We were made very welcome at the Waggoners ( formerley Blackberries ) in Bampton at the start of this years Guy Fawkes run, sadly this was the last run of the year and I was pleased to see 20 riders turn up for the free coffee and a selection of lovely cakes which were made available for us. This run was mine to organise and lead and so I was very pleased to see that the weather was cool but dry all day. After a brief from myself, we all set off at 1100, well I say we all set off but actually a Rudge and a Velo decided they didn't want to play though Roys Velo did get going after being politely spoken to, course as I was leading, I had no knowledge of these happenings but Keith and Ian had to sort it out. Chris took some excellent photos which he has kindly put below but was suffering a bit with elbow troubles so didn't want to risk the ride. The route was out of Bampton on the Watchet road before turning off in Upton, a few more miles and turnings saw us arrive at the Bessom bridge where I stopped the ride so we could all have a great view of the lake. The route then was cross country to pick up the road to Timberscombe, this involves quite a steep downhill to the village itself on the valley floor. We then turned on to the Dunster road for a short while before turning off to Luccombe and then turn off and climb up to Dunkery where I paused again where we were able to great views of Wales and Hinkley. Unfortunately, it seems someone left their post at the turn up to Dunkery which meant that a few riders had an extra couple of miles before turning back to pick up the correct road. After Dunkery, it was just a few miles downhill to the Rest and be Thankful at Wheddon cross where we were made very welcome as usual. The Guy Fawkes run has always been a half day but after our excellent meal, I offered to lead everyone back to South Molton over the lower moor, unfortunately, Rays Ariel decided to give up at Exford and he had to wait for pick up though he did manage to find his way into a house where he could drink loads of tea whilst waiting for the truck. Well folks we have had a better year for weather this year and have seen some excellent rides, the committee have chosen the rides for next year so we look forward to the next run starting in March. Thanks to the Waggoners and to the Rest and be Thankful and of course to Keith and Ian for bringing up the rear, don't forget to contact Keith for a place at the Christmas annual dinner, always a good function and as it's in the middle of the day you don't have to turn out at night, this year the section is subsidising this event again and the charge for the meal is only £14, hope to see you there folks.
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| gathering at the Waggoners |
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| cool but sunny wow! |
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| coffee and cakes on reflection! |
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| A welcome at the Waggoners |
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| what a lovely view |
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| a pause at Dunkery with Wales behind |
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| Hinkley is in the distance |
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| why do we always gather at the loo! |
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| Always a good venue |
