Saturday 7th January 2012. We met for our first Saturday ride of 2012, on what was a pleasant day, after the last few days of very strong winds and rain. Eleven cyclists turned out including two new riders one of whom is hoping to take part in a sponsored charity ride in the summer.
We set off at a steady pace out of town via Leicester Road bridge onto Weddington Road, where we joined the Weddington trail, which was quite dry given the rain that we had had(I think the strong winds had helped dry it up!!).We went on to Higham on the Hill where we had a short stop to regroup before carrying on to Wykin, then on to Hinckley using the back streets through to London Road.
Our journey then took us along Sapcote Road turning right to Aston Flamville then right into Lychgate Lane and on to Burbage Farmers Market where we were met with a warm welcome as usual by the very friendly ladies serving tea, coffee and delicious home made cakes. After which several of us made purchases from the market stalls including, bread, fish and olives. We then returned to our bikes for our homeward journey.
Carole and Bert left us to go back through Wolvey. By now the weather had turned a lot colder, so we needed to get pedalling to keep warm. Our route took us through Sketchley Old Village, passing Sketchley Grange Hotel where they are having a £5.2 million extension, which will include the only garden pagoda in Leicestershire which will have a licence for civil wedding ceremonies. We then continued on to the A5 using the cycle path, eventually turning into Nutts Lane, along to Coventry Road back on to A5 to Nuneaton using the Longshoot to make our own ways home.
Our journey was trouble free apart from a few senior moments from the ride leader Janet, who took one or two wrong turns, which thankfully were soon corrected.
We hope our new riders enjoyed themselves and hope to see them on future rides.

Thursday 5th January 2012 - Although not riding, the Club President came to the meeting point – Dobbies Garden Centre at Mancetter – to see off this first ride of the New Year. However, due to the stormy weather and heavy overnight rain there were only five riders to receive his seasonal greeting : four regulars and newcomer Keith from just down the road in Mancetter.
Undaunted we set off towards Mancetter, straight into another wintry shower! Bearing left just after the Plough we headed along Church Walk, through the barrier to the top, then right downhill on Convent Lane. A series of quick turns in Atherstone took us along Witherley Road, North Street, Queens Road and Kings Avenue to reach Ratcliffe Road encountering virtually no traffic. Reaching Ratcliffe Bridge the rain had eased off, but the Northerly wind was still gusting and almost brought us to complete halt once or twice. Passing through Sheepy Magna we turned right at the Hands Cross. This road to the A444 near Harris Bridge was being seriously dug up by Severn Trent, but we were able to squeeze through without incident. Having crossed the A444 we continued towards Bilstone, relieved that we were now beginning to get the benefit of a tail wind.
Owing to the weather conditions leader Dave decided to shorten the route at this point, so instead of carrying on to Shackerstone we turned right into Congerstone, then a left and right took us to Barton in the Beans rejoining the intended route.
Here it was straight on to Nailstone, carefully negotiating the dangerous crossroads on the A447. Through the village, we then turned right on the B582 and hurtled at over 30 mph down a steep hill, assisted by the strong wind. Then it was right again into Barlestone.
Turning left in the village we headed towards Newbold Verdon, where a right turn saw us reach our lunchtime objective – the Windmill Inn at Brascote – spot on 12.45. Oddly no-one objected to a few extra minutes in the bar. On refection, because of the shortcut, this ride turned out to be a tour of the five “stones” instead of six “stones” – Atherstone, Bilstone, Congerstone, Nailstone and Barlestone – stone me!
After a welcome and a tasty two course lunch it was back on the homeward leg with four of the five riders returning via Kirkby Mallory, Barwell and Hinckley. Let’s hope for calmer conditions next time. (no photo)

