1968
Thursday 25th January 1968, 09.00 – 09.50 6 miles, average 8mph
Crewe College, Nantwich Road, Rope Lane, Shavington, Newcastle Road, Weston, Weston Road, Macon Way, home. A calm night
Sunday 28th January 1968, 15.00 – 18.00, 20 miles, average 7mph
Home, Lime Tree Ave, Groby Road, Elworth & Salt Works, Sandbach, Middlewich Road (after cycling around lanes emerged at Murgatroyds factory), Middlewich, Warmingham, Groby Road, Lime Tree Ave, home. I suffered from sharp headaches, the ride did me good. A cold but invigourating afternoon
Thursday 15th February 1968, 21.00 – 22.00, 8 miles, 8mph
Crewe college, Fraser Street, Gresty Road, Shavington, Stone Road, Wybunbury, Shavington, Gresty Road, Macon Way, home. Cold and windy. Wybunbury steeple, a grand site with the full moon overhead, didn’t go any further than the dark steeple.
Sunday 18th February 1968, 14.00 – 19.00, cyclometer reading 2758 to 2805, 9.1mph
Crewe, Hassall, Smallwood, Biddulph Moor, Rudyard Lake, Rushton, Bosley, Congleton, Sandbach, Haslington, Crewe. 47 miles 14.00 – 19.00, a bright day.
Through Haslington and Winterley Pool and turned off up Pool Lane to Hassall. I stopped on top of the canal bridge to look at the locks. It was a sunny day so could do without scarf that I never used again today. A good pace along the lanes through Smallwood, stopped to look at the map, weather a little misty. There was snow on Mow Cop. When I reached the Congleton to Newcastle road I found that it had taken me 45 minutes from home. Through Congleton and turned off for Biddulph on a narrow lane. Over a canal and railway line, under a short tunnel and stopped on Congleton Edge, walked up. I glided down through Gillow Heath to Biddulph and crossed the A527, pedalled hard but eventually had to walk up to Biddulph Moor. I tried to see Rudyard Lake over the ridge but couldn’t. I pedalled slowly across the moor to get a good look at the other side of Mow Cop and nearby hills. I had to take my jacket off, I was warm but the weather was cool. I raced down to Rudyard and nearly took a wrong turning into Horton. I didn’t realise I had to make a ‘U’ turn that would bring me level with the extreme edge of the lake. There were many people there. I stopped for ½ an hour to have a look through my telescope. Just then two walkers passed by and one said to the other, “What’s that lad looking through his bicycle pump for!” There were some yachts on the lake and I took a photo with the Ilford camera. I bought some chocolate then headed out for the Macclesfield to Leek road. There was a strong headwind here. I stopped to have a look at the lake again, not so interesting as before. I headed on, another stop at Bosley 16.20. I made good timing back to Congleton I stopped once to adjust gears and left the hills behind. I walked once more, after the traffic lights near the viaduct. I went straight through Congleton. At West Heath 3 lads overtook me, wasn’t having this so caught up and overtook them. As I was going over the motorway near Sandbach they overtook me again and I caught them up in Sandbach. I stopped to put my lights on, they overtook and I played cat and mouse with them all the way back to Crewe. I took a camera, telescope, jacket, anorak, yellow scarf, 2 pairs of gloves, boots, seat cover (on at the last stop before Crewe), cape, cap, bike lock, compass, pump, 2/- (spent at Rudyard), watch and a Stoke on Trent 1” Ordnance Survey map. My longest ride this year so far.
Thursday 22nd February 1968, 20.40 to 21.50, 13 miles, 2842.5 to 2855
Crewe college, Shavington, Wybunbury, Stapeley, Nantwich, Wistaston, Wistaston Road, Flag Lane, Earle Street, home. Occasional snow but not cold, A51 frightening.
Sunday 25th February 1968, 13.25 to 19.30, 54.5 miles, 2855.5 to 2910, 10 mph
Raced down Henry Street and turned off to go up Remer Street, round the roundabout, North Street, Bradfield Road to Church Minshull. From there I headed to Winsford and had to walk two hills. There were new traffic lights in Swanlow Lane. After reaching the Chester to Winsford road I turned right on to the Warrington to Tarporley road then left on the lane to Norley. I passed through Oakmere and Norley, trees on either side for about a mile, on to Hatchmere along a maze of lanes. Here I was going to have my sandwiches, explored a footpath and wheeled my bike by the lake and headed for Delamere. I stopped at the far end, sat on a stile and had my sandwiches. After I headed for Eddisbury Hill, walked up then sped down to the Northwich to Chester road. From here I headed for Kelsall and climbed the Yeld. There was a great view from the top. From there a gentle downhill to Manley, lots of pine trees. Alvanley is a pretty village passed through on the way to Overton Hill. I stopped at the top and had a look through the telescope and took some photos (41 to 44). It was a bit misty over the Mersey. It was easy getting up there, a helter skelter marks the top with the rest of the funfair. Down into Frodsham and on to Sutton. I put gauntlets on as it was cold now and I was heading in to the wind. It was OK at Dutton. At Little Leigh I stopped to buy 2 cups of coffee from the vending machine from the Shell garage on the crossroads. Through Barnton, Northwich, Davenham and over the canal bridge at Stanthorne, I had a stop at the canal bridge then on through Wimboldsley. At Minshull Vernon station I put my lights on. Back home along Bradfield Road, North Street, Lime Tree Ave, home.
Saturday 1st March 1968, 15.15 to 20.50, 56 miles, 2950 to 3006, 10mph.
I started off a bit too late for this run. I went to find the Roman road at Middlewich. Started off through Warmingham and Middlewich to Sutton Hall Farm. I had to turn back because of foot and mouth restrictions, a serious disease affecting livestock. This is something to attempt in the future when the countryside is open again. I thought I would see how many National Trust areas in Cheshire I could visit during the course of the day. I headed for Mobberley against the wind on the B5081. I was a bit lost around Mobberley and couldn’t find the National Trust area there. I traced my way back to the Wilmslow – Knutsford road and then headed for Styal Estate, also National Trust. I failed to take a turning and ended up in Wilmslow. It was too late to go to Alderley Edge National Trust so I cycled south through Nether Alderley, past the National Trust mill and eventually into Congleton. It was dark now. I cycled home through Sandbach minus the front light (bulb blown) so had to use a hand torch when cars approached. I took with me all my kit, together with Stoke OS and Bart’s Merseyside map.
Sunday 2nd March 1968, 12.30 to 18.30, 52 miles, 3006 to 3058, average 9 mph.
