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Having enjoyed coffee and chocolate cake recently at The Cricketers in Weston, to celebrate his birthday, Maurice decided to organise a delightful clockwise ride from there taking in many lanes and villages that we rarely visit, and somehow avoiding Stevenage in the process. There was a large turnout on this glorious Spring day, Maurice’s faithful followers being Andrew, Vernon, John B, John T, Keith, Brummy Brian, Yorkie Brian, Tom, Lawrence, Chris and Martin, with Ric once again clocking up 50+ miles by cycling from Harston and joining us for coffee, making 13 in all.  Here is the route taken:

Despite being so close to Stevenage, or Silkingrad as it was once known by locals opposed to the new town, there was rarely a glimpse of it. Brian and Tom reckoned they spotted the Lister Hospital (see above map) but that’s about all. Perhaps that says a lot about successful new town planning, the topic of which exercised several minds as we sauntered around the mainly quiet but severely potholed lanes. No one could remember the name of the architect of Harlow until Lawrence came to the rescue – Sir Frederick Gibberd. Apparently he has a house and garden in Old Harlow which is open to visitors. (That’s enough about architecture for one blog!)

Vernon, Maurice, Yorkie Brian and Martin in the middle of nowhere, but near Silkingrad

The clockwise circuit meant that there were few difficult hills to tackle en route to Whitwell, where we said goodbye to John B before coffee in Emily’s tea shop, and hello to Ric afterwards.  There was a sign saying Dogs on Leads but we couldn’t find one to clip on Andrew.

Coffee and sunshine at Emily’s Tea Shop in Whitwell – a favourite stop for cyclists

The return leg, thankfully, went down a long hill near Poynders End, which we remembered struggling up last year when we did a similar route anti-clockwise. But what goes down must go up and we were rudely awakened of this when hitting a very steep climb at Gravely with only a herd of deer to take our minds off the grind of gears not engaging correctly. But it was not far back to The Cricketers in Weston where we met up with John B again and received a warm welcome with a good lunch of pizzas and other dishes whilst we tried to decipher who was who in the cricketing photographs that adorned the walls. Luckily we had Keith with us.

Thanks, Maurice, for planning the route, Andrew for organising us all and Brian for the photographs.

Martin

After a short spell away perusing other hostelries, it was decided that it would be good to return to the Packhorse, Moulton. Well the skies cleared and the sun shone for the nine Windmillers (Maurice, Andrew, Vernon, Tom, Ken, John T, Lawrence, Keith and Sandra) assembling in the car park, preparing their bikes for the off. It wasn’t long before there was a cry for assistance, Tom has a problem with his nuts. ‘Have you got any insulating tape or similar in your van Sandra’ cried Andrew. Having perhaps mis-heard the initial cry for help, the best I could come up with were some plasters, they were taken but swiftly returned, it was a mechanical failure not medical! Stripped thread of the nut that holds the front wheel on. Well after delving deep into my van to find the emergency tool box (rarely sees the light of day!) containing spares more for horticultural/agricultural machinery and a few washers albeit a bit on the large size but would prove useful and also raiding Maurice’ stash of nuts, between us we managed to get Tom ready to roll.

We set off up the hill out of Moulton, always a good way to warm up!! We would be following a previous route with a couple of deviations and the aim to have coffee at the ‘Saxon Village’ West Stow, which as always provided good coffee and cake. On our journey a fresh piece of cock pheasant roadkill was retrieved and stuffed in to Tom’s rucksack and discussions of recipes ensued, other pieces of roadkill didn’t prove so inviting and I’m glad to say the rather badly mauled Muntjac was left at the side of the road, this could have made for a very interesting ride attempting to bring this prize home!!

There had been a suggestion at the start of the ride that we would be visiting a windmill along the way for a photo opportunity, sadly this didn’t materialise, apparently there was a large sign advising to beware of the dog and was thus avoided. Having had glorious sunshine for most of the ride, it was as we were about 4/5 miles out from Moulton that a few spots of rain or even hailstones were felt, thankfully we were on the edge of this shower and didn’t really prove to be a problem. On the edge of Moulton, some chose the high road and others the low road and ford, which was in full flow and a swift manoeuvre to avoid going in to be swept away was required. Back at the Packhorse a familiar car was in the car park, that of John B’s who would join us later as we enjoyed our lunch.

Thanks Maurice for another lovely ride and Andrew for organising us too.

Sandra

What a treat to have a longer evening for the first time this year and to know that, if a leisurely pace was kept up, we could be at The Bull in Lower Langley at opening time. The weather was also unusually pleasant for a change and so there was no particular hurry as 5 Windmillers comprising Maurice, Andrew, Sandra, Keith and Martin set forth from The Pheasant some time after 4.00pm. Andrew devised the route which took in Elmdon, Arkesden, Roast Green (where Maurice took the short cut to The Bull), Lower Langley and then a choice of the road or John Bagrie’s off-road route back from Little Chishill to The Pheasant.

