Burgh le Marsh 10-02-2024
Ride Report: John Rickett
A planned Wednesday Wander of some 50 miles to Burgh le Marsh was shortened a bit, given the cold weather (about 4C at departure) and the possibility of returning at dusk. A shower at dawn had wetted the nicely drying roads but luckily there wasn’t any ice.
Meeting up at the Meridian Centre were Paul Linder and John Rickett, Steve Croton had promised to be in Alford market place at 11.00. With that in mind Paul set a cracking pace and we duly arrived a couple of minutes before 11.00.
The route took us through Little Cawthorpe, Muckton, Authorpe and Claythorpe to avoid the suspected flooded road near Aby. A check was made to see if the road would be useable. Knowledgeable drivers said it was only 6” deep but that was too much for the less-than-intrepid duo so the route to Alford through Tothby was chosen with a planned return via Rigsby.
Having met up with Steve, the threesome set off for Burgh le Marsh on drying roads and brightening skies. Willoughby, Welton le Marsh, Gunby roundabout and Orby were all quickly passed at Paul’s still cracking pace and we arrived at the planned stop of Roman Bank Bakery just before 12.30. Having warmed up and feasted, it was a bit of a struggle to get going again, the temperature didn’t seem to lift much all day and while light, the NE wind had a chilling bite to it.
At least it stayed dry and a return via Sloothby to Willoughby was made before turning off just prior to Alford for Well and the climb up to Mile Cross Hill.
Steve bade his farewell and returned home via Alford, leaving Paul and John to continue through Rigsby and South Thoresby before turning left for Belleau. A glance at the flooded road from the other end confirmed the decision not to attempt a ride through it and an uneventful return to the Meridian Centre was made, arriving at 14.30, where Paul treated us to coffee and cake.
About 45 miles round trip, which was plenty in the chilly conditions.