The route for this year’s ride was different to the previous three years. We arrived at 6am outside Sowerby Bros Cycles, and about 30 of us lined up for the start. Alex, Craig and Howard Newton, and I represented the Thorpers.

We cycled to Morecambe, suffering two punctures through
Bradford, picking up Craig, who had slept in but managed to get ahead because of our unscheduled stops. A morning stop in Settle, 47 miles in, meant that we could gorge ourselves on sandwiches and drink tea, courtesy of some very kind folk and good organisation.

Afterwards Alex and I decided to stretch our legs and up the pace. Actually we hammered it a bit. It provided some entertainment – we did it for a good 8 or 9 miles and the group spread out. We actually arrived in Morecambe for 11.30am and had time to “see the sea” before the second group arrived. We then went for lunch at a Church Hall - pasta, cakes, coca cola, tea, and coffee were all provided.

The trip back was the hard bit. We had averaged nearly 19 mph going to the coast, but we had some monster climbs on the way back. The Trough of Bowland was truly magnificent – and Widdop Moor played its part in sapping the strength in the legs. Some youngsters joined us on Widdop. Dave rode back with them and gave the “okay” for everyone to hammer it back. We duly obliged.

A very large group played “cat and mouse” at the end – and with all those miles in our legs we all took turns on the front and put in speeds of up to 31mph from Elland to Mirfield. It added to the fun of the day – and we all finished with smiles on our faces.

Our average was 16.5 mph by the end, but the climbs were relentless for the homeward journey. The total mileage was 148 miles. Was it better than the traditional route? I didn’t think so on the journey out; but the return route was outstanding. The other route is more “epic”, but this one was more interesting and more enjoyable, and logistically better – we didn’t have to start and finish in different places.

Hopefully we may have alleviated a little suffering by raising some money for Kirkwood Hospice. A huge thank you to Dave Sowerby for once again organising a marvellous day. I enjoyed myself very much, and it was a privilege to take part.