Peter Bayles led the Moderate ride and writes:
Nine riders joined the ride this week; Eight riders set off from East Hunsbury library for the Brisk and Moderate rides to Stowe, with Rob joining the Brisks on-route near Caldecote.
If any regular riders who abandoned us to wallow in sunnier climes this weekend are reading this, I hope your weather was just as pleasant – it was wonderfully warm and sunny here, near perfect riding weather. A rare treat so far this year.
We were very pleased to welcome two new riders this week, Tim and John, who both joined the Brisk group. John was sporting his very impressive e-bike, which was much admired, and it was particularly appreciated that he was kind enough not to embarrass the rest of group too much on the hills.
The groups split from the start. Giles stepped in to lead five riders opting for the Brisk route, setting a good pace from the outset, and leaving the remaining three to enjoy a more leisurely ride through the picturesque winding byways to Stowe Gardens, our refreshment stop.
The two groups arrived at the National Trust cafe at Stowe within a few minutes of each other, which worked out very well. The usual array of cakes and sandwiches was on offer, and although the gardens were busy, we found no problem getting seated outside, chatting and basking in the sunshine.
On the return leg, the group spread out a little, but everyone got home in good time to enjoy the majority of the afternoon.
Thanks go to all for joining the ride, and for making it an enjoyable day.
CTC Northampton 