Jude Eason's Half Day Ride to Fimber Cafe 29/5/21

13 riders set off from Squires Café in bright sunshine, which was most welcome!  We made our way to Tadcaster via the duck pond, passing a group of cyclists also enjoying the fine conditions. We then followed country roads through Wighill, Angram, Long Marston and Tockwith before crossing the A59 at Whixley. Our route took us over the toll bridge at Aldwark and then it was a flowing ride through Youlton and Alne, up to Clark’s Bakery on the main street in Easingwold. Tony left us at this point for a prior engagement (hope the cricket team did well) so the team photo (courtesy of Ian) only shows 12 riders at the first stop. 

Ian and Kate also left after this stop and then the remaining 10 riders set off for Stillington. We made our way to Sheriff Hutton via Farlington and then through West Lilling and Flaxton before turning left onto the A64 for a short distance before turning right towards Harton and Howsham. The road to Leavening begins the gradual rise into the Wolds and the yellow and green of the surrounding countryside was vivid in the sunshine. 

A left turn took us to Birdsall, where we turned right and followed a slightly more rustic (ok gravelly) winding road uphill to Wharram Le Street. A right turn onto the B1248 and a smooth ride over the tops dropped us down to the roundabout and into the wooded parking area at Fimber Café, where a few of us remained for refreshments. Alan struck up a conversation with another rider and gave him a YAM card for his granddaughter, and by happy coincidence, three members of the training team were there at the same time with associate Amanda, whom we wish the best of luck with her advanced test. Thanks to Martin for back marker duties and everyone who came for any or all of the route, including Rob who joined his first Team5 ride for a while (sorry for all the gravel…)