The first official Monday outing for 2018 would be lonely affair (Yes I did head out on the 1st Jan for 19.5 miles, while everyone else was recovering from partying the night before!!). Determined to keep the Windmillers wheels turning, I was to set off on my own. With many away skiing, numbers were down and it looked like being just Andrew and myself. A dreary day set in, when I got the call from Dawg, that he was going to give it a miss, preferring to stay home with the dogs, well it was Hectors birthday. OK, I’ll see how the drizzle pans out and decide later whether to go or not, also remembering there was potential of some newbies turning up too (clearly fair weather riders, as they didn’t show!).

14.00 and The Tally Ho car park was heaving, good sign for the New Year. It was dry when I set off anticlockwise on the route below, taking in Anstey, Brent Pelham, Stickling Green, Arkesden, Duddenhoe End and enjoying the newly refurbished roads to Langley Upper and Lower Greens back to Meesden, Nuthampstead and Barkway. Needless to say I didn’t stay dry for very long but not as wet as some recent rides!! No off-road sections, although some of the roads were akin to the average dirt track

22 miles and so looking forward to a pint and warm by the fire in the Tally Ho but it was not to be!! New Year new opening times. Never mind, I was glad I made the effort.

Sandra

A rain soaked morning saw Windmillers gathering in the Black Bull at Balsham for the first Thursday outing of the year. It looked so bleak outside, we decided to prolong our stay on the pub’s comfy sofas and drink coffee until the rain stopped.

We were a gang of six – Andrew, Lawrence, Sandra, Chris and the two Brians. Maurice, laid up following a painful visit to the dentist, had thoughtfully provided a route.

We eventually got going at 10:15, heading out northwards towards Newmarket and then on to Exning and Burwell before turning south for the return leg via Reach, the Swaffhams and the Wilbrahams.

It was at this point, behind schedule and with a strengthening headwind, that we opted for the shortest route back and foolishly followed Brummie Brian on an off road shortcut. This turned out to be a mule track of the sort favoured by John Bagrie and, no doubt, would have been delightful on a summer’s day. Alas in January it was heavy going.

It was a relief to be back on the road where Chris used the contents of his drink bottle to clear the mud jamming his brakes.

Reaching Balsham at last, we were delighted to be joined by Maurice for lunch. We munched sandwiches and sipped beer while swapping tales of Christmas past. The prize for most eventful festive season was shared by Chris – who had experienced drama on the M11 – and Sandra; if she ever offers to change your wheel, just say no.

Thanks, Andrew for getting us organised. And thanks, Maurice, for the route, even if we didn’t follow it very well.

It was a sunny winter’s day but – with ice and snow on the lanes – we decided it would be wise to cancel Thursday’s ride in favour of a walk over the hill at the back of Maurice’s place.

So it was that Ken, Anne, Sandra, Lawrence, Brian, Andrew and Maurice himself were to be found traipsing across the snowy landscape, oblivious to the cold, thanks to the warming mulled wine at Maurice’s table.

We came across a small herd of roe deer. They didn’t seem particularly spooked by our presence and, keeping the dogs in check, we were able to follow them for a while across the field. Returning to the house, we looked into Maurice’s various workshops and gave him some helpful tips on classic car restoration.

Making our way to The Pheasant, we found John Bagrie giving baleful looks to a very noisy – and semi inebriated – bunch dressed in 1940s army uniforms, accompanied by some bearded johnnies in ball gowns. Good Lord!

Ignoring the hubbub at the bar, we enjoyed an excellent lunch by the fire before heading home in suitably festive spirit.

Thanks for the hospitality, Maurice, and Happy New Year to all!

Brian

It was a day full of Christmas cheer but somewhat foggy (or was that just the brains not being in gear?) when six hardy Windmillers met at the Fleur de Lys in Widdington at 9.30am to work up an appetite for the days to follow. There was Deputy Dawg Andrew, Storm Sandra, Brummie Brian, Two Scones Keith, Lost Lawrence and the Revd Holy Moley Martin in attendance but only Brian decorated himself in festive attire, including a proud cock robin on his helmet, for the second year running, which seemed to again enjoy the ride:

There had been talk of a trip to the Blue Egg café near Great Bardfield but Andrew’s magical mystery tour took us instead westwards to Rickling, down to Manuden and then on to Maggotts End only to find that Martin’s very own pothole no. UTT357920084675B had been repaired, along with most other Essex potholes, which is very impressive (where did they find the money and is it true that Essex has more miles of road than any other county in England?).

Here is the route taken:

The murky pasts of the pagans present blended well into the general murkiness of the damp, muddy but mild Winter Solstice day when we should perhaps have gathered at the Fleur de Lys to dance at sunrise, Stonehenge style, instead of 9.30am, except there was no sunrise.  Even the pylons were difficult to spot, not to mention Range Rovers looming out of the fog with no lights on.

