Ride report 12.12.21, Beaumont to Ireby Green

It was a day of two halves weatherwise, and Lancaster Cyclists Touring Club went cycling in the wrong half.

Three solos and a tandem set off unenthusiastically from Beaumont in the variant of heavy drizzle which soaks through thoroughly and without prejudice. Unsurprisingly, only non-cycling individuals  without much choice were out and about in Halton. ‘Covid-related dogs’ still have to be walked in the cold and wet mid winter !

There was even less humanity in evidence as we climbed up the Kirkby Lonsdale Road into the hill mist, turned off to Aughton and crossed the Loyne Bridge at Gressingham. The Melling road was free of the roar of bikers for a change. The drizzle began to penetrate further as minor inroads were taken to Overtown, Cowan Bridge, and eventually sought the shelter and warmth of Ireby Green Café for a welcome and extended elevenses. Coffee, bacon butties and flapjack featured prominently.

The ride was billed as a one-stop, so we headed home for lunch via Burton in Lonsdale, Ravens Close, Wennington and Wray. At Goodenbergh the drizzle abated, the sky cleared , and we got a brief glimpse of a weak winter sun to our left. It was a classic case of Bryter Layter ( credit to Nick Drake), but at this time of year it was short-lived.

Worth stirring ourselves to get out and about, but a reminder of the worth of home comforts. 40 miles for most of us. We welcome new riders. Have a look at our rides programme on www.ctclancaster.org.uk  .Roll on the longer days.

Len Howard