We struck lucky in Elmdon to find Simon working hard in his and Ollie’s lovely garden. He showed us his treasure trove of pictures, posters and photographs in his garage, some of which used to decorate the walls of The Pheasant, and his beloved Massey Ferguson 135 tractor which is in impeccable condition. He also confessed to having a shiny new bike which we hope to see him on in the coming weeks.

Ample time for studying the architecture of Elmdon, including The Elmdon Dial which should be opening again in the coming months

After bidding Simon farewell, having suggested we meet again later at The Bull, off we pedaled with time on our hands towards Arkesden via Long Lane, where Sandra, Andrew and Keith were already relaxing in the sunshine on the seat at the hilltop by the time Maurice and Martin arrived.

It was pleasant wasting time in the evening sun, knowing that there was still 45 minutes to go before opening time at The Bull, and so eventually we sauntered off towards Arkesden and Clavering, dodging the potholes along the way. Teresa, please note! At Roast Green, still with 20 minutes to spare, Maurice took the direct route whilst the others went via ‘Icy Lane’ and got there just after him, only to discover the familiar figure of John Bagrie also there, sipping a pint in the sunshine. And then Simon and Carl arrived and so a jolly time was had by all until it started to get chilly and so it was inside to warm up before the final leg back to The Pheasant.

There was much speculation as to whether John B’s off road route really was the quicker. Sandra, Martin and Keith took the easy but longer road route whilst Andrew screeched to a halt at Lower Chishill and took the high road, as Scotsmen often do. SMK pedalled for all their might but it was indeed Andrew who just emerged first from the lane before the final climb into Great Chishill, recording a total distance for the ride of 16.6 miles compared to the road route of 17.1 miles, half a mile shorter. In muddier conditions it might have been different but Andrew did say the ruts were deep. Not for the faint hearted!  John B and Maurice eventually appeared sometime later, having taken the off road route too, but then they didn’t leave The Bull at the same time………….

At the The Pheasant we were given a warm welcome by Alison and Debs before devouring some excellent goujons and chips, all washed down with good ales.

Thanks to the Bad Dawg Andrew for organising the ride.

Martin

Thirteen Windmillers on a Thursday outing is a record turnout – not to mention an overtaking challenge for the hard pressed motorists of north Essex. You can just imagine Radio 2’s Sally Traffic, “We’re getting reports of a rolling road block of cyclists near Stansted Airport”.

Thankfully, Maurice had selected a relatively traffic free route as – followed by Keith, Ken, Nigel, Sandra, two Brians (Brummie & Yorkie), John T, Andrew, Martin, Lawrence, Tom and Vernon – he led us out on a 34 mile circuit around the lanes of north Essex.

Squeezing past the beer delivery lorry at the Fleur, we headed out of Widdington and through Henham and Debden Green, before stopping at Thaxted for a windmill photo opportunity.

Back on the bikes, we headed for Great Bardfield – stopping for yet another windmill themed group picture at Gibraltar Mill – before heading to Finchingfield, where we pulled in for coffee and cake at Bosworths Tearooms. We suspect someone there is soft on Martin, singled out as he was for generous lashings of clotted cream.

Leaving Finchingfield, we headed for Little Sampford and, returning again via Thaxted, we took a more southerly route back to Widdington, stopping only to retrieve various belongings of Andrew (hats) and Martin (mobile phones) that we found scattered along the roadside.

Returning to The Fleur de Lys, Landlord Chris moved not only heaven and earth, but also large tables to accommodate our noisy gang. We enjoyed a hearty lunch, good beer, wide ranging conversation and Nigel’s novelty ringtones.

Thanks, Maurice, for planning an excellent route. And Andrew, for getting us all organised.

Brian

John, Ken and two Brians

The Windmillers – a rolling road block

Andrew doing his stretching exercises

With Andrew back from his skiing exploits in France (NO, he’s not the Beast!!!), eager to get back on his bike, having excelled at enjoying the hospitality supplied by Martin and other friends, as well as a little Apres ski in the local french hostelries. He could have brought his skis along instead of his bike, as a mini Beast from the East had struck again over the weekend, leaving a covering of snow and some bitter easterly winds. But the sun was shining and all seemed well when I met Andrew outside The Pheasant, that was until we stepped out of our vehicles, the wind had not subsided, still blowing in from the East and bitterly cold too!!

What are we thinking of, this could be a short ride!!! We set off down the notorious three hills and the set forth towards Little Chishill, up hill and noticing the wind somewhat but we carried on to Langley Lower Green (too early for The Bull to be open). The sun was shining, in fact clear blue skies all the way around, several herds of deer seen sheltering sensibly along side various woods. We soldiered on to Roast Green, Clavering and Arkesden, with hopes that the wind would aid our return, this wouldn’t be the case until we passed through Chrishall to Heydon then it aided us back to The Pheasant, still a little early but after a certain amount of hammering on the door, Mark relented and let us in to warm by the fire and be refreshed with Guinness and Pride. We were joined by a rather croaky Maurice, glad to have stayed home by the log burner!

