Wednesday 2nd October 2019

has apparently been subject to a number of modifications essential to ensure it's survival through a zombie or other holocaust. Eric had already been granted a private viewing of Derek's equipment but it was an amazing first view for the rest of us. Jeff, the engineer, could only observe that the spokes were on maximum displacement due to the girth of the wheel. So the exquisite eight set off led by 'Captain' Terry. Trish, Jeff, Keith, (the cyclist formerly known as Miles), Philip, Eric, Robert and Brian completed the group. Heading out through Loughborough, we rode through Hathern, and turned towards Long Whatton and Diseworth. From there it was Breedon, dicing with the lorries before discovering we were on the road to the highest pub in Leicestershire, and mysteriously familiar. Hills ahead of them, hills behind them them, on and on rode the eight. Near Agar Nook I had to report a near mutiny by some of the swabs in the group and Captain Terry relented, and reverted to a coffee break in Ulverscroft rather than the planned Newtown Linford. The group had by coffee slightly splintered, but as we sat down outside a philosophical discussion followed, about the depredations occasioned on their parents by the temporary return of offspring. By far the worst, it was considered, was the abandonment of water bottles around the house by persons who suffered because a desert had obviously formed between the lounge and the kitchen. Eric reminded us of his own suffering and the misery of a 16 year old temporarily denied full internet access, a situation we could all empathise with. On a lighter note to finish, Trish gave us a run down on her recent trip through France, including that her bicycle was not especially commended by the guides, for long distance riding. Remounting, we turned left out of the stop and rode through Ulverscroft. We recalled the last time we had done this and that the heavens had opened. Under tyre it was wet and I was glad of my treaded tyres and mudguards. Passing through Newtown Linford, we turned into and rode through Bradgate Park. I was astonished to hear Eric state that he felt he was turning into John Catt. Gosh! Passing the pumping station, we rode past the G.C.R. station and also our Christmas Lunch destination. Any guess as to the odds of riding there this year, third time lucky? Eric peeled off in Rothley but this was not the last we would see of him. Progress slowed and we were all genuinely sorry to note, Robert suffering from Cramp. Gamely, he continued back along the A6 until further progress was not possible. Generously 'wheels' Keith went for his car to drive Robert home and whilst waiting, Eric reappeared, having been unable to.take the short cut back due to continued flooding. A final mention must be.made of Vic, who was filmed by I.T.V. yesterday, desperately digging trenches to prevent the inundation of his home.He was asked, whilst digging if you please, how things were, and did he think, he would survive. Only the sheer inanity of the interviewer prevented Vic from shaking him warmly by the throat. (Thanks Phil).

Looking at the elevation in the picture there only appears to be the one hill or is that lots of hills making up one big hill? (Howard).