Ride report by Neil M
A bumper turnout of 7 Wheelers met at PC on a cool, dry July morning, a pleasant change from the heat of the preceding week. The start was moved forward to 9am to dodge any potential heat, but as it remained overcast all day we would have got away with the usual time.
The route proceeded out through West Beckham and Bodham to pick Ian up at the A148 crossing at High Kelling. We carried on down the hill to Cley and through Wiveton to Blakeney where Andrew had kindly offered to host us for coffee and biscuits on the patio at his newly-finished bungalow conversion. This was a very pleasant early stop and we all admired the high standard of fit and finish displayed on the subsequent (essential) house tour.
Richard left us to get back to his house move (also to Blakeney) as we departed with Andrew, so our record turnout of 9 dropped back to 8 again for the rest of the ride. From Blakeney the route went via Langham, Field Dalling, Bale, Little Snoring and across the A148 to pick up the A1067 for the short (and slightly hairy) run in to Pensthorpe, our lunch stop.
We were initially confused by the appearance of extra tables in the courtyard right where we usually park our bikes, but this was quickly overcome and a couple of tables pulled together outside under the canopy. Fortunately it was not too busy and food was quickly ordered and delivered. There was some disappointment that the normally huge (excellent) scones had been reduced to less than half the size, but there were two teabags in the teapots at least, so the shrinkflation wasn’t affecting everything.
The usual wide-ranging conversation included Chinese electric cars, chicken farming, horse vet bills, camper van trips and the now-obligatory mention of Ian’s helmet (pursued by a duck this time rather than a large friendly dog).
Chris departed early to get some time-trial training in and the remaining 7 again braved the A1067 briefly before turning off toward Kettlestone. From Kettlestone the route continued to Fulmodeston, Stibbard and across the Holt road to Wood Norton. Doug almost managed to tangle himself up while attempting to take his gillet off on the move in Le Tour-style approaching Wood Norton village, but disaster was narrowly averted.
After Wood Norton the route continued on via Guist Road to Foulsham, Guestwick and Thurning and Blackwater lane where Neil and Andy split off to head to Corpusty and home. The remaining 5 carried on to Briston, Edgefield and Hempstead where Ian left for High Kelling. The remaining group carried on through Baconsthorpe to North Barningham where Doug split for Gresham and on to Cromer and home. At Red Barn Lane, Andrew headed back to Blakeney, leaving Phil and Mark to finish at PC.
Ed’s Note: Phil B led us through Briston and up towards Edgefield, oblivious to the imminent race to the top. Obviously the rest knew and were happy to be towed along, including Mark for a change. Ian jumped first with Mark managing to get on his wheel, then Andrew sped past them both towards victory, however he started to fade (claimed to be easing off!) and Mark could see the gap closing, so he pushed harder and got ahead with just yards to go. Result!
PC to PC was 56.8 miles at an average 15.0 mph (15.4 Out, 14.7 Back)
Wheelers: Mark M, Neil M, Richard W, Phil B, Doug H, Andy S, Chris S, Andrew B, Ian A.
P.S. Richard W was back from the Maratona Dles Dolomites, the Italian gran fondo/sportive on closed roads. Saying it was spectacular scenery but very challenging.
Here is the official post event 3 min video: https://youtu.be/TuS2i84XtAE?si=6avplFdl91St3_rT – spot the guy with one leg!
Upcoming Rides –
Wednesday 15th July – Nest Café, Burnham Deepdale – 9am Start
Saturday 18th July – Watsons, Bacton
Routes for rides on the website under Dates and Destinations: https://nnwheelers.co.uk/club-runs/
Visit the Clubs Runs Gallery for larger and more photos: https://nnwheelers.co.uk/club-runs/club-runs-photo-gallery/
North Norfolk Wheelers 