Further rides of Patience & Len.

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Strictly speaking this is a misnomer, as we have not been going further on our rides; just limiting ourselves to about 30 miles and back for lunch. I’m not going to try to compete with Kenny’s excellent wit. He obviously has a huge talent for this kind of thing.

Littledale and Caton Moor   Tuesday 1st April

Encouraged by Mike’s report, we set out to complete a truncated version via Brookhouse, in the process visiting some lanes for the first time. Halton Sta to Caton was eerily quiet to begin, until the silence was relieved by some dog walkers between the Crook o Lune and village. Onto new territory for us at Brookhouse, which we found to be much easier gradient -wise than the route via Stock- a- Bank. Just before rejoining the usual route, there is a challenging hair-pin. Here we overtook a rider who appeared a bit red-faced and proceeded to place the blame for his lack of progress on his bike.

The  steep downhill from Winder is now quite potholed on the hairpin down to the stream, causing Patience to take to her legs for the last 50 metres or so. Descending from the gate at the top, a fantastic panorama  of all Three Peaks was revealed, resulting in more use of the brakes to drink in the view slowly. This also resulted in sore hands by the time we got to the bridge in the valley.

Descending to the crossroads at Hornby, we noted a hand made banner draped over a gate at a cattle grid telling people to stay at home, after which we came across a number of more friendly locals on circular walks from Wray / Hornby. A run for home now, through Hornby and Gressingham, treating our legs to the kinder gradient of Rabbit Lane.

Arnside and Heversham     Friday   3rd April

Another 30-miler, but looking for a few hills. A6 to Cragg Bank and Warton, taking the hilly option over the Crag Road, pausing from time to time to listen to the spring bird song in the woods. A diversion around the Wolf House lanes, where was spotted a familiar figure coming the other way. I stopped for a chat to John Jackson, who was doing our intended route ( at the time) in reverse ( but not cycling backwards).  Lots of people seemed to be taking their allotted time away from home in the village, so we pressed on to Arnside and a chance interaction with one of Patience’s Taiko drumming mates. We decided it was too cold in the wind at the end of the pier to stop for elevenses( a biscuit- not quite up to Beetham standard), so continued to Storth, where it wasn’t much warmer on the bench in the small triangular junction.

A  diversion around the Moss to Heversham, where the breeze helped to make short work of the climb up through the village. At Ackenthwaite we took the grassed and potted Paradise Lane direct to Beetham and a deserted A6. Up the long hill to Slackhead, and the long down, the former  Club Freewheel course until it became too busy and dangerous with walkers from the caravan parks. Back via the Yealands, and a search for even more hills up Peter Lane and the Coach Road to Warton.

Carnforth almost a ghost town, everyone seemed to be queueing to get into Tesco, so it was the village shop again for us and back for a slightly late lunch.

Len and Patience

KENNY'S ISOLATED GARSTANG C RIDE SATURDAY 29th FEBRUARY

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I

(What were you on when you wrote this, Kenny? Ed.)

The C ride consisting of 1 rider set off from the cobbles, well 15 miles from the cobbles actually, in the interests of social distancing which was well within limits set by the government & in no danger of spreading nasty bugs amongst fellow members.  The ride began from my porch & initially was a celebration of spring weather regarding apparel, until the wind hit me from off the coast & caused an immediate return to said porch to don mid-winter kit consisting of thermal jacket & ski gloves.  A better option would have been a turbo session indoors but as there is now more chance of purchasing a toilet roll than a smart trainer this option wasn’t one.  So off the C ride set in the direction of Kirkby Lonsdale with very little banter, repartee or irony (Yvonne, where were you?) & at a much reduced pace than normal due to the fact that ending up in hospital at this point in the proceedings would go down like a pint of Watney’s molten lead with NHS staff & as is always the case even on a leisurely C ride there is potentially danger to life around every bend & coroner!   So along went the isolated ride into the countryside with admittedly sparse vehicular traffic around it & the Chairman will be gratified to hear that there was minimal congregating at junctions on this occasion by myself & also with regard to present regulations I personally could only be construed as half a gathering by the police.  One was aware that social distancing should be observed at all times but this caused much consternation whilst passing pedestrians down our small country lanes as staying 2 meters apart from them was resulting in painful abrasions & lacerations from dry stone walls & hawthorn hedges on my arms & legs & inevitably I couldn’t get to hospital to get the bloody wounds dressed either!  Then as I rode along down one main road I happened to arrive alongside 2 pedestrians on the pavement at the same time as a runner turned up & just as a car was passing, well, what bloody chaos, the runner passed the pedestrian by 2 meters in the gutter, I passed him by 2 meters on the central white line & the car passed me on the opposite pavement sending another pedestrian flying down somebody’s drive in the ensuing melee. As I rode further along with the tune of ‘My Corona’ by the Knack from my youth circulating about my brain I decided it was time I made use of my musette, these as followers of cycle racing will be aware are given to riders by soigneurs containing food to fuel them.  However, these are strange times & I brought mine in order to fill it at a supermarket & take it back home as one is only allowed to go shopping once a week & I have to admit that I was further reminded of my distant youth when the shop assistant insisted that due to rationing I was only allowed 3 tins of spam. So I returned home from the isolated C ride fearing for my sanity, not for life but at least for the immediate future, I lamented the decision of previous governments to close asylums as if I have to ride around on isolated rides for much longer I think I might need one for when this is all over.  But on considering what the future might hold a number of large hotels will probably close & maybe some will open as asylums for cases like me, so I resolved to book myself into a padded cell as soon they are introduced, and before the rest of the public get wind of it & panic buy all the rest!     

