In Search of Gooey Puddings and Black Sheep

On a wet Sunday morning it looked as though no one was going to turn up for my ride except Ian who could easily have his arm twisted not to pedal. Then just when it looked like we were in the clear Liz & Paul turned up! I should have known - they're just far too reliable! So off the four of us went from Richmond on my very well planned out route. (I'd drawn a circuit on the map in every confidence that if I couldn't navigate there were 2 men who I could fall back on - and Paul could always be relied on to hijack the route!).

Ultimate destination - The Black Sheep Brewery, Masham. Our route took us via Downholme, Barden, Thornton Steward and Thirn arriving at Masham thirsty and ready for lunch. The weather had also brightened up so all were happy. But it was not to last. Having locked the bikes up Liz and I eagerly went into the brewery for some of that home cooked food - my particular area of expertise being the puddings. Having got a good eyeful of all the deserts on offer the bombshell was dropped - no can do - we hadn't booked! The dismay - I was positively distraught and nearly unable to speak - but not quite!! I was ready to chain myself to the railings in protest but was persuaded to try a local pub instead. Off we trooped to the King's Head and a pint of Black Sheep later all was rosy - even more so when Liz & Paul said the chocolate shop was open and worth a visit.

Feeling slightly queasy we got back on the bikes and returned to Richmond via Patrick Brompton, Hunton and Scotton. I was delighted to see that the ride was the promised 40 miles - my map reading is better than I thought - and it nearly went to plan. We returned to Richmond in time for me to go to my next engagement - a party at my friend Mia's. She was 2 and there was a tea party and more food - shame!! Thanks to Liz, Paul and Ian for a very enjoyable day.

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	Swaledale Outdoor Club

In Search of Gooey Puddings and Black Sheep

Judith Wox