Thursday 29th December 2011. The designated meet this week was Booker’s Café, and although they were short handed, they made us welcome and gave service with a smile.
It is at this time of year, the strange hinterland between Christmas and New Year, that finds people having many calls on their time, so on an unpromising December morning a roll up of eleven cyclists was more than satisfactory.
Chris, this week’s leader, had tried to map out a fairly undemanding route to finish close to home, so at eleven o’clock the riders set off via Bermuda Road, and by working their way along cycle paths and side streets came out to Whittleford.
Following a short stretch of the busy main road, a left turn into Skey Drive once again brought relative tranquillity. These quiet level stretches were bound to give way to steep climbs because the route was leading up to Purley Chase. As the legs started working harder and hearts pumping faster there was no spare breath for conversation so the group worked their way in relative silence to Hartshill Hayes, where they paused for a breather and drink.
As they moved off alongside the Golf Course and turned right into Purley Chase Lane the watery sunshine started to filter through the tree lined road and gave a lift to everyone’s spirits.
From here to Mancetter Church the road drops steeply, and care had to be taken to avoid mishaps on the slippery surface, but the exhilarating descent was much preferred to the uphill slog we sometimes take in the opposite direction. So on to Witherley using the assisted crossing at the very busy A5 and now taking on a quiet rural aspect, the relaxed cyclists made their way along Atterton Lane. Once the left, right crossing of the A444 had been negotiated the familiar lanes led us via Upton towards Higham on the Hill.
The weather was much improved now with the threat of rain receded, but the lunch hour was rapidly approaching, so on arriving in Higham the leader consulted and it was agreed that the shorter route into Nuneaton was the best option.
The final part of the ride took us through Riversley Park – always a credit to the Borough – past the Pingles, to our destination the Cedar Tree. Once inside the very welcomingTracy showed us our reserved table where we enjoyed an excellent meal (Chris and Eric finding the apple pie too hard to resist). Friendly service and great value.

Thursday 22nd December 2011. On a fine day with very mild conditions for the time of year fourteen cyclists turned up at Parkers Fisheries in Bulkington for the usual tea and coffee before setting off at 11 o’clock.
We turned right out of the Fisheries towards Withybrook, then took the back road to Monks Kirby, passing the impressive church to turn left then right to Cottons Furze, where another left and right brought us to the A5 which we crossed with great care and on to Claybrook Parva.
Heading towards Ullesthorpe there were sighs of relief as Bert led us left past Ullesthorpe Golf Club instead of up the steep hill into the village. Enjoying the bright sunshine we rode on towards Frolesworth and then Claybrook Magna.
At High Cross we again crossed the A5 using the assisted crossing and continued on through Copston Magna and Wolvey Heath, arriving at our lunchtime destination, The Bull at Wolvey, where we were joined by Chris suffering with a cold, and Pete and his wife. It took a minute to recognise Pete without his cycling gear – one track minds!
After an enjoyable meal everyone made their separate ways home, some via Bert’s with the promise of a mince pie or two.

Saturday 17th December 2011. Probably it was due to pre-Christmas arrangements or the overnight icy weather, but only three riders turned up at the Library for the weekly short ride.
In anticipation of slippery conditions the leader had planned a route using mainly roads which had been gritted. The town centre was left by a regular route via Riversley Park, past the Pingles and following the Wem Brook Trail to Pauls Land and Magyar Crescent with only a brief pause near the Millenium Bridge to pump up some soft tyres.
Then it was out to Bulkington along the B4112 and continuing on this road via Five Ways to Withybrook where the highest speed of the day was registered on the descent of Main Street. Here Bow Lane was taken to Foxens Corner, where we crossed the Fosse Way on to Millers Lane and down into Monks Kirby.
By now the threat of wintry showers had receded and we were cheered by bright sunshine. Turning left in the village along Bond End we headed North East towards Cloudsley Bush on a traffic free lane. Then another left took us briefly on the Nuneaton Road.
At the crossroads with the Fosse Way we turned right for the final one and a half miles to our coffee stop at the Red Café at High Cross alongside the A5. Here the hot and steamy interior caused layers of outdoor clothing to be rapidly shed before large mugs of tea and coffee were eagerly consumed along with bacon butties and toasted teacakes.
The continued existence of this handy café is under threat from planners, so if you would like to support this local transport café stop off and sign their petition next time you are passing.
fSuitably refreshed, re-clothed and leaky tyre again inflated we set off on the return leg of our ride via Copston Magna, past the Axe and Compass and Bramcote, reaching the Lutterworth Road shops at 12.45, where we went our separate ways.

