Jersey Channel Isles, July 1970. Dartmoor October 1970
Sunday 4/1/70, 13.30 – 18.50, 62 miles
Crewe, Weston, repaired puncture just before Betley, but the tyre was also burst so stopped again to put in a piece of canvas under the hole, OK now and on to Madeley Heath, Keele (15.10), service station by M6,Wrinehill, Whitmore, Cock Inn, Milmeece, Sturbridge, Chebsey, Great Bridgeford, Stafford (16.00), A34 Stone, Darlaston, Meaford power station, Tittensor Chase, Trentham Gardens, Handford, Newcastle, had a look at a cycle shop there (17.35) then lights on but had trouble with dynamo pick up wheel, tightened it the OK. On to Keele, started feeling the cold at Wrinehill, Madeley Heath, Betley, Weston, Macon Way, Crewe. South west wind, Ground fog from Stone. Good speed most of the way from Stafford (30 miles)
Wind south westerly, no rain, frosty but sunny. Ground fog from Stone to Newcastle.
Sunday 11/1/70, 10.10 – 20.10, 96 miles
Crewe, Wybunbury, Audlem, Market Drayton (11.30), Tern Hill, Hodnet, Shawbury, Battlefield, Shrewsbury (13.00), Bayston Hill, Dorrington, Little Stretton, Church Stretton, Cardingmill Valley (14.50), All Stretton, Dorrington, Bayston Hill, Shrewsbury (16.20), Battlefield, Hadnell,, Preston, Prees Heath, Whitchurch (18.30), Burleydam, Sound, Nantwich (19.30), Wistaston, town centre, Crewe.
Sunday 18/1/70, 50 miles
Crewe, Warmingham, Middlewich, Goostrey, Jodrell Bank, Redesmere, Broken Cross, Alderley Edge, Wilmslow, Ringway tunnel, Styal, Altrincham, Bowden. ACCIDENT! Taken to Altrincham hospital by a driver who stopped. Uncle Ken, Mum and Aunt Lil came to the hospital and took me home. Bike in very bad condition.
Sunday 8/2/70, 44 miles
Crewe, Bradfield Green, Church Minshull, Wades Green, Highwayside, Bunbury Locks, Spurstow, Peckforton, Bulkeley Hill (stopped for a one hour walk), Ridley, Acton, Nantwich, Crewe. First ride since 30/3/69 on BSA while Carlton being repaired. Seat and handlebars need a lot of adjustment, should have done it before going out but endured it for the day, face ache too!
Saturday 14/2/70, 60 miles
Crewe, Bradfield Green, Middlewich Road, Nantwich, Barbridge, Tiverton, Beeston Castle, Tattenhall, Gatesheath, Bruera, Aldford (short walk), Eaton estate (another walk), Huntington, Chester, Tarvin, Tarporley, Barbridge, Acton, Nantwich, Crewe
Sunday 15/2/70, 40 miles
Crewe, Warmingham, Middlewich, Three Greyhounds, Rudheath, Goostrey, Peover Hall (One hour walk around hall and church), Knutsford, Tabley, over motorway, Lostock Gralam, Broken Cross, King Street, Middlewich, Warmingha, White Lion, Crewe
Saturday 21/2/70, 66 miles
Crewe, Elworth, Sandbach, Illidge Green, Bears Head, Holmes Chapel, Rudheath, Knutsford (45 minutes there), Mobberley, Morley Green, Ringway tunnel (half hour at flight viewing area), Altrincham, Mere, Lostock Gralam, King Street, Middlewich, Warmingham, White Lion, Crewe
Wednesday 25/2/70, 17.00 – 21.45, 46 miles
First night ride of the year. Crewe, Hassal lanes, Astbury, Little Moreton Hall, Red Bull crossroads, Kidsgrove, Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley, Stoke, Fenton, Stoke, Hanley, Burslem, Tunstall, Kidsgrove, Red Bull crossroads, Astbury, Hassall lanes, Crewe
Saturday 28/2/70, 13.30 – 19.00, 60 miles
Crew, Old Park, Weston, Betley, Wrinehill, Checkley, Doddington Pool, Woore, Knighton, Market Drayton, Sutto, Tern Hill (watching gliders), Stoke on Tern, Hodnet Hall and gardens, Tern Hill, Market Drayton, Shavington Park, Adderley, Audlem, Hankelow, Doddington Pool, Wybunbury, Shavington, Crewe Road, Crewe Green, Hungerford Road, Crewe
Friday 6/3/70, 18.30 – 22.50, 40 miles
Crewe, Hassall, Little Moreton Hall, Red Bull crossroads, Goldenhill, Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley, Newcastle, Keele, Betley, Weston, Crewe. Snow when I got back later. First ride on repaired Carlton Corsa Strada since accident on 18/1/70
Saturday 7/3/70, 14.15 – 19.15, 60 miles
Thick snow today. Crewe, Church Minshull, Wettenhall, Winsford, Little Budworth, Oulton Park, Oakmere, Delamere, Hatchmere, Overton Hill, Frodsham, Hatchmere, Delamere, Oakmere, Winsford, Middlewich, Warmingham, Merlin, Crewe
Despite the snow, not too cold and was sunny
Thursday 12/3/70, 17.40 – 22.30, 55 miles
Crewe, Sandbach, Congleton, North Rode, Bosley, Rushton, Leek, Longsdon, Endon, Burslem, Hanley, Stoke, Hanley, Burslem, Tunstall, Goldenhill, Red Bull crossroads, Alsager, Crewe Green, Edleston Road, Earle Street, Crewe
Saturday 14/3/70, 13.40 – 20.10, 6.5 hours, 85 miles
Crewe, Betley, Keele, Newcastle, Trentham, Tittensor, Stone, Sandon, Trent Valley, Colwich, Rugeley, Hednesford Road, Pye Green, Cannock Chase, Weeping Cross, Stafford, A34, Stone, Trentham, Necastle, Keele, Betley, Weston, Crewe
Lights on at Newcastle
Sunday 15/3/70, 14.00 – 20.30, 6.5 hours, 80 miles
Crewe, Old Park, Barthomley, Audley, Scot Hay, Newcastle, Trentham, Longton, Blythe Bridge, Tean, Croxden Abbey, Alton, Alton Towers (16.30 – 17.30) not yet open, Churnet Valley, Oakamoor, Hawksmoor, Cheadle, Blythe Bridge, Longton (Roy Swinnerton’s), Hanley, Burslem, Tunstall, Goldenhill, Red Bull crossroads, Alsager, Haslington, Hungerford Road, Crewe
Thursday 19/3/70, 17.40 – 22.40, 5 hours, 65 miles, 13mph
Crewe, Bradfield Green, Church Minshull, Wettenhall, Alpraham, Tilstone Bank, Bunbury, Spurstow, Peckforton, Peckforton Bridge, Burwardsley, Harthill, Royal Oak, Bolesworth grounds (lighting up time), Tattenhall, Milton Green, Bruera, Saighton, Chester, Tarvin, Tarporley, Middlewich Road, West Street, Crewe
Sunday 22/3/70, 13.00 – 20.00, 75 miles
Crewe, Alsager, Red Bull crossroads, Mow Cop, Cheshire Close, Biddulph, Biddulph Moor, Rudyard Lake, Rushton, Gun Hill, Danebridge, Wincle, Wildboarclough, Macclesfield Forest (circuit around Toot Hill), Stanley Arms, Cat & Fiddle, Macclesfield, Gawsworth Hall, Marton, Somerford, Sandbach, Hungerford Road, Crewe. On the stone at the side of the road at Toot Hill: “Walter Smith 1872 – 1949 Historian of Macclesfield and lover of the countryside. A tribute from his friends. “We clamb the hill thegither” (Robert Burns)
Friday 27/3/70 Good Friday, 09.10 – 21.40, 124 miles
Slightly cold and strong north west wind, hailstones and showers at Bridgenorth.
