On the road with Corinium Cycling Club (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

On the road with Corinium Cycling Club

DARK and glowering rain-laden skies did nothing to dampen the spirits of Corinium Cycling Club members as they flocked in their droves to take part in Norman Hayes' epic run to the Steam Museum in Swindon.

No fewer than 15 riders turned up at the parish church in Cirencester's Market Place, doubtless enticed by the promise of a sensible and steadily paced route.

Taking a note out of Peter Holden's book, Norman led the riders through the light drizzle on a most intricate route out of the town and into the back of Cricklade.

Roger Osbourn turned off for home at the point while the rest of the group rejected the luxury of tarmac, opting instead for the deep mud that is the Swindon Cycleway.

Terry and Amy Cleary bravely stayed with the bunch, steering their once pristine tandem with alacrity along the swamp-like paths.

Just prior to arrival at the Manor Garden Centre for a tea break, Norman suffered a blow-out that wrecked his front tyre.

Riders linked up at the garden centre with Den Hedges and Dave Roper and his wife Sue, who was back on a bike for the first time in 20 years.

After tea, Pam Swanston returned home and the rest of the group made the short trip to the museum.

A friendly official made a store room available for the bikes while those who wanted went in to view the trains.

Five of the party decided on a quick coffee break before heading back home, Andrew Tolman leading them rapidly out of Swindon and out towards Cricklade.

Mike Dolman and Gareth Hughes soon took over the pace- making at the front and, shortly after, Andrew and Andy Kirk lost contact with them.

After completing their tour, the main group, now bathed in glorious sunshine, took a leisurely and direct route back through the lanes to Cirencester. All told, the trip had covered a distance of 40 miles.

On January 30, Corinium CC are back at the Watermark Club for an evening of fun and fitness.

All details of club activities can be found on the new web site at www.coriniumcc.co.uk