(The average speed was quite good considering the hills and number of stops made)
I cycled along Crewe Road and turned past Winterley Pool along Pool Lane, through Hassall and stopped on the canal bridge. I carried on through Smallwood to Astbury, a beautiful church here. From there along to Dane-in-Shaw. I walked up Rainow Hill then left at the top and down into Timbersbrook. I walked to the top of the Cloud (National Trust) and stopped to take a look at the view. I had a drink from a fountain then downhill, crossing the Macclesfield to Leek road near Bosley and stopped to eat my sandwiches at a bridge on the south side of Bosley Reservoir. With the water in front, Bosley and Wincle Minns and the telecommunications tower on Croker Hill to the east and the Cloud to the west. After reaching the Congleton to Buxton road soon after I had to walk again up the side of the Minns. From there it was only gentle ups and downs, past Hommerton Hill and the Rose and Crown to Allgreave with a long downhill to reach it. Two other cyclists were climbing the hill that I was about to climb. We walked and chatted, past the parish church to the Smithy Inn. I stopped to look at the map and parted company. I overtook them later at Tagsclough Hill and took a turning to Crag Hall and Wildboarclough, downhill. It’s grand scenery along this valley. There was plenty of snow around but it wasn’t too cold. I stopped at Clough House and took 2 photos (70, 71), one Shutlingsloe and Higher Barn, the other of Cumberland Cott and Yarnshaw Hill. I carried on to Highash where I stopped for a drink and to sit by the stream for a while. There were plenty of people around. The two cyclists were also there as I was about to leave. I cycled ½ way up the hill and walked the rest to the edge of Macclesfield Forest. Down to the lakes and the green and brown pine trees. Half of the first lake was iced up, I took a photo (69). I cycled to the next hill and took another photo. No stopping at Langley reservoir but carried on along through Langley and Sutton and down to the Macclesfield to Leek road through Oakgrove to Fools Nook then across the main road to Gawsworth. After that I headed towards Congleton on the Macclesfield to Congleton road, a stop there to freshen up and adjusted gears to suit. I pumped the back tyre up and headed for Sandbach on the main road but turned off for Brookhouse Green. I thought this would bring me on to the Hassall lanes but then I was lost! I looked at the map and got on to the Holmes Chapel to Newcastle road, A50 at Overton Green. I finally found the traffic lights at Four Lanes End. I knew where I was now! I stopped at the humped back bridge before Hassall. From there non-stop to home past Winterley Pool and Hungerford Road. The most exciting ride so far this year. I took the Ordnance Survey 1” map and the new Peak district map with me. I didn’t need lights.
Saturday 9th March 1968, 15.00 to 19.30, 47 miles, 3101 to 2148, average10.6 mph
Took full kit and new pumps but didn’t wear them. Crewe Alex were playing Bradford today and there were crowds around Gresty Road just before 15.00. I made a detour around South Street, on to Shavington and over the Nantwich to Newcastle road and was at Wynbunbury church tower at 15.30. Past the Wild Boar at Walerghton at a good pace but took it easy into Audlem. I continued on for the Market Drayton road, came to Shavington Hall Park. There were only a few people fishing there. Through Wilkelsley then to Burleydam, on to the Nantwich to Whitchurch road. Through Whitchurch and planning to head east but decided then to head back through the narrow streets and kept up a good speed to Burleydam, back to Audlem. Continued on along the main road to Woore then to Newcastle but changed my mind and headed for Wynbunbury, stopping at Doddington Pool on the way. I took a look at the hall through the telescope, freshened up then cycled home through Wynbunbury, Shavington, Macon Way, home. It had been windy but not cold day.
Sunday 10th March 1968, 12.30 to 19.30, 3148 to 3205.5, 57.5 miles, average 8mph
The day started a little dull, grey sky and drizzle but I took sandwiches anyway and headed off for Bradfield Green and Church Minshull. The rain hadn’t started yet. There was hardly anybody at the canal. I was pleased to get up the hill the other side of Church Minshull with no great effort even though I was carrying full kit. I headed for Eaton on the Calveley lanes. It started to rain at Cholmondeston, and the wind was against me. I stopped just past Wettenhall, ate my sandwiches and put my cape on. It was a slow ride to Rushton going in to the wind but it stopped raining, off with the cape. It didn’t rain again all day and was quite a pleasant afternoon. Just beyond Eaton at 14.30 I walked up Rhuddall Heath to the main road. I rode down to Tarporley on the A49 Warrington road. On the main Nantwich to Chester road I kept up a good pace to Tarvin (14.55), stopping once at Clotton. I kept up a good pace into Chester and stopped by the footbridge over the Dee, took a photo. I sat for a bit by the river then headed off over the river to Handbridge. The old brick bridge is narrow so there are traffic lights. Uphill on the other side to the Wrexham road. I stopped in Pulford and Rossett and turned off the main road to get to Holt and Farndon on the Rossett to Farndon road. I stopped again at Plas Devon then continued to Holt and over the Dee bridge into Farndon. This is another narrow bridge with traffic lights. I walked up the hill into Farndon and now had the wind with me, pushing me home it was easy going. I didn’t stop or slow down until I reached Clotton where I walked up the hill but rode the last bit across the roundabout where the Chester to Whitchurch road is crossed. Up to Barnhill where I stopped to freshen up and had a walk across a field. I walked up to Gallantry Bank and rested. It was a good downhill from there over the Bickerton Hills. A good run all the way to Faddiley, crossing the main Tarporley to Whitchurch road. I walked for the last time up Ridley Bank then carried on through Acton and Nantwich, a last stop there then along the Middlewich Road to West Street, Victoria Street, Queen Street, home.
Thursday 14th March, 21.15 to 23.00, 24 miles, 3237 to 3262, average speed 13mph
From Dane Bank college, Market St, Middlewich St, North St, Bradfield Green, Middlewich (21.45), Holmes Chapel (21.55), 10 minutes to cover 3.5 miles, It started raining and had to head back in the wind but still kept up a good pace, Brereton, Sandbach (22.35), a good speed back home. Drizzly evening but not cold.