Crewe, Wybunbury, Woore, Knighton, Market Drayton(10.20), Hinstock, Newport (11.00), Lilleshall Hill (circuit), Lilleshall Abbey, Wellington, The Wrekin (stop for lunch 13.00), Little Wenlock, Coalbrookdale, Ironbridge (13.30), Linley, Bridgenorth ( 14.20 – 15.40), Morville, Much Wenlock (16.30), Broseley, Ironbridge (17.15 eating stop), Coalbrookdale, Little Wenlock, The Wrekin (18.10), The Ercall, Wellington (18.30), Waters Upton, Great Bolas, Stoke on Tern, Sutton, Market Drayton (20.00, lighting up time), Adderley, Audlem (20.45), Wybunbury, Shavington, Gresty Road, Macon Way, Crewe
Monday 30/3/70 Easter Monday, 08.08 – 21.05, 85 miles
(Train out and return, Birmingham (09.06) – Birmingham 09.30 – 20.50) Birmingham, Hampton in Arden (10.30), Meriden (10.45), Coventry (11.15 – 12.30),
Godiva: “Then she rode back clothed on with chastity. She took the tax away and built herself an everlasting name” (Tennyson). Kenilworth, Warwick (13.30 – 14.30 lunch at the market cafe), Leamington Spa (14.45 – 15.30), Wellesbourne (15.45), Stratford on Avon(16.00 – 18.00), Shottery, Warwick (18.40), Kenilworth Castle (19.00), Coventry (19.20), Sheldon, Birmingham (20.50) Birmingham 20.59, Crewe 21.57 by train.
Friday 3/4/70, 18.00 – 21.10, 42 miles, 14mph
Sunny, strong north west wind. Crewe, Wistaston, Nantwich, Acton, Chorley, Cholmondeley, , Bickerton, Bickerton Hill, Broxton, Bolesworth , Bickerton, Gallantry Bank, Bulkeley, Faddiley, Acton, Nantwich, Wistaston, Crewe. Nantwich Crown Inn, horses and cart seen on Acton road
Saturday 4/4/70, 14.40 – 19.40, 50 miles
Crewe, Winterley, Hassall lanes, Astbury, Little Moreton Hall, Springbank, Mow Cop (15.20 – 16.00), Cheshire Close, Biddulph, Poolfold, Biddulph Moor, Rudyard Lake (17.00), Bosley Reservoir, Minns, Congleton, Little Moreton Hall, Rode Pool, Alsager, Crewe. Rode with a cyclist from Sheffield at Buglawton. Strong north west wind, sunny, not too cold
Sunday 5/4/70, 09.15 – 20.15, 130 miles, 11 hours
Crewe, Wistaston, Nantwich, Acton, Wrenbury, Marbury, Wirswall, Whitchurch (10.50), Prees Heath, Prees, Preston Brockhurst, Clive, Myddle, Baschurch (12.30), Milford, Great Ness, Wilcot, Pentre, Melverley, Crew Green (13.10 – 13.30), Breidden Hill, Trewern, Buttington, Leighton Parks, Forden (15.00), Welshpool (15.30 – 16.00), Breidden Hill, Middletown, Rowton, Cardeston (started to rain, heavy, all the way home) Ford, Shrewsbury (17.00) (strong wind behind me despite the rain), Battlefield, Hadnall, Preston Brockhurst, Prees, Prees Heath, Whitchurch (18.55 – 19.15), Burleydam, Sound, Nantwich (20.00 lights on), Wistaston, Crewe.
Saturday 11/4/70, 85 miles
Crewe, Sandbach, Congleton, North Rode, Bosley, Allgreave, Gradbach, Back Flash, Flash, Grinlow, Axe Edge, Buxton, Long Hill, Errwood Reservoir, Goyt Valley, Cat & Fiddle, Macclesfield, Congleton, Sandbach, Crewe
Sunday 12/4/70, 09.50 – 13.30, 35 miles
Crewe, Nantwich, Whitchurch, Prees Heath, Whitchurch, Nantwich, Crewe
Wednesday 15/4/70, 18.00 – 23.00, 70 miles, 14mph
Crewe, Church Minshull, Middlewich, Winsford, Over (18.45), Little Budworth, Oulton Park, Oakmere, Hogshead, Delamere, Hatchmere, Manley, Dunham, Hoole, Chester (20.50 – 21.20), Tarvin, Tarporley (10.05), Reaseheath, Middlewich Road, West Street, Crewe
Saturday 18/4/70, 13.30 – 21.30, 104 miles, 13mph
Crewe, Wrenbury, Whitchurch (15.00), Hanmer (15.30), Overton, Erbistock (Boat Inn by the Dee, took a photo), Ruabon, Newbridge, A5 to Llangollen (17.40 – 18.00), Horseshoe Pass, Llandegla (19.00), Rydtalog, Leeswood, Broughton, Saltney, Chester (19.45), drink at Stamford Bridge, Tarvin, Tarporley, Nantwich (21.20), Crewe
Sunday 19/4/70, 10.15 – 21.30, 116 miles
Crewe, Whitchurch, Shrewsbury (12.50 – 13.45), Longsden, Pulverbatch, Ratlinghope (15.30), Portway summit (16.15), Church Stretton (16.30 – 17.30), Dorrington, Shrewsbury (17.45 – 18.30), drink at Battlefield (18.45), Whitchurch (20.20), Nantwich, Wistaston, Crewe
Saturday 25/4/70, 40 miles
Crewe, Barthomley, Audley, A500, Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley (2 hours), Burslem, Tunstall, Goldenhill, Red Bull crossroads, Little Moreton Hall (stop), Congleton, Radnor, Wall Hill, Smallwood, Hassall lanes, Haslington, Crewe
Wednesday 29/4/70, 17.15 – 22.30, 70 miles, 13.33 mph
Sunny, bright, warm, north west wind, Crewe, Sandbach, Holmes Chapel, Knutsford (18.25 – 18.40), Tatton Park road, Rostherne (19.00), Bollington, Lymm, Walton Bridge, Daresbury, Frodsham (20.40), Hatchmere, Delamere (lighting up time 21.10), Oakmere, Winsford (21.30), Middlewich, Middlewich road, Bradfield Green, North Street, Henry Street, Crewe
Saturday 2/5/70, 13.30 – 20.30, 82 miles
Crewe, Warmingham, Middlewich, Peover, Toft, Knutsford, Tatton Park (2½ hours there, May Day event), Rostherene, Mollington, Lymm, Warburton, Toll Bridge, Warrington (17.30), Runcorn Bridge, High Leigh, Northwich, Davenham, Middlewich Road, Crewe
Sunday 3/5/70, 11.00 – 21.30, 110 miles
Shorts weather. Train out to Birmingham. Birmingham, Emden, Meridan, Berkswell, Tile Hill, Kenilworth, Leamington Spa, Warwick (1 hour), Fosse Way, Compton Verney, Kineton, Edge Hill, (Into Oxfordshire) Banbury, (1 hour), Edge Hill, Stratford on Avon (1 hour), Henley in Arden, Wooton Wawen, Birmingham New Street
Sunday 10/5/70, 10.15 – 20.45, 122 miles
Crewe, Shavington, Wybunbury, Audlem, Market Drayton (11.30), Tern Hill, Wellington, The Wrekin (13.00), Ironbridge (13.30), Broseley, Bridgenorth (14.15 – 15.30), Much Wenlock (16.00 – 16.30), Cross Houses, Lord Hill monument, Shrewsbury (17.50), Battlefield (1805 – 18.20), Hadnell, Preston Brockhurst, Prees Heath, Ash, Burleydam, Sound, Nantwich, Wistaston, Crewe
Thursday 14/5/70, 17.45 – 22.45, 50 miles
No wind, sunny, warm, shorts weather. Crewe, Wistaston, Nantwich, Wrenbury, canal lift (photo), Cholmondeley park and grounds, Egerton, Bickerton, Harthill, Burwardsley, Peckforton Bridge, Peckforton, Beeston Castle and grounds (lighting up time), Tiverton, Calveley, Nantwich, Crewe
Saturday 16/5/70, 13.15 – 19.45, 84 miles, 6.5 hours
Crewe, Wistaston, Nantwich, Calveley, Tiverton, Beeston Castle, Newton, Gatesheath, Bruera, Aldford, Eaton Hall and grounds, Eccleston, Handbridge, Chester (1 hour), Hoole, Dunham, Helsby, Overton Hill ( ½ hour), Hatchmere, Delamere, Winsford, Clive Green, Warmingham, Groby Road, Crewe
Sunday 17/5/70, Whit Sunday, 23.45 – 21.00, 100 miles, 9.25 hours
09.35 train to Birmingham. Birmingham, Selly Oak, Alvechurch, Ickneild Street, Bedley, Studley, Wixford, Exhall, Grafton, Binton, Welford, Ickneild Street, Buckle Street, Willersley, Chipping Camden, Broadway Tower, Broadway, Mickleton, Stratford, Wooton Wawen, Henley in Arden, Birmingham. 23.20 Inter City to Crewe 00.30
Sunday 24/5/70, 08.40 – 23.20, 144 miles, 13.7 hours
Crewe, Nantwich, Tiverton (1st stop), Good view of Beeston Castle and Peckforton Hills across the valley, sharp outlines, almost cloudless sky and very blue. At Huxley turned here for Hargreave and Waverton but took wrong turning a little furter on and passé through Gatesheath to the main road, then with a good south west wind behind me passed swiftly through Rowton into Chester ( 10.40 – 11.15) where I had my scond stop by the river. Down to shorts and went to find Sealand Road, couldn’t find this elusive road for a while but soon found the road junction at Northgate, the road sign was obliterated for some reason. Not much traffic on this road, in fact not much traffic at all this morning until I reached Flint where the expected heavy streams of cars started to flow. Along the very flat and peaceful Sealand Road and over the old Queensferry bridge there was some gliding going on over Sealand airdrome, the army headquarters. I counted 3 gliders in the air at one time as they soared over the giant John Summers factory on the reclaimed land in the Dee estuary. Another short stop at Connahs Quay to take pullover. It was quite hot now at 12.00. The traffic was showing signs of building up and I was ready to take a left turn off this notorious coast road, famous for its traffic jams, and dart up to the less busy A55, but at Bagillt most of the traffic turned off for Holywell and I decided to steer clear, in fact between Greenfield and Mostyn hardly any traffic passed me and there wasn’t one heading towards Chester. From Mostyn there was a good view across to the Wirral shore, shining brightly across the glaring Dee Estuary, then through the shadow of the trees to Ffynnongroew (Fiff-in-an-grew as a local Welshman told me) then