CTC Ride Report - 12th Feb 2023

Nine members of Lancaster Cyclists’ Touring Club turned up on Sunday morning to enjoy a ride in the continuing dry conditions.  Another new electric-assist was a particular focus of interest.  It was not clear whether a later, 10 o’clock, start was appreciated: some had felt the need for a circuitous route to the start at Beaumont.

Wheels were eventually pointed in the direction of the Kellets via the top road.  Freewheeling towards Capernwray, with an early lunch planned at Casterton Golf Club, we admired the sheep-dotted craggy landscape, though today lacking the spark which some winter sun would have provided.

Following alongside the Skipton line up the Keer Valley, we reflected on times past, and the lifetime’s work put into an erstwhile neat and productive vegetable patch by the roadside.  Now replaced with a villa and a “beautiful” car parking area.

No treat for train buffs today; the line remained silent.  Not even a repositioning ‘ghost train’.  In the CTC’s halycon days of a century ago, steam-hauled first-class passengers would gaze down on us lesser mortals on two wheels.  Wool barons from Bradford-on Sea on their daily commute to offices  in Bradford mills, full English served in dining cars with starched linen.

Leaving the permanent way, our way climbed over the watershed with the Lune Valley, two lads heroically dropping back to cajole the arthritically-hipped leader up the steep ascents.

On to Whittington, and trying unsuccessfully to spot the blue plaque identifying the home of William Sturgeon, inventor of the electric motor which today allows our older members to still ride with us.

Casterton Golf Club at last, finding the faster guys already tucking into tea and cakes, so as to return and catch the football on TV.  Others enjoyed a more filling and leisurely repast, something with chips being the favoured choice.

Kirkby Lonsdale was having a quiet day; perhaps everyone was in the cafes and pubs.  Heavy traffic delayed our crossing of the A65, but eventually we were free to take the Low Biggins road, bound for the slow slog up to Johnson House and the fast swoop down to Burton.  On through Priest Hutton and Borwick, and a serendipitous encounter with three friends on a short ride, before crossing the A6 to Warton and home.  Just over 40 miles for most of us. Len Howard

CTC welcomes new members. Take a look at our website to see if you would like to join us on a ride

www.ctclancaster.org.uk