OUR ride to Tockholes was short, so we made it a bit testing by taking the Roman road from Edgworth to Lower Darwen.

We left Bury by the Woodhill cycle path to Brandlesholme. Then on to Hawkshaw and Edgworth. On one of the steep climbs from here Beryl’s chain came off while changing gear, forcing her to dismount and walk.

Once into Lower Darwen it was uphill again until we arrived at Tockholes cafe for lunch.

Kevan had developed a slow puncture prior to arrival. He was joined in his misery on leaving the cafe by John who investigating his tyre and tube could find no fault. Pump and ride was required for the remainder of the journey home for both riders. This means pumping up the tyre, riding a few miles until it deflates and pumping again . . . and so on until home.

On November 15 Vera had a puncture even before we started the ride to Waddington. Broken glass from Saturday night “revellers” caused the delay on arriving in Bury. Phil mended it for her and then we all set off up Walmersley Road to Edenfield.

Brian wanted to take a hillier route to our destination, via Burnley. He was alone in this as the others preferred an easier ride via the traditional route through Whalley.

On November 22 the planned ride to Delph was replaced with a ride to Haigh Hall.

On November 29 the prospect of rain and high winds put off members from turning up for the planned ride to Red House Farm. A few members did brave going out for a solo ride.

Steve Willetts