The Christmas Lunch. This is one of the best rides of the year – it’s Christmas Dinner Ride! Around a dozen riders met at Morrissons Hinckley where the Thursday regulars were joined by a couple of Saturday riders, John and Janet.
The group set off to Stoke Golding and then turned right to Dadlington.Through the village we took a right turn for Sutton Cheney, passing the Canal Basin and up the hill to the hamlet of Sutton Cheney where we turned left past the Alms Houses.
Enjoying the chilly but clear conditions, we continued along the narrow gated road towards Market Bosworth, where we gathered together before turning left for Shenton.
At the southern end of Shenton village we turned under the aquaduct and on through the village to take a left at the T-junction to pass Whitemoors Antique Centre. Thoughts of Christmas lunch must have been coming to the fore as the riders were speeding up and leader Bill attempted to slow things down, but with no luck.
As we neared our destination, the Oddfellows Arms at Higham on the Hill, we were pleased to have completed the ride in fine weather so no wet gear to take off. The landlady and staff made us very welcome and we were joined by another two dozen diners including some ex-riders, founder members of the Club and guests from a wide area. Needless to say there was much noisy chat and catching up with old friends and a spot of singing as well.
The four course Christmas lunch was excellent – good food, efficient service and generous portions. The venue proved an excellent choice – well done for organising that Bill. Everyone enjoyed the meal and had a jolly good time.
We wish all our readers and Lisa a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Saturday 10th December 2011. A very cold morning kept numbers down this week, especially those who normally cycle from Coventry or Rugby to join us as the roads were very icy early on.
Seven hardy souls set off out of town over Leicester Road bridge and out towards Higham on the Hill, where they took a steady pace into the Fen Lanes watching out for any icy patches.
The sun was trying to break through, which helped road conditions and raised the temperature a little as the group passed through Wyken, Stoke Golding and Dadlington. At this point a decision had to be made whether to take in Sutton Cheney or head straight towards Shenton. Les was struggling with a lack of fitness, and everyone was feeling the cold, so the shortcut prevailed.
After riding through Shenton, the group passed Upton Barn and completed the loop back to Higham, where they rode down Wood Lane to pick up the Weddington Trail.
This took them back to Nuneaton where they emerged at the bottom of the newly surfaced Stoney Road. A pity the surface hasn’t extended under the railway bridge, which has been a neglected mix of mud and potholes for as long as I can remember.
The final leg took the cyclists across Midland Road, and along Stanley Road to leader Anne’s, where home-made soup and mince pies were the order of the day and a welcome fire warmed everyone up.

Thursday 8th December 2011. On Wednesday afternoon Morgan rang to ask me to take his ride as he was not well. The meet was at Upton Barn one of Morgans favourite meeting points so I was sorry he could not make it. Hope you’re fighting fit next week Morgan, for the Christmas Ride.
About a dozen riders turned out on a very windy morning with the promise of rain later on, and several members decided to do their own short ride as they were not 100%.
After our usual welcome and coffee at the Barn we set off on Morgan’s planned route down through Shenton, under the aquaduct and left for Far Coton where we saw a car on its side in the ditch on the corner. Oh dear! Hope no-one was seriously hurt.
Up the lane to Coton we passed a traveller’s encampment with an assortment of vehicles and ponies tethered on the side of the road. We turned right in Coton for Market Bosworth, and after a brief stop in the market place to check everyone was present then on up through Carlton and Barton in the beans where we turned left for Congerstone.
Up to this point the wind had been in our favour and we had made good time .Now we were heading into the wind and the clouds were looking ominous. We went through Bilston and the long drag up to Little Twycross where the rain set in. Wet gear on we did the last few miles to Orton on the Hill in less than pleasant conditions. Morgan had arranged lunch for us at the Unicorn, where seven of us enjoyed a three course turkey roast. I hope Morgan is soon well and able to join us again.(no photograph)

Critical Mass Ride (3rd December 2011). Today’s ride was a bit different from the usual as the group headed for Bedworth to join a protest ride around the new Tesco. Taking the Wem Brook Trail out of town the twelve strong group took the canal towpath from Caldwell to Marston Junction and on the Bedworth centre.
The “Critical Mass” type ride was organised by the local Friends of the Earth group who have been campaigning all year for better provision for cyclists and pedestrians in the new road layout around the megastore. Spokesman Keith pointed out that Bedworth has the worst cycling provision in the county, including having the only bus lane in the county where cycling is illegal.
Despite promises of a “green” travel plan from Tesco it has not materialised and neither Borough nor County councils have pursued this. Hence the last resort of a protest ride which saw cyclists from Coventry, Bedworth and Nuneaton joined in attempting to publicise their feelings.
The riders were joined by a jolly cycling Santa, and made several circuits of the store before repairing to the Old Meeting Chapel where they were pleased to warm up with very welcome hot drinks and mince pies provided by the church ladies.