Thanks Andrew for a great ride if a bit cold and windy. The sunshine was just what the doctor ordered!!

Sandra

A wet Thursday morning saw seven Windmillers – Sandra, Maurice, Ken, Ric, Nigel and two Brians – sheltering from the rain under a conveniently placed marquee in the middle of Thriplow. It was coming up to the famed Daffodil Weekend and the village was in full bloom. Ken somehow managed to park his car on top of some daffodils while the rest of us looked away, uncomfortably; we don’t know the guy – he’s not with us.

It was such a wet morning that we mooted calling the whole thing off – but Ric had cycled from Harston and we hadn’t the heart to send him back. So, shrugging off the rain, Maurice led the way out of the village and – as ever – we had a thoroughly enjoyable ride.

We headed out through Fowlmere, Melbourn, Meldreth, Orwell and Barrington before pulling in for coffee at The Moringa Tree in Haslingfield. It was our first visit to this cosy little café offering good coffee and an excellent selection of home-made cakes. The ladies gave us a warm welcome – which is more than can be said of their neighbour who stormed into the café upset because someone had parked a bike on The Green. What Green? we asked. That one, said the irate lady pointing to a one metre square patch of grass just outside. The culprit, Yorkie Brian, handled it very diplomatically and moved his bike a little closer to the café – and off the grass. Peace was restored.

Back on the bikes, we did a loop around Harlton and Barton, then back through Haslingfield and on to Harston and Newton, before returning to Thriplow for lunch at the Green Man.

We were delighted to be joined by Chris and Keith – neither of whom had fancied a wet ride (the big softies!). Keith, looking tanned, was just back from a 2 month sojourn in Lanzarote. He hopes to fit in a few rides with us before jetting off for the test match series in the Caribbean.

The Green Man served up an excellent lunch, most of us opting for an assortment of tapas dishes, all washed down with some very good beer.

Thanks, Maurice, for organising another great outing and selecting such a good lunch venue.

Brian

Thursday morning saw nine Windmillers – Sandra, John T, Andrew, Martin, Ric, Chris, Rod, Brian and Maurice – gathering at the Pig & Abbot, sipping coffee and munching biscuits while Landlady Pat took our orders for lunch.

We were particularly pleased to see Rod. He wouldn’t be cycling, but had come along to catch up with his friends and to wish Maurice a very Happy Birthday.

“Today’s ride will be 30 miles and we should be back around one o’clock”, said Maurice. We were impressed with his confidence but, looking at the weather, thought it best to reserve judgement on his timekeeping.

Setting off into a bracing headwind, we headed towards Steeple Morden and continued on through Ashwell and Cromer to Weston, where Maurice treated us to coffee – and some remarkably good cake – at The Cricketers, a new venue for The Windmillers. We were given a warm welcome and agreed to bookmark the place for a future visit.

Then it was back on the bikes and onwards – thankfully now with a tailwind – to Baldock and Ashwell, returning at exactly 1pm to Abington Pigotts. How does Maurice do it? And he bought the beers as well – top chap!

We were delighted to be joined by Rod and Vernon for lunch; ten happy Windmillers tucking into Pat’s homemade pies with gusto. A blissful end to a good morning’s ride!

Brian

Maurice was having some serious jaw engineering, but not from the famed Venezuelan dentist that Andrew uses, and there were no other takers which left just three Windmillers to saunter out on the first 3.00pm ride on a Monday for several months. The plan was to start and finish at The Pheasant in Great Chishill.

And so it was that Andrew led Sandra and Martin on a pleasant circuit of local lanes, struggling to shake off winter in places but showing strong signs of the spring to come in others. This was the route taken:

The mystery above is how we managed to descend more than we ascended from The Pheasant’s car park!

Spring was certainly in the air to start with – snowdrops, the odd daffodil, birds seeking mates to nest with and fields greening up everywhere but we were reminded of winter once again with snow in Elmdon and down that icy lane from Roast Green towards Anstey but, luckily not icy this time just slushy in places.

The Bull at Lower Langley had lights on! But, alas, on closer inspection it was closed and so we pressed on with time on our side as we were not due back at The Pheasant until 5.30pm when Mark kindly said he would open up early. Thoughts of using up time by doing a longer ride via Barley soon disappeared, however, due to black clouds looming and quite heavy rain starting as we approached Shaftenhoe End. So it was a rapid three hills (well, as rapid as the three hills can ever be) to return as fast as possible before getting soaked.

Alas, once again, there was no sign of lights or Mark at 5.00pm at The Pheasant and so we gave our apologies and set off to The Tally Ho in Barkway and enjoyed a beer there and good conversation with the locals in front of the fire. But with the evenings getting lighter it won’t be long before we once again enjoy succulent goujons and chips at The Pheasant after a Monday ride.

Thanks to Andrew for organising a very enjoyable Winter going on Spring ride. Let’s hope it’s all Spring from now on.