Sunday 17th March 1968, 13.30 to 21.30, 81 miles, 3273 to 3354, average 10mph
It was very windy and a few squally showers, sometimes hailstoning. Off along Richmond Road, Hungerford Road and down Macon Way and along Weston Road, through Weston and off the main road to Englesea Brook and Barthomley to Audley, wind behind me all the way. I made a first stop over the motorway before Audley. It was before Wedgewood’s Monument, the obelisk on Bignill Hill. There was a strong hailstone shower but it didn’t last long and cleared in 5 minutes. Went downhill to Chesterton and on the A34 dual carriageway into Newcastle. It hailstoned again before Trentham but again soon went off. Trentham Gardens have fir trees and there is a statue of some kind that can be seen from the main road. I by-passed Stone by keeping to the main road and stopped just before Walton to have my lunch. The wind was so strong and it started to rain again. I carried on and by-passed Stafford for Rugeley. Through Sandon in the Trent Valley with its hall and village green. I turned off the main road soon after on to the lanes over the Hixon level crossing where the train disaster happened last month. A small climb into Hixon and down bank to get to Blithfield Reservoir, my destination. I approached it from behind. A new pipe line is being laid here. A magnificent view of the lake and the long straight road over the lake. I was on the main road again now. I took a photo of the lake (no. 53) and had a great deal of trouble folding my map in the wind. I selected my route home and walked the full length of the bridge and up a hill to Admaston. I rode through Rugeley, passing the station and the giant cooling towers of the power station. I then headed for Stafford, 9 miles away. This is a picturesque road passing Shugborough Park and the north part of Cannock Chase (Photo no.56), walked up then freewheeled down to Milford. I drank from a stream a rested a while. There is a green patch at Milford, perfect for picnics. After passing through Walton on the Hill and Weeping Cross I was into Stafford and straight through to get to Eccleshall, but I found out the road was closed. So I rode along the Stone road to the next turn off and on to the Eccleshall road at the motorway turn off. It’s a hard road from here to Eccleshall, 7 miles because it’s uphill most of the way. To make matters worse there was a hailstone shower at Chebsey. I put my cape on and rode through Eccleshall to Sugnall. The rain stopped now but it was getting dark. The road to Woore is full of ups and downs but has some nice scenery, especially near Loggerheads. I put my lights on and took my cape off. It was dark now and soon I reached Woore at 20.15. From there past Doddington Pool, the hall was lit up over the lake. From there to Wybunbury. My feet started getting cold making the going hard against the wind through the village. I passed the dark tower and along the twisting lane to Shavington and a desperate urge to get home quick. With last energy I raced through Gresty and past the station, Macon Way, Queen Street and home at 21.30.
Sunday 24th March 1968, 19.00 to 21.00, 28 miles, 3386 to 3414, 14mph
I was planning to go to Wrexham today but it was raining until teatime and I was determined to get a short ride in so started off up Hungerford Road and along the Alsager road without much kit. I only took my cape, cap and lights. I had also left my bell and bottle rack to clean, so having been so used for the last month to lumbering a heavy load in a full saddlebag, even on March 2nd around Buxton, I found it very easy, no trouble at all on a brief evening ride. The hills were easy all the way and there are plenty on the way to Congleton. It took me about 20 minutes to get to Alsager non stop and keeping up a regular pace, there was no wind. At Church Lawton I turned for Congleton, by now it was getting dark. I carried on past Little Moreton Hall and Mow Cop to Astbury. Dark now. I put my lights on just before Congleton and took a sharp turn for the Sandbach main road. It was a quick ride home from Congleton, through Sandbach, down to Wheelock and past Winterley Pool that I could just see in the dark. Through Haslington, Crewe Green, Macon Way, home
Monday 25th March 1968, 18.00 to 21.30, 42 miles, 3420 to 3462, 12mph
My first weekday ride of the season. The weather wasn’t bad and I just had my anorak and gloves on. I took with me cape, cap, bob hat. Scarf, lights with spare batteries and my Ordnance Survey Stoke map. I started off up Queen St, Hungerford Rd. and down Macon Way then along the widened Crewe Road to Crewe Green and turned off for Alsager. At Englesea House I turned off for Barthomley, a smooth road and quiet all the way to Audley, 18.30, passing through Barthomley. A few small climbs before passing over the motorway bridge before Audley. A good run into Audley and then a climb out on to the Newcastle road. I managed to get up Bignall Hill to the monument without walking. I stopped at the top to have a look down. The Peckforton Hills and Beeston Castle were very clear in the distance. I could see Crewe and district and make out Rail House. Some short distance further going downhill I turned left for Red Street. It was here that I could see the smoky Potteries to my right and also I was riding along a Potteries lane. There was short wiry grass on each side, buildings with broken fences or none at all and rubbish dumped everywhere! It was much the same around Tunstall, turning right of the Red Street road, across the A50 on to another smoky lane. I went downhill then a short up, past a factory where smoke was billowing out of a dirty factory chimney. Up a hill to Goldenhill, north of Tunstall. I missed the turning across the main road, the A50 so I carried on to Kidsgrove and then a turning to the right and walked up a very steep hill. Near the top I heard a band playing below, probably a procession. I got on my bike at the top of the hill and found it easy going through Newchapel to Newpool and into Biddulph. I crossed the main road, the A527, rode to Rock End where I had to get off and walk to Hot Lane on Biddulph Moor and then rode Hot Lane to near the top. I walked to the moor. By this time it was getting dull and it soon began to rain. I rode slowly on the moor and stopped at Hollands Road. The sky turned dark and I was watching rain clouds to the west over Mow Cop. I could see the dark streams and knew that rain was coming in. Any minute now and I would be under that. I turned left for Biddulph Park. The rain then started but I knew it would only be a shower and in fact by the time I raced downhill to Dane in Shaw by way of Overton Hall it had stopped. I put my lights on at Congleton and returned home along the main road to Alsager, passing Mow Cop lit up on the hillside and Little Moreton Hall. I had trouble with my front light, it kept blinking. Rode to Red Bull crossroads then to Alsager, Radway Green, past the golf course, Hungerford Road, Queen St, home.
