Ride report by Chris S
As the record-breaking heatwave continued in the UK and out of control wild fires raging across Europe Chris, Mark, Andrew and Andy set off from PC. It was good to see that Andrew had escaped with only minor cuts and bruises after his fall on the last ride. It was already very hot at 10am with the temperature forecast to reach 29 degrees C and light winds.
The route took the riders south through Gresham, Sutton, Metton across the A140 and onto Thorpe Market. From there the peloton continued south at a reasonable pace despite the heat through Colby, Tuttington, past Oxnead Hall and Buxton Llamas. Shortly after passing Buxton Mill the route turned back north up to Skeyton arriving at Skeyton Goat approximately 10 minutes before opening time.
Lunch was enjoyed sitting outside under a pergola covered with grape vines which were laden with bunches of grapes. Obviously, the hot weather has some benefits. Topics of conversation ranging from the recent Tour de France, the heatwave and Andrew’s outdated computer operating system whilst munching through a light lunch of sandwiches and wraps with chips.
Despite the heat the peloton then remounted their bikes heading up through Aylsham and then onto Ingworth and Itteringham. Halfway up the hill climb after Itteringham Andy left the group to head home to Corpusty. At the top of the hill Mark and Andrew wilting in the heat decided to take a shorter direct route back to PC cutting out about 5 miles. Chris, determined not to be broken by the heat, continued to complete the whole route to PC via Plumstead, Hempstead and Bodham.
PC to PC was 49 miles at an average 15.4 mph (Chris only) – Shorter route was 43.6 miles at 15.3 avg
Riders: Chris S, Mark M, Andy S and Andrew B
P.S. We commented on the absence of local field fires and then this broke out at Burgh about 90mins after we passed through.
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/26420732.fire-closes-roads-aylsham-burgh-north-norfolk/
Upcoming Rides –
Saturday 1st August – Goat Shed, Honingham – 9am Start
Wednesday 5th August – Pleasure Boat Inn, Hickling –
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 