Martin

A large group of 11 wrapped-up-well Windmillers gathered at The Pheasant in Great Chishill at 9.30am to set off on a 30 mile circuit via Saffron Walden, once again on a cold day. Led by Maurice and followed at a brisk pace to warm up by Andrew, Vernon, John B, Sandra, Ken, Brian, Ric, Chris, Lawrence and Martin, the peloton’s first stop was Elmdon to see if the group was still together, which it was. Lawrence was particularly well wrapped up as he had only just returned the previous day from 3 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia, but where the weather had also been cold, particularly at night time.

John B had also had a cold week’s walking the week before in the Lake District, having to cut steps into deep snow to climb familiar peaks, and so this chilly ride must have been a doddle for him. Normally bare headed, he did however sport a smart red ski hat.

This was to prove an uneventful ride, puncture-wise, compared to the previous week, no doubt due to drier roads and an absence of nasty little sharp flints which can penetrate the toughest of tyres, even Schwalbe Marathons! Tough to get on a wheel rim too, according to Chris, who wrecked two tubes in his attempts to do so and brought his old bike instead of his flash new machine.

Audley End House came and went in its usual ethereal majesty before climbing the hill into Saffron Walden, Martin being subjected to some aggressive honking by a bad tempered driver (probably well deserved), before exiting the town and climbing the steep hill to Sewards End.

Then it was through the lanes to Elder Street and a stop at the delightful Debden Barns café to warm up the extremities with good coffee and large helpings of cake, scones, cream and jam, which did the trick.

By this time the skies had cleared and a beautiful day emerged, still fresh but the heat of the sun made all the difference and so happier faces were seen at the next photo stop in Duddenhoe End:

Finally it was back to The Pheasant by a variety of routes. Those seeking to get to the bar first took the direct route to Great Chishill whilst others took the scenic route through Chrishall, leaving just Maurice and Martin to clock up the full 30 miles by taking the long way from Chrishall to Great Chishill which also enabled them to admire the view towards Cambridge and beyond. But it was Ric who easily claimed the longest ride of the day through having cycled from Harston to The Pheasant in the first place and then back to Harston, clocking up nearly 50 miles in the process. Well done, Ric!

An excellent lunch was then had in The Pheasant after which we made our departures, feeling smug at having turned out in the cold in the first place. Strange how 30 miles felt so different to last week’s 30 miles.

Here is the route taken:

Thanks, once again, to Maurice and Andrew for their organisation of team Windmill, and to Brian for the pics.

Martin

The gods were with birthday boy John T today as he was in the 60% group of  Windmillers who avoided getting a puncture on this glorious early Spring day. The other 40% all succumbed, starting with The Revd Moley Martin, who had clearly not said his prayers that morning, followed at steady intervals by Chris, Sandra and, finally, Yorkshire Brian.

Little did we know, as 10 Windmillers set forth from The Black Bull in Balsham, having firstly placed their orders for lunch, what puncture carnage was to come. The others, whose gods were also shining on them, were Maurice, Andrew, Vernon, Ken and Brummie Brian. Here is the route taken:

La route du puncture which Maurice had devised, taking in several lanes for the first time, took us firstly to Bartlow and then through to Castle Camps, passing a fine herd of deer on the way, and Steeple Bumpstead where coffee was due to be taken around 11.00am in The Fox and Hounds. That was the theory but thanks to Martin having the first puncture, and not breaking any records in repairing it, followed shortly afterwards by Chris, most arrived at The Fox and Hounds somewhat later than planned but received a very warm welcome from the temporary staff who had opened early specially for us.

The coffee was good and so were the cakes / biscuits provided f.o.c and then refills of coffee and chocolate even arrived too. But that’s when a cafetiere decided to explode when Martin plunged it too fast / hard or for some other unexplained technical reason but which turned out to be much messier than an exploding tyre, with hot coffee and grains being distributed liberally over Martin and the surrounding table, leaving little in the cafetiere. Luckily Martin was still wearing his coffee-proof hi viz jacket which promptly changed colour to match the cafetiere.

After coffee it was Sandra’s turn to demonstrate her puncture repairing skills, which were indeed impressive. Once again a mini piece of sharp flint had punctured her rear tyre, this time a  Schwalbe Marathon which dispelled the notion that they were puncture-proof.

Off we set again to catch up with the others who were waiting patiently at Baythorne End, after which there were some steady climbs into a strong headwind but the weather was otherwise still perfect.

Then it was Yorkshire Brian’s turn to get a puncture after he had descended into a deep pothole, scoring his first puncture since buying his new bike. But that was repaired quickly and so we were soon heading homewards to The Black Bull via West Wratting after an eventful ride. The verdict on the punctures is that they were caused primarily by recent rains washing small flints on to the road surface. The invincibility of Schwalbe Marathons was shaken  (Andrew is thought to have shares in the company) along with Martin’s Schwalbe Supremes which were nearly new, Chris’s Continental Four Seasons (?) and the unknown make of tyres that came with Brian’s bike. Can anything withstand Suffolk flints? Perhaps not.