Shortly before stopping at the café at Clavering Lakes Lawrence serenaded us to a Flanders and Swann Christmas concert with a loud rendering of The Gas Man Cometh. Here are the words if you wish to join in :

The Gas Man Cometh – Flanders and Swann

‘Twas on a Monday morning the gas man came to call.

The gas tap wouldn’t turn – I wasn’t getting gas at all.

He tore out all the skirting boards to try and find the main

And I had to call a carpenter to put them back again.

Oh, it all makes work for the working man to do.

‘Twas on a Tuesday morning the carpenter came round.

He hammered and he chiselled and he said:

“Look what I’ve found: your joists are full of dry rot

But I’ll put them all to rights”.

Then he nailed right through a cable and out went all the lights!

Oh, it all makes work for the working man to do.

‘Twas on a Wednesday morning the electrician came.

He called me Mr. Sanderson, which isn’t quite the name.

He couldn’t reach the fuse box without standing on the bin

And his foot went through a window so I called the glazier in.

Oh, it all makes work for the working man to do.

‘Twas on a Thursday morning the glazier came round

With his blow torch and his putty and his merry glazier’s song.

He put another pane in – it took no time at all

But I had to get a painter in to come and paint the wall.

Oh, it all makes work for the working man to do.

‘Twas on a Friday morning the painter made a start.

With undercoats and overcoats he painted every part:

Every nook and every cranny – but I found when he was gone

He’d painted over the gas tap and I couldn’t turn it on!

Oh, it all makes work for the working man to do.

On Saturday and Sunday they do no work at all;

So ’twas on a Monday morning that the gasman came to call…

Thanks, Lawrence, for getting us all into the Christmas spirit on a dismal day.

Keith had clearly not readjusted to the English weather following his recent trip to Australia where he hired bikes in 30+C and cruised around Brisbane and Adelaide stopping every now and then for a scone or two and a tinny or two of Fosters. How different it was today, as we delighted in letting him know when we reached Clavering Lakes, where he was lucky to be allowed in considering the amount of mud on his jacket:

Unfortunately, cleaning of the deck had been completed otherwise Keith might have been able to take advantage of the hosepipe:

And so, suitable refreshed but still smothered in mud Keith and his fellow Windmillers cycled back through the lanes to a warm welcome at the Fleur de Lys where we were pleased to be joined by Rick who had sensibly decided to ride on cleaner roads from Harston to Widdington and back. As always, the food was wonderful and set us all up for the extravaganza to come.

Thanks, Deputy Dawg, for organising the ride and for all your hard work on our behalf throughout the year, for which we are very grateful.

Merry Christmas one and all and a very happy New Year.

Martin

A glorious sunny afternoon awaited the three amigos, Andrew, Keith and Sandra as they assembled for what would be a leisurely repeat of a ride taken a couple of weeks before but less windy and thankfully not blighted by fly tipping that we’ve encountered on recent occasions.

With all of us turning out Orange jackets we wouldn’t have looked out of place in the departure lounge of a certain Bedfordshire airport. Could this be the Windmill clubs new kit?!!! (I think the jury is out on that one!!!)

We set off in formation North before veering towards Shaftenhoe End with Dawg leading the flight. Elf and Safety officer ‘Dawg’ at the forefront, leading the way with his new found drifting skills being put to the test, the first shady bit of road throwing up a sizeable patch of ice, time to ease off and take it carefully. Heading downhill and then up to Little Chishill with Dawg developing his stabiliser deploying techniques, similar to those of a good quality speedway rider, the advantage for those behind hearing the scuffing of soles on tarmac and having chance to adjust speed accordingly.

On to Lower Langley before turning to head towards Meesden Bury, crossing the fast flowing ford, all of us surprised to see so much water flowing over, must be a result of the recent snowfall melting, then cutting across to Roast Green, discussions of previous icy rides on the same roads with involuntary dismounts ensued.

It became clear as we took it easy on the way up to Roast Green that I had an issue, fuel to air mix had gone astray, air intake compromised/filter blocked but I would pluck my way up, the guys patiently waiting for me, this would be one of those kill/cure rides, the fresh air would do me good!!!

On to Starlings Green, Brent Pelham and the back road to Anstey, where there was plenty of opportunity for Dawg’s stabilisers to be deployed, then back to Barkway taking in the glorious sunset of which we could compete on brightness. Keith keen to give two magpies  dining on fresh road kill a wide berth following a recent experience in Australia, if we see him sporting a helmet with spikes sticking out of the top, we’ll know why!!!

