Thursday, 11 November 2021
Edward writes: Today we had an "unbooked" ride planned for 55 miles, to Wimbish and Great Bardfield. First thing the weather looked none too promising, with a heavy mist making it all look pretty murky. Despite the weather it was really good to see that thirteen people arrived at the Square and Compasses in Great Shelford where the landlord is still happy to allow parking – considerately parked, of course! This was Andy's ride and we went out in two groups.Andy outlined the route for us and the first objective was our usual stop at the top of Coploe Hill. This was definitely where the bleak November weather was most noticeable with visibility across the fields very limited. The second objective was coffee at the Bonnefire Box at Elder Street Wimbish, arriving about 11am.
En route, Susan had joined the ride and a flustered looking Greg joined us just in time for coffee. It didn't escape notice that Mike CC was seen tucking into a large calorific looking meal (not one to miss an opportunity like that is our Mike!).
After coffee we had another twelve miles to go before reaching Great Bardfield. But now it was a different day; the sun had come out, the temperature rose and the trees looked wonderful in their autumn colours. What could be more perfect? It was so perfect that at the Blue Egg we all sat outside for our lunch. (I wonder if Mike was able to find a little treat for himself?)
We left for the return journey at 1.30pm which was 42 km26 miles miles via Finchingfield and for the most part we enjoyed the sunshine before it began its downward journey to the horizon.
We arrived back in Great Shelford at 3.45pm after a splendid day out led by Andy with his usual aplomb. Unbooked rides are nice as they allow people to join and leave when they chose. Edward Elmer