Thursday 1st December 2011. Around twenty riders gathered at Ullesthorpe Garden centre on a bright but cold Thursday morning. It was nice to see John out on his bike again and he is making a good recovery after a nasty fall some weeks ago.
Due to various ailments and commitments some of the group had coffee and returned home, some went on shorter routes leaving twelve of us to set out on the planned route.
We went down through Lutterworth, Swinford and Stanford on Avon. We kept a good tight group and turned left for Cold Ashby and Thronby, nice quiet lanes till we came to the bridle road leading over the Hemplow Hills, a short sharp uphill had everyone off their bikes and pushing the last steep bit. At the top of the hill we were back on tarmac and concrete and a welcome down hill section.
The group then turned left at the junction and on to South Kilworth and Walcote, turning right at the Tavern Inn and left into Chapel Lane brought us onto the bridle path through Misterton and the cycle path over the M1 back into Lutterworth where we met the rest of the group and had a cosy substantial lunch in the Unicorn Inn.(no photograph)

Thursday 17th November 2011. A likely bunch of like minded local C.T.C.members assembled at the Community Café to participate in today's quest for good food and a short half days cycle ride through the surrounding local byways and quite lanes of Nuneaton.
Eighteen riders including the octogenarian trio of Bert,Eric,and Morgan in total ready for the off.(thanks for the cake message Eric)
Good to have a chat with former cycling stalwart and section member Maureen Prior to who had called into the cafe for a cup of tea and a toasted tea cake. Hard habits to beat,thank you for the chat Maureen.
After various photographic calls,and cups of tea and coffee cheerful banter, every one was ready for the off,but being such a large group it was decided to split the riders into two smaller groups. So dressed like Inuit's the riders departed and cycled across town and through Riversley Park and towards Chilvers Coton.
On reaching the canal bridge it was onto the canal towpath along side of the Coventry canal to the bottom of Tuttle Hill,down Stony Road onto Weddington Walk and into Higham on the Hill, then towards Upton, turning left on the unclassified road leading to the A444 ,across to the small Hamlet of Atterton (with a population of forty) then Witherley.
Les Proctor at this point decided to leave and make tracks home, and the B group which had made slower progress and had a few delays decided to skip part of the ride and threaded their way through Atherstone to the Mancetter lunch stop.
The A group rode on turning right down Myth Lane to Pinwall, turning left at the Red Lion towards the market town of Atherstone (famous for the shrove Tuesday foot ball match - dig out your hob nail boots and have a go, very rewarding) the riders then turned off right at Alders Mill onto Holly Lane past Durnos and turning right onto Whittington Lane.
This lane terminates at the junction with the A5, one group of riders decided to cross over and take the small lane on the left (Archers Hill) and ride up the steep climb of Waste Lane to Folly Lane, whilst the other group decided to turn left back towards Atherstone and the Kings Head and make a slight detour through Atherstone to Mancetter.
After climbing Folly Lane we rode on towards Baxterly, turned left and rode down Merevale Lane towards Atherstone and the Kings Head, then back onto the canal tow path past four flights of canal locks and off the tow path at Minions Wharf.
After crossing Coleshill Road we then rode down through “Chinatown” and back onto the canal towpath at Rawn Hill coming off at Quarry Lane and a short ride to The Plough at Mancetter for a well deserved lunch.
Total miles ridden was 22ish, but might be wrong. One rider punctured. This rider did not collect any mushrooms had a very good day and enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. Whilst others enjoyed lanes never ridden before. Happy cycling – John.

Saturday 12th November 2011. Eleven riders left Nuneaton Library for a short ride to Hoar Park Craft Centre. After a tortuous route through town we emerged in the countryside at Hartshill Country Park, where a brief stop was called to remove surplus clothes. It was warm for November.
Then along the lanes to Ridge Lane and Birchley Heath to the coffee stop at the Craft Centre, where some riders took the opportunity to browse the craft shops and garden centre, and look in on an auction in full swing in the barn.
A different route back via Ballards Green and Devitts Green to Old Arley then downhill to Arley House Farm then bottom gear up to the well named Hill Top. A short flat stretch to Ansley roundabout , then downhill past the Round Towers with riders peeling off to the left and right making their various ways home.(no photograph)