Sun setting over Wyddial

Orange Easy riders

17.6 miles anticlockwise

Back at the Tally Ho we were joined by Maurice, who took great delight in saying he didn’t think it was safe to go out but we all survived unscathed and I think it did us the power of good.

Thanks Andrew for organising a great ride.

Merry Christmas and looking forward to riding with you all in 2018.

Sandra

A large gathering of 23 Windmill Club members and spouses met at The Pheasant on 14th December for a sumptuous Christmas lunch, prepared by chef Steve. Andrew ‘Deputy Dawg’ was our Master of Ceremonies and his wife Lindsey collected the cash. Here are some pics of the happy occasion:

After lunch our MC thanked the staff of the Pheasant for an excellent lunch and all those present for attending. Keith had only just arrived back from Barmy Army duties down under but did not appear to be particularly jet lagged. Andrew went on to say what a good year it had been for the Club and then introduced our leader Maurice.

Maurice said how wonderful it was that the club had raised over £1,500 for charity in 2017 and thanked all members present, and those unable to make the lunch, for their contributions to this amount. £250 had been given to the Cystic Fibrosis charity, £250 to the Eve Appeal – the UK’s Gynaecological Cancer Research Charity, £750 to Macmillan Nurses and £250 to the Great Chishill Windmill Preservation Society.

Andrew then introduced Martin who gave a summary of the year from the Club’s blog which he, Brian and Sandra had contributed to throughout the year. The key highlights were:

• No. of rides since 5th January: 73 – grand total for 2017 likely to be 76 once pre- and post-Christmas rides have taken place
• Total distance: 2,135 miles
• Av. distance / ride: 29 miles
• Longest rides: 2 days in Norfolk, total 87 miles, + Ely 53 miles
• Shortest rides: several of 17 miles from the Tally Ho! in Barkway
• No. of pubs visited: 23
• Most frequented pubs: The Pheasant (24), the Tally Ho! (10), the Fleur de Lys (11).
• Largest no. of riders: 12 (Anniversary ride, 20th April)
• Smallest no. of riders: 2
• Deaths: 2 – Kell Ryan and Charlie, Andrew’s labrador
• Illnesses and ailments: lots but mostly recovered. Best wishes for a speedy return were given to Rod, who was present, and to new member Nigel who had recently had an accident on a ladder.
• Bike accidents – none, other than 3 minor falling offs

Martin also awarded various prizes:

• Falling off prize (in the sense of both falling off a bike and having a bike fall off a car): Vernon
• Puncture prize: Martin – 3 on the same day including an inner tube supplied by Brian that exploded
• Dodgy bike prize: Andrew, for having gear problems and a cheap Chinese pedal that snapped in half . But few running repairs on the whole.
• Getting lost prize: Lawrence – 3 times.
• Going AWOL prize: Maurice – twice, but on reflection John B might have been a nominee too
• Smallest carbon footprint prize: Rick and Tom jointly, for often cycling to the start point
• Flashiest new bike prize: jointly to Lawrence – lime green machine with knobbly tyres to defeat potholes- and Chris for his mean red speed machine
• Getting out of a skid without falling off or being squashed by oncoming motorist prize: Andrew
• Off road prize: John Bagrie
• The most number of bikes and riders that can fit into or on a 2004 VW Golf prize: Brian
• Photographer of the year prize: Brian (sometimes lying on the ground to get a good shot)

A weather report was also given – mostly sunny except for a couple of cold days and one extremely wet day – and thanks were given to all those who had owned up to having a birthday and who had therefore bought a round of drinks, which excluded Martin whose excuse was his January birthday. The fauna and flora around our delightful lanes was also mentioned.

Martin also thanked Andrew for being ‘secretary’ and always getting us to the starting line on time. He was presented with a special Chilean Sauvignon Blanc for cyclists.

Andrew then rose to his feet again and presented Maurice with a large hamper of drinks and food to thank him for all his work in starting the club in 2011 which has raised over £5,000 for charity to date and given so much pleasure to members. His route planning is legendary, somehow always managing to arrive at a pub for lunch between 1.00 – 1.30pm. Maurice was quite overcome and thanked all those who had contributed.

Finally, Andrew presented a golden pedal award (actually a standard pedal sprayed with gold paint) to Sandra who had hardly missed a ride all year, had organised rides, blogged rides and ridden the most miles, including several sportives. Martin was also presented with the Clubman of the Year award for helping out Vernon by riding a tandem with a blind man on the back 80 miles from London to Cambridge, to raise money for Camsight.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to one and all.

It was one of those mornings when you hope Andrew will phone to say, “Let’s call the whole thing off”. Alas, the call never came, which meant Sandra, John, Martin and Brian felt obliged to turn up and join the foolhardy Scot in the Fleur De Lys car park. The forecast was heavy rain.