past the Point of Ayr colliery and Talacre to reach the coast. The strong wind hit me suddenly head on, having been protected coming up the estuary by the Clwyd range but now and all the way to Abergele the strong wind continued. I didn’t stop at Prestatyn but continued on to Rhyl and took the first turning for the long promenade. I walked at first along the wall but rode on towards the pier building and walked around the promenade from there. I spent an hour in Rhyl until 14.10, only my 4th stop so that I had the time to go on to Llandudno. It was very warm now. I stopped on the Clwyd Bridge to look at the harbour and at the crowded beach. I tidied up a bit then rode on through Kinmel Bay along the flat and windy road to Pensarn and Abergele, no stop here. Between the 12 miles from Prestatyn to Abergele I noticed quite a few of Ron Kitchin’s inventions, the social cycle which was 2 bicycles fixed together side by side, one long seat connecting the two and a long bar connecting the two for handlebars. The bottom brackets were no connected and there were separate chainwheels and pedals, four wheels, two at the front, two at the back and no gears. As the afternoon wore on it got hotter and by now was easily the hottest day of the year so far with temperatures well up in the eighties Fahrenheit From Abergele I had two choices; the A55 ‘motorway’ to Colwyn Bay or the old road past Gwrych Castle and through Llandullas. I took this route Over the River Dulas though; the road meets the A55 offering no alternative. It meant a hard climb for a few miles to Old Colwyn and past a very large quarry with a pool at the bottom, the red rock on the sheer walls covered with seagulls. There was a good view of the Wales coastline looking back, and the Wirral Peninsula, now 40 miles away was very clear in the distance. I could make out more distant country, probably as far a Bickerton Hills 60 miles away. At the top of the hill after a few more miles, emerged the Welsh coastline before me and I had to stop at the top at the viewpoint to admire the sweep of Rhos Bay, which includes Colwyn Bay, stretched out below like a miniature village. There is the Little Orme but Llandudno was hidden under its height. The Great Orme too, jutting out into the blue sea, and over this I could make out Anglesey. The Menai Bridge, I heard later, was on fire today, set on fire by Welsh extremists. The fire was under control a few hours later but the damage runs to 1000’s of pounds. The extremists were caught. This means that Anglesey was cut off that day and could only be approached by sea. The Carnedds, probably Snowdon itself could be seen because it was a very clear day. After a short rest and only the 5th stop, it was down the steep hill into Colwyn Bay and I took the first turning for the promenade, downhill even more. Under the arched railway bridge and past the gardens onto the promenade. The road here is narrow when cars are parked alongside, and at one point a local bus had some difficulty getting past cars moving, in front of me. I arrived at Colwyn Bay at 14.50 and stayed until 15.15. The promenade is very wide here and it would be a good idea to make the road wider so that more traffic could drive along the bay. I had part of my lunch here before moving on, riding along the promenade to Rhos on Sea then to Penrhyn Bay, leaving the coast for a little while to climb the 400 foot in a quarter mile to the top of the Little Orme road. It is marked by the lighted sign “Llandudno welcomes you” and must be a pleasing sign to night drivers and with the red lights below. Down the other side and past the Hydro and its flags along the road then a great view of Llandudno, the bay and the Great Orme in front. The clear-cut outline of green and grey of the Great Orme that thrusts out into the sea and a mile away from the promenade, which starts here and ends at the foot of the Orme. The water between was silvery and glistening in the bright sun. The view from here was absolutely terrific. After a hard climb to the top of the Little Orme I was rewarded with a good downhill ride and along the promenade into Llandudno. I walked along the shore to the Pavilion by the pier then through the town. I bought a snack at a café in Mochdre Street, the main road, and ate my sandwiches that Mum had made. It was 15.45 now. I arrived at 15.30 and looked around the town and the Great Orme for 2 hours. After lunch I rode towards Happy Valley and stopped just before the tall bridge. I timed it nicely; the Manxman ship from the Isle of Man was just steaming in to the pier. It was a magnificent sight to see the large boat docking. I took a photograph. I paid my toll (one penny) to cycle around the Great Orme on the most beautiful marine drive, probably in the country. At this point it looked much the same as cycling around Torbay, indeed the atmosphere, the sun and the warmth and scenery made it seem like that. The only fault was I knew I was in North Wales! I was going to cycle right around the headland to look at Gogarth and the abbey on the West Shore but I didn’t have time. I decided to climb the hairpin bends, four in all, to the Orme summit. I reached St Tudno’s church but then rounding a bend the wind made it impossible to ride so I got off and walked to the top.
Colwyn Bay, A55, St Asaph, Rhualtt (stop), (traffic chaos from Rhuallt to Halkyn – 12 miles, overtook between cars), Hawarden (20.45), changed to warmer clothes, Chester (21.20), Littleton (Lighting up time 21.30), Tarporley, Nantwich, Middlewich Road, Crewe. Trouble with lights on the way home. Both went off.
Tuesday 26/5/70, 11.00 – 21.00, 114 miles, 10 hours
Train from Crewe 09.06 to Birmingham 10.06. Left Birmingham at 11.00, Alcester 12.10, Wixford, Broom, Bidford, Cleeve Prior, Evesham (14.00 – 14.30), Pershore (15.00 – 15.30), Bredon, Tewkesbury (16.00 – 16.30), Teddington Hands, Broadway (17.30 – 18.00), Stratford on Avon (19.15, didn’t stop), Henley in Arden (20.00), Solihull, Birmingham (21.00). 21.20 train to Crewe, 22.20, home at 22.50
Saturday 30/5/70, 13.10 – 21.10, 104 miles, 13mph
Strong south west wind. Crewe, Nantwich, Tarporley, Tarvin, Guilden Sutton, Mickle Trafford, Stoak, Whitby, Hooton, Willaston, Clatterbridge, Oxton, Bidston Hill, Moreton, Hoylake (17.15 – 17.45), Heswall, Chester (19.15), Stamford Bridge ( ½ hour), Tarvin, Tarporley, Nantwich, Crewe
Sunday 31/5/70, 09.40 – 00.15, 150 miles, 14.5 hours LONGEST RIDE to date
Crewe, Betley, Keele, Newcastle, Trentham, Longton, Tean Station (11.30 – 12.15 watched Milk Race pass at 12.10), Uttoxeter (12.50), Abbots Bromley, Needwood, Burton on Trent (13.50), Derby (14.30, A52 to Kilburn, Belper (19.30), Ashbourne (20.30), Weaver Hills (lighting up time 21.00), Werrington (22.15), Hanley, Burslem, Tunstall, Kidsgrove, Alsager, Crewe
Saturday 6/6/70, 13.40 – 21.15, 74 miles, 7.5 hours
Crewe, Winterley, Sandbach, Congleton, Gawsworth, Macclesfield (14.45), Hursfield, Cat & Fiddle, Axe Edge, Flash Bar, Longnor, Sheen, Hartington, Hulme End, Wetton, Manifold Valley, Warslow, Mermaid Inn (19.30), Thorncliff, Meerbrook, Gun Hill, Rushton, Bosley, Congleton, Sandbach, Crewe
Sunday 7/6/70, 09.40 – 21.40, 134 miles, 12 hours
Crewe, Nantwich, Acton (10.10), Barbridge, Tarporley, Tarvin (11.10), Chester (11.20 – 11.40), stopped for a drink at the café by the river, Broughton (12.00), rode up the Cat Hole, Moel Fammau (lunch 13.20 – 13.45, chatted with a cycling group there), Ruthin (14.10), Denbigh, St Asaph, Rhuddlan, Rhyl (1515 – 17.00), along seafront to Prestatyn, Talacre, Mostyn, Greenfield, St Winifred’s Well, Holywell, Ewloe, Hawarden, Chester (20.30 – 20.45), Tarvin, Tarporley, Nantwich, Crewe
Saturday 13/6/70, 13.40 – 20.40, 65 miles
Crewe, Hassall, Rode Heath, Curch Lawton, Mow Cop (14.45), Biddulph Moor, Rudyard Lake (½ hour), Gun Hill, Swythamley, Roach End, Back Roaches, Flash Bar, Axe Edge, Cat & Fiddle (18.00 – 18.30), Macclesfield, Chelford, Jodrell Bank, Holmes Chapel, Sandbach, Crewe
Sunday 14/6/70, 11.30 – 21.40, 85 miles
Train , Crewe 09.33 to Birmingham 11.10. Left Birmingham 11.30, A456 Halesowen, Clent Hills (12.30 – 13.30), Bellbroughton, Chaddesley, Droitwich (14.30), Worcester (14.45 – 15.45), A449 to Great Malvern (½ hour), West Malvern, Worcester Beacon (rode to top, windy, had lunch), Wyche Cutting, Great Malvern (18.30 – 2 ½ hours round), Worcester (19.05), Droitwich, Bromsgrove, Lickey Hills, Northfield (21.20), A38 back to Birmingham (21.40). Train from Birmingham 22.20 to Crewe at 22.30.