Thursday 10th November 2011. A damp and grey morning did not deter the 18 strong group of cyclists who met at Ansty Golf Centre for their weekly ride. The group included Bert and Carole’s visitors Colin, Rory and Sean from Windsor, and Paul from Australia.
Following Club practice with a group of this size, the ride was split into 2 groups to make it easier for cars to overtake. A left out of the Golf Centre under the motorway and an immediate right saw us passing the Rolls Royce factory. This loop eventually brought us to Brinklow and, although cycling under overcast skies, it remained dry.
We were soon into quieter lanes and passing the now established Marina on Cathiron Lane. After wending our way through Harborough Magna we were soon climbing towards the radio station. It was here that Eric’s bike lost it’s drive due to a sheared cassette. After a quick inspection and much head shaking Eric decided to push his bike back to Pailton where he could get a lift. This was the second casualty as Bill had already fell victim to mechanical problems.
The reduced number pressed on and were soon heading towards Magna Park. Along this stretch of road free food was spotted by John and Chris who stopped to gather mushrooms, an advantage of the slower pace of cycling.
At the busy A5 island care was taken as we swung left onto the Cloudsley Bush Road. This is the local time trial course, due to it having no serious bends or gradients and the groups made fairly rapid progress along its 5 mile length.
As lunchtime was approaching the pace seemed to quicken with the prospect of a welcome meal at our destination, The Bull at Wolvey where we were joined by a further 3 diners. Once fed and watered the members and guests made their various ways home.

The AGM - 20th October 2011.Following the pattern of the last couple of years the evening combined the serious business of the AGM with a social and buffet.
This year we were joined by our Area CTC Councillor Peter Mathison, who travelled from Shrewsbury to be with us and stayed to chat to many of our members.
Official business was accomplished fairly quickly and the new Committee duly elected. We were pleased to welcome new Committee members Janet and Michael and sorry to lose Arthur as Auditor.
This year the awards were presented as follows : Presidents Cup stays with President Bill Hayward, the Amicale St Louis Cup for most rides in the year was won by Dave Backhouse for a record 75 rides, Best All Rounder Shield to Terry Pittam and the Lol Duncombe Junior Award was retained by Shawn Armstrong who couldn’t be with us as he was picking up more awards from college.
Scrapbooks of our year’s rides and events were on display along with our Leader Packs, our new Route maps for easy family rides and other Cycle leaflets.
It was good to see some new faces as well as old friends and there was a healthy exchange of views and ideas which bode well for the coming year. We look forward to improvements in cycling provision in the Borough which will help us get more people cycling more safely.

