September 2004

STROUD VALLEYS CYCLING CLUB (CTC)

On August 29th several riders took part in what has now become an annual event, the 100 mile ride.
Leaving Stonehouse under the leadership of Ted Berryman, the group proceeded to Gloucester and out to Wainlodes, crossing the Severn at Haw Bridge. Lanes were taken through Tirley and Forthampton passing through the grounds of Bredon school on the way to Upton on Severn for welcome coffee. Onward progress was via Kinnersley, passing near Croome Landscape Park, Drakes Broughton and Naunton Beauchamp and now heading east towards Evesham for a lunch break.
Crossing the river Avon the group was soon skirting round the south of Bredon Hill passing through Ashton-under-Hill, Beckford and Kemerton to Bredon and Tewkesbury. Here the ferry was taken across the Severn at Lower Lode. The riders continued down the Severn Vale to Gloucester and finally back to base after a long hard day in the saddle.

Two short rides took place over the first weekend of September. Lewis Laurence Jones led a group to Painswick in brilliant sunshine with a tea stop at the Rococo Gardens. The following day saw a party heading round the Severn lanes to Shepherds Patch under the leadership of Carol Kambites.

On the 12th September the club headed south led by Jim Turner. Taking lanes to Cam and Stinchcombe a coffee break was taken at Leyhill before proceeding via Rangeworthy and Iron Acton. Picking up the cycle route this was followed to Bitton where the group had lunch. The return journey was through Chipping Sodbury, then taking lanes below the escarpment to Hillsley and on to Wotton for tea before the final push for home, with about 60 miles being covered.

The final Sunday ride in September saw a group heading east up the valley to the White Horse and Kemble with a ride through the Water Park to Cricklade for coffee. Sheila Booth then led her flock round the lanes to Castle Eaton, Hannington and Kempsford, here viewing the magnificent church. Lunch was taken here before the return journey through Fairford, Ready Token and Cirencester. Another 60 mile ride enjoyed in good conditions..

Rides will continue every weekend during the autumn and winter and regular Tuesday afternoon rides will continue until the end of November.

Marion Teal, 12th October 2004