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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Beaumont to Leighton Moss, Sunday 2nd February 2020

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

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

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.

Ride from Millennium Bridge to Casterton, Thursday 16th January 2020

Meeting at Millennium Bridge few, if any, of the participants wished to continue the ride after coffee, given the impending doom, or weather forecast as it is better known. Rain and extra strong wind gusts were forecast to arrive in the early afternoon, so the original plan of Arnside for coffee and Casterton for lunch now seemed not such a good idea after all. Perhaps a plan B was needed. Having previously spoken to our friends at Casterton, warning of our plan to lunch there, I thought it may be a good idea to go for a one stop ride to Casterton for coffee instead of lunch, enabling us to return home before the bad weather arrived. This suggestion was met with unanimous agreement, so plan B it was! I rang Casterton G.C. to inform them of our change of plan and was told the scones were just going in the oven! Wow!! All falling into place! We set off towards Halton, with the majority of us taking the Kellet Lane turning towards Nether Kellet, 2 participants choosing to go to Casterton via Halton and Arkholme. After half a mile or so, Ken collected a puncture in his rear tyre, and decided to head for home,in spite of the promise of a warm, fresh scone. Carrying on through Nether Kellet and Over Kellet and onto Burton, where John left us so he could keep a previously arranged appointment. We took the Hutton Roof turn from Burton and made the ascent/descent to Kirkby Lonsdale and onto Casterton, where we were greeted warmly. Coffee and cakes were consumed, the fresh scones excellent! It had been quite windy, but dry, on the outward journey, so we were hoping for the same on the journey home. We split into 2 groups for the homeward leg, one each side of the Lune. We arrived home before the forecast high winds and heavy rain, so Plan B was a success. 35 miles and nearly 3000ft of ascent. Neil Westwell 16 January 2020.

Ride from Beaumont to Silverdale, Sunday 8th December 2019

CTC Lancaster & South Lakes

Ride Report  8th December 2019

News of storm Atiyah put CTC-ers in a flap

So only three turned up at Beaumont Gates

Silverdale Golf Club was the spot for coffee and cake

And hastily we reached there with helpful gale.

Two more riders joined us for drinks and crumpets

Whilst hailstones bounced against the glass frontage.

Fine again now, and the wind still assisting

We flew through Storth and Sandside, the coastline fermenting.

Sizergh seemed unappealing then, though it was the aim

So sheltered lanes were sought for our return

Only a half day ride, we were back for lunch

Then plenty of time to enjoy mince pies and punch.

If you want to join our jolly band of Cyclists Touring Club riders, please look at our website

www.ctclancaster.org.uk where you will find details of our rides and social events.

Ride from Beaumont to Casterton via Ingleton, Sunday 17th November 2019

The weather forecast was spot-on; it drizzled all day, in the aftermath of the overnight deluge which put the rivers in angry mood. Nonetheless, it didn’t put off the six riders who gathered in waterproofs at Beaumont for the Cyclists Touring Club Sunday ride to Ingleton and Casterton.  It was mainly church-goers who shared the sodden roads with us through Wray and Bentham, glancing down on the  foaming brown waters of the Wenning. 

Bentham hadn’t yet woken up, so we pushed on out of the village, along Tatterthorn Lane to Ingleton for an extended coffee stop, joined by two more of our “friends awheel”. 

The lightening sky promised some improvement, but it proved a false dawn and puddles were still being topped up as we journeyed on via Burton, Ireby and Cowan Bridge to Casterton Golf Club where we enjoyed another sojourn in the warmth of the clubhouse, before the  homeward- bound leg through Kirkby Lonsdale, over Hutton Roof and muddy lanes through Keerholme and Capernwray. 

A total of 45 miles, and slightly more for our south Lancaster friends. 

It doesn’t rain on all our rides!    Check them out at   www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Len Howard

