The much revered show, the format for which has been copied by virtually every subsequent programme of the same genre since, only ran for two series. Launched in 1962 it was taken off the air in the run-up to the 1964 General Election in order to avoid political controversy.
Well done to Howard, Tim H, Max, Malc, Phil, Steve M and Peter B who all took part in last Sunday's Velothon Wales and thank you to those of you who kindly sent me the photographs below. The first three have captions provided by Howard.
Tim shocked at the realisation that he must soon ride his bike, whilst Steve throws a pre-ride shape.
Phil receives a last minute text with shopping list attached, Pete (aka Andy) smug in the knowledge that the ride has cost him nothing and Steve is convinced he can ride the whole 140km with his eyes closed. Tim meanwhile rocks the club jersey in style.
The grins that would soon turn to grimaces.
On Tuesday evening the Clarions (Phil, his son, George and me) had the great privilege of putting our shoulders to the wheel or should I say feet to the pedal by participating in Chippenham Wheelers' charity ride at Castle Combe.
Seeing a couple of our club jerseys, Andy Cook gave the Clarions a name-check over his microphone and said that it was good to see local clubs getting involved. Cheers Andy!
The 460 riders who took part collectively clocked up 7,465 miles; the equivalent of riding from Chippenham to Moscow and back again, twice! The money raised will be donated to Chippenham Talking Newspapers.
Disappointingly, just 3 members (Phil, Peter C and me) rode on Wednesday evening.
George heads the pack chasing the breakaway.
Towards the top of Bowden Hill
Our excursion on Saturday to the National Trust Tea Room at Lacock was well attended. Phil put together a 54 mile course using some good roads well suited to group riding, with very little traffic and a few challenging hills added to the mix. Eight riders undertook this ride. The ranks were swelled by a number of Phil's friends who rode as guests. This is something the club encourages and has led to people then becoming members.
Meanwhile, those looking for a less energetic ride embarked on a more direct 36 mile out and back course. Four riders took this option including our good friend Jim who was warmly welcomed back.
Having less miles to ride and a flatter route, as well as Tony suffering a puncture on his maiden voyage on his new bike, meant that the quartet arrived for coffee first. Three of the four then made two ascents of Bowden Hill in support of James Bradbury's 'Everesting.' Unfortunately we couldn't quite synchronise our climbs with his, but we did give cheery waves and words of encouragement as he sped back down the hill.
Longer route https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/9947317
Shorter route https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/9940217
Finally, well done to Max who after a recent run of excellent form has gained enough points to move up to 2nd category.
Oh and don't forget that there's no racing at Castle Combe next Thursday. There is however the 'Come and Try It' 10 mile TT at Latton. As the reigning family champion after my success at last year's event when I bettered George's time by 3 whole seconds, I've sportingly put my crown up for grabs. Entry is just £2. See you at the Bradstone Sports Pavilion, Ashton Keynes.
Finally, well done to Max who after a recent run of excellent form has gained enough points to move up to 2nd category.
Oh and don't forget that there's no racing at Castle Combe next Thursday. There is however the 'Come and Try It' 10 mile TT at Latton. As the reigning family champion after my success at last year's event when I bettered George's time by 3 whole seconds, I've sportingly put my crown up for grabs. Entry is just £2. See you at the Bradstone Sports Pavilion, Ashton Keynes.
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