The Standard, Northallerton

This ride bad already changed ownership before we gathered at Northallerton for the start. Mike was originally billed to lead the ride but was unable to make it on the day. Mike passed route instructions on to Liz who made it to the start but was clearly not well enough to cycle. Lil, sat in the navigator's seat on the back of the tandem, was the obvious choice for ride leader. Armed with detailed instructions and marked up map there was no way we were going to take any wrong turnings on this ride! Others on the ride were, as you may have guessed, Ray in the pilot's seat, with all mountain bike rides cunently cancelled, Len and Nigel turned up for another road ride. I suppose I should also mention Alan, although he's in my bad books at the moment having admitting to me recently that he has sold bis mountain bike cause he hardly ever uses it.

We headed off through Yafforth and on to Thrintoft where we turned left at the T junction. As we were heading for Great Langton, we should have actually turned right, the tandem negotiated its first 3 point turn of the day. On arrival at Gt. Langton, we crossed the bridge to Kirby Fleetham. After one or two more 3 point turns we passed over the A1. At least I assume it was the A1 as it had a strip of grass down the middle. I've just had a good idea for a foot and mouth free mountain biking route.

After passing through Bedale, we headed south past Thorpe Perrow to West Tanfield where we stopped at the pub that Len highly recommended. Please don't mention this to Liz or Mike as we were supposed to reach Ripon before stopping for lunch. After a very nice luncheon, we now had to get back on schedule, so we took a short cut. Well, we'd all been to Ripon before.

My memory of the route back to Northallerton is a bit of a blur, we were cycling so fast. If you're interested to know the full route give Lil, Liz or Mike a ring. Mind you I do seem to remember us missing a few more turnings. By now Ray & Lii had 3 point turns off to a fine art. Nigel, Len and I were having no trouble doing 'U' turns on our mountain bikes with their tight turning circles but Alan was struggling on his road bike. I did tell you, Alan, you should never have sold your mountain bike.

We eventually made it back to Northallerton, the end of an enjoyable leisurely ride. Thanks to Liz for the superb detailed instructions and Lil for standing in as ride leader.

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	Swaledale Outdoor Club

The Standard, Northallerton

Dave Neesam