Fantastic Four go to Ilam

A top mornings ride by four riders who braved the elements and defied the forecasted biblical rains. The hardy souls - some riding winter bikes complete with mudguards carried waterproofs and set off fearing the worst and expecting to need flippers and snorkels. Ash P and Julian led the way and set a good pace (sorry Julian for calling you Chris for most of the ride - it's an age thing!!). Mark and yours truly were vying for the last podium place. The cafe stop was a little different as the main cafe was closed for maintenance but they have set up a cracking little alternative venue - we were treated to gigantic cheese and onion pasties, straight out of the oven. The ride was a lumpy one but the views were spectacular especially the iconic 'flat top' mini mountain, Thorpe Cloud. The 40km ride back was again very picturesque and we made speedy progress which included an exhilarating flying finish past the Hanging Gate (after we had shouted ay up to club legend, Simon Parkin). A super time had by all - thanks guys 🚲👍🌞