Blog Bulletin

Dr Feelgood

Sometimes picking a record can be a bit of a minefield. Riding through Essex recently, Tommy and me came up with a number of candidates for the musical slot. I know they're not Cockneys in Essex, but the Essex accent isn't a million miles apart, particularly when you're from the West Country. 

'Johnny Reggae' by The Piglets was one shout, but some subsequent research revealed that it was conceived, created, produced and directed by the disgraced Jonathan King. 

What about Ian Dury? An Essex lad through and through surely, but no, apparently not. Although he pretended that he was born in Upminster, Essex, he actually entered the world in Middlesex. No matter, especially with such gems as 'Billericay Dickie', and 'Clever Trevor.' Unfortunately, when I reminded myself of the lyrics, I recalled that both are a little on the fruity side, to say the least.

I've therefore decided to play it safe by featuring Canvey Island's very own Dr Feelgood and their single 'Back in the Night.' Released in 1975, it failed to chart, but don't let that put you off.

You can listen to Lee Brilleaux, Wilko Johnson and the rest of the boys here.

Andy Poolman, Peter C and Simon Akers

(Photograph courtesy of Andy Poolman)

This week's blog bulletin includes some great photographs from the club rides
on Saturday to Jolly Nice Cafe at Frampton Mansell. I'm very grateful to those members who have sent in their pictures, as well as to Peter C for his reports.

Peter C's communique:

The Sporting Group started life with 3 members - myself, Andy Poolman and Simon Akers.

I think Andy had purchased a new set of legs with the pace set by him on the delightful run to Cirencester.

We headed off to Daglingworth and then towards Birdlip, admiring the lovely countryside and wildlife, as we went. 

I managed to put the brakes on Andy's legs when we crossed a lovely valley with a 12% climb on the other side! 

A JNC sausage roll and a coffee

Afterwards, we struck out to The Daneway, and then turned back to the Jolly Nice Cafe where we were suitable refreshed.

On our return, we bumped into John Shepard, who after a late start watching the rugby, decided to join us. A short while later, we bumped into the Leisure Group being led by Howard.

We returned to Malmesbury at 12.15pm.

Peter C

Clive, Dave, Howard, Karine, Katie Sprange, Paul, Simon (Sue Akers' son), Steve Cox, Sue Akers, Sue Alexander and Tim H

(Photograph courtesy of Simon S)

Who will win the best hat competition?
(Photographs courtesy of Karine)

A little further afield on Saturday, as a treat for my birthday, Alison rode her first Audax with me. The 108km event from Tewkesbury called at the Forest of Dean Heritage Centre for brunch.

And then in the afternoon, stopped at Westons Cider Mill in Much Marcle, Herefordshire. A shared bottle of Henry Westons Vintage Cider, which weighed in at a hefty 8.2%, was used to toast my 58th year, and left me with a smile on my face.

If you're Audaxing, riding a Sportive for charity or pleasure, holidaying or just out on your bike having fun, and you'd like to share your experiences, the blog is always at your disposal.

Crowns Cafe, Lyneham

Peter C has also filed the following report:

After Saturday's ride, I called into the new cafe at Lyneham called Crowns Cafe, which is situated to the left hand side of the MOD Lyneham entrance, next to the REME museum. 

There is plenty of space both inside and out, and also lots of safe bike parking which is inside the outer fence!

The cafe serves a range of good coffees, cakes and hot snacks, which are all reasonably priced.  If you arrive there before 10.30am, a large drink and cake is just £3.50.

I will be arranging for us to visit on Saturday 5th August, so that we can all sample their delights

Peter C