Eighty Not Out Day (4th October 2011). The Ambleside Sports Club in Nuneaton was the venue on Sunday 4th September 2011, for the Nuneaton ctc Cycle Club ”80 not out” cycle ride celebration. The intention – to celebrate three members who became OCTOGENARIANS in July and August of this year.
The weather man threatened to put a damper on things for the 9.00am start of the 80 kilometre route, as fifty five registered riders set off in groups in steady drizzle. There were many local members and others from far and wide, including honoured guest David Cox CTC Council Chair.
They headed east over the A5 to Higham on the Hill and then moving northward through the lanes and villages of Upton, Ratcliffe Culey, and Pinwall to reach the garden centre at Newton Regis for welcome refreshments after seventeen damp miles.
Bert Pearce, one of the celebrities of the ride, has been involved with Nuneaton and East Warwickshire cycling circles for many years. One time president of both associations, coupled with the organisation of many cycle tours both at home and abroad, a quite remarkable character in many other fields, and still cycling with much vigour.
Suitably refreshed, and with drying roads in brightening weather conditions, the groups pedalled through Austrey to climb the hill to Appelby Magna to turn southerly through Odstone, Barton in the Beans, Carlton and on to Market Bosworth for more refreshment at the Tithe Barn on the Ambion Hill Battlefield site now registering thirty three miles on the clock.
Eric Neal, next of the Octogenarians, was a founder member of the Nuneaton Club many years ago, and with half a century of CTC (Cyclists Touring Club) membership to our national organisation. Eric has also been involved with the CTC of Leicestershire for half a lifetime, and well known as a gritty campaigner for cyclist’s rights on and off the road.
Morgan Reynolds makes up the trio, again with over fifty years CTC membership, and a keen member of Hinckley Racing Club. Morgan is a local phenomenon, still turning out for Time Trials as well as Club rides. He likes to ring the changes, sometimes on a road racer, sometimes on a tricycle, and sometimes joined by Joy on a tandem.
Leaving the Bosworth Battlefield, and now in pleasant sunshine, the final circular route of around twenty miles were enjoyed through the villages of Wellesborough, Sheepy Parva, Bilstone and Congerstone.
Autumn leaves were much in evidence through the pleasant lanes which were by now gorgeous for steady cycling. A brilliant route devised and prepared by Bert Pearce saw riders strung out over several miles to all reach Higham on the Hill again in much superior weather conditions to earlier in the day. The final run in was back to Ambleside Club to complete a very satisfying fifty plus miles.
The latter part of the afternoon was given over to celebrations with a hog-roast buffet, and a much varied selection of cakes prepared by the ladies- truly magnificent. Highlight of these was an enormous birthday cake made by Joy Reynolds and iced in traditional CTC yellow and green.
Words of congratulation were given by Chair Ann Jenkins, and David Cox did the honours by presenting each of the trio with an engraved glass tankard, a souvenir photo and a gallon of cider, which was a most pleasant surprise to say the least; and very much appreciated. That three octogenarians from the same club can cycle eighty kilometres is quite remarkable, and they are indeed grateful and fortunate to achieve such a landmark!
All participants and helpers were congratulated, many had travelled some distance, namely Devon, Bristol, Essex and surrounding areas, to join our “80 not out” celebration.
Special thanks to Bert and Carole Pearce and family members for the organisation of the major part of the very successful day. A great day for Nuneaton ctc Cycle Club. A day to remember!

Saturday 11th September 2011. A sparse turnout this weekend – five in all. The weather was overcast but dry as we started out northwards.
Chris led the band along the Weddington Road and then along the Weddington Way towards Higham on the Hill. Leicestershire churches were open this weekend as part of the heritage week so it seemed appropriate to sample a little of our religious culture over the border in Leicestershire.
St Peter’s C of E in Higham was the first stop, tucked away down a little lane on the left just before the school. The church was decked out with a huge amount of memorabilia of Higham and its inhabitants. Chris lives in the village and used to wind the church clock there and he spotted a picture of the bell ringing team of Higham from the 1920s. This photo usually languishes in the tower itself so it deserved an airing.
After a few minutes look we moved on to Stoke Golding – there’s a short cut between the post office and village shop that leads to the Church of St.Margaret of Antioch. This is was much quieter – only sponsored cyclists arriving to leave their names on the tally sheets. We kept getting asked to complete these visit sheets at various churches along the way which led to repeated explanations! “Sorry it’s a coincidence – we’re just having a look”.
One of the circuiting cyclists asked about a picture that showed Mary holding Jesus up to a bearded and very finely dressed individual. He was wondering who this chap was – the final decision was that it must have been Joseph. It was noticed that the exact same painting was hanging in Higham Church too and we surmised it must have been part of an ecclesiastical job lot or ‘limited print’ as they’re termed now.
From there we travelled along to Dadlington’s St.James – a rather smaller church than the other two on a bit of a hill above the Dog and Hedgehog. It’s quite a cosy little place – and feels less formal. They have a wooden ‘sentry box’ tucked in a corner with a Latin motto at the top. There were some attempts to ascertain its use. A mini-wardrobe for the vicar’s vestments was one suggestion.
After Dadders we rode along to Bosworth to have a look at their humble place. Not really much doing there so we nipped across to the Chapel down and across the road. Chapels are very different in feel to churches – a bit of plastering and more warmth.
We then elected to go and have a nice cup of whatever at the Courtyard Café where one of a group of ladies from High Wycombe took the accompanying photo.
We travelled back via the gated road and through Shenton and Higham.