Ride from Beaumont to Sizergh Castle, via Barbon, Sunday 10th November, 2019

A veritable crowd of Lancaster and South Lakes Cycling Touring Club members assembled at the Beaumont start for Neil’s ride to Sizergh Castle. Given the number of participants, it was decided to split into 2 groups, and having been briefed with the proposed route, Brian kindly offered to lead the second group. Although fairly cold, there was a clear blue sky apart from a big yellow blob, the like of which we hadn’t seen recently. We took the Halton road from Beaumont and turned into Kellet Lane. We cycled through Nether and Over Kellet and passed the diving quarry onto Capernwray. All the time we were being rewarded with the most outstanding views of our wonderful countryside and Ingleborough became a feature of the scenery as we rode on, even though it was some distance away. Newton and Whittington were ‘conquered’ and we arrived in Kirkby Lonsdale unscathed, although Ken had fallen victim to the dreaded hedge trimming puncture. We took the path over Devil’s Bridge and thence the steep climb past the caravan site and onto the old Roman Road towards Barbondale. We arrived at the Church Mouse cafe in Barbon and promptly took all the remaining chairs in the establishment and partook of well presented and deserved refreshments. With the numbers of riders not diminishing, in fact, we gained a rider, we set off for our lunch stop at Sizergh Castle. We took the main Kirkby Lonsdale to Sedbergh road from Barbon, and then the left turn over the now weight reduced narrow bridge towards Rigmaden. We had eaten well at Barbon, but it was decided that we were still below the 4 ton weight limit, so we carried on undaunted. We were, however tested somewhat by the climb to Rigmaden and onto Old Hutton, but once again we were rewarded by the fantastic scenery as we progressed. We took the right turn in Gatebeck and then the quiet loop round to Halfpenny. A quick 150 yards along the A6070, we took the turn to Sedgwick, and ignoring the ‘Road Ahead Closed’ sign, we saw no reason for the sign, we passed through Sedgwick and arrived for our lunch stop at Sizergh Castle. Although Sizergh was busy, we were served reasonably quickly, and were soon ready for our onward journey. We set off towards Sedgwick, but then took the route through Hincaster and onto Woodhouse. It was then decided that as we had ridden through the Kellet’s in the morning we would go through Heversham, over the ‘mosses’, through the deer park, through Storth and onto Silverdale and Bolton-le-Sands, where the group began to break up as we neared home. 57 miles and 4400 ft of ascent on a wonderfully sunny Autumn day giving spectacular views over our special places, it doesn’t get much better than this. If you want to partake in one of these rewarding rides on Tuesday, Thursday or Sunday, visit www.ctclancaster.org.uk.

Neil Westwell 

Ride from Beaumont to Beetham via Casterton and the Freewheel contest, Sunday 27th October 2019

Eleven Cyclists Touring Club members met at Beaumont, all having remembered to put their clocks back the previous evening, and all anxious to have a go at the annual Freewheel contest.

The long downhill between Aughton and Gressingham again served as the testing ground, and Ray (as usual) officiated, ably assisted by our President. Our elevated position enabled us to track the showers moving along the valley, but luckily we escaped the damp. Team Graeme and Maz demonstrated their prowess at assuming a compact and aerodynamic form to triumph in a convincing manner.

The group continued to Casterton Golf Club via Kirkby Lonsdale for a celebratory morning coffee, and met up with two more members.

A brief shower on setting off again was succeeded by welcome autumnal sunshine, which lit up Casterton and Barbon Fells, as we headed up the Lune Valley and turned off to climb up to Rigmaden Park. The threat of showers had now diminished, so layers were shed in anticipation of further climbs. The first of these manifested itself  in the steep pull out of the valley to Mansergh and Old Town. Further such neglected by-ways with weeds, potholes and rotting hedge clippings were to characterise much of the following seven hilly miles, as we crossed the low fells between Lunesdale and the coastal plain. The route took us past Kitridding Farm and Tarnhouse Reservoir. Between the two one rider had the double misfortune to suffer simultaneous punctures in both wheels, but new tubes were speedily installed.

Having crossed the watershed, the balcony lane between Warth and Whelstone afforded sun-drenched views down to Endmoor and beyond to the Lakes and Morecambe Bay. Once off the hills, faster progress was made via Crooklands and Milnthorpe to Beetham for a late lunch.

The homeward-bound route took us via Slack Head and Gait Barrows to Crag Foot and Carnforth, where we dispersed to our various homes. Riders were satisfied with the 48 miles covered, peppered with some hills. A good test for the legs for the time of year.

If you are interested in joining us on our relatively relaxed rides, you can find details of our Sunday and weekday rides on the website (www.ctclancaster.org.uk).

Photos from Nick Hall of the Freewheel contest last Sunday.