Andrew himself was somewhat under the weather, croaky voiced, but convinced the Essex air would be a tonic. You’ll catch pneumonia, we thought.

We headed out through the steady drizzle to Henham and thence on to Thaxted and Great Bardfield, where we pulled up at Cole’s tea room on the High Street. The place had only been open a few weeks and they made us very welcome, turning a blind eye to our mud spattered attire. The coffee was very good.

Revived, we set off on the return leg. By the time we reached Lindsell the drizzle had turned to steady rain and before long it was coming down like stair rods. We still had 10 miles to go; visibility was poor, some roads were under water, and our waterproofs were proving to be anything but water proof.

“I know a pub here”, said Martin as we approached Great Easton in a downpour. Sure enough, there was The Swan straight ahead. Dismounting, Martin tried all the doors, maniacally. Let us in! Ten past twelve and it was shut. We exchanged glum looks and soldiered on.

Arriving eventually at The Fleur, we abandoned the bikes, peeled off our useless waterproofs and gathered around the fire, shivering and gently steaming.

Chris and Ken, having sensibly decided to give today’s outing a miss, were enjoying a beer at our usual fireside table. We were all tucking into a hearty lunch when, mid mouthful, Martin suddenly became agitated, experiencing a burning sensation in his withers. The spare batteries he was carrying in his pockets, now damp, were short circuiting and he found himself wearing electrically heated trousers!

The All Weather Windmillers had clocked up 31 miles and, heading home for a hot bath, we had to agree we had rather enjoyed the challenge. 

Thanks, Andrew, for organising things; John too, whose local knowledge kept us clear of the busier roads.

Brian

Setting off at 2.30pm from the Tally Ho! in Barkway meant there was not a lot of daylight left, but that didn’t worry new member Nigel, already dubbed Nightrider by Sandra, who frequently rides out in the dead of night with some chums. So it was great to have Nigel join us again, and not only because he can spot potholes in the dark. Accompanied by Deputy Dawg Andrew, Storm Sandra and Moley Martin, the four Windmillers tackled a shortish circuit of 17 miles via Little Chishill. Langley Lower Green, Starlings Green, Brent Pelham and Anstey. Here is the route taken:

This ride showed our countryside at its best and worst. Sadly, once again, a huge pile of builders rubble had just been dumped on the side of the road between Shaftenhoe End and Little Chishill. We stopped and helped clear some dangerous bits off the road before setting off again up the steep hill, feeling sorry for the landowner and local residents. But then our faith was restored when Sandra spotted the largest herd of deer we have ever seen on a ride – at least 100 in two groups – including some fine stags. On the other hand, local landowners were probably not very happy about these either because of their voracious appetites – very hard to cull, says Sandra,  because of the number of public footpaths around. We also spotted a buzzard.

By 4.00pm it was almost dark but by then we were back at the Tally Ho! where Maurice joined us and, later, Husky Andrew called in too with tales of Macedonia. A warm welcome was given by landlady Saleesha and we settled down in front of the fire with drinks and snacks to put the world to rights.

Thanks, Andrew, for organising the ride.

Martin

PS. We have since heard that Nigel suffered a serious fall from a ladder a day or two later and ended up in hospital. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him again soon.

Yes, it was brass monkey weather as eight hardy Windmillers set off from the Pheasant in Great Chishill in -1 C and quite a strong wind, wrapped up like Eskimos to stop their extremities from falling off. Maurice led the way followed in cold pursuit by Andrew, just back from a big family wedding in the Emerald Isle, John B, John T, Sandra, Brian, Lawrence and, saying prayers that we didn’t skid on the ice, the Revd Holy Moley Martin. Downhill  we sped to Shaftenhoe End hoping that the first climb would create some warmth but, alas, fingers, toes and other extremities remained numb until way past Barkway and the icy lanes around Reed. Here is the route we intended to take (sorry, colour cartridge empty on printer):

Luckily, it was a bright, sunny day and the temperature gradually crept up to a degree or two above freezing. All went well until Steeple Morden when we realised that Lawrence had gone missing, again. A phone call and a specially saved text message for Lawrence stating ‘Do a U-turn’ failed to elicit a reply and so the remaining seven carried on in the general direction of Wimpole, hoping to bump into Lawrence en route. Then at a junction near Wendy some turned left to tackle Croydon Hill whilst Maurice and Martin took a right only to find that the shadow behind them was not Lawrence but John T.

Eventually, seven arrived in dribs and drabs via the back entrance to Wimpole in Arrington:

In the warmth of the Wimpole café Andrew dispensed a miniature of whisky to those on his table whilst Lawrence described how he had followed the wrong cyclist in Steeple Morden, thinking he was a Windmiller. The young chap concerned must have got worried being followed by a complete stranger, particularly when Lawrence followed him up his own driveway on a council estate near Litlington!

