallorca.
After cups of tea made by Ruth, the group set of to see the new cycle track over Dunmail.
The original plan was to take the Ambleside road while still closed and traffic free, but it opened two days early.
So a change of plan took the group up to Burns, then a right turn and into the Vale of St John.
The group stopped at Low Bridge farm while John R. walked over the temporary footbridge to find out when the cafe might open again, it will be September.
Then across the A591, round the back of Thirlmere with a wind that kept changing directions.
The track starts in front of Steel End Farm it is very narrow with a deep ditch on one side and goes up and down quite steeply, with several gates to open and close, not the ideal cycle track.
The BBC were at the summit to film the opening of the road. The group rode back down the main road to Thirlspot for a good lunch.
The group returned by the Vale of St John and Burns back to Braithwaite
Sunday 8th May Club Run Bowness on Solway.
Starting from Allonby were Maurice, Steve, Sue, John, Dianne, Roy, John R, Michelle, Peter, Pat and Johnny.
With the forecast for a warm day most members arrived dressed in shorts, only to find a cold breeze blowing from the east.
First place of call was the cafe that had opened early for the group for their usual tea and coffee.
After a lively chat members began to move outside into the cold, that wasn't supposed to be, some taking the opportunity of putting on an extra layer.
Finally the group set of with Maurice on the front up the coast road towards Dubmill Point, where they turn right to Mawbray.
It was now into the wind as the group made their way through the lanes to Abbey Town.
A brief stop in Abbey Town for some to cast some clothing as the day got warmer after the cold start.
With Maurice still pulling on the front the group continued on through Newton Arlosh and Angerton before crossing the River Wampool.
Stopping at the T junction at Whitrigg to regroup, it was now into a following wind round Althorn, with Sue on the front setting a fast pace.
Finally the group arrived at Bowness-on-Solway for lunch, to find Tracy and Brian having cycled the short distance from Whitrigg.
After an excellent lunch, some choosing to sit outside in the sun, the group prepared to leave taking the shorter route to Whitrigg.
It was then back to following their wheel tracks to Newton Arlosh, followed by a detour through Salt Coates, before arriving in Abbey Town.
From Abbey Town it was along a mostly flat road with a following wind to Aikshaw to join the B5301, turning right after a short distance to New Cowper.
The first climb of the day came as the group passed through New Cowper, this was followed by a flat run through Edderside, to join the coast road back to Allonby.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 4th May. Lodore Hotel Borrowdale.
All that was needed to help celebrate the 70th birthdays of two of our members was the weather, which didn't let them down.
With the sun trying to break through, the two wheel members made their way by car to Braithwaite for tea and coffee, served by Sue.
They were Sue, Paul, Maggie, Stewart, Pat, Johnny, Maurice, Steve, Roy and Dianne,
Dianne arrived having cycled from home over Whinlatter looking as fresh as a daisy.
Finally the group twelve strong left Braithwaite via the Newlands road, climbing steadily
before dropping down to Newlands Church.
A brief stop at the church was followed by the short steep climb to Littletown, followed by the descent to Stair.
Regrouping in Stair, was followed by my more climbing past the Swinside Pub and onto Catbells, stopping to get ones breath back.
It was now into a strong wind as the group made their way along the ridge, with magnificent views across the lake.
A brief stop on Grange Bridge to regroup was followed by the final push to the Lodore for the celebratory lunch.
A further eleven members and friends made it for lunch having arrived at the Lodore by car.
They were Shirley, Bruce, Brenda, Ruth, Michelle, Peter, Mavis, John, Frances, Joe and John Moyes.
The celebration was for Sue and Dianne, Sue being the elder by about a month, both married to JM's, one being better looking than the other. (The younger one of course)
A speech from Dianne saying she joined the club 2002 had found a lot of new friends during her time with the club.
After lunch Dianne lit two candles on a nicely decorated cake, which Dianne and Sue blew out together before being distributed to members.
This was followed by members retreating to the lounge for tea and coffee and a piece of that wonderful cake.
Members chatted and circulated before it was time to leave some going by car, while the two wheel group headed back to Braithwaite in beautiful sunshine.
Sunday 1st May The White Mare, Beckermet
On a foul weather day 6 members met at The White Mare, Beckermet for lunch. Needless to say all came by car due to the lousy weather. They were Roy, Steve L, Dianne and John, Maurice and Shirley.
All were quite impressed with the makeover it has had and the food was good too however a bit more expensive than the “Solway” is use to.
After lunch and a good chat all left for home in their cars.
On a fine morning, Maurice, Steve L, John R, Dave S, Dianne, Peter, John and Sue M and Paul and Sue C met at Roy's house, and were joined by Dougie and Allan from Dumfries, friends of Roy's from his days in the Nith Valley C.C.