Wednesday 27th March, 17.45 to 22.00, 48 miles, 3474 to 3522, average speed 11mph
A pleasant evening ride starting off through Haslington, Winterley and Wheelock Heath and turning off for Hassall Green. After passing under the motorway I explored a lane near Betchton Farm and Lawton Heath. It was pleasant and quiet. At Rode Heath I crossed the A50 for Rode Pool, past the pool and then took a right turn for Scholar Green then across the A34 to the foot of Mow Cop. Easy going at first through Kent Green but I had to walk past the railway bridge and then up the hill to Springbank. I then rode to Close Farm, turned for Mow Cop and rode to Station Bank near the top. I had to walk this very steep bit though but rode the last bit to the folly. I stopped for about 10 minutes to have a look round and take in the view. It was very clear and I could make out Beeston Castle, Crewe, The Potteries, Shutlingsloe, Sutton Common and Biddulph and much more. I rode down Mow Cop via Roe Park. Beacon House and Gillow Heath to the A527. Mow Cop looked far away. It was, but it had only taken me 3 minutes to get to Gillow Heath. I crossed the A527north of Biddulph then started the next climb to Biddulph Moor through Woodhouse. I rode Hot Lane without walking, some achievement as the previous times I’ve had to walk part way. I rode slowly along the moor when the sun was going down over Congleton Edge. It was still light and I stopped at Butterlands to look down on Rudyard Lake, very clear in the distance. I could make out most of the surrounding area including Shutlingsloe and Sutton Common. Down to Rudyard Lake past Shirley Hall. I turned towards Horton to avoid a hill. A pleasant run through the village of large houses and many trees round to Harpers Gate and Rudyard, through the hotel grounds to the lake. It was getting dark now and the coloured lights around the Rudyard Hotel shone over the lake. It was very quiet and the lights showed in the ripples of the lake. After a few minutes I rode on , heading for the main Bosley to Leek road through Willgate to Poolend. I switched my lights on and rode the smooth hill to Barnswood, I could see the lake shining below. From here it was a quick sprint to Rushton and Bosley then left at the crossroads to Congleton. I had some trouble with my front light at Diglake, the glass smashed and the light began to flicker, loose connection, but it got me as far as Congleton at 21.00, then back home along the main road keeping up a good pace most of the way. Just before Arclid I could see Jodrell Bank lit up. I was weary approaching Haslington, but not far to go. It was a good long evening ride after work. The weather was perfect, no wind or rain.
Sunday 31st March 1968, 13.30 to 22.10, 71 miles, 3569 to 3640, average speed 8mph
At 11.30 I started out for Wincle and the Roaches and left Crewe by way of Maw Green, Clay Lane, Winterley Pool, Hassall and just after Wheelock Heath felt let down, literally. I was really deflated because I had a puncture. Pumped it up but after ¼ of a mile it was flat again so I turned back, pumping it up 4 more times before getting back home. I was planning to take lunch with me but I had that at home and fixed the puncture but also put a new tube in (Dunlop Airseal). Now I would take my tea out and set off again 2 hours later on the same route and had a good run to Astbury, then Rushton passing over the Cloud. At Bridestones on the top I had another puncture! I mended it quickly on the road, first time I’ve done this and pleased with myself, I had no more trouble with it during the ride. Over Gun Hill, then to Danebridge and up to Wincle. The road from Gun Hill to Wincle reminds me of the quite lanes in the south of Dartmoor. I could imagine the Dane being the Dart. I was high up here, overlooking the Dane with its tall brown fir trees. I glided down into Danebridge, over the old stone bridge and through the village of rock walls uphill steeply to Wincle. It’s not a spectacular place but it’s in a good setting. After the village I walked up the steep hill to the main road near Allgreave, cycled the last mile. Past the Smithy Inn and turned off the main road, a sharp right signposted for Quarnford. This road is mainly uphill but I didn’t walk. Through Allgreave to Gradbach. There is a gate here to Cut Thorn Hill. It was then downhill a little way through scenes of red cliff hills and open spaces of wiry grass to Quarnford and Flash, the highest village in England. From there to the main Leek to Buxton road, past the Travellers Rest pub into Derbyshire at Axe Edge (1600feet). There is a good view from here to the east. Down Axe Edge into Buxton and on to the A6 for Whaley Bridge. I stopped at Combes Reservoir for my sandwiches at 18.30 and a rest. I headed more into the wind, determined to get to Macclesfield via Whaley Bridge. At Kettleshulme I could see Kinder Scout to the east. I was 6 miles from this at Chapel en le Frith. I was very near Lyme Hall now. It was then a strenuous walk for a couple of miles to near Bollington where I was glad to have the downhills around Rainow, I was a bit tired now and glad to reach flat land when I arrived in Macclesfield at 20.00. I then headed for Holmes Chapel through Siddington. I could see Jodrell Bank and at Windy Harbour I could see its luminous shape together with the smaller dish. It looked a bit frightening close up in the dark, being so large. Around the rim of the bowl there were red and white lights to warn low flying aircraft. It was then a rush home from Holmes Chapel through Brereton Green, over the motorway, Sandbach and along the main road to Hungerford Road and home.
Sunday 7th April, 09.15 to 17.10, 63 miles, 3680 to 3743, average speed 8mph
Determined to ride in the light all the way today and get back in time for tea, the alarm clock woke me in the middle of the night, well half past seven. I got my own breakfast then packed my saddlebag minus camera and later regretted that. I took two bottles of orange juice with me, sandwiches and chocolate bars. It was cold today with a little breeze when I started out but really only the morning air. The sky was blue and everything was quiet. I started off up Queen St, Hungerford Rd to Haslington, the wind blowing at me, cold but not strong. I turned at Winterley Pool for Hassall and stopped on the canal bridge, took my scarf and inner gloves off and made off again. The traffic lights at Betchton are a nuisance; they stay on for the main road traffic for about 2 minutes but only for a few seconds for the lane. It was fair weather now, the only clouds were low cotton wool shapes on the horizon. Fast speed to Newbold and along the main road now, turned for Astbury to get to Dane in Shaw. I like this road, once there I crossed the Congleton to Biddulph road, fast down and under the bridge. From there I knew what to expect. The next 1½ miles was a long grind up but what a great view from the top! I could see Jodrell Bank, Crewe, Congleton, Sandbach, Biddulph, Copngleton Edge and a lot more around. I cycled the rest of this interesting road over to Rycroft Gate, then across the main road from Macclesfield to Leek, catching sight of Rudyard Lake then up Gun Hill, past where I mended a puncture the other week. I reached the road junction signposted to Wincle and Danebridge one way, the other for Meerbrook. I took the road for Meerbrook, tredding to the top of heather covered Gun Hill. I got on my bike at the top and sped down into Meerbrook, not such an exciting place as I thought it would be. At Middle Hulme there is a bridge over the reservoir and the Roaches were above me. I rode the straight road to the Leek to Buxton main road, entered the National Park and turned left for Upper Hulme, past a factory and Hen Cloud and walked up to the Roaches. I parked my bike behind a stone wall and rummaged through my saddlebag for my lunch, telescope and map then set off for a long trudge to the top of the rocks. Climbers with full equipment were negotiating the cliff face. After my lunch at the top I had a look through the telescope and could see for miles around. I could see the whole of Tittsworth Reservoir and Leek beyond. I wish I could have taken a photograph but of course I had left my camera at home. On this trip I would have used a whole film. After about ¾ of an hour I went back down to the bike, took a last look at the grey rocks and headed on for Clough Head. The ride was getting really interesting now, through three 5-bar gates on the side of a height, heather on both sides of the narrow, pebbly track, completely alone except for one car at a distance away in front, way down below at Clough Head. It didn’t take me long to reach there and down further to Hazel Barrow. I turned left for Goldstitch Moss, a mile from Flash, then to Flash Bottom. Freshened up and rode off discovering I had left my gloves but still had my inner gloves so I was OK. After Flash at 1388 feet it was down to the Buxton to Leek road at Flash Bar then into Derbyshire from Staffordshire, and up to Axe Edge. I could see Buxton clearly from here. At Axe Edge I turned for Axe Edge Moor where the rivers Dove, Dane and Goyt start. This is a wild fenceless heather moor with plenty of black faced sheep. At the end of the moor I crossed to the Macclesfield to Buxton road. After the uphill to the highest point at the Cat & Fiddle I stopped to eat the rest of my food and orange. It was then downhill to Macclesfield, keeping up a good pace. There were plenty of other cyclists labouring up the hill from Macclesfield, I waved to them as I sped past on my descent. I took it easy through Macclesfield’s maze of streets to find the way out to Congleton, and kept up a good speed to get there. After the roundabout there was a long queue of cars waiting for the traffic lights to change before the Sandbach turn off. I had to dodge these or I was in for a long wait. Through the town and past Winterley Pool and turned right on to Clay Lane to Maw Green, Lime Tree Ave, Queen St, home. It wasn’t a cold day and I could have done without my jacket at Axe Edge, and my gloves. There was no cloud and there was some sunshine.