Friday 19/6/70, 18.30 – 21.30, 35 miles
Crewe, Leighton, Church Minshull, Wettenhall, Oulton Park, Little Budworth, White Hall, Oakmere, Winsford, Middlewich, Warmingham, Crewe
Saturday 20/6/70, 13.00 – 21.50, 90 miles
Crewe, Wistaston, Nantwich, Faddiley, Ridley, Bickerton (14.00), Farndon, Wrexham, Coed Poeth, Bwlchewyn, Cryn-y-Brain path, Horseshoe Pass, Vale Crucis Abbey, Llangollen (18.30 – 19.00), Ruabon, Overton, Bangor on Dee, Worthenbury, Shocklach, Tilston, Bickerton, Faddiley, Nantwich, Wistaston, Crewe
Sunday 21/6/70, 10.00 – 21.15, 116 miles
Crewe, Nantwich Road, Hassall lanes, Brownlow, Wall Hill, Somerford, Marton, Redesmere (11.30), Macclesfield (12.00), Rainow, Whaley Bridge, Chapel en le Frith, Rushup Edge, Winnats Pass (13.45 – 14.15), Castleton, Hope, York Bridge, Ladybower, Derwent Dam, Ladybower (16.10), Snake Pass, Glossop (17.30), Marple, Hazel Grove (18.30), Woodford, Alderley Edge, Monks Heath, Chelford (19.30), Jodrell Bank, Holmes Chapel, Sandbach, Haslington, Hungerford Road, Crewe
Sunday 28/6/70, 09.30 – 21.15, 135 miles
Very strong south west wind, a little rain, fairly warm,. Crewe, Nantwich, Faddiley, (cycle race at Ridley, stopped to watch), Bickerton, Broxton, Farndon (11.30 – 11.50), Eyton, Ruabon, Trevor, Vale of Llangollen viaduct (13.10), Llangollen (13.30), A5 to Corwen (lunch, 14.15), Cynwyd, Llandrillo, Bodwen, Bala (16.10 – 17.10), Llangollen (18.20), Trevor, Ruabon, Overton, Cloy, Worthenbury, Shocklach, Tilston, Bickerton, Ridley, Faddiley (20.50), Burland, Beambridge, Nantwich (21.00), Wistaston, Macon Way, Crewe
Friday 10/7/70, 11.00 – 18.00, 30 miles
St Helier, St Aubin (1 hour), St Brelades beach (12.30 – 13.00), Beauport, Corbiere and lighthouse (photos), Petit, Orange, red Houses, Airport, Le Braye, Ouens Bay, l’Etacq, Grosnez, (½ hour, photos), Plemont (1 hour on beach), Pontins holiday camp, Greve de Lecq (½ hour), St Mary’s church, C103, Devil’s Hole (photo, ½ hour), Sorel, St Mary’s, St Peter’s valley, German Underground Hospital, St Matthew’s, Victoria Avenue, St Helier. Got back 15 minutes before tea!
Saturday 11/7/70, 19.15 – 22.15, 30 miles
St Helier, St Peter’s Valley, St Ouens Manor, Leoville, Plemont Bay, coast route to l’Etacq (dusk), la Saline, Lewis Tower (dark now), Five Mile Road, le Braye, Airport, Red Houses, Mont Soh’er, lanes to St Aubin (illuminations),Walked along moonlit St Aubin’s Bay. Back to St Helier, moonlight over the water. Illuminations and Elizabeth Castle in St Aubin’s Bay lit up, harbour lights.
Tuesday 14/7/70, 11.00 – 18.15, 50 miles
St Helier, St Aubin (12.00), waited for rain to stop, lanes to Mont Soh’er, St Brelades, lanes to la Moye, Corbiere lighthouse, la Pulente, St Ouens Bay, St Peter’s Hill, St Mary’s church, St John’s church, Trinity, Bouley Bay, Rozel, St Catherine’s Bay and breakwater, Arcirondel, Mont Orguel (back view, photos), Gorey, Gorey Harbour, Grouville Bay, St Clement’s Church, Grouville church, Longueville, Havre des Pas, St Helier
Tuesday 14/7/70, 19.00 – 22.30, 20 miles
St Helier, Vallee des Vaux, St Saviour’s church, Five Oaks, la Houge Bie, Haufant, St Martin’s, St Catherine’s Bay, Archirondel, Gorey, Gorey Harbour (photo), dark now and no lights on the hired bike! Through Grouville Bay, la Rocq, St Clement’s, le Croc, coast road to St Helier. Had to make the most of this as hired bike must be returned tomorrow.
Saturday 15/7/70, 13.30 – 21.00, 72 miles
Crewe, Sandbach (13.40), Congleton (14.20), North Rode, Bosley, Rushton, Gun Hill (top road), Clough Head, Roaches, Ramshaw Rocks. Left bike for a walk up. Army were in training on the rocks., Buxton (17.30 – 18.30 eat and a look round), Axe Edge, Cat & Fiddle, Macclesfield, Hembury, Astle Park, (Steam rally and fete on this weekend), Jodrell Bank, Goostrey, Rudheath, Byley, Middlewich, Warmingham, Lime Tree Avenue, Crewe. Wind was strong, rain on and off but dry later. Dull day but warm.
Tuesday 18/7/70, 17.50 – 22.35, 48 miles
Crewe,Warmingham,Middlewich,Davenham,Northwich(18.40),Anderton, Comberbach, Great Budworth, Arley Hall Gardens (first time here so had a look round), Appleton, old airport near here, punctured and couldn’t repair it so rode home stuffing tyre with grass. On through Stretton, Antrobus (dark at 20.45) Great Budworth, Lostock Gralam (21.00), King Street, Middlewich (21.50), Warmingham, Crewe
Sunday 23/7/70, 08.50 – 21.50, 120 miles
Crewe, Sandbach, Holmes Chapel, Jodrell Bank, Chelford, Alderley Edge, Prestbury, Bollington, Pott Shrigley, Kettleshulme, Whaley Bridge, New Mills (12.00), Hayfield, Glossop, Longendale, Woodhead, Hayden Moor, Holme Moss, back down to Woodhead, Longendale, Glossop, Hayfield, Chapel en le Frith, Dove Holes, Buxton, Axe Edge, Cat & Fiddle, Macclesfield, Chelford, Cranage, Byley, Middlewich, Warmingham, Lime Tree Avenue, Crewe
Saturday 25/7/70, 11.00 – 21.00, 100 miles
Train at 09.06 from Crewe to Birmingham 10.06. Left Birmingham at 11.00, Solihull, Knowle, Barston (ford), Chadwick, Hatton, Warwick, lunch at market café 13.00 – 14.00, Warwick Castle and park, Moreton Morrell, Kineton, change – getting warm), Upper Tysoe, Compton Windmill, Compton Wynates, Shipston on Stour (stop), Chipping Camden (17.15 – 18.15, tea here), Mickleton, A46 from here to Stratford on Avon (19.00), no stop, need to cover 25 miles in 1 ¾ hours to Birmingham to catch the train. Arrived at 20.45, had 15 minutes to board the 21.00 train to Crewe, arrived home 22.00
Tuesday 28/7/70, 18.15 – 22.15, 50 miles
Crewe, Bradfield Green, Church Minshull, slight rain on the way to Wettenhall, Eaton, Cotebrook, Delamere, Forest trail, Yeld, YHA in forest, Hatchmere, Delamere (stop), A556 to Hogshead, Oakmere, Winsford, Clive, Wimboldsley, Minshull Vernon, Bradfield Green, Lime Tree Avenue, Crewe.