Outside the temperature had risen a bit more and layers were seen to be removed before setting off back for a shorter leg through Orwell, Meldreth and Melbourn with the wind behind most of the way.  Maurice had thoughtfully planned the final 3 mile uphill stretch to Great Chishill to be directly downwind – well done Maurice!

Back at the Pheasant, Lawrence very generously bought a round of drinks in celebration of his birthday – cheers Lawrence! – and Ken joined us too, after which we tucked into good fare and talked of the Christmas lunch which was coming up in just 2 week’s time.

Thanks, Maurice, for organising a great ride.

Martin

With the weather looking ominous, the call came in from Maurice – ‘Having spoken to Martin and the weather set for possible showers, What did I think, shall we go out or not?’  No pressure there then, the decision on my shoulders!! Having completed a Gran Fondo the day before, I probably needed to go to keep my legs in good condition but would be happy to stand down if no-one else wanted to go. The decision was made to meet at the Tally Ho 2.30pm and see if anyone turned out. Well the three musketeers formed, Maurice, Martin and Sandra. Would this be a good decision?!!

Well, I will say it was a bit windy and a tad cold but what do you expect for late November, why not throw in a bit of rain too!! Revisiting The Pheasant would be the route for this afternoon, so we headed North, passing Cockenhach estate before veering off to take in the many hills through Shaftenhoe End and up to Great Chishill, thankfully with the wind behind us going up, the dreaded 3 hills seemed a breeze at the start of the ride. Briefly stopping outside the Pheasant as the last few lunchtime diners were leaving with doggy bags in hand. On we pushed to Heydon, where Martin’s bike started to make strange noises, he pulled over to make a few adjustments just as the rain started, should only be minor repairs so we carried on and waited near the Elmdon turn, he caught us up but wasn’t happy with the repair but we carried on into Elmdon, where we pulled into a driveway to take a better look, the rain had stopped by now, thankfully. A mudguard stay had come adrift, so attention required, with both Maurice and Martin rummaging in their bags to find a nut that would suit the job (Maurice’s bag sounding more like a well stocked workshop drawer of nuts!!), I had a look and decided a cable tie would do and duly fixed the problem. Setting off again thankful that I hadn’t got carried away and put the cable tie through the spokes too (could have been interesting)!!

On to Duddenhoe End, Langley Lower Green, Meesden and Anstey before heading back to Barkway via the golf course, where the wind was particularly fierce!!

A warm welcome awaited us at the Tally Ho, pickled eggs and chips for some!!

17.5 miles clockwise.

Thanks to Maurice for a great ride. It was well worth turning out for.

Sandra

A cold but sunny November morning saw hardy Windmillers gathering in the car park of The Rising Sun at Halls Green, Hertfordshire; a new venue, suggested by Vernon.

Maurice had mapped out a new route, a 28 mile circuit around Stevenage. Joining him were Ken and Martin – looking spry despite yesterday’s heavy session of beer and curry at the Steele-Bodger game – Vernon, Sandra, Lawrence, John T, John B and Brian; nine Windmillers in all.

Setting off westwards we headed for the quaintly named villages of Great Wymondley, Poynders End and St Pauls Walden, huffing and puffing our way over the rolling terrain; these hills were bigger than the ones on our side of Hertfordshire. Sandra, however, was in her element, overtaking on the ascents and waiting patiently at the top for the rest of us to catch up.

Two Johns at Poynders End

Maurice, Vernon, Ken and Sandra at Poynders End

Arriving in Whitwell, we pulled in for some well earned refreshment at Emily’s Tea Shop, a delightful old barn of a place in the middle of a busy farmyard. Surveying the fine selection of cakes, most opted for the richly fruited scones with clotted cream and jam, while Sandra looked on enviously – being in training for the coming weekend’s 75 mile Sportive at Thetford. No cake for her.

Emily’s Tea Shop

The gang at Emily’s

Then it was back on the bikes for the return leg – via Codicote, Datchworth and Walkern – to The Rising Sun, arriving in good time for a pint and a hearty lunch.

As usual there was a mix up over Vernon’s lunch order; what is with him that seems to confuse kitchen staff, we wondered? And Lawrence, our resident chorister, was on larynx-friendly soft drinks in preparation for his forthcoming performance at Saffron Hall.

Thanks, Maurice, for organising and leading us around another lovely route.

