Emma Jayne Bikeathon

21st Emma Jayne Bikeathon

Sunday 12th September 2021

Ruth and Tony Knowles have supported the Neurological Unit at Hull Royal for 22 years for the care shown to their daughter, Emma Jayne. To help raise funds they have organised charity walks and bike rides and this Bikeathon is the 21st (last year having been cancelled due to Covid-19). Cycling UK Louth would once again support the cause with club members entering the event as their Sunday Ride.

Turning up at the 'Splash' were Tim Newbery, Chris Owen and Alan Hockham. We were also pleased to see Jason Bartup (along with other members of Louth Cycle Club) and we had a pleasant chat.

Apologies had been sent by Rob Cook, John Rickett, John Ambler and Reg Bagshaw.

Starting off at 11 am the weather was in our favour for the hilly route; dry, bright (sunny even), light winds and pleasantly cool. Initially a steady ride following a large group ahead but it wouldn't be too long before we were all strung out and by the time we got to Meagram Top we were largely by ourselves.

Through Belleau and South Thoresby we were soon passing by the ruins of St Andrew's church at Calceby before the climb up on the Bluestone Heath road. By now we had already been treated to bottes of water and biscuits by some of the army of volunteers stationed along the route.

From South Ormsby, the route wold continue to Tetford and along Fulletby Road. There was also an equestrian event in progress so great care was taken in passing the groups of horse riders. Smiles and friendly waves all round.

Now the fun part. A sharp climb up Nab Hill, Castcliffe Hill and Beacon Hill with the reward of fine views of the Lincolnshire Wolds. Altitude 138 m (450 ft). A short descent through Belchford Village followed but then another push on pedals to ascend Lowfield Lane to get back to the Bluestone Heath Road. Always a scenic route through the plantations and Rosin Hill. Equally scenic is the ride along Oslear's Lane which would take us through Maidenwell and onwards towards Burwell. One final refreshment stop and the good folk plied us with as many mars bars and biscuits as we could manage!

A right hand fork in the road at Burwell enabled us to continue along the Lincolnshire Wolds Way, passing the walled gardens of the former Burwell Park Hall. Now in ruins it was planted with colourful sunflowers and looked resplendent. The Hall itself was built in 1760 (now long since demolished) whilst Burwell Park was once held by Henry Percy who's claim to fame was being at one time betrothed to Anne Boleyn.

The last leg now back to Little Cawthorpe and we returned a little after 1.30 pm. About 35 miles covered.