Lunch was taken at The Black Bull where we celebrated John T’s birthday and thanked him for his generous round of drinks. Strange how turnouts are always greater when knowledge gets around beforehand that it is going to be someone’s birthday…………..

Thanks to Maurice for planning a very scenic circuit and to Andrew for marshalling us. Next time we might employ a road sweeper beforehand!

Martin

Setting off from The Tally Ho at 2.30pm on a not particularly cold afternoon soon showed how careful Windmillers have to be when traversing winter lanes. There were just the four of us – Maurice, Andrew, Sandra and Martin – on a hilly circuit of 20 miles which took in Great Chishill, Elmdon, Duddenhoe End, Roast Green and Anstey.

The first stop was Elmdon to discuss what the food and beer might be like in the Elmdon Dial once it has re-opened, rumours being that it had been bought by a landlord with an existing pub near Norwich. A lot of property for a mere £350k, or thereabouts, thanks to a restriction on use. We look forward to its re-opening hopefully later in the year.

Another stop was made outside Simon and Ollie’s house to see if they might be in but there was no one around, the intention being partly to persuade Simon to oil his bike and join us on a ride. So on we went, generally enjoying ourselves, until we turned down a shaded lane towards Anstey from Roast Green where the morning frost had left a mix of ice, black ice and running water which required some careful navigation to avoid doing what John T had done once before on the same stretch and had a fall.

There were signs of Spring everywhere, not just in the above photo of Andrew and Sandra – snowdrops in abundance and even a few daffodils in Anstey. It won’t be long before hedgerows are in leaf and the days are already getting longer – all good things to look forward to as we start to exit a cold winter.

And so it was back to the usual roaring fire and a warm welcome at The Tally Ho, after a very pleasant ride despite the short stretch of ice.

Here is the route taken:

Thanks go to Maurice and Andrew as usual for making life so easy for the rest of us.

Martin

February brings a return to the cold weather and a heavy snow shower just before setting off to The Tally Ho wasn’t going to put us off, short-lived and quick to pass through, shouldn’t cause us any issues. Meeting up with Andrew in the car park, watching daytime Tv in his Range Rover (Well that’s what he said it was!!).

It looked like it was just going to be just the two of us until Maurice pulled in with a few grumbles about us never saying no to going out for a ride, needless to say though he had prepared a ride of exactly 20 miles!! We’ll see!!! With Strava turned on and an element of torment with us. We set off to Anstey, Meesden and Lower Langley Green. Along the way discussing the front and rear cameras now attached to my bike. Having had a few close encounters with less than cycle friendly motorists, I felt it wise to invest in the ability to capture evidence should the need arise (Let’s hope not!!). Onwards and upwards to Upper Langley Green and while waiting for the guys to catch up, a few circles of the junction to keep the legs warm (and add a few extra metres), then on to Duddenhoe End, Arkesden and Clavering before heading to Stickling Green where a close encounter with a tractor coming in the opposite direction at speed to a blind corner, could have been the first incident captured, thankfully he was loud enough to hear for us to get out of his way. On to Roast Green and up to Meesden Bury, along the way Andrew sidled up alongside and asked if the cameras record sound too, ‘Oh yes’ I replied, “Oh, better be careful what I say from now on then!” he said and I noticed from then on they were both giving me a lot more distance than before. At Meesden Bury a few more circuits of the grass triangle were required, “this will really cock-up the mileage”. With this in mind Maurice decided to chastise us ‘youngsters’ and sent us off to Anstey via Brent Pelham to burn off a bit of energy, while he headed back via Meesden. A parting suggestion of seeing who would get back to the pub first and the challenge was on. Andrew took off, as he passed me saying ‘no chance’. ‘There’s always a chance!’ I said as I took to the front, only to be hindered by a car blocking me from turning in Brent Pelham and a school bus along the narrow stretch to Anstey. As I rounded the corner to the golf club, there was a glimpse of a yellow jacket in the distance, there could be a chance and even with my legs saying no, one last sprint should do it. Well it wasn’t to be but it was close and I even surprised Maurice as he eased off to coast in to the pub, one last look around and there I was, just a few metres behind. Maurice having done exactly 20 miles and Andrew and myself doing 22 miles. Back at the Tally Ho for a warm welcome, warming fire and great beer too.

Thanks Maurice for the ride/race and to Andrew for organising us.

Sandra

A very cold Thursday morning saw eight Windmillers – Maurice, Andrew, Sandra, Chris, two Johns and both Brians – setting off from the Fox & Duck, Therfield, for a 32 mile excursion around Sandon, Cromer, Puckeridge and Buntingford.

It being such a cold morning, we were looking forward to hill climbs as a means of warming up. Even so, it took us the best part of an hour to regain the feeling in our fingers.

