Graham's 'Post Jubilee' ride......

So..... 21 bikes to start the ride....

We left squires and turned left, on through Ledsham, Fairburn, Byram, Birkin, Chapel Haddlesey, Hirst Courtney and turned right at Carlton.

Over the river Aire bridge to Snaith, left there to Rawcliffe Bridge and then South to Thorne, where we stopped at Delves cafe (Field Side, Thorne, Doncaster DN8 4AA).

Apparently, though I missed it all as I was leading, one of our members tried a new and unique dismount procedure. This was described by a member who witnessed it as 'not suitable for novices but ok for seasoned veterans'. This is the kind of thing that we 'older' riders need to share, so our knowledge can be disseminated amongst our younger colleagues.

It took a little longer to get everyone fed and watered but, eventually, we set off again.

Heading out of town, we took the road over Wykewell Lift Bridge and rejoined the A18 East.

I missed the next turn to Medge Hall level crossing, but we just carried on through Ealand to Crowle. From there it was the Big Sky and the lovely sweeping bends of the Crowle road, heading North towards Goole.

We turned right at Swinefleet and followed the river bank, through Reedness, Ousefleet, Adlingfleet, Garthorpe and Amcotts (where we said goodbye to Steve Duree) and on to Keadby.

We turned left after Keadby, across the big, green bridge and left again to Gunness. On through Flixborough, Burton-upon-Stather and finishing in Winterton at the Old Barn Cafe (6 Park St, Winterton, Scunthorpe DN15 9UA). They were expecting us as 'about 10 cyclists' – I'd forgotten to mention motorcyclists and there were 19 of us! They coped extremely well, and good food went down a treat.

About 30 miles first half and 43 miles second half. Yes, I know what halves mean! I was never good with numbers

The 2nd half included one or two U turns (or was it three?) which everyone looked to enjoy (they all seemed to be waving at me, anyway). My rides are always a challenge and this was another one. Thank you to everyone for coming along.

Can I please take this opportunity to ask everyone to think about leading a ride.

It does seem daunting at first, but once you get going, it is quite straightforward.

If you want some help or advice, or just a chat, about organising or planning a ride, please ask me, or Chris Otter, or Jude Eason – we'll gladly help you.

Graham West 07881 845 681