Kenny Roberts     

Jim's March Rides - Billy No Mates!

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27th March ride
I decided to stir myself and do a ‘billy no mates’ ride but where shall I go?
I decided I would rerun the ride I led to Knott End on 6th February and get a few albeit flat miles in.
Of from home through a deserted uni(where have all the students gone or do they have to come back?). Into Galgate then up Stoney Lane to go down Whams Lane and in to Forton were a left turn took me over by the fishing ponds and on to the Trough road to Harris End cross road to drop down and through Scorton. After Gubberford Bridge left on to the single track road to Garstang and crossed the A6 at the lights to go via Croston Barn road the on and through Nateby. After Nateby a right turn took me up and over Eagland Hill to Scronkey where I did a u turn heading back south towards Cartforth Bridge but instead took the first right then first right again to finally arrive in Stalmine.
After a few yards(or metres to you Europhiles) a left to lead me to Back Lane then on into Preesall which left me an easy run to Knott End.
After buying Teresa a present in Knott End(a loaf of Rye bread, I know how to build up my brownie points!) and consuming a pastie from the bakery set off back via the zoo spotting the giraffe and the zebra on the way into Pilling then part way along the moss turned onto Gulf Lane and finally ended up in Cockerham.
Decided in Cockerham to aim for Ratcliffe Wharfe Road and Bay Horse. Eventually after going through Galgate arrived at the back entrance to the uni campus but realising I wouldn’t have my 50 miles in stupid me decided to ride up behind the uni and get Teresa another present in the form of 6 eggs!!
THE hill nearly killed me but I did get the eggs and a rapid descent and a few extra wiggles just managed the 50 miles.
All in all a good days ride and spotted other members, the Hutchinson’s, Hayden and Nick but none were going in my direction.

30th March ride
Setting off from home heading on usual route to Galgate through Uni. Up Stoney Lane to and down Whams Lane to cross A6 at Potters Brook then weaved my way to Ratcliffe Wharfe Road and on to Park Road enabling me to cross the A6 at Garstang traffic lights.
Dodging walkers on the narrow lane which takes us to Gubberford Bridge at which I turned right heading up Hazelhead Road to Delph Lane then on to Keepers Lane and High Lane finally to arrive at the water splash.
Just a word of caution doing the Barnacre Loop from this direction is not to be taken lightly the gradients are steep and the roads very narrow.
Turning left at Harris End cross roads dropping down passing Street(and his lordship!!!)then making a right turn at five lane ends to go to Postern Gate via unhappy valley(well there was a stinky head wind)
Taking first left onto Little Fell Lane to collect eggs at the Happy Egg stall, unfortunately the hens were on strike and there were no eggs(union dispute or something!!)
Quick descent down Bowerham Road then Barton Road to arrive at Booths aiming to get a loaf but saw the queue and thought ‘b***** it’; we can do without!
All in all a chilly 32 miles
Jim

Mike Codd’s Solo Ride over Lancashire’s Bowland Cols 2nd April 2020

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7:48 seems awfully early, but to avoid the later traffic rushing into Lancaster to buy the morning news about C...... (Don’t mention that word!) it was a good move.

From Boot & Shoe I went straight up Hala Hill and all the way to the T junction above Dolphinholme. This time, I turned left and continued through Oakenclough, up the 20% (Phew!) and on to Emmet’s Chapel turn. I continued right, stopping to put on Rainlegs as it was now drizzling. I could see that the fell tops were clouded above 300 metres.

Passing above Marshaw Farm, I rattled up to the bottom of the climb to Trough of Bowland and fetched up at Dunsop Bridge, where I sat in the shelter on the green, eating a hot (not really) cross bun, ignored by sleepy ducks.

Suddenly, a duck woke up and flew off, stage right, hotly followed by two drakes. This performance was repeated when another 3 ducks took off.

It was time for me to go. Unfortunately, it had to be in the bushes, as the  UK’s most central convenience was closed because of C.... The road to Newton was uneventful (no blockage by injured motor cyclists) and I soon arrived in a very quiet Slaidburn, where Bounty’s baying was completely absent.