There was ice to contend with in the shadier lanes. But it was reassuring to know that should the worst happen, Sandra – her bike now equipped with front- and back-facing cameras – would be there to capture our final moments on video. Thankfully, nobody came a cropper.

Once warmed up, we started to enjoy the Hertfordshire countryside and its wildlife; we saw deer, fieldfares, woodpeckers and red kites, not to mention a couple of alpacas and the odd abandoned boat.

After 18 miles we were grateful to park up, dismount and tumble into the Something Lovely Tearoom. It was at this point that John B’s strong aversion to caffeine meant he vanished into thin air and we didn’t see him again until we got back to Therfield. The rest of us enjoyed a warm welcome from the ladies who bake and tucked into their ever excellent coffee and cake.

Thawed out and refreshed, we mounted up and set off on the return leg. With the wind behind us and the roads now mostly ice-free we soon covered the last 14 miles back to the Fox & Duck, where we were delighted to find Ken and Vernon joining us for lunch. The beer was good and the steak and stilton sandwiches excellent.

All in all, another great outing. Thanks, Maurice and Andrew, for organising everything.

Brian

It was a cold, black ice morning in the Trumpington Park and Ride car park as seven Windmillers  – Maurice, Andrew, Sandra, John T, Ken, Lawrence and Martin – set off promptly at 8.45am to catch the 9.35am train from Cambridge to Downham Market. At the station we met up with Chris and Brian and after a warming coffee we boarded the train, spreading ourselves around the carriages to avoid the attention of station staff, particularly the dreaded fat controller at Ely station.

En route to Downham Market

The sun shone brightly as we sped smoothly through the fens and we were soon disembarking at Downham Market to start the 40+ mile journey southwards downwind with lunch awaiting us at The Queen’s Head in Newton. What a lovely thought! But best laid plans, and all that, soon took hold!

The problem with the fens is that there’s a lot of water and we soon found out how easy it is to get on the wrong side of it by heading towards Wisbech in a headwind on a main road, intending to take a left towards Denver but finding there was no way across. So back we went and after navigating the busy Downham Market bypass we were soon heading down the right lane towards Denver Sluice, except that a Road Closed ahead sign came into view. However, adopting their new guise of fen tigers for the day, the Windmillers dismissed the sign, as is usual with such signs, and carried on regardless and were soon whizzing over the largest drainage system in the Fens, operating in one form or another for over 400 years thanks to some clever Dutch engineers. It looks a bit insignificant but without it we would probably be under water for some of the year in Cambridge and Ely would still be an island.

The weather was distinctly chilly and the wind remained in our face for some reason but the sun was brilliant and we were soon pedalling steadily down Ten Mile Bank towards Litleport, taking in the huge skies as we went and watching out for wildlife.  It was a magnificent sight.

Thoughts of rare beef and smoked salmon in The Queen’s Head soon disappeared as we neared Ely at 12.30pm, hungry and thirsty. But Brian then had a brilliant recall from his distant past of a wonderful café / tearoom on the river at Ely which transformed the tigers into peacocks as we paraded into the establishment of the same name, which even had an empty table for 9 awaiting us. And what a great lunch it was, with Elgood’s beer from Wisbech to wash it all down – definitely one for a repeat visit the next time.

With 27 miles under our belt, there was still a long way to go and so Maurice wisely took us through the lanes to Witchford and Cottenham instead of crossing the fens via Cycle Route 11 to Wicken which adds a few miles, but which is very nice on a good day. The wind was more kind to us on this final stretch but legs began to tire, or was it punishment because of the quiche for lunch which real men are not meant to eat?  Here are the tired tigers in Cottenham, the home of Martin’s exploding tyre last year (courtesy of Brian).

A downwind stretch to Landbeach was sheer luxury and then it was through Milton and onto the towpath back to Cambridge past Baits Bite Lock. All was going swimmingly until Martin decided to copy Vernon’s involuntary dismounting of last year and nearly ended up swimming when he hit the same raised path edge which threw him off his bike towards the river bank, but escaped unscathed except for a few scratches and bruises, his pride taking the main dent.

Thoughts of beer in Cambridge came and went unusually quickly as it was approaching 4.00pm by this time and most Windmillers felt like falling asleep in their own armchairs rather than risk collapsing in a pub.

And so it was after quite an eventful day of 51 miles that we said farewell to Chris and Brian on the busway path to Trumpington as they peeled off towards Shelford whilst the remaining tigers, and tigress, carried on back to their cars.

Here is the sperm-like route taken, thanks to Andrew’s Strava, indicating slightly fewer miles than those recorded by others.

Thanks to Maurice for planning a great ride, Andrew for all the organisation and Brian for some of the pics.  Crossing the fens is never to be taken lightly!

Martin

It was meant to be, the now regular Monday lunchtime heavy shower passed over just before three Windmillers (Andrew, Nigel and Sandra) assembled outside the Tally Ho, Barkway and the skies cleared for what would be a very pleasant afternoon ride, with a little wind.

