Clarions leaving The Canteen on 26th April 2014
Saturday's ride is to The Canteen, Nailsworth. I drew a bit of a blank where notable people connected with the town are concerned, and whilst it's steeped in history, nothing grabbed me as being of particular interest. Instead, I thought I'd pick out something of note along the way.
The Lynch Knoll Wind Turbine
At 42 metres high, the Lynch Knoll wind turbine at Nympsfield can be seen for miles around. Erected in 1996, construction took just 2 days, as opposed to the planning process, which lasted 4 years. The concrete tower weighs 100 tonnes. The blades it supports are made of glass fibre and are 20 metres in length. The estimated number of hours per year when there is no wind whatsoever, is just 200.
The Social Group's 37.1 mile course can be viewed and downloaded here. It has 1,744 feet of elevation.
Meanwhile, the Sporting Group's 42.7 mile course is ready for viewing and downloading here. It has 2,001 feet of elevation, and includes an ascent of the infamous 'W' to Minchinhampton Common. Alternatively, some riders might prefer to switch to the Social Group after coffee, which will be taking a less strenuous route to Avening.
Sporting Group riders should be aware of the following:
- The course was ridden on 2nd November. The lane between the B4058, through Nympsfield to the B4066, is generally in a good state of repair. There was some mud on the road, but easily passed with care.
- The road off the top of Selsley Common runs very fast. Please resist the temptation to go hurtling down, as you'll miss the right turn to North Woodchester.
- Having made the right turn, there is another swift descent to the A46 Bath Road. Be prepared though to make a right turn prior to the T junction.
- The road running parallel to the A46 Bath Road has a number of short, sharp ascents. If you don't anticipate them, you'll find yourself stuck in too high a gear.
The inside of the Barista, Cricklade
Wednesday evening's Knight Rider session attracted 5 members. With a very noticeable drop in the temperature, this was by necessity a spirited workout. Peter C's flat course out to Cricklade certainly helped us make good progress. With our toes beginning to tingle with the cold, unexpectedly the Barista cafe in the High Street appeared to be open. A shout went up to see if anyone wanted a coffee, but with no takers, we pressed on. This was probably just as well, as checking their website when I got home, I discovered that Wednesday is their Coffee and Craft Club evening. Maybe if we asked them nicely they could knit us some warm winter socks! A chilly night, but it was otherwise perfect for cycling, and a great way to get some midweek miles in.
Riders: Gary, James, Peter C, Phil and me, Tim W.
Our new muster point at the side of the town hall by the statue of the monk, was generally well received by members on Saturday. I was actually quite surprised at just how much room there was available to us. Providing we all keep off of the road and back from the footpath, up until we're ready to depart, the new arrangement should work well.
We were delighted to be joined on our trip to the Jolly Nice Cafe at Frampton Mansell by Steve Keable, who now lives in Bristol. In moving there, he has become our one-man Bristol sub-section. Steve was happy to deny reports that in keeping with his new city lifestyle, he is to become a hipster. Only time will tell.
With military precision, the two groups converged a few miles from the cafe and more or less arrived as one.
Social Group: Chris, Lyndon, Mike G, Steve C, Sue A and me, Tim W.
Sporting Group: Brian, Ian, Jonathan, Karine, Peter C, Phil, Steve K and Tim H.
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