Brian

The weather more befitting that of a classic Storm Sandra ride, what better way to welcome a newbie! Well to ‘Nightrider’ Nigel this would be a breeze, as it turns out he is a bit of an adrenaline junky, more used to going out on a Monday evening and cycling into the night and early hours of Tuesday morning. Isn’t it hard enough negotiating the rutted, pot holed roads and marauding wildlife in the daylight!!!! A warm welcome to Nigel and hope to see you on many a ride in future.

With Martin to be a late starter, he was contacted to be given advice as to where the main group would be heading and advised to reverse the route and meet us along the way at some point, probably Buntingford if all went to plan.

The main group consisting Maurice, Andrew, Sandra and ‘Nightrider’ Nigel set off North along Barkway High Street before turning to head towards Reed and into the wind, from there we headed to Therfield, by now rain was in the air and the views from Stump’s Cross wouldn’t be great, so we turned to go through Kelshall to get to Sandon. The roads being a bit muddy at this time of year, even with good mud guards we seemed to be getting splatted. On through the various Ends of Sandon (Green, Mill and Lye End, so many Ends but with no real end!!) to Buntingford where we should find Martin, this wasn’t to be, perhaps he is still working his way from Wyddial, so we carried on looking out for him on the way back to Barkway, the guys headed back to stoke the fire at the Tally Ho, taking the slightly shorter route via Barkway golf club, while I added a couple of miles on by going via Anstey and Nuthampstead back to Barkway. Still no sign of Martin, should we send out a search party? Well it was rather cosy by the fire and with a beer in hand, he’ll be fine! It wasn’t long before Martin did arrive, having turned South in Buntingford and headed to Aspenden before turning back to join us. All’s well that ends well.

Nightrider Nigel and Maurice

Andrew puckering up, feeling the love prior to his daughters impending wedding.

A ride of various distances, 15, 17 and 19 miles. (Anticlockwise)

Nigel very generously getting the beers in, thank you.

Thanks Maurice for a great ride and Andrew for getting us there on time.

Sandra

The car park of The Black Bull at Balsham was almost full to capacity by 9.15am as Windmillers converged in numbers to place their lunch time orders before exploring lanes to the north. But Rick won the green prize, once again, for cycling all the way from Harston (and back) whilst Brummy Brian got brownie points for transporting Yorkie Brian with his bike (whilst also holding the world record for how many bikes and riders can fit in or on a Volkswagen Golf).

Having admired Vernon’s smart new bike with 27 gears and wide tyres, specially designed for winter riding on muddy roads and tracks, the assembled gathering which also included our leader Maurice, deputy dawg Andrew, John B, John T, Sandra, Ken, Lawrence and Martin (collectively, the dirty dozen) set off towards West Wratting at a brisk pace on a clockwise circuit via Six Mile Bottom, Little Wilbraham, Bottisham, the Swaffhams, Reach, Burwell, Exning, Newmarket, Dullingham and back to Balsham. Here is the route taken:

The weather was fine and not too cold as we progressed through some pretty villages. Swaffham Prior is particularly famous for its two churches:

Not content with two churches, Swaffham Prior also has two windmills, one of which is still working. Is that why there was a generally good feel to the place?

Talk of coffee / beer began but nothing was available locally, having bypassed Anglesey Abbey and its café, and so we moved on to Reach where a pub with the infamous name of The Dyke’s End was thought by Martin to be possibly open. But alas it was not, but well worth a visit during normal opening hours as the beers and food are both excellent. It is so named because it lies at the end of the Anglo Saxon defensive earthwork known as the Devil’s Dyke, blocking a land route through the fens. Reach is also a good base for cycling through the fens to Wicken, Upware and Ely.

The road from Burwell through Exning to Newmarket was quite built up and busy but there was bound to be a good coffee stop in Newmarket! Perhaps there is one hiding somewhere but we didn’t find it, the Horse Racing Museum and its café being open only from March to the end of October. A dozen Windmillers proved too much for The Bull and so the party split up with some going to Starbucks across the road (avoid!) and some staying in The Bull.

The return to Balsham was along peaceful lanes in glorious open countryside and we received a warm welcome in The Bull followed by an excellent lunch.

Thanks to Maurice for planning an interesting circuit, which would be good to explore further in the future, and to Andrew for getting us all to the start line on time.

Martin

With the shooting season in full swing, The Tallo Ho in Barkway was the perfect pub for Maurice, Andrew, Sandra and Martin to start and finish their ride.

There were of course no horses or hounds in evidence as we cruised around the lanes on a fine afternoon, taking in Anstey, Meesden, the Langleys (too early for The Bull, unfortunately), Duddenhoe End, Arkesden, Stickling Green, Roast Green and back through Meesden. The long shadows created opportunities for creative photography, at Andrew’s suggestion, such as this:

and this:

The rutting season has been  strongly in evidence on recent rides and today was no exception. A herd of a dozen or so fallow deer charged through a field parallel to us at  18 mph for a few hundred yards before taking a sharp right and crossing the road ahead of us in rapid succession. Care is needed in these situations as the deer have clearly not read the Highway Code.

