Preston Park to Ingleby Greenhow.
I was pleased to have eight riders turn out for my ride from Preston Park yesterday. With mostly unfavourable cycling weather over the past 2 weeks, it was the first SOC ride of the year.
After some confusion over opening times of the park loos (the story of the incorrect signage and the grumpy council operative!), we pedalled off towards Yarm. Temperatures were definitely on the cool side. However, with a bright blue sky overhead and fabulous views across to the Cleveland Hills, it felt good to be exercising and breathing in the air.
Some heightened concentration was required, since there was a smattering of frozen puddles and icy patches about. As a consequence, at Hutton Rudby, we agreed to deviate from the original route to avoid the more sun-deprived lanes.
We then headed, on decent surfaces, to Faceby, Carlton and Great Broughton where we turned right onto the B1257, in the direction of Clay Bank. This had one or two exchanging worried glances until, just before the climb, we took a lesser known left-hander through to Folly Farm and Ingleby Greenhow.
Arriving at the Dudley Arms we received a friendly welcome and were soon getting warmed through with hot drinks. Unfortunately, Stephen did not fancy the crowning glory of his hot chocolate, the dense superficial layer of cream and marshmallows. Not to worry, Nicky soon came to the rescue, expertly hoovering up the offending sludge!
Five minutes later we were tucking in, to either the excellent all day breakfast, or fish finger sandwiches.
An hour soon passed and, with some helpful wind assistance, we set off on our return leg. This took in Battersby, Great Ayton, followed by the villages of Newby, Thornton and Maltby.
Ultimately, with 39 miles on the clock we arrived back at Eaglescliffe. A very pleasurable ride to start the year and great fun, as always.
Mike P