Thursday 30/7/70, 15.15 – 22.45, 72 miles
Crewe, Sandbach (a lot of traffic, market day), Congleton (16.00 – 12 miles in 45 minutes), North Rode, Bosley, Allgreave (horse treks), Dane Road, Three Shires Head (18.30), Clough Brook, Cat & Fiddle, Derbyshire Bridge - new road signs up here restricting all car traffic down in Goyt Valley, Goyt Bridge, back to Cat & Fiddle (20.00), grand sunset over Cheshire Plain, put on blue long sleeved cycling shirt as it was getting cool and I had a long descent and it was dusk at Macclesfield (21.00), Congleton, Astbury, Hassall lanes, Haslington (22.30), Crewe
Sunday 9/8/70, 09.35 – 22.35, 128 miles
Crewe, Hassall lanes, Astbury (10.15), The Cloud, Gun Hill, Meerbrook, Mermaid Inn (12.00), Warslow, Manifold Valley, (photo of Thors Cave), Wetton, Alstonfield, Alsop en le Dale, Parwich, Brassington Rocks, Cromford, Via Gellia, Matlock Bath, Heights of Abraham (15.30 – 16.30), Rowsley, Chatsworth Park (17.30 – 18.15 show on the grounds), Bakewell, Taddington, Ashwood Dale, Buxton (no stops), Axe Edge, Cat & Fiddle (20.15, cold up here now, togged up), Macclesfield (20.50), Congleton, Sandbach, Crewe
Sunday 23/8/70
Crewe 08.50, Jodrell Bank 10.05, Alderley Edge 10.35, Whaley Bridge 11.15, Hayfield 12.15, Glossop, Holme Moss
Sunday 30/8/70 10.15 – 22.15, 94 miles
Brixham 10.15, Ashburton 11.50 – 12.00, Dartmeet 13.15 – 14.00, Two Bridges 14.45 – 15.00, Yelverton 16.30, Tavistock 16.45, Two Bridges 17.45, Postbridge 18.10 – 18.30, Warren House Inn Bennetts Cross 18.40 – 18.50, Moretonhampstead 19.00 – 19.10, Bovey Tracy 19.40 – 19.50, Newton Abbot 20.50, Torquay 21.15, Paignton 21.35, Churston 22.00, Brixham 22.10, Pontins Bay View 22.15
Tuesday 1/9/70, 10.15 – 22.15, 104 miles
Brixham 10.15, Paignton 10.45 – 12.00, Torquay and Cockington 12.15 – 13.15, Teignmouth and Shaldon 13.45 – 14.30, Dawlish 15.00 – 15.20, Topsham 16.30, Exmouth 17.00 – 17.30, Budleigh Salterton 18.00 – 18.15, Newton Poppleford 19.00, Exeter 19.45 – 20.05, Great Haldon 20.25 – 20.35, Newton Abbot 20.50, Torquay 21.15, Paignton 21.30, Churston 21.50 – 22.00, Brixham 22.10, Pontins Bay View 22.15
Thursday 3/9/70, 1015 – 22.00, 90 miles
Brixham 10.15, Dartmouth, higher ferry 10.45 – 12.45, Stoke Fleming 13.00, Slapton Sands 13.15 – 13.25, Torcross 13.30 – 13.45, South Pool 14.45, Salcombe Ferry 15.15 – 15.40, Kingsbridge 16.30, Churchstow view (lunch) 17.00 – 17.20, Brixton 18.20, A38 at Plymouth 18.45, South Brent 19.30, A38 Torbay junction (food) 19.40 – 20.00, dusk at Dartington, Totnes 20.30 – 20.45, Paignton 21.15 – 21.30, Brixham 21.55, Pontins Bay View 22.00
20/9/70, 09.15 – 21.45, 116 miles
Crewe 9.15, Jodrell Bank 10.05, Chelford, Alderley Edge 10.45 – 11.10, Prestbury 11.20, Adlington, Pott Shrigley 12.20, Kettleshulme, Whaley Bridge 12.35, New Mills, Hayfield 12.55, Glossop 13.15 – 13.30, Snake Pass (lunch) 14.30 – 15.00, Ladybower Reservoir 15.20, Bamford, Hope, Castleton and Winnats Pass 15.50 – 17.15, Sparrowpit, Buxton 18.0 – 18.15, Cat & Fiddle 18.40 – 18.50, Macclesfield 19.10, Gawsworth, Marton, Somerford, Sandbach 20.50, Crewe 21.30
Sunday 27/9/90, 09.45 – 22.15, 124 miles
Crewe, Audlem, Market Drayton, Tern Hill, Waters Upton, Wellington, The Wrekin (stop to eat), Buildwas, Much Wenlock, Wenlock Edge, Wilderhope, Church Stretton, Cardingmill Valley, Dorrington, Shrewsbury (lighting up time at 19.15), Preston, Prees Heath, Whitchurch, Nantwich, Wistaston, Sydney, Hungerford Road, Crewe
Today was an indication that summer was over and winter round the corner. Fog and rain on high ground. It only cleared when it got dark.
Tuesday 29/9/70, 18.20 – 21.05, 30 miles
Crewe, Church Minshull, Wettenhall, Oulton Park (dark now), Little Budworth, Over, Winsford, Stanhope, Wimboldsley, Bradfield Green, Marshfield Bank, West Street, Queen Street, Crewe
Sunday 4/10/70, 10.00 – 22.20, 116 miles
Crewe, Wistaston, Nantwich, Acton, Chorley, No Mans Heath, Malpas (11.30), Worthenbury (11.50), Holly Bush, Overton (lunch 12.20 – 12.40), St Martins, Gobowen, Oswestry (13.20 stop to eat), Llansyllin, Llanrhaider (15.15), Pistyll Rhaidr (16.00), walked up to the top of the falls, lunch there and a look round, Back to Llanrhaidr with the wind pushing from behind, left there at 17.30, walked up some of the steeper roadsover to Glyn Cieriog. Fast down to Llanarmon, Pandy (dusk and marvellous sight of birds gathering overhead – migration?), Chirk (19.15 dark now), St Martins, Overton (20.20), Bangor on Dee, Worthenbury, Malpas, Hampton Heath, Bickerton, Ridley, Acton, Nantwich (22.00), Sydney, Crewe
Friday 9/10/70
Train from Crewe 16.30, Stafford, Birmingham 17.20, change here for Plymouth train. Only just made it into the guards van with the bike when the train pulled out – trouble with my bags in the rush. Next stop Cheltenham 19.20, I was in a first class carriage from Birmingham as there were no sets in the second class and I had the excuse of being near the bike in the guards van next to the first class seats – also I had my free pass! It was dark now, through Gloucester and Bristol, ½ hour delay 20.00, Taunton, Exeter, the moonlit Exe Estuary and the lights of Exmouth across the water. Straight through Teignmouth, next stop Newton Abbot (21.45), changed here for Torbay on same platform (22.45), into Torquay at 22.50 and out on the road at 23.00. I arrived at my digs in Brixham that were very nice, a good bed and a filling breakfast, hot water in bedroom. The bike was safely locked away in the back yard.
