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NEWARK NOTES from the Secretary

March 2004

Is there anyone out there?

January can be an under-rated month for cycling. True, the days are short and sunshine can be at a premium, but it's not all snow and heavy rain. And a dry, clear, winters day must be one of the joys of life. So, although there is more need to wrap up, I can't see why so many people hang up their cycling shoes over winter. Even a half-decent day has to be better than going nowhere on a static trainer. Come to think of it, I've seen more than a few 'exercise bikes' amongst the detritus that various low-life dumps at the roadside. I often get mental pictures of someone trying to pedal these things to their final resting places, but I digress.

After riding alone for the first Sunday of the year, I was pleased to see a potential new rider, Steve, turn up the next week. Three of us had a ride out to Clipstone Forest in showery weather. Beginners' luck - not, Steve managed to get a puncture just as the heaviest shower came over. Still, at least I managed to get a wacky changing-tubes-in-the-rain photo for the website. But I haven't seen Steve since (he says he's hurt his knee..) so I hope he wasn't put off.

The third Sunday in January is wassailing at Brandy Wharf, and after checking with the new management that the tradition is continuing, Colin and I made the journey, extended slightly by one planned and one unplanned diversion. Where was everyone? You could actually walk into the bar without having to shove, unheard of a few years ago. This day seems to be blessed with alternate fine and miserable weather, but this was one of the fine ones so that was one excuse not valid. Oh well, maybe next year.

Into February, and I rode with the Saturday ride, to Margaret's for the first time in what seemed an age. Business as normal, it seemed, so it was with some surprise that only a few days later I heard of it's impending closure. No doubt a more detailed tribute will appear elsewhere in this issue; I'm sure everyone will join me in wishing Margaret a long and happy retirement. It will be interesting to see if another establishment rises to fill its place. Although there are many cafes where we are made welcome, Margaret's was perhaps unique in its catering for us cyclists.

Long Clawson, Bunny, and Clumber Park made our next Sunday destinations, while mid February saw the gardens at Little Ponton Hall open to the public, which made an interesting diversion, if a rather short ride, even with the proverbial loop inserted. And then, more of less, it was now, or about a month ago by the time you read this. Looking forward to spring and slightly warmer weather, despite my first paragraph..

Mike Graham

Page updated 06/03/04