DESPITE the rain sheeting down on Sunday morning, a goodly number of members met at the town hall for the days rides, the upside of the morning being a very mild temperature, almost spring like but not quite.

Climbing out of Bolton up Bull Hill was warm work and the rain almost petered out at the top but began to settle in again as we dropped in to Darwen.

Crossing Blackburn we were soon on the long descent to Ribchester crossing the Ribble at the DeTabley Arms bridge. The Ribble was in full spate churning rapidly with a clay coloured froth, little wonder flood warnings had been given out.

The long steady climb out of Ribchester up to Longridge was made without the waterproofs as the rain had abated making the going a little more comfortable. The next few miles to Chipping were nice and easy, time now to note the snowdrops and the vigorous new growth of the soon to follow crocus and daffodils, even the darkest grey days are full of promise.

Lunch at Chipping was taken leisurely before we ventured off again, this time heading for Beacon Fell and the lanes leading to Preston. The rain returned as we set forth, but much lighter than the mornings downpour, allowing the ride to continue pleasantly.

The narrow lanes of the Lancashire fells are a delight at any time of year and enjoyed greatly by the cycling clubs of the area. All too soon we are in Preston heading now for the last tea stop of the day at Higher Walton, our racing lads are already in attendance as we arrive leading to a bit of lively conversation.

The nearer to Bolton we got, the heavier the rain, and by the time we gained Horwich it was as the morning had been, sheeting down. Well at least between the two downpours we had fitted in a very nice ride taking in the Ribble valley and the Lancashire Fells, not bad for a winters ride.

MClarion Ride - A hostel weekend ride to Chester should provide plenty of interest for the members. A great route through the lanes has been planned, subject to the weather of course, Beeston Castle being one of the attractions of the ride out. Meet at four lane ends Over Hulton at 9am. Tel. secretary, 01204 491595 for information. Email amy01@ic24.net.