Alford

Alford - Sunday 3rd October 2021

There was initially some doubt as to whether today’s ride would go ahead as winds were forecast to gust well above 40 mph but in the end, all was well with a much more manageable 30-35 mph on the day itself. Dry too with some decent spells of sunshine.

Tim Newbery would initially lead Rob Cook, John Rickett and Alan Hockham along Stewton Lane with the promise of meeting up with Chris Owen and Reg Bagshaw en route. Apologies had been sent by Neil Parham, whilst John Ambler had previously indicated that he would be absent for most of the month’s rides.

As anticipated, Chris and Reg joined the group within a few miles and we all enjoyed the winding lanes through the Carltons, Gayton Top and Authorpe. Gusty winds were by now becoming more noticeable but lush hedgerows afforded good shelter.

It was encouraging to see squirrels alive and well foraging the Autumn Harvest as Rob and Tim had recently seen quite a few well and truly flattened on the tarmac whilst on a ride in the Wolds.

All too soon and we were making a turn into the driveway of Claythorpe Water Mill for our first refreshment stop of the day after about an hour in the saddle.

Our second leg would take us on a fairly direct route to Alford via Aby (skilfully navigating the flood under the railway bridge) and then along Tothby Lane towards the town centre. The ‘Deli’ was open with tables and chairs set up on the pavement. Good to see all the decorated bicycles still in place at various locations in the town, having originally been part of the ‘Alford in Bloom’ celebrations in the summer. Certainly adds a splash of colour.

Amiable chat and Alan reminded us of the little-known fact that Alford was once famous for its ‘Steam Tramway’ which stretched from the town centre to Sutton on Sea. Conceived in 1880 and built in 1884, the 8-mile length of narrow-gauge track was embedded in the middle of the road. Now the busy A1111 running through Bilsby, Markby and Hannah, it was then no more than a rough rural track. This proved to be an expensive mistake for the company as they were liable for maintaining the entire road, in addition to the rail. Never the less the line was kept in first class order and the tram proved popular in its early days. The opening of the Willoughby and Sutton Railway in 1886 however proved its death nell.

Rob and Chris would leave the group at Alford whilst Tim, John and Alan continued north through Markby and Beesby and onto our final refreshment stop at Woodthorpe. Talk of all things bicycle, whilst supping tea and coffee and a variety of sandwiches. Very tasty.

By now, skies were becoming increasingly sunny and it was almost feeling warm, the thermometer having risen to 15 degrees Celsius.

A decision was taken to alter plans for the return leg, a route through Grimoldby meant that Reg could ride with the group all the way home whilst John would say cheerio to Tim and Alan at South Cockerington.

For the Louth contingent a shade under 40 miles. Many thanks to all for the company on a rather windswept day.