THE MUDDY BUMS (aka "the Clarty Ars#ses") MOUNTAIN BIKING IN NORTHUMBERLAND AND BEYOND

Where - Edmundbyers, Sunday May 15th

How many and who - 11, Julie, Tom, Willie, Arthur, Izzy, Terry, Dave, Gavin D, Ian S, Ian A and Steven

How Far - 25 miles

Time - Departed at 10.00am and returned to cars at 15.30pm - 5 hrs 30 mins

Weather - Dry and breezy all day with a few rain drops descending to Rookhope

Route

• A cracking climb up to Bolts law.

• The descent to Rookhope saw Dave and Ian A find an alternate off road option parallel to the high speed tarmac route, with an interesting quarry section in the middle further investigation is required next time.

• The climb to the winding sheds was event free unfortunately as seems to be happening to many regular trails the paths have been sanitised beyond recognition removing any hint of a challenge.

• Once the summit was reached a brief lunch stop before a gently downward sloping 3 mile high speed wind assisted descent to the Waskerley Cafe, the scone eaters were disappointed and the apple pie and custard munchers were ready for more.

• Smiddy Shaw reservoir saw Ian S clear the off camber trail with a steep incline to the left hand side most of the others had at least one dap.

• A changed route onto Muggleswick common via Strawberry Hill managed to miss out a tarmac climb the descent to Barkers Well seems to be getting quicker every time.

• The punch bowl was the preferred watering hole with a well received drink and a chance to plan next weeks ride.

A smashing day oot

Cheers

Ian A