June 19th saw us all descend on the Bell at Burton Overy. Great weather although quite a chilly breeze when you stopped. On the long ride group we experienced quite a number of ‘angry’ drivers – often in 4×4’s. I can’t really explain the reason but appreciate the farmers are busy at the moment so just a gentle reminder to us all to make it as easy as possible for vehicles to pass the group by riding either in single or double file and keeping in to help the motorists. Sometimes its better to stop the group and let large vehicles pass on the narrow country lanes as it helps the farmers and makes for a far more relaxing vibe in the group if you haven’t got a vehicle following you for long distances. I know the law says we can ride two abreast and sometimes that really helps as vehicles have a shorter group to overtake but sometimes just because we’re allowed to do it doesn’t make it the best option and common sense needs to prevail for everyone’s benefit. I’m hoping that night was a one off. I didn’t get into the pub afterwards as had to get off but I’m told there was the usual loud MVSC atmosphere along with good beer and food.
On June 27th we visited one of my favourite locations on the MVSC circuit – The brilliant Fox and Goose at Ilston on the Hill. There were three led rides with May Naylor, Stuart Thornhill and myself taking on the responsibilities. Through the summer we’ll often need to rotate the leaders due to holidays etc. This week Phil Rayner was away in beautiful Swanage and Nick Fenwick and Pete Condon were spending some time with their dogs and getting over the last few days after we rode about 150 miles over a couple of days down to Saxmunden in Suffolk. Jim Crawford was also with us and is now displaying the bruises he gained after falling off with Pete while going through a very slippy Ford . We then had some riding and a bit of drinking over the weekend in a barn conversion with wives and partners. This was to make up for the fact that we couldn’t do the famous ‘Dunwich Dynamo through the night ride’ in July this year (another classic ride I’d highly recommend and is free). It was fantastic and encourage you to experience the quiet Suffolk lanes and quaint pubs if you want a relaxing break.
A few of our riders are undertaking a really hilly sportive in Cornwall this weekend so wishing them luck and looking forward to hearing all about it next Wednesday.
Back to the ride – Stuart had planned and published a 17 mile ride, May’s was 13 and mine just under 21. Stuart’s route was very well supported (well done for managing the group Stu). The long group arrived back to find May’s group there (where was Stuart’s?) meaning we got into the bar and had a quick beer. A few minutes later they all arrived and it appears that the route Stu had published had been replaced with another on his own Garmin. It caused a bit of confusion but everyone was smiling having enjoyed the adventure! These things occasionally happen and it resulted in the middle ride clocking up more miles that mine – Chapeau!
The only incident of note was poor Laura Hopewell who’s front derailleur seized in the big ring as we ascended Moor Hill and then stuck in that position for the rest of the ride (good job it was flattish!) and then as we pulled out on the final stretch of road her chain came off and she took a bit of a tumble. No broken bones but plenty of bruises. Get well soon Laura.
The pub kindly put on a sausage and burger BBQ and I think about 10 riders ate whilst quite a few more took advantage of the famous Fish and Chip van. The weather was superb, summer had turned up (along with some new riders – welcome to you all) and we all had a great time as usual.
Next week see’s us ride from a new venue for MVSC – the Bewicke arms in Hallaton. This is now a Thai restaurant and having eaten there a few weeks ago I’d say it’s the best green curry I’ve ever had. Pete has created a simple voting poll that we’re asking riders that intend to eat use so we can let the pub know numbers by Monday July 1st so they can plan and arrange tables. Normal rules apply on the night in that you order food and pay before we set off please. See you there.
Photos attached of the rides as usual and thanks as always for your support.
Nick Timms.