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Ride from Boot & Shoe to Lytham, Thursday 17th October 2019

Lancaster and South Lakes Touring Club
Gathering at the Boot and Shoe for our yearly trip to the flesh pots of Lytham (not St Anne's!!!) the weather looked promising and as if we might have a following breeze up the prom to Fleetwood for the ferry over the Wyre.
As it turned out this was a ride were everything was on the loose!
I hadn't made my mind up which way to go but we were aiming for the Courtyard in Great Eccleston for coffee (and bacon butties). I had phoned them the day before saying there might be 15 of us but at the Boot and Shoe there were about 22 so a quick phone was made.
There was no way round it, we had to go over the Wyre and the nearest bridge to Great Eccleston was Cartford Bridge, which tradition states the leader pays the toll. As luck would have it the third group went astray so I only had to pay for 17 (groups 1&2 plus Mike H)
Suitable refreshed we set off via Elswick, Thistleton and Weeton before turning right just before Wrea Green.
Heading through Westby into the teeth of the wind I became aware that the riders following me were close enough to be drafting!
Into the Station (pub). In Lytham were 8 relieved riders having a much needed break.
Sandra appeared after making her own way there so after she had a cup of tea we set off up the prom to Fleetwood picking up Neil at ST ANNES pier.
Wow what a ride to Fleetwood, a following wind all the way.
On the way to the 15.15 ferry the first loose bit of the ride, a loose dog managing to bring a rider down, however little damage other than a bit of missing skin and offset handlebars!
We expected a coffee break at the ferry cafe but it was shut so we had to press on but another problem arose, Ken had a loose saddle so we spent a bit of time fixing that. In the mean time some none coffee riders had already left us.
Saddle fixed off we set past the zebra and giraffe but the rough road finally finished Ken’s saddle off and he found that the bracket had sheared so cable ties from a local farmer held the saddle in place.
On the main road to Pilling the cable ties gave up the ghost so using the seat pin padded out with gloves Ken rode back home through Pilling and Cockerham(sitting down was a problem though!)
All in all probably one of the better rides of the year, lovely weather great company and interesting incident.
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 Gardner

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Ride from Boot & Shoe to Ireby... and Wray, Sunday 13th October

I was a bit late (had to help a cyclist who needed a pump…) and found Anne and her dog Vera waiting with Neil in the rain. The forecast was not good. We chatted for another few minutes and then said, since we were there, we’d set off for Wray for a coffee (although Anne and Vera had somewhere else to go…). And then Ian turned up so there were three of us. And by the time we were approaching Wray the rain had stopped. The other two were persuaded that we should carry on to Ireby Green and come back to Wray for lunch. So off we went again, using Agnes Ing Lane and Trinket Lane to avoid the village and get us onto Russells Lane and then to Lower Bentham. We took the hilly road out to make our way to Burton and Ireby Green. Of course it was raining again and getting worse as we approached our coffee stop. There we found Sandra, who having waited some time, reassured me that I wouldn’t be chastised because at least I’d led the ride to the scheduled coffee stop. Warmed and dried we returned to the rain to set off for Wray. Trying to make a ride of it, we took the Bentham Low Road and then the Bentham Road to get to High Bentham. And as I turned towards the station and across the River Wenning, Neil reminded me that it was a steep hill up to Mewith Lane. Thickrash Brow its called and that well describes my expression as we went up it. But from the crossroads to Wray, Mewith Lane is without steep uphill bits (Neil called it ‘undulating’) and even the persistent rain didn’t put us off from wizzing along. It was still raining when we left Bridge House Farm and mixed it with the artics on the A683. We went various ways home - my Garmin (which had caused me much frustration by not knowing where it was much of the time) recorded 42.2 miles from home and back. Short for a summer ride but we’d managed to get 2497 feet of up and down… and survived the rain. It wasn’t all bad.

Tim Dant

Ride from Crook O'Lune to Horton in Ribblesdale, Thursday 19th September 2019.

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club
Talk about the devil looks after his own( can't be the sun shines on the righteous!). Lovely sunny weather promised and a light breeze, perfect for our ride to Horton in Ribblesdale on 19th September 2019.
Off we set travelling along the cycle track to Caton where we crossed the busy A683 to climb over Caton Green to rejoin the A683. Going through Hornby and Melling then just before Greta Bridge a right turn off the busy road took us through Wrayton where we then weaved our way through quiet lanes to our favourite coffee stop at Inglesport.
Suitable refreshed and now not needing directions(there is only one way to Horton unless you fancy pushing your bike over Ingleborough!!) we climbed past White Scar caves to Ribblehead then took the right turn aiming for Horton and dinner. So into the pub for a well earned dinner(well Pen-y-ghent cafe was closed!!)
After dinner the work still hadn't been done so we headed south to Helwith Bridge and the few little bumps on route. In Helwith Bridge we turned right and made the long descent into Wharfe then Austwick. Instead of riding on the A65 we used the cycle path into Clapham then turned up the slight incline on the old road to take the first left to drop down to Newby and across the A65.
Once across the busy road we cycled across Newby Moor(and its bumps) to join the B6480 which took us through High Bentham, Low Bentham, Wennington and into Wray where another coffee stop was called for.
Straight forward from here down the A683 and the cycle track back to Lancaster.
Great day, great company and a mere 65 miles what more could you want( just imagine we could have been stuck behind a desk in an office ugh).
Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday rides on our web site wwwctclancaster.org.uk

