Thursday, 17 November 2011
Edward writes: This Thursday we met at the green in Hauxton rather than at Greta's. Today we left Hauxton with twelve riders, including Greta, who led the ride to Newport and then Mike took over from there. We were also joined by Edward who was visiting from Worcester DA. This is his second visit to us, the first time during the summer, and we extend a welcome to him. The day was overcast, not cold and with the prospect of some sunshine by the middle of day. Also, and importantly, hardly any wind.
We left Hauxton and followed the road through Little Shelford, to Whittlesford where we crossed the A505 which, unusually, was not in the least bit busy. This brought us into Duxford and then to Ickleton for the climb up Coploe Hill and our regular regrouping spot at the top of the hill.
By now we had some sunshine and the views across the surrounding countryside were really good, so long if you ignore the motorway. When we got going again we were able to enjoy the fast downhill before the final climb up to Catmere End. After this, and a bit more climbing we descended to Wendons Ambo and the nice little road through the village, over the railway to briefly join the B1383 for the run into Newport and our coffee stop. Some went to the nursery at R & R Saggers whilst others went to Dorrington's on the main road.
After coffee Mike took over leadership and we headed for Wicken Bonhunt and the next village was Clavering and our lunch stop at the lakes.
We decided on an early lunch so that we had options in the afternoon. In fact we left the lakes at 1pm and as we were leaving we met Bob and Myrtle who were eating their lunch on the grass verge at the entrance to the lakes. At this point those that wanted to get back early left us and took a more direct route back. The remaining five then took the road to Langley Lower Green and followed the quiet and narrow roads through Little Chishill and then making a right turn so as to climb up to Gt Chishill. Next up was Heydon and Elmdon from where we able to enjoy the descent down into Ickleton.
Once again we went through Duxford, over the A505 and back into Whittlesford. As we were a bit early we looped round Newton and Little Shelford before arriving back in Gt Shelford at 3.15 after covering 43 miles. Our thanks are due to Greta and to Mike for leading this ride.
Edward ElmerView this route on a larger map