Winter fun at Edingthorpe.
On a dank and drizzly December’s day, punctuated by some heavier patches of precipitation, only Mark and Neil Mc departed from Pretty Corner. They were soon to be joined, however, by Andrew and Clive (from Chester). So, a fast-moving foursome headed for the east coast. To avoid Neil having to traipse home alone in the final hour, the sensible decision was made to reverse the set route for the day. At Edingthorpe the smooth rhythm was interrupted when fate interfered to deal Mark his first Gatorskin puncture in 4863 miles. Adding insult to injury, Neil punctured a Durano Plus soon after. The culprits on both occasions were thorns. So, the day’s second sensible decision was taken; head directly to a busy, but dry and warm Watson’s at Bacton, where some good food and hot beverages were suitably appreciated.
On a day notable for sensible decisions, the route was amended further in order to keep the company together as long as possible on the way home. Neil cut off at Aylsham for Corpusty, while the remaining trio continued north westwards via Calthorpe, Plumstead and Hempstead before splitting for Sheringham, High Kelling and Blakeney.
Individual distances varied, but Sheringham to Sheringham was about 56 miles. A day to test the patience and determination of the club cyclist, but at the end of the day there was the righteous glow of solid winter miles and a feeling of well-being.
On Friday four more of the North Norfolk Wheelers took a steady ride in bright, but very windy conditions to the original venue at Walcott’s Lighthouse Inn. Brian, Neil S and Harvey enjoyed a lot of wind assistance, particularly during the second half of the outward leg. Getting his New Year’s resolutions in early, Malcolm rode up from St Olave’s, via Stalham and Catfield. After the break, the northerly trio had a bit of a slog back into the wind, although they have to admit that the lanes afforded significant shelter and that the wind was easing slowly during the afternoon. Malcolm followed the coast road for most of the way home, reporting unusually heavy traffic en route.
The set route was 49 miles, although two riders completed more than 60 for the day, with Malcolm putting in 64.
North Norfolk Wheelers 