Saturday 3rd September 2011. A good day for a bike ride weather wise so it was a surprise to only have a group of 7 cyclists ready to go. Obviously some of the regulars were saving themselves for Sunday’s 80k ride to celebrate 3 Club members’ 80th birthdays.
It was nice to welcome new face Dave, and after a few introductions, the group set off out of town via the ring road, Princes Street and picking up the canal towpath at the Cat Gallows bridge.
A fairly leisurely ride along the canal to Marston Junction, where unfortunately the towpath deteriorates and cyclists are advised to leave the canal and weave through the Bedworth streets to Coalpit Fields Lane where they can rejoin a reasonably surfaced towpath.
Whilst cycling through Bedworth Les and Kath both found they had punctures – taking togetherness a bit too far! With Dave’s help the problems were soon sorted and the group continued along the canal to Hawkesbury Junction where there was lots of narrow boat action on both the Coventry and Oxford canals.
The cyclists rode along Sutton Stop and turned right over the bridge, then left to follow some pleasant paths which led to the level crossing in Blackhorse Road. A short leg on the Foleshill Road and a left into School Lane took the group towards Ash Green, eventually along Hospital Lane to join Smorral Lane, and then up to Astley Lane where Les unfortunately had another flat tyre. As we were very near to our coffee stop he pushed his bike to join us at the Astley Book Farm café.
Everyone enjoyed delicious cakes and drinks at this very attractive stop before making their various ways home.

Thursday 1st September 2011. Having agreed to lead the Nuneaton CTC Cycling Club's Thursday ride, I as usual left the planning of the route and the booking of the lunch stop until the last minute, so it was with some trepidation that I set out for the meeting place at Ullesthorpe garden centre cafe for coffee.
It was a beautiful sunny morning although there was an autumnal nip in the air but it didn’t deter any of the seventeen riders who joined me. As usual there was a reluctance to leave the cafe and conversations, but once we started the ride it soon settled to a nice steady pace which took us to Ashby Parva, then onto one of the nicest lanes I have ever ridden, taking us to Dunton Basset, from where we headed towards Frolesworth, then through the Claybrooks, (Magna and Parva) to cross the Watling Street.
By this time the sun had really warmed so we took a short stop to strip off a layer or two and take a drink, then onto Monks Kirby. We were now about half way into the ride and had seen hardly any traffic apart from the odd farmer ploughing. Another indication that autumn is on its way was how all the tall roadside flowers have gone to seed and are just waiting for a good wind to distribute them, especially the Rosebay Willowherb which famously colonized the bomb sites after the second world war.
We then did loop to take us through Withybrook and back to Monks Kirby, from where we took another lovely lane to Wood Farm Brewery to celebrate Dave’s birthday with a drink and an excellent lunch. The more I ride my bicycle in the countryside, the more I appreciate what a lovely country this is and worry about what we stand to lose with the relaxing of the planning rules, that the government are proposing.(no photograph)

Saturday 13th August 2011. Just before we left the library for our usual Saturday ride we were joined by Mick who often rides with us but at present is recovering knee surgery; after a quick progress report from him ten cyclists set off on the shared path towards the Town Hall and continued towards the Cat Gallows Bridge where we joined the Coventry Canal and the excellent towpath which took us to the canal junction at Marston Lane.
At this point we were forced to divert off the canal due to the unsuitable surface ahead and we cycled through housing estates until we found Queens Street in Bedworth. At the end of this street we found the canal again and resumed our canal ride soon arriving at the attractive Sutton Stop or Hawkesbury Junction. Here we were able to to take the bridge over to the towpath of the Oxford Canal and with the canal now on our left we passed the many narrow boats moored at this popular stop and headed towards the old canalside pub known as the Elephant & Castle and under Tusses Bridge.
Although in the past we have been forced to leave the canal here, again due to a poor and usually muddy towpath surface, today we were able to benefit from recent dry conditions and decided to cycle happily on passing through peaceful countryside until we reached Stone Bridge. After pushing the bikes up to the traffic-free part of Woodway Lane we turned left and rode across Sowe Common until we reached the junction with Lentons Lane. Here we turned right on to Shilton Lane and soon arrived at our coffee stop - Hilltop Garden Centre where we were spoilt for choice with their wonderfully tempting display of cakes and pastries!
The route back to Nuneaton included a pleasant ride through the lanes to Barnacle and then on to Bulkington from where we headed home.