Saturday 10/10/70
Out at 10.00 and had a look around Brixham then up hill to the Pontins camps Wall Park and Bay View, along Heath Road to the nearest flatlets, very modern, well spaced out with marvellous views across the bay. Well laid out gardens and very clean. Walked through to Wall Park Road. Last month this area was only just being built, a year ago there were no houses here). Into Wall Park, had a look around then through to Bay View, not a very clear view from here this morning because of a mist over the bay and it’s still raining on and off. It started early this morning but Sunday would be far worse! Turned right through the camp and on to Heath Road again, climbing over the gate. I bought an Agfa colour print film from the harbour (17/6d) which included processing in the cost. It was much cheaper than the Kodak for 9/2d but processing extra at 21/- (total £1/11/2d). Colour slides are more vivid when seen through a viewer. Back to the digs to get my anorak as it didn’t look as if this rain was going to stop. I decided to go to Torquay but there were very few buses as there is a bus strike today. The next bus was at 13.05 so I had lunch at a café opposite Banfields then waited in the big queue for 15 minutes for the bus, arriving in Torquay at 13.45. It was still raining but not as heavy now. The mist had lifted, but it still wasn’t clear enough to see Berry Head from here. Into town first and I had a look around the shops then around the harbour. I bought two souvineer paintings. I walked around the church area and up to Hotel Riviera to Shirley Towers. There is a magnificent view from this point and was well worth the walk up. Down to the harbour, on to the pier and to the end. I could see Berry Head and the, surprise! – the sun was shining! I wrote some post cards on the pier and the mist was clearing. The hills beyond Paignton were now clear and Haytor seemed very close. This is usually a sign of impending rain but it didn’t rain again today. After tea at 17.00 and I knew there were no buses running (last bus back was at 16.30) but it was too early to leave just yet so I walked to Paignton. It was dark now looking at the illuminations round the harbour, on the cliff walk and on Princess Pier lighting up the soft waves in Torre Sands, over Corbyn Head and in Paignton. I had a look at the stamp shops, noting the prices. There were some good bargains. I had no tea so had a snack at a café in the new shopping centre. Along to the bus station and expected to find a bus for Brixham, but half knowing there wouldn’t be one. There wasn’t so what now, walk back?
I‘d have too unless I could hitch a lift. I tried nearly every passing car but no luck. I had walked all around the bay, until at Alston only 2 miles from Brixham, a car stopped. I got into Brixham at 22.30 having started out from Torquay at 20.00. I had a look around Brixham, bought some chips then back to the digs at 23.00.
Sunday 11/10/70, 10.00 – 20.00, 50 miles
Brixham, Galmpton, Greenway, Galmpton, Stoke Gabriel, Totnes, Dartington, Staverton, Dolphin Cottage, Buckfast Abbey, Ashburton, Bickington, Newton Abbot, Netherton, Coombe Cellars, Combeteignhead, Shaldon, The Ness, Labrador, Watcombe, Torquay, Paignton, Churston, Brixham
Breakfast at 09.00, packed bike up. Heavy rain through the night and I hoped it had now stopped. Set off at 10.00 through Churston Ferrers and Galmpton then a hilly ride along the most enjoyable Devon lane seen yet, passing between high hedges and embankments and arriving at Galmpton Creek on the right then steeply down through giant woods, trees stripped of their leaves to reveal gigantic trunks, all close together for more than ½ a mile. Grand views across the calm water of the Dart upper estuary at its widest point to the Dittisham side, the ferry on the water but it wasn’t in operation. On the way back up the hill to Galmpton it started to rain. It sounded heavy coming through the trees and I took no chances. I put my new cape on, expecting the worst – and the worst came. The rain didn’t stop all day until about 18.00. At Waddeton I passed a colourful pink cottage with full thatch roof, this has to be a grand sight in the sunshine but it was still attractive in the rain, There are a lot of similar houses like this in South Devon. Past Stoke Gabriel, through the small village of Aish onto the main road before Totnes.
Down hill to the town, the rain had eased a bit but then soon started again heavier than before! Totnes and the river Dart, no activity, uphill through the town and a few shops open. Had film loaded for colour prints but took no photos today, had a look inside the church but mainly for shelter. Had some lunch in a café by the bridge, 6/3d. On to Dartington, rain really heavy now. The mill was working, should be, plenty of water, wheel almost spinning round. Over the Dart at Riverford Bridge, turned back for Staverton along a lane here, another hollow highway between the hedges. There is a station here on the Dart Valley Railway. Took a look on the platform but it was deserted, no tourists want to travel today. Over Staverton Bridge, must be a sight to see in good weather. The bridge is very old with a narrow road across, cycled back up to the main road ½ mile later, back over Riverford bridge onto the A38 and on to Buckfast Abbey along a lane and entered Dartmoor national park. Had a good look around the Abbey and its marvellous altar (15.10 – 15.30). On to Ashburton on the old road. Turned off the A38 for Newton, Dartmoor nearby but couldn’t see the tors for the mist could make out Haytor. Stopped for a while in Newton then up to Netherton, turn off on the road to Teign at Coombe Cellars, and then back up hill onto main road and into Coombe in Teignhead and past its many thatched cottages. Soon into Shaldon, dropping downhill the road runs alongside the Teign, good views across. In Shaldon, streets almost deserted and on to The Ness, nobody here either! I left the bike in the tunnel and had a look round the top of The Ness. There is a good view from the top I imagine, but couldn’t see far today. Walked through the tunnel and back to the
top of the hill to rejoin the main road. It stopped raining at last so cape off, along the coast past Labrador and back to Torbay. It was a bit misty before getting into Torquay. It wasn’t lighting up time yet but switched the lights on to be safe in bad visibility. A good fast run into Torquay (18.30 – 19.10), a short look around the harbour and the illuminations shining on the water around Torre Sands. Slowly around the bay to Corbyn Head then down into Paignton. Had a few minutes along the front then on to Churston and fast down the hill to Brixham (20.00). Today was a good ride despite the heavy rain. I had a look around Brixham afterwards. Drink at The Hole in the Wall, back to the digs at 22.30
Monday 12/10/70, 10.30 – 22.30, 80 miles Over Dartmoor
Brixham, Hillhead, Kingswear, Dartmouth, lunch stop (lower ferry), Royal Naval College, Hemborough, Halwell, Diptford, Avonwick, Ivybridge, Cornwood, Cadover, Yelverton, Princetown (tea), Two Bridges, Postbridge (dusk), Warren House Inn (dark now), Moretonhampstead, Bovey Tracey, Newton Abbot, Torquay, Paignton, Brixham.
Didn’t rain this morning. Set out for Dartmouth. Up to Higher Brixham, Hillhead then a glorious ride to the lower Dartmouth ferry at Kingswear. Bought a few post cards and freshened up before riding down to the ferry. Took a photo of the ferry coming across, the first with a colour print film. The light wasn’t bright but it wasn’t too bad. On to the ferry, good view out to sea past the two castles on either side of the estuary guarding the entrance to the harbour. Got across without paying, this happened last time on the higher ferry last month, just got waved on. Spent the morning in Dartmouth. Bought a few souvineers such as booklets about Dartmoor. Had a look around Bayards Cove, the Mayflower Stone then back into the town, around the Quay then lunch at a café in Butterwalk, good meal for 7/6d. Left at 13.20, had stopped in Dartmouth for 1½ hours and another ½ hour in Kingswear. Up the steep hill out of Dartmouth past the Royal Naval College onto the B3207. I wasn’t sure if I had missed the turning for a while as the signposts pointed for Kingsbridge but at Hemborough at the Sportsman’s Arms I knew I was on the right road, but the peculiar signposts pointed to Kingsbridge and Plymouth, never Halwell, which was where I wanted to go. This was confusing. The country always looks bigger than it really is and every mile seems longer than usual but I wasn’t tired or hungry. One way pointed to Dittisham another to Cornworthy and also Kingsbridge and Salcombe. This was probably signposted for the benefit of tourists who would get confused if a well-known town or city is not signposted, but it had me confused. I asked a hiker and he told me I was only 2 miles from Halwell and I was on the right road, so now I was sure I by-passed Halwell to join the main road further on and cross to Morleigh, through farming villages on high lanes burrowed through the earth, very narrow and undulating and heading for Diptford. I was all right for a while but I was soon lost again after a couple of miles. I soon found out I was on the lane heading for Harberton. I asked a local the way. I wish I hadn’t, I could hardly understand him! He told me to turn left past his cottage, carry on up the hill and be sure to follow the signpost at the top or else I would end up in a farmyard. So I followed the road and with some hard pushes up hill and down dale (all along, out along, down a long lee) passing high hedges I came to the top of a hill and down below me in the valley was Diptford, not much of a place after all that effort; a church, inn, a few houses. From here the Devon Avon was flowing next to the road for the few miles to Avonwick. I was happy to get here because now I was on the main road and soon passing through woodlands I reached the