Saturday 13th April 1968, 09.45 to 19.30, Easter Holidays 86 miles, 3784 to 3870, average speed 8mph
Axe Edge, Buxton, Chapel en le Frith, Kinder Scout, Buxton, Leek. 86 miles.
Out at 09.45, arrived at 16.00, home at 19.30
Yesterday I enjoyed a late afternoon ride of 18 miles from Weston Road, Englesea Brook to Barthomley then up to Audley, around Miles Green and Alsagers Bank, back to Audley and Barthomley to Smiths Green to a level crossing, where I had to open the gate myself then up to Oakhanger then to Haslington on a lane, then on to Clay Lane, Maw Green, Lime Tree Ave, home. It was sunny and I thought that if I started off early enough I could enjoy the sun at Lyme Hall and Hayfield in the afternoon. It was dull at first as I raced through the Warmingham lanes to Middlewich then to Kinderton where I turned off for Nether Peover and Ollerton. It cleared up now and at Byley it was quite sunny, along the lane to Ollerton. Past there to Warford Hall where I saw a chef making meals, on through leafy lanes past horse stables and thick hedges, wide with a sort of straight downward cut. There were a lot of people shopping in Alderley Edge as I passed through to go up the Edge. I had to walk part of the way and when I got there after a short climb I took my bike along the path to Castle Rock, sat on the bench there for a while taking in the view. I took a walk under the rocks and planned my next stage for Prestbury and Bollington. It was a quick ride down the other side of the Edge to Prestbury along some lanes that I must revisit in the warmer months. Prestbury is a quaint village on the River Bollin, Bollington is much the same. A run northwards then to more pleasant roads past Shrigley Hall to Poynton. I wanted to enter Lyme Hall here but couldn’t find the entrance so headed up to Hazel Grove on the main road, then on to the A6 and a hard ride up to the entrance to Lyme Hall. It was a hard ride up to the hall, past Lyme Cage and a herd of red deer and sheep. I reached the car park and paid threpence (3d) to park my bike. I had tea and biscuits from the café and headed up to Lyme Cage by foot (photo no. 51). From here I had a view of Wilmslow and Disley. It was about 15.00 when I got back to the bike and rode off downhill to the gates, past the deer and the Cage. I turned for New Mills and passed through the uninteresting place up hill to Hayfield, then still more up hill to halfway along to Chapel en le Frith. The countryside from New Mills through Hayfield to Chapel en le Frith isn’t all that interesting and probably shan’t bother again. If I visit the Peak I will see it from the other side at Castleton, far more interesting. It was then down hill into Chapel en le Frith and down further to Whaley Bridge, past Combes Reservoir. At Whaley Bridge it was a long climb out past Taxal into Cheshire near Kettleshulme where a cyclist overtook me. The weather was sunny now and I walked up the hill the cyclist was sitting by the road, perhaps he had overdone it on the climb, he got on again when he saw me approaching. I had enough energy to get back on the bike and overtook him before the top. The cyclist said he was from Ashbourne. He had come from Ashbourne to Buxton today then up here and was planning to ride down to Macclesfield then Leek and back to Ashbourne that way. He talked about his cycling, especially up in Oban and Edinburgh where he spent a week with a CTC organised cycle tour last year. We cycled up to near Bollington and then sped down three steep downhill gradients to Macclesfield through Rainow. We parted as he took the road to Leek I headed for Congleton. I paced it to Congleton and soon got tired out, not just the sprint from Macclesfield but from the whole day’s ride. I did a lot of climbing today and knew that this was my longest ride so far this year. If I was cycling along the flat I could cover a hundred miles or more in the same time. I had a long rest at Wall Hall just past Congleton and set off again at a slow but hard pace through Sandbach, Winterley and Haslington, Hungerford Road, Queen St, home. If I had cycled along more level ground it would have been much better. I plan to head west of Chester soon and this should be less hilly. Perhaps I may cover just as many miles as I have done today. The weather today was cool at first but it brightened up in the afternoon.
Sunday 14th April (Easter Sunday)
With Dad on the motor bike to Dove Dale and Manifold Valley, 14.30 – 19.30, sunny.
Monday 15th April 1968, 09.15 to 22.50, (Easter Monday) 137 miles, 3870 to 4007, average speed 10.5mph. Longest ride to date
Longest ride to date. 137 miles. Rhyl, Denbigh, St Asaph.