The slog then started, to cross the Hodder/Lune watershed against a force 7 gale. I’d thought it had been too easy.

Two vehicles overtook, then shortly two from the other direction. I then crossed the infant Hodder and, selecting granny, to commence the slog against gravity, rain and wind up the waggling road to Cross of Greet. I was very pleased not to be passed by any vehicle in either direction as, perforce I used all of the road, sometimes purposely, often at the wind’s whim.

Over the top I found the wind even stronger and from my left. It was too gusty to be useful and I took my foot out of a  pedal in case I was forced to stop. Passing the turn to Botton Head and the first one to Lowgill, I took the direct one to Wray, where I stopped at the shelter on the green for a sandwich and a call to Jan.

My route home was the usual, except I missed out Caton Green and took the A683, turning off at Caton and up past Postern Gate and down Newlands to Hala and B&S. 13:08, an hour and 10 minutes from Wray (worst time yet!).

Never mind. I enjoyed it and so could you. Just pick a less windy day.

46 miles and 4900 feet. 5 hours 20 minutes.

You could do much better!

 

Mike Codd

Ian R's Solo Ride 24-03-2020

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From home I rode out to Five Lane Ends via our regular 'trade route' then down Whams Lane to cross the A6 at Potter's Brook, Wallace Lane, Winder Lane, Radcliffe Wharfe Lane and the 'B' road towards Garstang. A couple of hundred metres after the Patten Arms I made the Right turn into Winmarleigh village and at the Give Way by the school I turned Left then almost immediately Right into New House Lane to take the second Right into Nateby Hall Lane, at the end of which I made a Right then a Left into Croston Barn Lane to go straight across the A6 at the traffic lights, traversing Green Lane West and Green Lane East to gain the by-way to Gubberford Lane. Once over Gubberford Bridge, a Right turn saw me reversing our regular Tuesday morning “Barnacre Loop” but climbing past the end of Keeper's Lane and Barnacre church I turned Left by the estate lodge, into Eidsforth Lane to eventually descend the short sharp brow to rejoin my reversal of the “Barnacre Loop”.

            After crossing the two, albeit dry, water splashes a right turn on to the bridleway had me starting up Grizedale. Once through the first gate I met a descending MTB rider at a bouldery water splash where I had to dismount to negotiate the obstacle. Standing well back, to observe social distancing regulations, allowed the MTB rider to float across the boulders assisted by his suspension and voluminous tyres. Shortly after this I decided to partake of a banana and the contents of my water bottle, sitting on a rustic wooden bench dedicated to 14 years-old Vicky Lynn:- “Rest awhile and think of Vicky, sipping coke and looking pretty”. A second gate and another bouldery watersplash, that again required a dismount, along this level, lower section of the track led me to the loose gravel and stoney ( many the size of golf balls ) ascent which proved fully rideable with careful wheel placement. A third gate signified arrival at the reservoir dam, after which progress was easy, on a level surface of compacted gravel, with three more gates before emerging on to tarmac at the entrance to Fell End Farm.

            A quick and easy descent to the ford soon had me out on Long Lane to reverse our usual Tuesday morning route from Lancaster to Scorton.

            Although the regular cafe stop had been sorely missed, this ride did highlight to me just how much of an extra loop can be fitted into a Tuesday morning ride by restricting oneself to a picnic elevenses.

 

Ian.

Mike Bridges' Solo Rides

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On Len’s topic of "brief encounters", I took the opportunity on Sunday last to repeat the Scorton and Chipping ride I did with Ian the other week.  He decided to get to Chipping via the Trough of Bowland.  I found it hard work at the time since I hadn't done much riding for a while.  The adverse wind back to Preston didn't help either!

Since then I have completed a few mid-week rides of 2 or 3 hours plus my own long ride a week ago Sunday to Scorton and Pilling.  On repeating the route to Scorton and Chipping this time, however, I found the hills easier!

I was having my sandwiches at Chipping when I heard a mewing sound.  On looking up, a lone buzzard cruised past, emitting the sounds they normally make to their mate at this time of year.  It lazily looped once and continued to follow the road, eastward out of Chipping.  No sight of any mate.

Since Sunday, of course, we have had "lockdown" imposed.  As cyclists, we are very lucky we have Boris's permission to ride (I still don't trust him!) and bike shops are apparently still open.  I say apparently, because things have changed a bit for me.  My wife falls into the "vulnerable" group, so that means I have to be very careful.  To make sure that happens, I have invested in a turbo trainer.  I wouldn't normally bother - I feel sorry for those that seem not be able to cycle except via electronic "Peloton cycling".

However, by this means I can get some cycling exercise without even leaving the kitchen (on a clean bike, of course!) So far, I have had a couple of 1 hour sessions.  The scenery is a little unchanging and I still prefer the real thing, but use of a turbo trainer makes for a good workout.  At the end of an hour I am bathed in sweat and my legs know they have been used!