Without any real planned route in mind, we would make it up as we went along but one thing was for sure, Andrew was determined to check out if the Daffodils he saw on a previous ride (15.01.18) were real and not artificial, still not believing that they would be in flower so early and especially after the cold spell we’ve had. So we set off to Nuthampstead and then across to Anstey, Brent Pelham and Stocking Pelham, discussions along the way of various rather potent Cocktails/drinks that Nigel and Andrew had sampled, which, to be honest sounded more like something you’d use to strip paint or cut through hardened steel with!!! Needless to say they only tried them once I understand!!!

Along the route were many signs that spring is on its way, Snowdrops in full bloom and Crocus showing their presence, closed for the evening but waiting for the morning sun so they could reopen to warm the petals. On through Berden and then into the wind to Clavering, suggestion from Nigel of calling into the Cricketers for a quick half, fell by the wayside sadly (signs of the Moonriders pub crawls) and we carried on, through Roast Green to Meesden and back towards Anstey, where we were to find the blooming Daffodils, past their best but still splendid. Those cocktails haven’t done any lasting damage after all Andrew!!!!

Early blooming Daffodil, first seen by Andrew 15.01.18

From Anstey we headed back to Barkway via the Golf course road. A warm fire and welcome awaiting us at the Tally Ho, once we persuaded Saleesha to let us in. Could have had that half after all!!

20 miles figure of eight

Thanks Andrew for organising us and another great ride.

Sandra

It wasn’t only Burns Night, it was also Brian’s birthday. And how better to celebrate than with a morning’s cycling, followed by a pint and a stonking great steak and kidney pie? It was Thursday lunchtime and the Windmillers were back in the Pig and Abbott, tucking in with gusto to Landlady Pat’s homemade pies.

We’d had a excellent ride under blue skies taking in Bassingbourn, Haslingfield and Bourn – where we stopped for a coffee at the golf club – continuing on through the Hatleys, Wendy and Shingay before returning for lunch to Abington Pigotts.

Maurice, Andrew, Ken, Lawrence, Chris, Sandra, Ric and Brian had clocked up 32 miles – though Ric and Sandra did umpteen more cycling to and from home – and Vernon also cycled over to join us for lunch.

What with pie for lunch and haggis for dinner, thank god for lycra; it’s so very accommodating.

Brian

After a snowy and wet Sunday, it was nice to see the sun, which had been out for quite a bit of the morning and was looking set for the afternoon. 4 intrepid cyclists, Maurice, Andrew, Nigel and Sandra assembled outside the Tally Ho, Barkway. Nigel braving to venture out in shorts, while the rest of us kept covered up, with all the standing water on the roads, it’s a difficult choice, cold wet legs or wet lycra, not quite warm enough for me yet!! By the time we set off the sun had gone and it was overcast for the whole ride.

We headed through Barkway to Reed, then on to Therfield and Kelshall, with views over the fields and a herd of Fallow Deer that must have been reaching 100+. On to Sandon and its various Ends (Green, Mill and Lye End) before passing over the A10 to reach Buntingford, where we headed up to Wyddial.

On to Anstey and Nuthampstead before heading back into the wind to Barkway and a warm welcome at the Tally Ho.

Over some quality beers Nigel was telling of his charitable exploits with a group of friends (some from the Moonriders group of cyclists), involving an old banger or 3 wheeler etc., and an excursion over several days and many miles, oh and the possibility of having to wear a costume, 2017 Bristol to Brest in very fetching pink wigs, some choosing to dye the beards pink also and one, different person each day wearing a very substantial brasier, all in aid of Breast Cancer Now and raising a substantial amount of money too. Good sports, all of you. Check out ‘Tour de Lard’ on Facebook.

Thanks Maurice for a great ride and to Andrew for organising us too.

Sandra.

After a fierce storm during the night we  were left wondering come 8.00am whether there would be a ride or not on this cold January day. But thanks to careful planning and organisation by Maurice and Deputy Dawg Andrew, the signal was given to assemble at the Fleur de Lys in Widdington at 10.00am instead of 9.30 by which time it was expected the storm would have abated and indeed it had. Furthermore, Maurice had planned a cunning circuit which would keep us sheltered from headwinds on the way out but taking full advantage of the wind on our backs for the return leg.

And so it was that six hardy Windmillers – Maurice, Andrew, John B, Sandra, Brian and Martin – set off on a ride of just 23 miles to ensure we were back in time for the all important lunch. The route took us via Elsenham, Ugley Green (avoiding one of John B’s favourite off road muddy stretches), Hazel End, Farnham, Stocking Pelham, Rickling Green and then back up the busy main road (due to the northbound M11 being blocked) before turning back to Widdington.

Here is the route taken:

Although there was enough wind to make Martin, who was distinctly unfit after Christmas and New Year excesses,  feel that the 23 miles was more like 33 miles, the day turned out to be sunny and glorious, albeit a bit on the chilly side at 5C. But as we all had ample layers of clothing, no mutterings about the cold were to be heard. John B was the most stoic, still suffering from a bruised / cracked rib following a fall before his recent ski trip to Les Gets.