Out at 09.15, arrived at 16.00, home at 22.55
It was a grand morning and I knew it was going to be a warm day and with nothing against me I set off west for a long day’s ride. There was no wind and not too hot in the afternoon, in fact the day was perfect. I set off through Church Minshull and on to the Calveley lanes where there were two other cyclists. I overtook them and they later turned at Wettenhall for Winsford. I turned left for Calveley and Eaton. I reached Eaton at 10.00 and freewheeled down to Tarporley and then a good spurt up to Clotton where I turned off the main road by a pub for Huxley. I stopped for a rest by the village church then passed over the railway bridge, a sharp turning after it but I carried on over a public right of way through Hatton Hall Farm and on the other side for Hatton Heath, I had passed through a gate before another railway bridge and through Hatton Hall. On the Chester to Whitchurch road I wanted to turn off along a track through Buerton to the main Chester to Farndon road but I found the way was private so turned off for Bruera and Aldford. Aldford is a quaint village by the River Dee. After Aldford I planned to head for the iron bridge over the Dee. This is the only bridge spanning the Dee between the A55 and Wrexham. From there into Eaton Hall, but this too was private. It belongs to the army so I headed on for the crook of the Dee to Eccleston Ferry but this was for walkers only. I stayed at the ferry for a while. There was a canoeist and a speedboat and the road on the other side that was twenty miles away if I wanted to get at it. My nearest crossing now was at Chester so I cycled to the city, past the Rodee racecourse to Saltney and I was in Wales at last. Then on to Broughton six miles from Chester where I turned for Buckley and Mold. Uphill to Buckley but it wasn’t all that bad, downhill to Mold where I was going to have my cheese sandwiches but decided I would eat at the Cat Hole further on. I saw another cyclist before the Cat Hole. He had no saddlebag but was finding it hard work getting up the hill. I rode past him to the Cat Hole where I stopped to have my lunch and a bottle of pop. I bought a packet of crisps for later on. From there a climb through Llanferres over the Clwyd Hills but not to difficult a climb. Three cyclists overtook me at Plymog and then another one. We all sped downhill then through Llanbedr Dyfrien Carriog where I overtook the lone cyclist and on down to Ruthin where I overtook the others. Ruthin is a quaint town with its castle on the hill and clock in the town square. I stopped outside Ruthin to finish my sandwiches and then continued on the flat through the Vale of Clwyd at a good pace through Rhewl, Pentre and Kilford into Denbigh. It was an interesting run along the flat with hills on both sides. Llanrhaiadr was the best sight. At Denbigh (14.30) I headed out for Trefnant and then for St Asaph on the A541. Just before St Asaph I overtook a lone cyclist. His bike wasn’t in too good a condition. I wanted to go on to keep up my good speed but he insisted on riding along with me to Rhyl. Past Rhuddlan Castle we slowly pedalled then through busy Rhyl. At the time it was useful to have somebody with me to guard the bike while I went to get a drink but later I really started to regret it as it was 15.30 and I could make it back to Chester comfortably by 17.15 I estimated and then 19.00 in Crewe. He was walking around the marine funfair for more than an hour. I could have left if I wanted to and I should have done. I would have beaten most of the long traffic queues home in the late afternoon if I had gone earlier. A long time later he came out of the funfair and he unlocked our bikes that he had locked together – my big reason for having to stay! We slowly cycled on to Prestatyn, the traffic was already building up. We ‘cycled’ uphill slowly through Gronant and Llanasa to Whitford. At Lloc his chain snapped! I noticed he was having a hard time pedalling up from Gronant as we had walked most of it! No wonder he was slow. I could have ridden the hills very easily. I walked with him to near Holywell then at last I said to Colin that I was going on. He didn’t take it too kindly but I had to rush now because I knew that I would be cycling from Chester to Crewe in the dark. It was 18.45 now and those last 3 hours I had only covered 10 miles, this was ridiculous! I rushed through Holywell to Halkyn where there were long traffic queues that brought me to a stop. I turned off at Springfield for Cefn Colehill just south of Bagillt but after a few miles along the coast road I was caught up in another jam. I twisted in and out of the traffic for the next 15 miles through Flint and Connah’s Quay to Queensferry where I avoided the traffic by taking to the minor road through Sandycroft, eventually ending up in Saltney and rejoined the jam again trying to squeeze into Chester. Cars blocked the way and it was hard to get past, even on the pavement in places. Eventually I was through the city and it was becoming dusk at 20.15. At Tarvin it was getting dark but now the traffic was flowing and there were no more queues and cars lit the way all the way to Tarporley, just as well as I only had my rear light. At Tarporley I stopped for a drink and something to eat, feeling refreshed I raced on for Nantwich. The traffic had dispersed now and was back to normal, it was also much easier going for me. It was 22.15 as I crept doggedly into Nantwich and then along the Middlewich road to Woolstanwood and on to West Street, Badger Ave, Henry St and home. Even after all the troubles it was a good ride, but this is probably the last ride, definitely the last long ride anywhere before I join the Cyclists’ Touring Club (C.T.C.). I will then ride in company on their club runs, which are what I want, and I will be perfectly safe and arrive at home at definite times. I will probably enjoy my rides much more with company.
Sunday 28th April 1968
Wirral coast, excluding Birkenhead. 90 miles.
Out at 09.30, arriving 14.00, home at 19.00
Saturday 13th April 1968
Axe Edge, Buxton, Chapel en le Frith, Kinder Scout, Buxton, Leek. 86 miles.
Out at 09.45, arrived at 16.00, home at 19.30
Monday 15th April 1968 (Easter Monday)
Longest ride to date. 137 miles. Rhyl, Denbigh, St Asaph.
Out at 09.15, arrived at 16.00, home at 22.55
Sunday 5th May 1968
Llangollen, Horseshoe Pass and Ruthin. 91 miles.
Out at 08.55, arrived at 13.00, home at 17.50
Sunday 23rd June 1968
Ashbourne, Cheadle and Alton. 83 miles.
Out at 10.10, arrived at 13.00, home at 20.50
Friday 5th July 1968
Crewe 08.30, cyclometer reading 5648, first stop at Madeley, 09.25 5657 followed by other stops at Woodseves 11.05 5671, Tong 13.00 5686, Ironbridge 14.30 5698, Wellington 15.15 5706, Darliston 17.00 5721 other stops not listed to Crewe 20.30 5756, total 108 miles in 12 hours.
Tuesday 9th July 1968
Crewe 08.45, cyclometer reading 5757, first stop at Whitchurch 10.00 followed by other stops at Ellesmere 11.00 reading 5785, Pistyll Rhaiadr waterfall 14.15 5810 at dead end road beyond Llanrhaiadr Ym Mochnant, Llanrhaiadr on return at 16.15, 5814, Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog 17.30 5820, Chirk 18.15 5831,Ellesmere 19.00 5840, Whitchurch 20.10 5852, Crewe 21.30 5867, a total of 110 miles in 12 ¾ hours.
Pistyll Rhaiadr ac Wrecsam clocchdy, Yr Wyddfa’s mynydd heb ei pobl, Overton yw prens ac Winifred’s ffynnons, Llangollen pont ac gresrhyd cloches.