For those who are interested in such data, I have discovered (via a suitable app on my phone and my re-sited cycle computer) that in each hour I have covered a virtual 20 mile ride, generating around 110 Watts of power at a cadence of around 70 rpm in the gear I am currently using.

I guess that by the time I see you all again, I will be able to cycle as far in an hour as I used to in 60 minutes!

Nick's Rides to Bilsborrow and Arnside 24th & 25th March

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Having gained a few waist inches in my new sedentary situation I decided to get some proper exercise before yet more enforcements were made on my liberty. 

 I set off on Tuesday afternoon into a strong southerly breeze, unaccustomed to pedalling solo but on a familiar route towards Scotforth and Lancaster University. 

Heading towards Wyresdale there was a notable absence of the frequent buzz of passing cars, heaven to a cyclist. Ron's lane across the M6 to Millers Brow and Cleveley Bank led to Scorton which was quickly passed through and then Barnacre and Garstang to reach Delph Lane and Bilsborrow. Only the occasional one man and his bike were passed instead of groups of club riders. Passing Myerscough College I didn't stop as the cafe was inevitably closed but pushed on to St Michaels On Wyre, turning there towards Cartford.

The road surfaces along this stretch were in appalling condition resembling the surface of the moon more than tarmac at times and I feared being catapulted over my handlebars but managed to dodge some of the ruts. Things improved after starting to head north to Pilling and I stopped briefly for a snack and drink. 

The following wind now accelerated me across the Moss to Cockerham and home. I had seen only a few couples walking dogs and the occasional farm worker and it felt at times like an imagined bygone era. 

The next day the sun was shining again and this was a further chance to make the most of the warm and dry weather. Going north this time and into a gentle northwesterly wind I rode to Nether Kellet before descending to Carnforth and towards Silverdale. The roads were again peaceful with just the occasional commercial van or lone cyclist. I ascended the long hill after Far Arnside past the Knott and into the village then down to the Promenade which was ghostly quiet without its visitors and vehicles. The shop door signs all told the sorry tale of Closed till Further Notice so I pressed on and headed back. Making good time past Silverdale golf course I was soon on the A6 and although it was now rush hour there was little rush. I was back at my house well before 6pm. 

The absence of ride companions over the two days had been partly made up for by a new peace in the countryside and a sense that the world had changed considerably in a short time. An early 20th Century idyll or a JG Ballard novel? - I wasn't sure.

Ian R's Solo Ride 19 March

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I left home for Millenium Bridge, merely to greet any other members who  might be there, but as expected no-one about. I pedalled along the Quay and onto the estuary track with many large puddles once over the flood defence wall. Very soon the water was halfway up to the bottom bracket and I opted for the granny gear and the steep climb on to the railway embankment, before the water became really deep. Riding along the embankment required full concentration as the wheels squirmed their way through long sections of churned up mud. Once across the bottom of Railway Crossing Lane there was a marked improvement of the track's surface and good progress

was made to Conder Green, Glasson Dock, Tithe Barn Hill and Jeremy Lane to Thurnham.

            A short section of the A588 to Cockerham had me turning on to the B5272 then L into Cockerham Road, over the River Cocker and the canal and second R, at Stanley Lodge, into School Lane to Forton village then R into Winder Lane. Radcliffe Wharf Lane and Middle Holly brought me to the A6 and a L turn towards Scorton where there were but 5 cars on the car park at Daisy Clough and only 2 bikes on the rack. I took coffee in the outdoor area which I had all to myself.

            From Scorton I followed Jim Gardner's route of 6 weeks previously; Gubberford Lane, the by-way to Green Lane East then West, Garstang traffic lights, Nateby, Eagland Hill, Scronkey, Union Lane, Mosside Lane, A588, Smithy Lane – Grange Lane, Back Lane to join the B5377 into Preesall then the B5270 to Knott End where I sat on one of the benchs at the top of the slipway, blissfully eating my homemade cheese sandwichs and sipping from my water bottle all in glorious spring sunshine, my buff pulled up behind my head as a snood to keep off the teasing north breeze blowing in from the bay.

            A couple of Liverpudlian guys rocked up on hybrids, both well equipped for touring duties. They had driven to Garstang and were both gob-smacked by the quiet roads they had ridden along to gain Pilling then the sea wall from Fluke Hall to Knott End. Their intention was to follow the estuary and the N side of the Wyre back to Garstang. They were looking for a chippie; I pointed out the cafe but it HAD to be a chippie; their quest had them retracing their route into the centre of the village.

            I then went to the rear of the cafe where the south facing verandah with its three or four unoccupied tables was a veritable sun trap and I partook of a cappucino – there were only maybe 3 or 4 people inside the cafe.