Ride from Beaumont to Bowland Bridge, Sunday 8th September 2019

Perhaps it was the prospect of a fine, windless day ‘awheel’ with crystal- clear views of the Lakes, or possibly the quest for companionship, which enticed  nine riders to converge on Beaumont for a fifty mile jaunt to relatively tourist-free southern Lakeland.

The Lancaster and South Lakes section of the Cyclists Touring Club was heading for Sizergh Castle and Bowland Bridge,  and began by taking the lightly- trafficked A6 to Carnforth. Familiar by-ways were followed through the Arnside and Siverdale AONB to Sandside and Dallam Bridge, exchanging greetings with faster ‘wheelers’ getting in a morning ride before the Sunday roast. Heversham Moss and Levens Village led us to Sizergh Castle café for scones and a natter.

Bowland Bridge for lunch only attracted five riders, who tackled the climb back over to Levens and savoured the scenic downhill to Brigsteer. At the edge of Crosthwaite, hedge lined single track lanes descended to the River Gilpin and continued on the far side of the Windermere  road through Tarnside. A picnic lunch, with fine views up the Winster valley and across to Strawberry Bank was mixed with further convivial natter. After exhausting both our food and discussions we turned south through the unfenced ancient woodlands of the valley side to Witherslack and the old A590. Crossing the new road gave access to the smooth tarmac of the Sampool area, now designated bridleway and a cyclists haven.

As it was still early in the afternnon, another stop at Greenlands café furnished teas and coffees, after taking to the lanes to the east of the A6 through Heversham, Holme and Burton.

Cycle touring is a wonderful route to fitness. Have alook at www.ctclancaster.org.uk to find out which of our range of rides  might suit you.

Ride from Millenium Bridge to Catforth via Elswick, Sunday 1st September 2019

It was cheering to see that the beginning of Autumn hadn’t dimmed the enthusiasm of club members for a ride on a day which promised to be windy and there were ten or more ready to set off at the start on the Millenium Bridge. Avoiding the possibly muddy or puddly conditions due to overnight rain and high tides on the Lune estuary they took a route through Lancaster and Aldcliffe village to emerge on Ashton Road towards Conder Green and on to Cockerham. Keeping to the main road across the Moss the previously helpful wind became much less helpful and slowed progress in reaching Stakepool where the slower ride leader caught up with the stronger group who had outpaced him by a few minutes. Easier conditions allowed better speed through Scronkey and Moss Edge so it was only late morning by the time they crossed the toll bridge at Cartford. Having taken the risk of not phoning the cafe beforehand it was no complete surprise to find that it was closed in Gt Eccleston so the decision was taken to continue to the village of Elswick where thankfully they were able to refresh on scones, flapjacks and teacakes, washed down with hot drinks.

Some riders departed at this point to get back home while the rest carried on in brighter conditions. The flatness of the Fylde meant that there were no hills to negotiate and the GPS altimeter rarely reached 50 feet as they went through the oddly named Wharles and Treales.

Happily turning east the wind behind them meant even more speed could be gained and turning before Lower Bartle and back across the M55 motorway they were soon parking their bikes outside the cafe in Catforth. The cafe provided the usual speedy service and massively thick slabs of bread to support eggs, beans and other cooked foods with enough calorific value for the return leg.

Leaving Catforth there was a convoluted series of winding roads negotiated through the picturesque area around Cuddy Hill with the backdrop of the Bowland Fells in view. The ever busy A6 was crossed at Bilsborrow and quieter roads towards Garstang and over Barnacre where showers briefly halted progress while waterproofs were put on. They avoided the worst of the heavy rain evidenced by wet roads and carried on to Scorton where the few who hadn’t departed the ride on route would have stopped for a tea break but were thwarted by the already crowded cafe there so continued to Lancaster via the University.

The day had been better than the forecast suggested but strong headwinds at the finish made the going tough, but there was sunshine at the finish of the 56 mile route.