Y saith syndods o Cymru
Wednesday 10th July 1968
Left Crewe at 08.45, cyclometer reading 5867,first stop at Holt by Farndon at 11.00, reading 5890, followed by other stops at World’s End 13.15, 5905, Carrog 15.00, Corwen 15.45, 5924, Bala Lake 16.45, 5935, Aberhirnant (Bridge) 17.15, 5939, The Hirnant Pass 17.30, 5941, Lake Vyrnwy at the water turret 18.15, 5946, At end of the reservoir by the dam 18.30, 5949, Llanfyllin 19.45, 5960, Whittington 21.10, 5976, Whitchurch 23.00, 5995, Crewe 00.20, 6010 – a total of 143 miles in 15 ½ hours.
Longest ride to date. 143 miles Bala, Lake Vyrnwy, Corwen and Llangollen.
Out at 08.55, arrived at 17.00, home at 00.30
Croeso I’r Bala. Bala welcomes you
Sunday 11th August
Roaches, Quarnford, Wincle, Danebridge, Smithy Inn, Axe Edge, Goyt Valley, Cat & Fiddle, Macclesfield. 58 miles
Sunday 18th August
Goyt Valley on a shorter route, Kettleshulme, Tohn Tur stone, Macclesfield. 60 miles
Crewe 09.30 at 6103 on cyclometer to Hanging Gate Inn, Rycroft Gate 10.50 at 6120
A post in the grass verge near Teggs Nose remembers somebody called:
Here JOHN TUR the print of a NER WAS CAST woman’s shoe was AWAY IN A HEAVY found by his side SNOW STORM IN in the snow were THE NIGHT IN OR he lay dead ABOUT THE YEAR H 1755
Sunday 25th August
Manifold Valley and Dovedale
Sunday 1st September 1968
Crewe, Prees Heath airdrome, Albrighton (needed rain cover), Lyth Hill, Condover,
White Lion A54, Bull and Dog near Coton, A5 Shrewsbury, Oswestry and back through Chirk, took shelter in a bus shelter from hailstones but it went off quickly. While I was in there another cyclist rode past with a rucksack on his back and dressed in shorts and vest was cursing himself getting thoroughly soaked – there’s always the bus shelter for a few minutes! I was dry and out again to Overton 17.20, Ellesmere 18.15, Whitchurch 19.30, home at 21.00
Shrewsbury 24 Oswestry 8 Corwen 15 Llangollen 5 (Bala 27) Betws-Y-Coed 58 Holyhead 82 Wrexham 8 Cefn Mawr 2 Ruabon 3½
Tuesday 3rd September 1968
Crewe, 10.00am Monks Heath, Rainow, 11.45am Whaley Bridge, 12.00 Chapel en le Frith, 13.00 Castleton, 13.15 – 1.30 lunch at the Winnats Pass, 14.00 Blue John Mine (the road was still there that year – it collapsed in 1976 when a landslide from Mam Tor demolished the road), 15.30 Buxton, 16.45 Congleton, 17.10 Sandbach motorway junction, 18.00 Crewe. 8 hours, 85 miles
Sunday 8th September 1968
Left Crewe at 08.45, first stop at Holt by Farndon 10.40, followed by other stops at World’s End at noon, Llangollen 13.00 – 13.30, Car crash at Carrog on the A5, Corwen 14.30 – 15.00. Drank milk bought from a shop there, Rhewl 15.50, Horseshoe Pass 16.40, Rhydtalog 17.25. Littleton by Chester 19.00, Tarporley, Calveley straight, Nantwich, Crewe 21.20. Total 81 miles
Wednesday 18th September 1968
Brixham Wall Park 10.30, Paignton Harbour 11.00, to Cockington Village 3 miles, Torquay 11.30 7 miles, Babbacombe, Watcombe 12.30 12 miles, Shaldon 13.45 15 miles, Teignmouth 14.00 – 15.00 16 miles, Great Ness cliff, Smugglers Tunnel, Ness Café 16.00 19 miles, Babbacombe 16.45 23 miles, Torquay 17.00 – 17.30 25 miles, Goodrington Sands 18.10 30 miles, Brixham Harbour 18.25 33 miles, Wall Park 18.30
Thursday 25th September 1968 21.00 – 22.00, 15 miles
From college along Crewe Road to Haslington then to Sandbach stopping only once between Holly Bush and Winterley Pool. At Sandbach went round town hall then back home same way. Going I managed Wheelock Hill on third gear with hardly any effort, fast down on the way back. Started to tire only when I climbed out of Wheelock after keeping up a very good speed, back along Hungerford Road and Queen Street.
Friday 27th September 1968 20.10 – 22.10, 24 miles, 12 mph
Lights needed from outset. Crewe, North Street, Bradfield Road, Minshull Vernon, Middlewich, Holmes Chapel (21.15), Brereton, Sandbach, Winterley Pool, Crewe.
Wind against me most of the way. Back light failed me at Sandbach. The Bears Head lives up to its name with the vivid constellation of Ursa Major, the Great Bear, just above it. Four stops, 2 at motorway, Holmes Chapel and Sandbach, Middlewich and Wheelock.
