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

6 Muddy Bums gathered at Tyne Green in Hexham on this typical summers day (warm with sunshine and short sharp showers and a gusty westerly wind occassionaly putting in an appearance). Izzy, Ian A, Tom, Martin, Gary and Mark sped effortlessly along the Tyne River parkland towards Low Warden and then onwards along ancient byways to join up with the A69. This byway is very seldom used so the nettles have it pretty much all their own way. So the ride was accompanied by many verbal sound effects as various legs were tenderly embraced by said nettles. Apparently its good for you !

Crossing the A69 we headed up through Coastley and up another ancient byway to Low Gate. This name seems at odds with the village being high up on the southern edge of the Tyne Valley Here we had a map reading, grid reference and timed km class (and all passed with flying colours). By the way - it was 3.5 minutes to do 1 km on good surfaces at a steady lick.

Here we turned west and headed into the wind and along lanes to pick up the next byway at Elrington. This beatutiful ancient lane crosses several old bridges and past some splendid old houses before diving down steeply through woodland to Langley Castle. The views up and down the South Tyne Valley were spectacular and the clouds parted to allow bright sunshine to light the scene.

At Langley another few lanes took us to a byway through a field full of cattle. Lots of calves, mummies and the big daddy presented a rather intimidating few hundred metres - but Tom lead the way with great bravery (or innocence) and we all crossed safely. The descent to Ridley Hall and back accross the A69 was taken at great speed, followed by the climb up the North side of the Tyne Valley towards Thorngrafton Common. This side of the valley feels quite different - more rugged, rocky and ancient - with the feeling that a Roman Soldier could pop out from behind every mound.

Lunch was taken at our usual plantation where the art of taking back bearings was also quickly mastered by all present. The next few miles down to Newbrough was fast and satisfying with sweeping bends and enough loose stuff to keep everyone well focused. We then rode through Fourstones and up the lane to join the Warden Hill Bridle. This is one of my favourites as it contours around the hill, through ancient woodland with splendid views back along the South Tyne Valley.

The descent to the Valley floor was taken at "staggering" speed and then a gentle wind down spin back along to Tyne Green. A most enjoyable 27 miles of fabulous Tyne Valley countryside.

Mark

PS : Hope the legs are not still smarting from those darn nettles !

PPS : This is the 100th ride report on the Muddybums website - milestone !!!

PPPS : Stats & route map here - 27 miles in total.