Burgh le Marsh 14th August 2022

Cycling UK Louth ride to Burgh le Marsh - Sunday 14th August 2022

Billed as the hottest day of the second heatwave this summer, we had been forewarned and well prepared. Indeed, a number of members had opted for a shortened ride to Claythorpe Water Mill without venturing to Burgh le Marsh.

Meeting up at Louth’s Meridian Leisure Centre were Paul Linder, John Ambler, Reg Bagshaw, Rob Cook and Tim Newbery. Chris Owen had indicated meeting up at Little Cawthorpe and Alan Hockham at Claythorpe. We would also look forward to meeting up with Carl who would cycle in from Chapel St. Leonards. John Rickett had sent his apologies.

As with the last few days, skies were cloudless and the sun had already pushed temperatures up to 23 degrees Celsius. Never the less, conditions were very pleasant for the ride through Little Cawthorpe (where we met Chris) and up onto the ‘Top Road’.

Dodging the potholes, we arrived safely at the Water Mill on schedule at about 10.15 am. Alan and Carl were both waiting for our arrival. Carl’s an experienced Audax rider and has previously completed the challenging London-Edinburgh-London ride and his Roberts bike looked resplendent, sporting a Brooks Swift saddle. Refreshments were taken and to everyone’s surprise John opted for a slice of date and walnut cake instead of his usual bacon buttie. Great to chat with everyone.

After a decent break, John, Reg, Chris and Rob would head for home whilst Paul, Carl, Alan and Tim would continue to Alford, where briefly members diverged utilising a number of routes to avoid congestion from the ‘1940’s Weekend’, and then through Farlesthorpe (Farald’s settlement) and Bonthorpe (originally Brunetorp in the time of St. Cuthbert when the bishops of Durham owned the land); true marshland hamlets in all their beauty.

Stopping occasionally for drinks of water, steady progress was made to Burgh le Marsh. Fascinating in its own right having been the location of a Roman fort and of some importance in WWII for the same reason for being situated on a hill and a good defensive site. A search light unit was established on Station Road and a radar station at Orby Road.

However, we were here to take lunch at Lyndhurst Garden Centre, a venue we haven’t visited in recent years but once a favourite of Phil Marshall. Thanks to Paul and Alan for suggesting a re-visit. Modernised and much expanded, we enjoyed cold drinks, soup, scones and cake.

Tim had requested a return to Willoughby via the same outbound route (Lincolnshire County Council’s Cycle Route C3). Alan and Paul graciously agreed and we were afforded welcome shade.

Carl would leave us at Sloothby whilst Tim, Paul and Alan continued to Alford. The ‘1940’s Weekend’ was still in full swing with stalls, vintage vehicles, re-enactments, singers and dancers giving much vitality to the town. Tim and Paul had visited on the Saturday. Paul now invited members home to tea and treats. Much appreciated and the home baking was splendid.

Arrived back in Louth at 4.40 pm having covered 90 km (56 miles) the temperature 27 degrees, a couple lower than had originally been forecast. A great day out. Thanks to all and great to have met up with Carl.