Sandra’s eagle eye can always spot interesting wild life half a mile away. Today she spotted a large buzzard on top of a telegraph pole which ignored her as she cycled past but took off lazily when the chaps came abreast.

After a lovely ride it was good to return to a warm welcome at The Tally Ho and enjoy a beer in front of the fire. A large group which had been been on a day’s shoot were doing likewise.

Thanks to Maurice and Andrew for planning another very pleasant Monday ride.

Martin

Still in search of suitable hostelries to take on the challenge of providing refreshments for a group of thirsty cyclists, we started from The Tally Ho, Barkway, always a good standby and open all day too.

A perfect afternoon awaited us for this ride, clear blue skies and light winds. A small group of Maurice, Keith and Sandra set off along Barkway High Street towards Reed and then Therfield, where we cast an eye to see if The Fox and Duck was open, sadly not!! From Therfield we headed across towards Kelshall and Stump’s Cross (a favoured place to take in the views of the surrounding area), on route several Fallow Deer were spotted merrily grazing in the fields alongside us. From Stump’s Cross we headed to Sandon, knowing there are no pubs left in this village, we headed for The Bagrie Shepherd’s Hut, glancing through the trees in search of activity, sadly not, so we carried on to skirt the edge of Buntingford to Wyddial where there was a notable drop in temperature as the sun dropped low in the sky, then on towards Anstey before veering off back towards Barkway via the golf course, taking in the lovely sunset on the way.

Back to The Tally Ho, for a warm welcome, quality beers and as important a warming fire, the evening had turned rather chilly by this time.  The new chef was taking a break at the bar before the evening diners arrived, thus crisps/peanuts were on offer for those so inclined. Future visits should reap greater rewards. By the time we left, it was understandable his need for this break, with many locals turning out to take on sustenance, good signs of what could be!!

This would be Keith’s last ride out with us before jetting off to join the ‘Barmy Army’ down under and meeting up with friends and family, we wish him Bon Voyage and hoping for some quality cricket too.

Thanks Maurice for organising another great ride.

Sandra

It wasn’t anybody’s birthday – there would be no free beer today – so turnout was down to just seven Windmillers. But this was a ride for the foodies amongst us!

Firstly, we planned to stop for refreshments in Puckeridge to savour the wonderful cakes, scones and coffee at the Something Lovely Tea Room, a favourite haunt of the Windmillers where we are guaranteed a warm welcome from the ladies who bake. As this was Yorkie Brian’s first visit we took care to point out the full English breakfast being served on the ceiling (no kidding; go and see for yourself). Brian was impressed but opted instead for a hot chocolate, fruit scone, clotted cream and jam, not wanting to spoil his appetite for lunch,

Speaking of lunch, this was to be taken at the Fleur de Lys, another Windmiller favourite and surely a candidate for the most welcoming pub in Essex. Landlord Chris had reserved our usual table by the fire and served up some excellent beer and a superb lunch. The cod goujons – served on a bed of aubergine and cous cous – were a triumph! Likewise the Stortford Pale Ale.

Oh, and we did a bit of cycling too, in and around North Essex / Hertfordshire border country, Maurice leading the way from Widdington through Rickling and the Pelhams, to Braughing, Puckeridge and Standon, before returning via the Hadhams and Elsenham to Widdington. Maurice was joined by Andrew, Martin, Sandra, Tom and Brians; Yorkie and Brummie. Nobody fell off and there were no punctures.

Thanks, Maurice, for another splendid day. We are looking forward to dining with you again next week.

Bon appetit!

Brian

Advance notice that it was Vernon’s birthday and that the drinks would be on him brought Windmillers out in force, or was it the thought of the pies for lunch at the highly regarded Pig and Abbott in Abington Pigotts, where the ride commenced over coffee in the bar?Probably both and what a feast it turned out to be for the birthday boy accompanied by Maurice, Andrew, John B, John T, Keith, Sandra, Ken, Rick, Brummy Brian, Yorky Brian and Martin.

But to create a thirst and appetite Maurice had planned a flattish route clockwise of 34 miles through quiet lanes taking in Steeple Morden, skirting Ashwell, Eyeworth, Waresley, Great Gransden and back through pretty Hatley St George to Abington Pigotts. Here is the route taken:

But, hang on, where was John B? Somehow he got left behind but it wasn’t long before he zoomed up from behind and took the lead.

The coffee stop was at The Duncombe Arms in Waresley, which turned out to be quite a long one as the coffee machine had not been turned on before our arrival, despite Maurice’s tip off by phone. The coffee wasn’t great either but that’s a rarity these days.