Sunday 29th September, 09.10 – 21.10, 91 miles, 9.1mph
Crewe, Northwich, Runcorn, Widnes, Liverpool, Ferry to Birkenhead. The small row of houses at the docks look a bit squalid. A big burly fellow in a string vest with braces hanging. Rode through quickly! Bebington, Moreton, Hoylake, Heswall, Chester, Tarvin, Tarporley, Crewe. 90 miles
Sunday 6th October, 10.00 – 20.45, 110 miles, 10.5mph
Crewe, Asstbury (10.40), HangingGate (11.15), Cloud End, Wincle, Clough End round side of farm. A gate at Clough Head, rode until until a grass track reached then walked to the gate at Roach End. Round the windy hill to Hazel Barrow then to main Leek – Buxton road, turned off for Longnor, fast speed all the way to the village. Stopped for a while over the River Dove after a 1:12 descent, Crowdecote (like this village – stopped at the tea house for a while), Wheeldon Hill to Earl Sterndale. Three cyclists entered the village by the other road and stopped at the Quiet Woman pub, they bought some food and we chatted for a while, sitting outside at the tree opposite the pub. From here, slow up the hill to the main road. Missed Gluttondale and 2 hills I wanted to explore by going to fast past the turning, didn’t see the signpost. Had my sandwiches that Mum made for me at Horseshoe Dale, sat astride a farm gate. Slight rain and it was getting a bit cold so put a pullover on. Shower didn’t last long, along smashing lanes past Chelmorton; flat ground and white stone walls, no cattle or people, took pullover off as I was getting warm with the gentle ups and downs that followed this. Bit of a mixed weather day as I had to put my cape on but it only lasted a short while, the rain didn’t even wet the road. A climb up to Bole Hill then downhill to Bakewell (15.15). Through the town and on to the Buxton road and on to Haddon Hall on the A6. There were crowds at the Peacock Hotel near here, a wedding perhaps. On to Rowsley and turned left for Chatsworth. It was the first time I had seen the wide, grey one arch bridge over the Derwent in front of Chatsworth House and it made an mpression on me. I lingered a while looking at the bridge and the House. I continued over thecattle grid into the Chatsworth Estate. The parklandwas full of people and sheep across the grounds opposite the House. At Edensor at 16.20 and had a look round then to Pilsley. Met up with another group of cyclists at the roundabout where the A6020 and A622 meet at Asford, a quaint village with a souvineer shop and black & white cottages – a typical Peak District village. I slowed up through the woodland. There were many lay bys and I stopped a few times. In these dales were hikers, Taddington Field National Trust was busy, past sunny Millers Dale over the River Wye and a slow ride to Ashwood Dale and by passing Buxton stopping at two shops in Burbage to buy food to keep me going. I was getting a bit tired, probably due to the hard climb following the Wye towards Buxton. Over Axe Edge where I stopped twice because it was cold and windy. I kept up with a lorry to the top to gain time and speed. Next stop at Cat & Fiddle. Very cold and windy now and I’m still in shorts and vest, foolish boy! Hands and feet getting cold so put on jeans, pullover and gloves. Got myself warm again in the pub and had a look at their new extension on the Buxton side. The restaurant was in the main building only. Put on cap, jeans, pullover and started off down to Macclesfield against the wind and in cloud. I couldn’t see the Cat & Fiddle after a few hundred yards as the weather was getting bad. Dwn in Macclesfield at 18.40 and getting dark, Macclesfield to Congleton and stopped at the Rising Sun, Gawsworth. Saw another cyclist but let him get ahead. I put my kights on at this point. To gain time I tried to catch up with the other cyclist and flashed past him, kept up a good speed into Congleton. Wall Hill at 19.40, Sandbach motorway junction at 20.05, Crewe 20.45
Sunday 27th October 1968, 60 miles
Crewe (09.45), Biddulph Moor (12.30), Rudyard 13.00, Stile 14.00
Sunday 3rd November 1968, 10.00 – 21.10
Crew, Acton (10.40), Cholmondeley (11.00), Malpas (11.55), Threapwood, at a telephone kiosk – raining (12.05), Bangor on Dee, lunch (12.35 – 12.45), walked over the bridge, Llangollen Valley (Cefn Mawr 13.30), Llangollen, up Willow Road to Moel Geraint, two photos. Panoraic view of Llangollen, back down hill and along to Horseshoe Falls. There was a canoe race taking place in the canal. The other road was closed so came this way and to Horseshoe Pass. Stopped for a coffee at the Ponderosa. Up the pass without too much effort. On to Llandegla to find the well but never could find it. Up to Rhydtalog then down to Leeswood at a speed, Penyfford and to Broughton and Handbridge (stop), through Chester and it was dark now. Lights on at Littleton (stop), Tarvin, Tarporley (stop), Nantwich (stop), Crewe
Monday 11th November, 18.30 – 20.30, 30 miles
Crewe, Audlem, Woore, Madeley, Betley, Crewe. Evening ride.
Sunday 17th November 10.15 – 18.37, 82 miles
Crewe, Haslington (10.20 – 2m), Sandbach (10.35 – 5m), Arclid (stop) (10.50 – 7m), Congleton (11.15 – 15m), Havannah (11.30 – 17m), Bosley Reservoir (12.00 – 22m) walked up to Minns and GPO tower (12.15 – 24m), Rose & Crown (13.00 – 28m), Tagsclough (13.10 – 29m, stopped for coffee), Widboarclough track (13.30 – 32m) over ford to small waterfall, Widboarclough (13.40 – 35m), lane following the river, gradually uphill at north end of valley to main road off lane to Cat & Fiddle (14.15 – 14.45 – 43m), Axe Edge (15.05 – 46 m), Travellers Rest, stop for 3 Shires Head, turn for Knotley (15.15 – 47m), Three Shires Head (16.00 – 50m), main Congleton – Buxton road (16.30 – 52m), Rose & Crown (16.40 – 54m), The Minns (16.55 – 56m), rode with another cyclist some way, Bosley crossroads (17.10 – 59m),. Congleton (17.35 – 66m) now dark, over motorway (18.00 – 71m), Haslington (18.30 – 79m0, Crewe (18.37 – 82m)
Sunday 24th November 1968, 08.45 – 20.30, 11 ¾ hrours
Crew, Winterley (09.00) took gloves and pullover off just after rise, Eaton (10.10), Rainow (10.55 – 11.15),Whaley Bridge (11.45), Chapel en le Frith (12.00), Edale (12.45 – 14.00), (Castleton 6 ½ m, Hathersage 11m, Sheffield 24m) walked up to Ringing Rodger on Kinder Scout, after walk back through Hope, Winnats Pass (15.00), Rushup Edge – more cyclists but beat them all down to Chapel! Chapel en le Frith (16.00), Whaley Bridge, Kettleshulme after walking up the hill, stopped for a while and a tiring ride to Rainow, easy sweep down to Macclesfield (17.30), Gawsworth, dark now. Stopped just before Eaton. Exhusted and I was following a milk tanker! No shops open in Congleton, even for milk! Short stop at Arclid (18.45), Third Avenue (stop), Winterley (stop0, Hungerford Road, Queen Street, home 20.30.
Tuesday 3rd December 1968, 19.15 – 22.00, 33 miles, 12mph
Crewe, Oakhanger, Alsager, Red Bull crossroads (20.00), Kidsgrove, Scholar Green, Astbury, Congleton (20.20), Somerford, Holmes Chapel (20.45), Middlewich (21.10), Minshull Vernon, Cross Keys (21.50), Home (22.00), windy, against wind going, with wind coming back, fair speed to Holmes Chapel, stops at Kidsgrove, Alsager, Holmes Chapel.
Sunday 29th December, 13.15 – 17.00, 60 miles
Last ride of the year. Crewe, Minshull Vernon, Middlewich, Peovers, Allerton, Mobberley, Styal, Ringway (15.40), Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Holmes Chapel, Sandbach, Crewe. Stops at motorway bridge on Peover Lane, Mobberley, Ringway, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Holmes Chapel, motorway bridge, Sandbach.