May 22nd 2011 Tattenhall Old Ma’s Cafe (Alternative to Prees Heath run)

Dave , Mal, Ed, Arthur and a come back rider Humph, all met at Huyton Island on what was a rather grim morning, swirling winds, quite cold and dull cloudy skys. Hack bikes were the order of the day, but just about acceptable for shorts. Dave’s legs were warm after a coating of warm up balm, followed by a layer baby oil gel finished off with a covering of Dove moisturiser, who says Dave does not prepare himself properly, or who says he is a ponce!!!!

We set off to meet Ritche Hobbs by the Runcorn Bridge. Our route took us through Runcorn Old Town, info Frodsham and then up over Alvanley. Always a bit of a lung buster this one, but the peleton all got over within a few seconds of each other. Onwards through the Cheshire Lanes , by now the sun was starting to make an appearance with large bits of blue sky showing, all now feeling quite pleased with the decision to leave the house and “ go for it” a few hours ago. George Butterworth, in his Suburau Catalunya with new K & N filter was already at the Cafe when we landed. Excellent dinner here, double beans on with 2 egss and cup of coffee was enjoyed by all. I got a text from the club LOSER Andy ( slim) Burton, saying it was a bit too windy for him, and he decided to stay in and watch the Tour Of Italy , no doubt with a tin of biscuits and cakes close by!!!!

Leaving the cafe it felt very cold indeed, with black clouds gathering in the distance. Being in the lanes we managed to dodge the wind a bit and were soon at Chester. On the approach into Chester , by the BMW garage a Jaguar and a Citroen had crashed, not a pretty sight. Choosing the scenic route behind the race course and along the river we were greeted by a block head wind, time to echelon. Arthur decided to get some training into the wind put his head down and wound it up. Only 1 taker, gayboy Humph who hung onto his wheel until his legs went “twang” on the leg from Saltney to Queensferry.

In to the Mills and a well earned coffee and sit down, enjoyed a chat with “ Main Road Maurice”. Ritchie went his way and we wnet our way, back via the missing link through the Wirral. Got abit of rain , not enough to cape up, 10 minute delay in Hamilton Square as we just missed the train.

In at 16.35, just under 80 miles,,yes that DOVE and BABY OIL works.

Dave M