            My return home was quite direct, along the sea wall to Pilling to join the A588 through Cockerham to Thurnham for a L turn into Moss Lane then Jeremy Lane to join the track to the Cafe de Lune for an afternoon cup of tea. Branching off the track at the sewage works, I had my pedals just and so dipping into clear, running water for a couple of hundred metres with, at one point, three ducks swimming alongside. The exit from this unmade section of track was far from easy; the farmers were engaged in slurry spreading on a grand scale – one outfit in the field and two large tractors with attendant tankers parked rather awkwardly in the lane with large clumps of  mud strewn around – I managed to wiggle through without a 'portage', only to be met by a fourth tractor and tanker as I pedalled up to Ashton Road.

 

Ian.

Mike Codd' s Solitary ride to Baines Crag and Applestore Sunday 22 March

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I set off from Boot & Shoe lights at about 8:15 on bright but cloudy Sunday and decided to get some hills in. Took the route through Hala to Newlands and onto the top road to Caton then doubled back onto Little Fell Lane and down (20%) Stock-a-Bank, Heading for Littledale. The sun had now appeared and the views were lovely, but the contrary E wind was a bit colder then expected. Having a clear view both ways above the Postern Gate Road, I kept up my momentum to shoot across onto the Littledale Road.

Going down into granny gear occasionally on the lumpy-bumpy ascent I continued past the Rigg Lane turn. In the distance I could see brightly clad people coming down the narrow, steep road from Baines Crag. Arriving at the bottom of the hill, I was met (at a safe distance) by by 4 excited children, enjoying just being able to run fast down a steep incline. They were shortly followed by an older boy and two sets of parents, who greeted me and warned me about the steep hill.

I soon regained the feeling in my cold hands as I rode up the 230 foot hill, past Baines Crag and up to the summit above Littledale. What a glorious viewpoint on such a fine day!

The Lakeland Hills, Yorkshire peaks and the Howgill Fells were in clear view, with Ward's Stone and Clougha nearby across the valley.

I returned the same way, then going down Rigg Lane, where motorists were already parking and unloading their passengers. Continuing through Quernmore, along Bay Horse Lane I took a left at Five Lane Ends, heading towards Scorton. Greeting the usual barking dog at Street farm, I kept on to the turn to Scorton where I went downhill and then left to cross the foot bridge at the ford near Sykes farm, up the hill and below Nicky Nook to fetch up at Applestore for coffee and scone takeaway.

They had taken no chances. Firstly, there was an instruction to wash hands then direction to an outdoor washbasin with liquid soap and paper towels. Hand sanitiser was available nearby. At a hatch, I was greeted by a smiling young lady and I ordered a scone with butter and a black americano, paid contactlessly.

I sat below the trees at one of the many empty outdoor tables, listening to the birdsong. I was called to collect my coffee and scone - a paper cup for the coffee and a cardboard carton for the takeaway scone.

Freewheeling down Snow Hill, I stopped at Scorton post office (at a safe distance) for a nice chat with two cyclists who'd driven over from Manchester with their bikes to enjoy our local lanes. I Then headed for home in Piccadilly, having had an enjoyable ride, a nice coffee break and enjoyable encounters with other human beings (at a safe distance). I washed my hands and got lunch ready.

Cycling adventures of Patience & Len. 22nd and 24th March .

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It’s been a cracking week to be out on the bikes, sunny and just the right temperature with a cooling breeze when needed.

On Sunday we had been looking forward to Dent, so thought we may as well go anyway. The breeze helped us over the hill from Capernwray to Newton; in Whittington we espied familiar faces on a bench, and stopped for a chat with Sandra and Stuart. A few minutes later an oncoming cyclist turned out to be Graham, so another unscheduled stop. Devils Bridge was swarming with hundreds of bikers without a care in the world, so we pushed on to Casterton, where we sat at a picnic table on the village green for elevenses. A few groups of people wandering around aimlessly. Then onto the top road above Barbon and the long slog up Barbondale, where three Kendal CC members went past and then waited for us to have a chat. The view over Dentdale a little hazy, but great conditions for early Spring. No point in going into Dent, so we turned left at the foot of the hill in Gawthrop and the usual route over the unfenced shoulder, where someone had placed a bench for us to rest and eat our picnic. Panoramic views of the Howgills and Sedbergh, which we  don’t usually stop to appreciate. Then onto puncture alley, drying out nicely but some iffy sections of muck and gravel. Another bench, at Barbon Village Hall, for afternoon tea of an apple, then a run for home through Arkholme. About 52 miles, but a low average ( Patience having to carry all those sandwiches !)

