Stonehouse Wheelers

IT COULD now be said that all are looking forward to the spring riding programme and the appropriate higher powers have set the next couple of months in accordance with the increased daylight and hopefully a relaxation of guessing at what to wear and inevitably choosing the wrong gear.

It is fair to say though that perhaps this sounds a bit foreboding for one of the joys of cycling is its relaxed approach to the activity and clothing does not need to be an issue other than essentials such as a good helmet (not essential but highly recommended) and gloves to help save those hands in case of a fall, any thing goes, whatever suits the individual.

Mentioning the point of whatever suits the individual at this point is perhaps appropriate for the activity of cycling offers such a wide and varied form it can take.

At one end the scale is the professional racer who spends endless hours on a saddle (and probably in the gym) getting up to perfection but even that can take various forms like road, track and mountain come to mind.

At the other end of the spectrum is the short distance commuter travelling to work or the local shop and children using it for school.

Oh if only many more youngsters could be seen using a cycle for this purpose and of the few seen on the road it is a pleasure to witness but sadly as a sign of the times only a few.

Recently the world track events were televised and the dedication and natural ability of Sir Bradley and Laura Trott along with their teams contrasts so much with the reality of a Sunday afternoon club ride and almost in a different world but that's what dreams are made of and must inspire the present day youth.

Returning to reality the Quiz evening turned out a very enjoyable affair, was well attended by Wheelers and Stroud Valleys members (organised by Stroud Valleys) and the buffet provided certainly seemed to fuel up the brain cells of some present particularly the Quiz winners.

Mind you a sharp brain was needed for some obscure questions and a particularly teasing round that sounded easy but actually was not.

Of course the sharp minded knew how long the 100 years war lasted and the more down to earth asked where did Billy Butlin open his first holiday camp?

Looking at the runs undertaken a correction needs to be made regarding the daffodil ride.

Now it was indicated that the organisers have a most difficult task in deciding when to initiate a run to look at the daffodils and not always hitting the best time, well this year the daffodils were appearing much earlier than expected.

Well in fact this must have been the best year for some time for daffodils which seemed to take note of remarks made and all went back to sleep for a while thus producing a fine display and a long season this year.

Well perhaps the prod did some good.

The upper powers seem to have taken spring in mind as mentioned and a diverse set of runs with their unusual names have been devised.

Members can look forward to exploring Noel Leeway, Madams Way and Leyhill, only from the outside (hopefully).

Also Tea at the Town Hall, presumably without dignitary's being present to welcome us, but must be lots of cakes and tea for a charity event and a quick look at Gloucester Docks.

Finally a local flying facility visit but only viewing for cyclists.

Wow that's a fair programme to keep all busy so lets hope the sun shines.

Finally just a mention that our President has been taken ill and will be missed attending for a chat at most destinations.

Further details about the Stonehouse Wheelers can be obtained from our website at

stonehousewheelers.org.uk on Twitter:@SWheelers and teastop.co.uk or from the Secretary on 01453 298759.