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southlakesgroup
Forum Admin
95 Posts |
 Posted - 05/05/2009 : 12:09:46
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A small band of five met at Cannock Visitors Centre on the 8th March. After greetings, we set off southwards across Brindley country park. The morning started bright, but unfortunately changed to bring us wind, rain, hail and snow! Undeterred, we crossed the A460 into Sandy Slade skirting Rawnsley hills and exiting at the Golf Club.
After negotiating the Rugeley road a wet muddy bridleway led us past the picturesque Lodge Bank fishing lake then descending into Seven Springs and the Marquis Drive. After a bumpy descent we climbed Kit Bag Hill, where we were delighted to see a herd of deer, after which we turned right along Dimmins Dale. In a persistent shower, we cycled under the sheltering trees to emerge near Stony Brook Pools. A rough ford led us to the Forest Centre at Slitting Mill. By now our number had depleted to three, as two of our fellow cyclists had other appointments. After a welcome coffee, a switchback track led us to Rifle Range Corner, and the steep descent to Abrahams Valley, where Roger had brake problems, At this point, as we were on the verge of calling it a day, lo and behold, out came the sun. This gave us a photography opportunity, which lifted our spirits, after which rode through Devil's Dimble Ford with lunch beckoning at the Little Fawn Cafe at Milford.
Here we had a well earn break, then set off in a southerly direction, passing Broc Hill, up Hollywood Slade and on to the Heart of England Way. The lovely Sherbrook Valley with its combination of heathland and pine tree brought us back to the Marquis Drive and Visitors Centre.
Although the weather could have been kinder, the ride of 23 miles and 90% bridleway was most enjoyable. Out next ride ride is from Knighton on 10th May to be led by George Baker.
Eddie Asbury
This ride report was publish in the May - June issue of the Rough-Stuff Journal and aim of posting the report on the forum is highlight what the Group is doing to visitors to the forum.
Simeon Orme
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8th March Ride Report of the Welsh Borders Group