Today ( Tuesday ) again the weather too good to waste in the garden, so we thought that a  38 miler  would qualify as a bike ride to maintain fitness as recommended by Boris the previous evening. We kept coming across other cyclists, mainly solos but one or two duos having to shout to converse. Very quiet roads out to Burton, then the long climb past Clawthorpe and onto Hutton Roof crags, where we sat in a gateway looking north towards Killington and eating cheese scones. Then the grassy byway to Hutton Roof church and left to Lupton. A short stretch of A65 before turning off to Lupton Church and the delightful back road to Kearstwick.  KL  very quiet  and someone had dispersed the biker crowd at the bridge. Home via the near-deserted main road through Tunstall, stopping at Wennington by the riverside for a picnic.

Ride from Boot & Shoe to Saswick, via Scorton, Sunday 15th March 2020

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On Sunday 15th March members of Lancaster CTC met by Booths, Scotforth for the club president’s planned clubrun.

A combination of an unfavourable weather forecast and problems associated with organising club activities as the Coronavirus kicks in may have depleted numbers but, nonetheless, nine members set off en route to Scorton. In order to avoid a road closure at Cleveley Bank and road works on the B5272 by Forton Hall Farm, Mike led the riders towards Scorton via Four Lanes End and Long Lane. Coffee had been booked at Daisy Bank Nurseries and they were joined there by riders who live south of Lancaster.

After coffee they rode towards Garstang taking Green Lane East and West before the traffic lights at the A6 junction. From here they went over the canal bridge and on to Nateby and Moss Edge, Out Rawcliffe. In comparison with Thursday’s challenging conditions when the leader had ridden over the course, the head wind was far less of a problem. From Moss Edge they crossed the Wyre at Cartford Toll Bridge and rode through Great Eccleston and Bonds before the lunch venue at Saswick House.

The return route retraced as far as Nateby but there, by the school, they turned north via Carcrash Lane on to Cogie Hill Farm before turning right to Winmarleigh Church, Cabus Nook Lane and the A6 junction. After a brief ride on the A6 northwards they rode through Hollins Lane, Foxholes and Smith Green to Galgate. After the University they entered Scotforth via the shared cyclepath and then went their various ways homewards.

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays on our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.uk.

Mike Hutchinson

Ride from Halton Station to Grange over Sands, Thursday 12 March 2020

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I thought it might be a dry day at last! Thursday 12th March was going to be windy instead:

“Irish Sea; South westerly, force 7 to 8 occasionally force 9, heavy squally showers”.

It was the weekly Thursday bike ride for the Lancaster & South Lakes CUK, meeting at Halton Bridge. It was still dry. With 12 hardy starters, Keith our leader took us across the Lune and immediately up the 1 in 3 Hill through Halton, then Arrow Lane and Over Kellet. Passing through Borwick and Priest Hutton we headed to Burton in Kendal.

We were flying! Followed by a force 7-8 gale we were whizzing along at 15-20 miles per hour without effort. We avoided the turn through Cinderbarrow (too muddy) and continued to Burton and the turn to Holme Mills and Holme. Turning left, we took the Milnthorpe road, crossing the raging River Bela and turning left to Beetham Garden Centre for coffee and cakes. Four other members who’d ridden independently, met us there.

After coffee, Keith asked if we were game to try for Grange, our intended lunch stop. Seven riders were game to go, although the wind was still rising and would make return difficult.

We crossed the mighty A6, through Beetham and over the hill through Dallam Park, crossing the Arnside road to go across the moss and back towards the A6. Leaning to the left, against the side wind, we made our way to the A6. Passing the (long-awaited) road surfacing works, we stopped to fix a puncture (It’s always the BACK wheel!).

Keith chose the route across the flats to Gilpin Bridge, straight into the wind for much of the route.

After crossing the A590, we stopped for a a conflab. We determined to stop at the Gilpin Bridge pub for tea and sandwiches/soup. Grange would have to wait for another day.

We didn’t go back across the flats, but chose to ride to Levens village, taking the route up to the north end of the village (smart move, following wind!) then back down to the A6 - against the wind but downhill.

Keith then took us through Leasgill and Heversham then sharp uphill, again with a helpful gale to bring us on the road to Ackenthwaite, where we doglegged down Smithy Lane and back towards and through Holme and Holme Mills, then turning uphill to Burton and retracing our outward route. This time we turned at Longlands towards home.

The wind had really tired us by this time. Some needed to get to homes north of the Lune; Keith and I wished them well and headed for Carnforth Station for a cosy chat and a cup of coffee at Brief Encounter while we awaited the Lancaster-bound train and back home, where we were at last welcomed by a “Squally heavy shower.”

We are tourers and almost without fail we meet, usually at 9:15 for a local ride of between 40 and 70 miles. Details on <ctclancaster.org.uk>.

Mike Codd (Rides co-ordinator)


Ride from Crook O'Lune to Goosnargh, Thursday 5th March 2020

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Flipping heck is it my turn to lead the Lancaster and South Lake CTC ride again??

With the weather starting to improve we were beginning to believe spring/summer was on it’s way but were we fooling ourselves at least today seemed reasonable it is miserable having to lead when it is pouring down because you have to turn out!!