Thursday 11th August 2011. Fifteen riders gathered for this weeks ride at Anstey Golf Club, also to be the lunchtime destination. This clearly indicated that the ride mapped out by Bill would be a circular route.
Over tea and coffee Matt arrived with portions of his mother’s home made whiskey cake, baked for his birthday. Cake and cyclists have a magnetic attraction and very quickly only a few crumbs remained, evidence of a superior confection.
The group started slowly after being chided by Bill to exit the Club. A right and left soon saw us at Bulkington, now riding at a brisk pace with a following wind and a fairly warm day. En route to Wolvey we passed a large domestic wind generator spinning fast in the breeze.
The familiar roads led through Wolvey, Wolvey Heath, and, after crossing the Cloudsley Bush Road, Copston Magna via the quiet undulating lane. The final rise terminates at High Cross, where great care was taken crossing the ever busy A5.
By now many of the group had removed jackets as the weather steadily improved. Still outward bound, a right turn at Claybrook Magna signalled the turning point of the ride. The next village was Monks Kirby, and after passing the impressive church, the long uphill drag caused a lull in the conversations.
A fairly easy descent soon saw the group passing Withybrook and on by a back lane towards Shilton. This lane provides a roller coaster ride of fast descents and uphill slogs. Once reaching Shilton the riders singled out down the busy main road to retrace their route to Anstey to enjoy their promptly served and welcome lunch.

Saturday 21st May 2011. Another perfect day for cycling and 15 eager riders met at Nuneaton Library for their weekly ride.
The group set off over Leicester Road bridge and out of town via the Weddington Walk, which is looking very good at the moment. Picking up Ann at Higham on the Hill, the cyclists rode through the familiar pretty Fenn Lanes taking in Wykin, Stoke Golding, Dadlington and Sutton Cheney.
The moderate pace and quiet lanes gave plenty of chance for chatting and catching up on news – particularly for several members of the group recently returned from a cycle tour of Southern Italy.
Out of Sutton Cheney our band took the gated road into Market Bosworth before turning into Shenton Lane for the homeward journey towards Higham on the Hill.
The Spring Fair at Higham School was the refreshment stop this week, and what a splendid one it proved to be – excellent stalls, displays and entertainment and a terrific choice of cakes and snacks to keep satisfy the hungriest cyclist. The church also was hosting a display of arts and crafts of a very high standard with many artist demonstrating their work.
A very pleasant end to an enjoyable ride.

19th May 2011.Thursday's ride this week started at Ansty Golf Club and twenty-one riders were at the ready to ride, leaving the club and turning left , going under the M6 Motorway then first right passing the Roll Royce factory to the T Junction.
We turned right and rode for about quarter of a mile to reach the Bridle Track which links Brandon and Coombe Abbey Park. This track called Centenary Way has been improved by the local authorities over recent years by coppicing the trees alongside the path to allow sunlight to penetrate and dry the surface which was then covered with shale. This path is well used by both horse riders, cyclists and walkers.
From there we rode through Brandon and onto Wolston, a pretty village where a lovely stream runs alongside us down the Main Street. Leaving Wolston we turned right and left towards Stretton on Dunsmore taking care crossing the busy A.45.
Stretton on Dunsmore is another delightful village to ride through, passing the village shop and pub to take the next right and climb the hill out of the village and through another narrow lane to reach Frankton and Bourton on Dunsmore using the straight mile on B.4453 which led us back to the A45 where we crossed to Lawford Heath.
We travelled on through Church Lawford, passing the sad site of the closed Wyvale Garden Centre which used to be a useful coffee stop, then Kings Newnam and onto Brinklow for lunch at the Bulls Head. We were made very welcome and had a very sociable lunch with our fellow riders. After lunch riders usually make their own way home as some of our riders come from Leicestershire and Rugby as well as Nuneaton.

Christina's Ride (19th March 2011).Sunshine, steam and sheep!
At last, the first Saturday ride to take place in glorious sunshine!
We took the Weddington Trail out of Nuneaton, spotting the first blossom on the trees above lines of nodding daffodils. Weaving our way through the Fenn Lanes, we stopped briefly to look across the fields at the widely believed, more probably site of the Battle of Bosworth. At Upton, we decided to ride on and include the loop to Sibson and Sheepy Parva, dropping back towards Shenton along Tinsel Lane.
We were rewarded at Shenton Station by the sight of the steam train, the sharp whistle and hiss of the engine; followed by clouds of steam shooting up into the blue sky. Taking the track along the side of the railway and up through Ambion Wood, we could see the sheep in the adjoining field with the first new born lambs of spring.
At the Tithe Barn we enjoyed our coffee and cake in the sunshine, sitting in the enclosed courtyard before making our way back to Nuneaton.