There had been talk of a coffee stop at The Cricketers in Rickling Green but as we were almost back by then we left John B there and pedalled on, Martin achieving his first puncture of the year just yards before the Fleur de Lys, where we were joined by Chris and Ken for lunch at our usual round table. Sandra had us roaring with laughter with her tale of woe about helping a lady to change a wheel on her car, or not helping as it turned out and losing both a wheel nut and a heavy drain hole cover down the drain in the process……

Over lunch, Maurice produced a copy of his magnificent Windmill Club Ode, modelled on Rudyard Kipling’s famous and moving poem, ‘If’. This sums up so well the spirit of our club:

And here are two letters received from charities we supported following our record breaking fund raising of £1,500 in 2017:

Thanks, Maurice, for planning such a good route, Andrew for assembling us and Brian for the pics.

Martin

Arrangements had been made to meet at the Tally Ho, Barkway at 14.00. Would this be a good decision or not to go ahead, with on/off rain all morning and by midday the skies  couldn’t get much darker or the rain any stronger. Just as this heavy shower passed over Royston and headed to Wendons Ambo, the call came from Andrew, sheepishly looking to call it off, at the same time the clouds were clearing and the sun started to show itself, I couldn’t believe it myself but assured Andrew, so we postponed to 14.30. It was going to be just the two of us, so we’ll see what it’s like then. Sure enough the sun was shining as we met in the car park.

Suggestions on arrival that we should have brought boats instead of bikes, Andrew having driven through more flooding than me on the way to Barkway and clearly got his Health and Safety hat on, still unsure if this was a wise decision to go out. “We’ll be fine, the suns out, if a bit windy” I assured him. So we set off.

Not even 2.4 miles into the ride and we are pulling over outside ‘Morrice’ Green Cottage (there must be a connection there, even if spelt differently!) to sort out a puncture in Andrews front tyre (recently repaired following encountering hedge cutting debris), not that I was timing but the five-minute record still stands. Onwards to Shaftenhoe End, then up to Little Chishill, the drainage ditches flowing greater than seen before, on to Langley Lower Green, turning right to Meesden Bury and having to cross over the bridge instead of the fast flowing ford. The sun shone brightly and we headed to Roast Green, Starlings Green where several Red Kites were circling and playing just above the treetops above our heads, the fields looking vibrant, spring clearly on the way. On to Brent Pelham, Meesden, Anstey to Barkway encountering some fully flooded roads, good opportunity to relive the Hovis ad with legs adrift, sailing through the water.

Meeting up with Maurice back at the Tally Ho and Saleesha providing a warm welcome, good beer and nibbles even if some were a bit fiery (spicy wings).

Thanks Andrew for relenting and coming out. Glad we made the effort.

Sandra

Fleur de Lys, Widdington would be the starting point for this ride, with five riders attending, Maurice, Andrew, Low Carbon Rick, Nightrider Nigel and Sandra. Great to have Maurice back in the saddle, albeit dosed up on pain killers and Nigel back after his recent ladder incident, with glowing reports for the NHS, I think it’s fair to say he was checked over thoroughly.

With a forecast of fog, we prepared with high-vis and lights to make sure we would be seen, shame some drivers don’t think the same way though, as we encountered one white van along the route with no lights, barely visible heading towards us on a narrow road, he clearly took umbrage at meeting us that he turned around to make a second attempt to take some of us out, glad to say he didn’t succeed!!

The route below anticlockwise, from Widdington we headed to Henham, off roading was mentioned along the way, which we declined, then on to Thaxted and coffee in Parishes Cafe, where most of us declined cake with the coffee, (could this be a new year resolution or our we worried about the impending weigh in when Martin gets back), apart from Rick who chose the iced fruit cake (he deserves it with the extra miles travelled), sadly not on a par with the usual sizeable portion (bitesize let’s say)!! Suitably refreshed with caffeine we set off to Great Sampford and Radwinter, at this point we split into two groups, Andrew, Nigel and Rick opting for the scenic route via Whimbish Green and Maurice and I set off on the main road, as we parted Andrew was heard to say “Let’s see who gets there first” and the race started. Even though the 3 did almost an extra mile, we would be at the Tye Green junction at the same time (apparently they really upped the pace, I’ve heard since) but we had more climbing to do!!

So much for a foggy day, it was more like light drizzle which turned into substantial rain towards the end, needless to say discussions on how are waterproofs had faired ensued as we closed in on the Fleur de Lys. Starting to wonder if triathlon gear (wet/drysuits) would be an idea for future rides, especially as discussions over lunch turned to boats, the boat show and water skiing, there could be something in this!!

Warm welcome, lovely food and beer greeted us back at the Fleur de Lys.

Thanks for a great ride Maurice and to Andrew for organising us.

Sandra