DECEMBER 7 was the opportunity and occasion to mark the 90th birthday of our President - Eric Lewis.

Peter Kwan led a dozen members on a familiar tour of local lanes before arriving at The Maypole Hall in Paganhill to join other Wheelers, his family and friends for a celebratory tea arranged by Eric's wife Heather.

After a presentation, Eric spoke humorously, about his long life.

Our festive season began on December 14 with the Annual Cyclists Carol Service at St Georges Church at Cam.

This is attended by representatives of cycling clubs from around the region.

Whilst essentially taking the well-known service of nine lessons and carols, suitably reverent and, appropriate to cycling, readings were given but, with some humorous content.

After the service everyone cycled to Cam Memorial Hall for tea arranged and served by the Stroud Valleys Cycling Club.

Saturday, December 20, was the occasion of the Annual joint Stroud Valleys Cycling Club and Stonehouse Wheelers Christmas Lunch.

This time the venue was The Anchor Inn at Epney.

An excellent meal was provided and enjoyed, whilst the scenic view across the river towards the Forest of Dean was admired.

Carol Kambites led nine cyclists on an appetite raising route to the Anchor.

The traditional Boxing Day Mulled Wine and Mince Pie ride was scuppered by the rain.

Only one intrepid cyclist joined Bill Adams for a gloomy trip.

Sunday, December 28, was a much brighter but colder day, undaunted, half a dozen accompanied Roy Jones on a route around the Stanleys before arriving at Blooms Garden for a welcome hot cup of tea.

On January 4, 2015 began with Geoff Ward leading a posse totalling 15 cyclists following sections of Sustrans cycle routes 41 and 45 for Brunch at the Gloucester Cathedral restaurant.

On Sunday, January 11, our local historian, Tony Martin, attracted a further 20 riders on one of his informative tours which included looking at an ancient sheep dip at Arlebrook.

Tea was taken at The Stable Cafe, Saul Junction before returning through Westend.

Roy Jones was leader on January 18 for a route out through Frocester, Coaley and Cam for tea at Berry Blue Cafe.

On a bright sunny but cold afternoon, a total of 11 Wheelers turned out.

Peter Kwan was leader on January 25 for an 11.00 start from London Road Car Park.

Eleven others joined him on up to Stancombe and The Camp to Fostons Ash and on through Whiteway to Daneway.

After the climb up to Sapperton and along through Frampton Mansell and down the Golden Valley.

Lunch was taken a Cafe Max in Stroud.

All-in-all, the winter weather was pretty kind to us.

Stonehouse Wheelers can be contacted online - stonehousewheelers.org.uk, or Twitter @SWheelers and our runs diary can be viewed at teastop.co.uk.

Should you prefer our Hon. Secretary (Roy Jones) is contactable on the phone - 01453 298759.