Breezy Bransdale Ride

Although the weather forecast for Sunday 28th. November predicted rain, four hardy souls met at Helmsley Market Square for a short but hilly ride through Bransdale, the four being Liz, Paul, Pete and myself. As we set off the weather was both dry and mild.

We entered Bransdale via Carlton and Lund climbing most of the way. As we climbed higher the wind became stronger which at this stage wasn’t a problem as it was a tail wind. After Bilsdale East Moor there was a long steep descent through Bransdale to Cockayne at its head. With the wind behind us we were hurtling along jostling for the racing line at each bend, fortunately the gates were open.

After Cockayne the route doubles back to return down the east side of Bransdale. We are now climbing steeply out of Cockayne with a head wind! The wind was now up to gale force at least. Paul commented that Winds up to 25 mph. had been forecast, so we had to pedal at the equivalent of 26 mph. just to make some headway, I think. At least we now had the opportunity to appreciate the fine views of the dale.

At the village of Fadmore, Pete refused to go any further until he’d had his sandwiches so Fadmore was chosen for our lunch stop. We were now ready to continue our battle with the wind and headed on to Welburn. Rather than risk life and limb on the busy Pickering to Helmsley road, we took the much quieter southern loop through Harome. The wind was no longer a problem so we were soon back at Helmsley.

As we were having our tea and cake in the cafe, Helen and Gary walked in. Unfortunately they had arrived late at the start. They did the same route as us but the speed we were hurtling down the hills, they hadn’t managed to catch us.

Although the wind was a bit of a problem at times, at least we didn’t have any of the rain that was forecast. Thanks to Liz C for planning such a picturesque route along quiet roads. Unfortunately Liz was unable to make it on the day and so asked me to lead the ride but as Paul knew the route better than me and is also fitter, it was he who was out at the front leading the way, thanks Paul.

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	Swaledale Outdoor Club

Breezy Bransdale Ride

Dave Neesam