Dianne, Paul and Sue had met the Dumfries pair before in Mallorca.
After cups of tea made by Ruth, the group set of to see the new cycle track over Dunmail.
The original plan was to take the Ambleside road while still closed and traffic free, but it opened two days early.
So a change of plan took the group up to Burns, then a right turn and into the Vale of St John.
The group stopped at Low Bridge farm while John R. walked over the temporary footbridge to find out when the cafe might open again, it will be September.
Then across the A591, round the back of Thirlmere with a wind that kept changing directions.
The track starts in front of Steel End Farm it is very narrow with a deep ditch on one side and goes up and down quite steeply, with several gates to open and close, not the ideal cycle track.
The BBC were at the summit to film the opening of the road. The group rode back down the main road to Thirlspot for a good lunch.
The group returned by the Vale of St John and Burns back to Braithwaite
Sunday 8th May Club Run Bowness on Solway.
Starting from Allonby were Maurice, Steve, Sue, John, Dianne, Roy, John R, Michelle, Peter, Pat and Johnny.
With the forecast for a warm day most members arrived dressed in shorts, only to find a cold breeze blowing from the east.
First place of call was the cafe that had opened early for the group for their usual tea and coffee.
After a lively chat members began to move outside into the cold, that wasn't supposed to be, some taking the opportunity of putting on an extra layer.
Finally the group set of with Maurice on the front up the coast road towards Dubmill Point, where they turn right to Mawbray.
It was now into the wind as the group made their way through the lanes to Abbey Town.
A brief stop in Abbey Town for some to cast some clothing as the day got warmer after the cold start.
With Maurice still pulling on the front the group continued on through Newton Arlosh and Angerton before crossing the River Wampool.
Stopping at the T junction at Whitrigg to regroup, it was now into a following wind round Althorn, with Sue on the front setting a fast pace.
Finally the group arrived at Bowness-on-Solway for lunch, to find Tracy and Brian having cycled the short distance from Whitrigg.
After an excellent lunch, some choosing to sit outside in the sun, the group prepared to leave taking the shorter route to Whitrigg.
It was then back to following their wheel tracks to Newton Arlosh, followed by a detour through Salt Coates, before arriving in Abbey Town.
From Abbey Town it was along a mostly flat road with a following wind to Aikshaw to join the B5301, turning right after a short distance to New Cowper.
The first climb of the day came as the group passed through New Cowper, this was followed by a flat run through Edderside, to join the coast road back to Allonby.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 4th May. Lodore Hotel Borrowdale.
All that was needed to help celebrate the 70th birthdays of two of our members was the weather, which didn't let them down.
With the sun trying to break through, the two wheel members made their way by car to Braithwaite for tea and coffee, served by Sue.
They were Sue, Paul, Maggie, Stewart, Pat, Johnny, Maurice, Steve, Roy and Dianne,
Dianne arrived having cycled from home over Whinlatter looking as fresh as a daisy.
Finally the group twelve strong left Braithwaite via the Newlands road, climbing steadily
before dropping down to Newlands Church.
A brief stop at the church was followed by the short steep climb to Littletown, followed by the descent to Stair.
Regrouping in Stair, was followed by my more climbing past the Swinside Pub and onto Catbells, stopping to get ones breath back.
It was now into a strong wind as the group made their way along the ridge, with magnificent views across the lake.
A brief stop on Grange Bridge to regroup was followed by the final push to the Lodore for the celebratory lunch.
A further eleven members and friends made it for lunch having arrived at the Lodore by car.
They were Shirley, Bruce, Brenda, Ruth, Michelle, Peter, Mavis, John, Frances, Joe and John Moyes.
The celebration was for Sue and Dianne, Sue being the elder by about a month, both married to JM's, one being better looking than the other. (The younger one of course)
A speech from Dianne saying she joined the club 2002 had found a lot of new friends during her time with the club.
After lunch Dianne lit two candles on a nicely decorated cake, which Dianne and Sue blew out together before being distributed to members.
This was followed by members retreating to the lounge for tea and coffee and a piece of that wonderful cake.
Members chatted and circulated before it was time to leave some going by car, while the two wheel group headed back to Braithwaite in beautiful sunshine.
Sunday 1st May The White Mare, Beckermet
On a foul weather day 6 members met at The White Mare, Beckermet for lunch. Needless to say all came by car due to the lousy weather. They were Roy, Steve L, Dianne and John, Maurice and Shirley.
All were quite impressed with the makeover it has had and the food was good too however a bit more expensive than the “Solway” is use to.
After lunch and a good chat all left for home in their cars.