Christmas in The Cheviots

The Muddy Bums first Christmas Lunch was taken at the fabulously friendly Barrowburn Cafe. The fact that this cafe lies right in the heart of some of our favourite biking routes made it a very easy choice.

The party of Mountain Biking Santas met at Barrowburn at (or shortly after) 10am. Willie then led us ever upwards to the Border Ridge via Rowhope, Murder Cleugh and Hazely Law. Temperatures were rising fast and clothing was bagged as so much energy was consumed on the ascent. Arriving at the Border we were soon aware of the sound of engines approaching, which turned out to be a dozen or more large quads, each carrying a local farmer who, it appears, were out for their annual Christmas pub crawl. Maybe using quads on the off tarmac routes here abouts meant they could drink and ride ?

Our group headed west along the border ridge and up to Windy Gyle. A short stop here reminded us all just how cold the air really was. So everyone was fishing out their clothing from bags - before setting off on the beautiful descent. The route back down to Rowhope was a beautiful, sweeping (if slightly damp) affair - which had everyone smiling as they soaked up the views (and the tyre spray). An extended wait for some stragglers saw much dancing and jogging on the spot to retain body temperatures at tolerable levels. When everyone was back together the group completed the descent then climbed again up onto the Border County Ride. Once again this route sweeps downhill in a most satisfying way and ends right at the Barrowburn Cafe.

Everyone changed into civviesbefore squeezing into the warm & welcoming dinning room. Within minutes the first heaped plate of Turkey & ALL the trimmings arrived. Most people doubted their ability to actually eat their pile - but there was very little left on the plates an hour later.

So what could be better - a splendid ride, in fantastic countryside, beautiful cold but clear weather, great company, and a huge christmas meal. Yet I doubt any of us were quite as happy as the little lad walking down Barrow Law. As Graeme swept past on his bike, sporting a fine Santa hat, this little lad's face lit up. He pointed excitedly at Graeme and announced loudly to his Dad - "Look Dad its Santa Claus !". I am sure I saw a knowing smile ripple over Graeme's face at this point. Maybe - just maybe - Graeme actually is Santa Claus ?!?

All the very best to all of our readers & riders - MARK

THE MUDDY BUMS  (aka "the Clarty Ars#ses")

MOUNTAIN BIKING IN NORTHUMBERLAND AND BEYOND

To change your logo go to the 'Page Master' under the 'Design' menu