2014 Cycling

October

Coach and Horses, Brixworth

Ten riders set off from Harborough and tackled the climb south through East Farndon and Clipston. Four riders warmed up by riding in from Church Langton. Nick took a much more sensible route from Kelmarsh along the Brampton Way.

The main group met Nick on the ride into Brixworth just after midday. For a change we were spoilt for choice of pubs. We settled on the Coach and Horses. After lunch the group again divided for the ride back, most keeping to the roads - and hills.

Once reassembled at Harborough Leisure Centre we invaded their cafe for coffee and ice cream.

This may be the last time we show our knees this year.
L to R back: Ian Bower, Mick Ayriss, Derek Jordan, Bob Nash, Grahame Billington, Richard Sleath.
Front: Ben Crossley, Dave Parry, John Muschialli, John Ashworth.

Belvoir Alehouse, Old Dalby

Eleven Embers met at Melton Country Park and again Grahame cycled too and from the meeting place to add extra challenge. We set off into the Vale of Belvoir.

From noon we banged on the doors at pubs but one after the other was barricaded against us. We had to press on in the rain until we reached the Belvoir Brewery and Alehouse.

We were made welcome, served excellent ale and huge platters of good food while the worst of the rain passed over.

Our ride back was in brighter weather and we even outflanked the strong wind. Ten riders concluded the day with coffee and cake in the Country Park cafe while Grahame pedalled home.

Toby Carvery, Binley

Nine Embers set out from Lutterworth on another fine day and headed south, making such light work of the miles that we decided to go all the way to Coventry to the Toby Carvery at Binley.

Then the miles flew past as we returned to Lutterworth Sports Centre for coffee and cake and to discuss plans for a festive Christmas meal. Creatures of habit.

The Globe, Snarestone

Three riders set out from Desford and met the other six riders starting off from near Market Bosworth. We set off directly north and refused to be deflected from our route by big diggers taking the road to pieces..

After reaching Measham we started to loop back, pausing at The Globe in Snarestone for a big lunch.

On our way back we stopped for puddings at Sutton Wharf and then the intrepid three had to set off to reach Desford while it was still light.

Golden Fleece, Stamford

Rutland has some surprisingly challenging hills but today eleven Embers picked a route that missed most of tham. Makes a refreshing change.

At lunch time we returned to the Golden Fleece and were joined by Christine and Clive Hodgkin. It was good to renew old friendships.

Left to right: John Ashworth, Derek Jordan, Clive Hodgkin, Christine Hodgkin, Dave Parry, John Muschialli, Grahame Billington, Mick Ayriss, Peter Wright, Bob Nash, Richard Clark, Richard Sleath, Ben Crossley
Roll your mouse-wheel to zoom in. Click to grab the picture to scroll it across

After a doubtful forecast the day turned out sunny and unseasonably warm with many customers sitting outside of the pub. Maybe that was to get away from the noise we were making.