A38. There is an interesting looking inn on the corner; tree trunks from the surrounding woods support the front. Over Devon’s main highway heading for Ivybridge, 6 miles away. Past Plymouth hospital and the great viaduct supporting the Plymouth – Newton Abbot track spanning the valley, I reached Ivybridge where I took a turning after checking the map, for Cornwood. Over a picturesque bridge over the River Erme and then almost immediately uphill and a stiff climb to Cornwood entering the Dartmoor National Park. The road runs parallel with the railway for some way and runs level with the National Park boundary for about 10 miles. Through Cornwood, a pleasant little village with its green and stone thatch cottages. In clear weather most of Plymouth might be seen only a few miles away down hill. From here it must be a good viewpoint, if only the weather was clear enough to see it today. Over a cattle grid the little stream of the Tory Brook, which joins the Plym in its estuary, starts only a few yards away and is only a small stream at this point as it trickles over the granite bed and winds its way down the hill. An ancient cross ½ a mile further on, the white slag heaps of the granite quarries not out of place, and there is at least ten of them. Over Cadover Bridge, entering deeper into the National Park. Nothing much to see here but the River Plym slowly trickles toward the sea under the bridge – the same river that mighty battleships ply out from in the vast expanse of Plymouth Sound. There is a turning for Sheepstor and Burrator Reservoir further along the road. I was going to visit Burrator but I was hungry again, and Meavy only just down the hill, I thought I would get something to eat there. A nice church, an old inn but nothing much else so I carried on along to Yelverton where I knew there would be a few shops. A choice of routes at Marchants Cross Bridge (a large ancient stone cross here) either to go straight on over the ford, which runs through the Meavy River, or right round over the bridge. I chose the bridge because the ford was very deep after heavy rain. Uphill, walking a bit, and soon I was in Yelverton. I was very hungry now, I couldn’t cycle on up to Dartmoor without a boost of energy. I stocked up from the shops on the village green, which is right next to the roundabout with the Plymouth to Tavistock road. Feeling much better after a ½ rest and eat at 16.30 I set off to tackle the route up to Princetown. I knew what to expect because I’d come the opposite way from Princetown down this road last month. The whole of this road to Moreton from Tavistock then on to Torbay through Bovey Tracey, Newton Abbot and Torquay, and I would travel this same route now. Hard climbs up to Sharpitor with the RAF tower at the top. I was now on the top of the moor on this road and there were great views around here especially across to Whitchurch Down. A wonderful view on the other side of the road and the forest plantation covering the area around Burrator Reservoir, way down below in the valley. Beyond that I could make out Plymouth and the sea. Uphill a lot more, walking the last few yards then I reached the highest town in the south of England, Princetown at 1500 feet. I reached this point at 17.15 expecting to find at least one shop open but no, the seasons over for the tourists. All the gift shops had whitewash over the windows and only four bare walls inside. Maybe everything is cleared out at the end of the season. There was one place, a very nice restaurant that was open. I was hungry again so stopped here. All this road climbing is hard work. First though I took a look outside the prison (didn’t particularly want to have a look inside) the changing of the guards was going on but nothing as ceremonious as Buckingham Palace. They knocked on the gate, gave their name and number and were let in. When the heavy gate was opened I could see inside but only for a few moments, as the gates were slammed shut. Behind the wall I could here the prisoners. By the gate was a large notice saying that anyone loitering and acting suspiciously can expect six months in the prison, or if aiding the prisoners. It also clearly states that if anyone parks and leaves a vehicle of any description outside the gates, in the near vicinity and for any reason, the penalty is five years. I quickly moved my bike and headed back for the restaurant! Back into the town and after a good meal (6/-d) the proprietor asked me where I was cycling. He was very friendly and gave me a lot of advice about the weather on the moor. I left Princetown at 18.15 and at 18.30 arrived in Two Bridges. I didn’t stop here but walked to the top of the steep hill and took the road for Moretonhampstead, the only crossroads on the moor. Passing Crockern Tor the hotel on the left was open so stopped for a coffee. Over Newbridge, mostly downhill to this point but then a slight uphill passing through Dartmoor Forest plantation with views across to the left of the high tors to the north with the backdrop of the setting sun. Soon downhill again and into Postbridge. It was 18.45 and dusk had come, the sun had gone down below the high tors and I was alone at the clapper bridge, its 5 giant stone slabs resting on the four pillars, as strong now as it was 2000 years ago, unaltered by anyone in the whole of that time. It’s a perfect ancient structure, still complete unchanged by the weather. I took some photos then on to Moretonhampstead. From Postbridge it was no pleasure because a sudden moorland mist had developed and by the time I reached Warren House Inn, Dartmoor’s equivelant of the Cat & Fiddle but even wilder. By now it was completely dark.
Wednesday 14/10/70, 11.00 – 22.30, 70 miles
Bought 1” Dartmoor map at Brixham. Set off at 11.00, Churston, Paignton, Cockington (1 hour there), Torquay, Newton Abbot, Bovey Tracy (lunch stop), Haytor, Hemsworthy, Hound Tor, Bowerman’s Nose, Manaton, Becky Falls, Manaton, Jays Grave, Houndtor, Hemsworthy, Widecombe, Buckland in the Moor, Holne Chase, Ashburton, Buckfastleigh, Totnes, Collaton, Galmpton, Churston, Brixham
Saturday 24/10/70, 10.00 – 22.15, 114 miles
Crewe, Whitchurch (11.10), Tilstock, Wem, Shrewsbury (12.45 – 13.45 lunch), Stapl;eton, Pulverbatch, Ratlinghope, Portway, Burway, Gliding field (1 hour here), Asterton, Horderley, Marshbrook (18.00), Strettons (slowly through but didn’t stop), fast ride from All Stretton (18.30) through Dorrington to Shrewsbury (19.15 – 19.45), lighting up time at Preston Brockhurst, Whitchurch (21.10), Nantwich, Crewe. Very windy day, south westerly, but no rain
Sunday 25/10/70, 10.15 – 22.15, 114 miles
Crewe, Whitchurch, Ellesmere (12.30), Oswestry (13.10), Llynclys, Penybont (14.15). There was fog over the hills, fine rain in a heavy S.W. wind making it a hard slog. On to Penybontfawr, turned back as it’s hopeless struggling on in the high wind, to Llanrhaidr and Pistyll Rhaidr (17.15 - 17.45), Tanat Valley, Llynclys, Oswestry, Ellesmere, Whitchurch (21.10), Nantwich, Crewe
Sunday 1/11/70, 10.00 – 22.45, 120 miles
Crewe, Nantwich, Burland, Faddiley, Bickerton, (best view of the hills for as long as I can remember, colours and sharp contrast on a very clear day very clear from the top), Barton (new road open), Farndon (11.45), Wrexham (12.15), Ruabon, Llangollen (13.15 – 14.00, lunch at a café), Vivod, Berwyn, Cieriog, Llanarmon Dyffryn Cieriog, Llanrhaidr, Penybontfawr (17.00), Hirnant Forest, Llanwyddyn (18.00), Turned back at this point. Was heading for Lake Vyrnwy but too far at this time of the day to get back home at a decent hour. Now dusk, hairpin down and a fast ride to Llanfyllin (18.30), Llansant, Llanymn, Knockin, Ruyton, Baschurch,. Started to rain, first time today after 10 hours of very good weather. Light rain at first but when I reached Myddle it was worse, Wem (20.20), Coton, Tilstock, Whitchurch (drink, now 21.30), Nantwich (22.30), Crewe.
Sunday 8/11/70, 09.40 – 22.00, 130 miles
Crewe, Nantwich, Tiverton, Beeston Castle, Newton, Bruera, Aldford, Eaton Hall (11.50) watching rowing on the Dee under the bridge at Eaton Hall. There was a clear view of the Welsh hills towards Kinnerton but a sign of rain. Directly into the wind all the way to Mold, getting stronger at this point. At Llong I had to pedal hard downhill to keep going. The wind at the top of the next rise was fierce. Mold (13.30), still a little rain but the hill in front climbing towards Llanferres blocked the wind completely so an easy climb to the Cat Hole and lunch at the café. Warned not to take the road up to Moel Fammau because of a teriffic gale up there but I had come this far and wasn’t turning back. Rode most of the way through the woods and felt no wind resistance but once I reached the gate at the top I was almost blown back! I ate the rest of my lunch, put my anorak over a thick jersey then set off along the track for the tower stump at the top but it wasn’t worth it, the wind was so strong and the mountainside was covered in swirling fog so there was no view. I rode down the other side on the road down to Ruthin. Just then my shoe sole came half off. I tied string round it and freewheeled down to Ruthin (14.45). Along the Clwyd Valley to Denbigh, a shower on the way but it was the last rain of the day. The Clwyd Range looking very fine from down below, sheltered from the wind and full of autumn colours. Reached St Asaph at 15.45, soon into Rhuddlan. Took a look at the castle and on to Rhyl (16.15 – 18.15). Not many people about but the arcades were still open (we never close!) Had a snack then on to Prestatyn. The sands along the coast were very uninviting. The beach resembled a sandstorm! Lighting up time at 18.30. Back along the coast road with only one stop at Connah’s Quay for a coffee. Not much to see in the dark, rode into Chester along Sealand Road, over the old Queensferry Bridge and into Chester at 20.10. Didn’t stop and carried on through Tarvin and Tarporley, Nantwich, Wistaston to Crewe.