The ride on the 5th was still regarded as a shorter ride even though the days were getting longer.
Meeting at the Crook O Lune (thanks Keith) we went up and over Postern Gate and dropped down behind the university where the leader got a rear wheel puncture (something to do with the weight!!). The rest ploughed on but revolted when it came to the ford turn off. So a refreshment break was called for in Garstang to allow the leader to catch up (mucky hands and all)

Suitable refreshed we went through the town to Brockholes Arms at which we reluctantly carried on. Turning left we went over the River Brock and a right turn in Inglewhite saw us on country lanes into the pub in Goosnargh.

Suitably refreshed we left Goosnargh travelling along Goosnargh Lane, Langley Lane and crossed the old A6 at Broughton crossroads. Trundling along Woodplumpton Lane to meet Hollowforth Lane then Benson Lane to arrive at Old Nell’s on St. Michaels Road. Crossing the A6 to flog up Bilsborrow Lane then to turn left to drop down Lydiate Lane by which time the smell of a coffee from Daisy Clough was wafting in the breeze.

Leaving Daisy Clough (and the gorgeous smiles behind) we went our usual way home via Forton, Whams Lane and the university.

All in all I had managed to arrange lovely dry weather for the group to enjoy!!!

Anyone interested in joining us can find information about our Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday rides on our web site at www CTCLancaster.org.uk

Ride from Beaumont to Grange via Beetham, Sunday 1st March 2020

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Another Sunday ride, another storm; this time  Jorge. The forecast was for leg-sapping 48mph  WSW gales, tempered by spring sunshine.  Five CTC riders considered the prospect too good to miss.

Beetham arrived in record time via the Kellets and Holme, the wind at our backs. Two more riders had bagged a ‘sharing’ table for us. Still a long way to go to fell Foot Country Park, so a residue of five riders took to the A6 open road to hasten with the gale to Levens.

A block headwind hit us from here to Witherslack: no escape, but teamwork resulted in reasonable progress. Then a retreat onto sheltered debris-strewn lanes to Lindale and a change of plan. Lunch at Grange was the consensus !  Bay View café , living up to it’s name with elevated views of the shimmering sands, supplied filling fare for the return trip. No choice here ( Meathop three feet under water), so a retrace of the outward route. This time enhanced with a prospect of snow- blanketed peaks reflected in the huge ephemeral lakes in the valley bottom.

Into the teeth of the wind again from Levens, but shelter sought via Heversham village and Dallam Park. Just time for a coffee at Leighton Moss, and home for 5.00 in the late afternoon sun, with 58 miles on the clock.

Join us sometime for sociable rides        Details at  www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Ride to Beacon Fell via Coble Hey, Sunday, 23rd February 2020

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Six members of CTC Lancaster and South Lakes met at Boot and Shoe on a blustery, damp morning for the ride to Cobble Hey for coffee and Beacon Fell for lunch.  After the torrential rain and stormy winds, it was the first opportunity for some time to get out on the bikes.

 A brisk north westerly wind blew us towards our morning destination, but with low clouds and frisky winds the leader decided to avoid the high route over Harris End Fell and kept to the valley roads over to Scorton.  The recent heavy rains were very evident with frequent patches of standing water on the roads, and a lot of muck and gravel washed onto the tarmac by the run-off.  Fortunately the roads were not too busy as those cars we did pass, generally anointed us with further spray, thrown up by their tyres.

As we approached Cobble Hey tea rooms the forecast 11am shower duly arrived and we were glad to sit in the warmth and refuel with hot drinks, scones and tea-cakes whilst it passed over.  At this point we had an exchange of Mikes, with Mike C heading back home after coffee and Mike B joining us from Preston.

We circled part way round Beacon Fell, to approach it from the East and felt our first taste of the head winds that were to be our companion for the rest of the ride.  Fortunately the café on Beacon Fell was fairly quiet when we arrived, and we were able to get an indoor table.  Even on top of the hill the café had endured overnight floods and half of the seating area was closed, with de-humidifiers humming away.

The day now brightened up considerably and we were blessed with gorgeous sunshine for the afternoon.  After lunch we headed towards Garstang, saying farewell to Mike B at the turn to Inglewhite, where he turned southwards and home-bound.  At the turning for Walmsley Bridge we passed the remains of a road barrier which had presumably been blown away in the wind.  We proceeded cautiously and found that just before the stream crossing part of the road had collapsed towards the stream.  There was plenty of room for cycles to get through, but as we began the climb out of the valley we encountered a more substantial road barrier for traffic approaching from the north and we had to walk through ankle-deep slurry to get around it.

Further puddles on the road surface helped to sluice some of the worst of the muck off our feet and bikes as we pushed our way against the wind through Garstang and Cockerham.  Continuing northwards to Conder Green we paused to look at the fire-damaged Stork Inn before continuing to Lancaster via Stodday and Aldcliffe.  The ride from Bolton le Sands was only 53 miles, but in the weather conditions it felt like a strenuous day-out and a hot shower was very welcome.

