Maltby le Marsh 16th April 2025

A postponement to Thursday with much lighter winds was one option but in the end John Rickett and Ty Harness turned up eager for a ride to Eastfield Farm at Maltby le Marsh. Alan Hockham had indicated he’d wait at Little Carlton with Paul Linder joining us at the farm. Today’s Ride Leader; Tim Newbery. John was back on the Eddy Merckx, the steed having been given a new lease of life by our resident mechanic Ty.

 

The ride through Stewton and Legbourne Furze to the Carltons was a little easier than anticipated (winds cross rather that head) but no sign of Alan at this point. Birdlife was somewhat scarce too as no doubt they’d been largely grounded by the blustery conditions. Not another cyclist or horse rider to be seen.   

 

Stopping at the bench by Withern Village Hall we were surprised but delighted to meet Paul lying in wait for us, or at least sitting in wait. Paul was able to inform us that Alan would go directly to Maltby le Marsh as he had unfortunately suffered another puncture at Woodthorpe.

 

Arriving at about 11.15 am at Eastfield Farm, we made our way to the newly opened ‘Tea Baa’rn’. This converted 200-year-old farm building gives the venue a much lager seating area, combined with the cow stable tea room. The owners celebrated their second anniversary of opening the tea rooms just a week ago and judging by the number of people today, are attracting a good trade. Refreshments were enjoyed with bagels and bacon sandwiches going down well, Alan joining us a few minutes after the main group's arrival. 

 

After a chat (mostly discussing the merits of a variety of types of bike, wheels and tyres), Alan would depart directly for home as he had duties to attend to. The remaining quartet would now head into the wind to Beesby, over the crossroads and onto Galley Hill. Raucous shrill cries and wailing calls of Peacock but no sightings of our brightly coloured feathered friends.

 

At Claythorpe Water Mill, Ty would head back to work with Paul also heading home. The roof of the former bakery at Claythorpe Water Mill is sadly in a state of collapse with the owners of the mill stating that the venue will be closed for 2025. Miller’s Cottage is however still available for short stays.

 

Tim and John would eventually enjoy a backwind as they wound their way along the rural lanes through Muckton and Little Cawthorpe, arriving back at the Leisure Centre at about 1.30 pm. By now the cloud had largely cleared away with warm sunshine lifting the temperature to nearly 15 degrees. Thanks to all for the good turnout on what was a windy day. 28 miles for the Louth contingent.

 

Tim's 'Relive' video: https://www.relive.com/view/v1OwKGGGeEO