Sunday 22/11/70, 10.45 – 21.45, 92 miles
Crewe, Wistaston, Nantwich, Acton, Wardle, (met Mr Clowes on the road, member of Crewe Wheelers and an inspector in Crewe Works, rode with him as far as Tiverton), Beeston, Stone House, Peckforton, Bulkeley Hill, (walked to top of the hill by the direct route, grand view, very clear. Met Mr Jones, a n instructor at the Apprentice Training School walking up there) At 13.45 I left for Bickerton village, past the coppermine chimney then to Harthill and on to Burwardsley. Grand view to the west towards the Welsh hills, which were very clear and also south to the Delamere ridge, Helsby Hill, Stanlow oil refineries, Ellesmere Port and Chester. To Higher Burwardsley. Took the centre road and came round to Bulkeley Hill again. Turned back and took the turning for the track over to Peckforton under the bridge in Peckforton Estate. Downhill on the cobbles into Peckforton, and along the lane and round the back of Beeston Castle, took a photo. On to Huxley and Duddon, past the Headless Woman, Willington Hall and a steep climb up to Kellsborrow and Primrose Hill. Old sign said 1 in 1 at the top but that can’t be right, I’d be going up a wall. Somebody gad rubbed the ‘4’ off and made it into a ‘one’. Another good view from up here then along to the Yeld, through Kelsall, over the main road and on to Manley. Turned right along Forest Road (closed to traffic, road works at Hatchmere) Slow ride to Hatchmere on a traffic free road, Hatchmere (16.40 – 17.20), snack at the café. It was dark when I came out and it was raining slightly. Put anorak on in place of pullover but the rain went off a few minutes later, the only rain all day. Kingsley, Frodsham (17.50), Helsby (The factories at Stanlow stand out under the dark shape of Helsby Hill), at Dunham my front light failed. I bought a new bulb at a garage in Hoole and into Chester (19.00 – 19.50). Freshened up, short rest at Stamford Bridge, coffee. On to Tarvin, Kelsall (back over earlier tracks today), Oakmere, Winsford (20.45 – 21.00), Canal bridge avoiding Middlewich, Wimboldsley, Minshull Vernon, Bradfield Green, North Street, Henry Street, home.
Saturday 28/11/70, 10.50 – 22.10, 100 miles
Left Crewe at 09.15 after a good brekker and rode through Sandbach to Holmes Chapel. Larry was ready when I called at his parents’ house on Middlewich Road after he had been round the village to buty himself some food for the trip. We set off at 10.50. It was raining a little but not for long. Middlewich, Minshull Vernon, Church Minshull (stop), Calveley, Travellers Rest (stop for drink, 13.10), Tiverton, Beeston, Peckforton, Bickerton (stop at the Coppermine), Broxton, Farndon, Holt (lunch at café, 14.00 – 14.30, for 4/-), Wrexham, Ruabon (rain shower, soon went off), Acrefair, Telford viaduct, Llangollen (17.10, had tea at café, I had sandwiches but Larry wanted a good meal) We left at 18.30 at lighting up time. I had trouble with my lights, changed bulbs. We did a good speed back to Ruabon, Overton Bridge and into Overton (stop). Only my front light was working now. We kept to the lanes, Bangor on Dee, Worthenbury, Malpas (stop for a drink at a pub, 20.50 – 21.20), Wrenbury, Nantwich, Wistaston, Crewe. Larry rode on to Holmes Chapel via Warmingham and Middlewich. He enjoyed the ride but I could tell he was exhausted, Luckily we had the wind with us coming home and there was no rain when we were cycling back in the dark.
Saturday 5/12/70, 11.30 – 20.20, 9 hours, 100 miles
Left Crewe at 09.45, Sandbach, Holmes Chapel (10.30) with the wind. Larry wasn’t ready. He was up till 02.30 last night. I waited about an hour. Finally left at 11.30, wind in favour, Congleton (11.55), Dane in Shaw, The Cloud. Larry bought some cakes. We walked up with the bikes but rode the last half to the trig point at the top, and a clear view. We enjoyed the sweep down to Rycroft on the other side and along to Rudyard Lake (13.10). We had a light meal then continued on for Leek (14.00). No stops until we reached Winkhill, Waterhouses. Late lunch at George Inn just before closing (14.40 – 14.45). We took the wrong turning at first and ended up at Waterfall instead of the Manifold track. So back to main Leek - Ashbourne road and a few more miles spotted a gate, squeezed bikes through then rode the rough track along the valley. A short stop then on to Thors Cave over a number of bumpy bridges. The road was smooth here through the woods, now following the Manifold track to Wettonmill (stopped to eat at café here 16.00). Over the ford, quite deep then through the tunnel. Lights on. Larry was disappointed as he expected it to be much longer. We followed the track to Warslow Hill, past Swiss Cottage and walked up the steep road to the right to near Warslow, then on again. It was a hard slog for both of us along lonely open moorland to the Mermaid Inn, which we were glad to see as it meant the end of the climb. Larry tackled this very well being only his second long ride. It was gathering dusk now. We ate, enjoyed the view across to the Roaches which looked a bold outline in the long shadows now the sun had gone down. We rode along Morridge to Royal Cottage and the Leek to Buxton main road. Lighting up time as we reached Flash Bar, over Axe Edge, Dane Head and the last climb up to the Cat & Fiddle. I lent Larry my anorak and we pedalled like mad down into Macclesfield (19.10). Macclesfield was a grand and welcoming sight coming off the hills. The whole of Macclesfield lay out below in orange light. My lights blew yet again (3 sets of dynamo bulbs in two rides) and I had to put a new set in at Macclesfield (19.30) while Larry searched for batteries for his lamps. He was minus front light on his journey home. Through Monks Heath, Chelford, past Jodrell Bank, Holmes Chapel (18.20). My back light failed again. There’s something wrong with this dynamo set! I had 14 miles to go. I sat in his house until 22.15 and we had a long discussion, planning a ride to London. I thought he would have had enough after today! We would start at midnight and arrive in Lewisham at teatime next day. Also we planned a holiday around Bournemouth in July 1971. I rode back to Crewe through Sandbach, along Hungerford Road, Queen Street, home at 23.00
Sunday 13/12/70, 11.30 – 21.00, 100 miles
Crewe, Woore, Maer, Slindon, Eccleshall, Stafford, stopped had lunch there (13.50), German cemetery on Cannock Chase, Post Office tower, Pye Green, Cannock (15.15), Burntwood, Lichfield (15.50 – 16.30), and cathedral, Rugeley (lighting up time), Weston, Colwich, Stone (by pass), Trentham, Newcastle, A34 to Talke, Red Bull crossroads, Alsager, Crewe Old Park, Haslington, Hungerford Road, Crewe. A fine day, no rain, slight wind. Rode without a jacket.
Sunday 20/12/70, 15.00 – 17.00, 38 miles
Crewe, Barthomley, Halmer End, Newcastle and A52 through Stoke, Fenton, Longton, back to Fenton (Had a gaze at Swynnertons cycle shop windows on Victoria Road), A50 to Hanley, Newcastle, Talke, Red Bull crossroads, Alsager, Crewe. No wind but cool
Tuesday 22/12/70, 16.20 – 19.30, 34 miles. Shortest day
Crewe, Alsager, Kidsgrove, Goldenhill, Burslem (17.00) At Clive Stuart cycles bought a Campagnolo pump and two pair of long winter cycle stockings, one pair a Christmas present for Larry. Through Hanley to Longton and Victoria Road, Fenton. Bought a pair of Crodoni winter cycle boots 94/6d, size 8. Back through Hanley, Burslem. Tunstall, Red Bull crossroads, Alsager, Crewe Green, home. It was very cold and my feet were suffering the last few miles home.
Saturday 26/12/70, 13.30 – 15.45, 20 miles
Very cold and frosty but I was well wrapped up. Crewe, Bradfield Green, Church Minshull, Minshull Vernon, Occlestone Green, Moston Green, Elton Flashes, Clay Lane, Maw Lane, Lime Tree Avenue, Crewe. Snow and ice.