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes welcomes new riders.  Please see our website for further details and rides lists:  ctclancaster.org.uk

Ride from Millennium Bridge to Knott End, Thursday 6th February 2020

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Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club’s ride on 6th February 2020

My turn to lead again so as it was winter and the days were short I decided an easier ride heading for Knott End was on the cards and it had been quite a bit since we savoured the delights of the squash club.
Having organised good weather we set off trundling through the Uni onto Galgate then down Whams Lane into Bay Horse to go to Daisy Clough via the fishing lakes.
As usual a very warm welcome was received at Daisy Clough so a coffee and scones stop was called for.
Leaving Scorton we headed for Garstang down the narrow lane and crossed the A6 at the traffic lights. Here a mishap occurred a rider split his tyre so there was no way that could be mended.
Once over the lights we headed out through Nateby then took a right turn to go up and over Eagland Hill!! and into Skronkey.

Instead of going straight on to Knott End we did a U turn and headed back south through Skronkey then a right turn aiming for Stamine Moss. After another right turn we arrived in Stamine. After a very brief spell on the A588 we turned left onto the quiet roads over the moss thus missing out the slushy road at Staynall. Once in Preesall a simple left turn took us into Knott End. Those of us who wanted a well earned ‘pint’ went into the squash club the rest did their own thing.

After a suitable break we left Knott End via Pilling Lane and the “zoo”(okay it may be made up animals but they are impressive). Into Pilling and the on to the moss road aiming for another break at the Pudding House (some people survive on tea and scones).

Arrived home feeling happy after having done a full day ride.

Anyone interested in joining us can find information about our Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday rides on our web site at www CTCLancaster.org.uk

Jim Garnder

Ride from Millennium Bridge to ... Beetham Garden Centre, Sunday 26th January 2020

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Well, the forecast was dreadful. And only four of us turned up for the Lancaster CTC ride that was due to go to Kirkby Lonsdale. And all of us were wearing full waterproof clothing (its the only time I’ve ever started a ride with plastic trousers on…). But we set off on the Kirby Lonsdale Road up through Halton in reasonable spirits because it wasn’t actually raining. That didn’t last long and soon we were riding through a chilly mizzle that was part of the cloud system. As we rode along the hill towards Sunny Bank Farm, we had no view across the Lune Valley other than dense grey cloud. The descent towards Capenwray was on wet, greasy roads wasn’t the usual delightful woosh. Through Borwick and Priest Hutton we went, then off along Cinderbarrow Lane and through the mucky farm. We were all a bit soggy and looking forward to coffee and one rider narrowly missed being wiped out by a reversing tractor. Hilderstone Lane is always quiet and has good views across the fields to the east… but today it felt cold and soggy. With just four of us it wasn’t difficult to keep together so we didn’t stop in Holme but pushed on to the turn down Hangbridge Lane. Even though it is a narrow lane with grass in the middle we had cars come at us from behind and in front. It was good to get to the Garden Centre where we found a couple of other Lancaster CTC riders, one of whom was keen for us all to carry on to Kirkby.

However, after much deliberation with glances at the black clouds building to the South, we decided to retreat to warm sofas and telly sports. The ride back was against a strengthening wind with stinging rain… Of course once we were all safely indoors, the rain abated and the wind died. Not one of the most enjoyable rides but thank you to those stalwarts who came along and whose company made the outing worth it.

Tim Dant

Ride from Beaumont to Clapham, Sunday 20th January 2020

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Cyclists Touring Club ride to Ingleton and Clapham High pressure arrived after weeks of dismal rain, causing jack frost to whiten the landscape and attack cyclists fingers and toes. CTC members willing to suffer the early cold were rewarded with sunshine and pin-sharp views of the Three Peaks. Six riders turned their wheels towards Clapham, with morning coffee intervening at Ingleton; two more members were picked up at Crook o’ Lune bridge. Highways had been busy salting the main roads, but patches of sheet ice lay in wait on the by-ways, so brakes had to be applied sparingly and with caution. Good progress was made through Wray and Bentham, and Ingleton was approached along Tatterthorn Lane. Unusually, no-one was waiting at the café to boost numbers. The hilly road to Clapham yielded the finest views of the day, the valley sun-bathed, long shadows were cast on the glistening fields, and Ingleborough was clear and silent. The climbs caused the blood to flow, and injected a welcome warmth to our bodies. Maybe we hadn’t really earned it, with only five miles since coffee and cake, but the hot soup was consumed with gusto in the Clapham café. It only remained for us to head homewards via Mewith Lane, with now only fleeting glimpses of the sun lighting up the valley below , and Ingleborough enveloped in cloud. Back home by just after three o’clock, and with fifty miles under our wheels.