The Duncombe Arms coffee stop

There was therefore time to take in the local area before setting off back:

The return leg continued through mainly quiet lanes when the group split up, some wanting to get to the pies first and others wishing to soak up the beautiful countryside, including this huge herd of deer grazing on some poor farmer’s winter wheat. Dear dear!

Soon we were all back at the Pig and Abbott celebrating Vernon’s forthcoming birthday in fine style – thanks Vernon! We’re looking forward already to next year. And then the pies arrived – steak and ale, steak and kidney, chicken (an entire panful for Keith) and other choices too, all accompanied by excellent veg and washed down with fine ales. A truly great pub with roaring fires to boot.

And so endeth another fine ride. Thanks go once again to our hard working leader Maurice for planning the ride and printing out the maps and to Andrew for getting us to the starting line, in dribs and drabs this time due to an accident in Royston which held some up. Thanks also to fellow blogger Brian for the map and some of the pics.

Martin

The first ride out since the clocks went back. Earlier start times bring the issue of which hostelry would be open to welcome a band of thirsty cyclists.

Four intrepid explorers, Maurice, Andrew, Keith and Sandra, accepted the challenge to check out a new hostelry and met in the car park of The Fox & Hounds, Clavering, a potential starting point for many a route in the area.

Those that had taken advantage of the extra hour in bed the day before were looking refreshed and ready to go. Myself feeling a little bit tender but still on a high, having completed a 73 mile ride in Norfolk the day before, brought a choice of bikes, with the intention of testing which would be most comfortable in the car park before we set off, well the ‘lovely’ pebble stone surface meant wheeling the bike to the entrance for testing. With more substantial padding in my trousers the relief bike was not required and we set off on what was to be a fantastic Autumn evening, clear and still. A perfect evening to take in the Essex and Hertfordshire countryside on a bicycle, carefully avoiding the afternoon school traffic, as we passed through the villages of Rickling, Rickling Green, Manuden, The Pelhams and Meesden, sadly cutting the corner and by-passing The Bull at  Langley Lower Green (too early for a pit stop here!) and back via Roast Green to Clavering.

Long shadows forming behind us. Time to light.

17.5 miles clockwise the sun setting as we completed the last few miles back to Clavering for the all important beer/protein shake (certainly had some substance to it, not exactly crystal clear shall we say!!) and welcome at The Fox & Hounds. I think the Jury is out on this one! Always scope for more research.

Thanks to Maurice and Andrew for organising the ride.

Sandra.

Thursday morning saw eleven Windmillers gathering in the car park of The Golden Fleece in Braughing. Maurice had planned a 32 mile ride around the lanes of North Herts and he was to be accompanied by Keith, John B, John T, Andrew, Martin, Lawrence, Sandra, Tom and two Brians.

Setting off we headed for Much Hadham and then on to Hunsdon and Stanstead Abbotts where we turned northwards on to the River Lee towpath.

We stopped to admire the bird life – mostly cormorants – at Amwell Nature Reserve before continuing on to Ware where we pulled in for refreshments at The Corner Coffee Shop.

Then it was back on the bikes for the return leg to Braughing.

Arriving at the Fleece we were delighted to be joined for lunch by Vernon. He let slip that it’s his birthday next week, guaranteeing another bumper turnout.

Thanks, Maurice and Andrew, for organising another delightful ride.

What started as a beautiful autumn evening’s ride, with a red kite cruising along beside us from Great Chishill to Shaftenhoe End, was soon marred by not one but two large dumps of fly-tipped material on the road to Nuthampstead. The first was a dump of concrete / hard core but the second was a huge load of household refuse including a bed, bath, tyres and bags which looked as if it had just happened:

Keith had warned us in advance of what to expect but it was on a scale unsurpassed. But after ferreting around amongst the rubbish Maurice found some packaging and an address of a person in Hitchin, and as John T and Bridget lived very nearby we knocked on their door and handed over to Bridget the evidence and suggested she called 101 to report it.  It is such a shame to see our lovely countryside spoiled in this way.

So, sleuthing over, our leader Maurice guided Andrew, Keith, Sandra and Martin onwards through our usual lanes to the Bull at Lower Langley where a warm welcome, as always, was received.

There were more red kites to be seen on the return leg as it was getting darker, this being the last summer-time Monday ride, and let’s hope we see them throughout the coming winter months too. All agreed to avoid the John B off road route back to The Pheasant and so a relatively clean puff of Windmillers entered the pub to enjoy succulent cod goujons and chips.

Thanks, Maurice, for organising the ride and to Andrew for getting us to the start line on time. Let’s all hope the fly-tipper is caught and fined enough to deter him from doing it again.

Martin