Waltham

Cycling UK Louth Ride to RAF Northcotes and Waltham. Sunday 18th July 2021.

Originally scheduled as an ice cream ride to Cleethorpes, due to a number of considerations the route was altered to take in the sights and delights of RAF Northcotes and Waltham.

This would be the hottest weekend of the year so far, 30 degrees Celsius had been recorded on the Saturday and 30 degrees Celsius was again forecast (inland) for the Sunday ride. In light of the ‘heat stress index’ figures it was felt prudent to cut short the planned 50 miles to around 40 and we’d leave a visit to Cleethorpes beach to another day.

Joining Ride Leader Tim Newbery at the Meridian Leisure Centre were Mike Gray, Chris Owen (who had cycled in from home), John Ambler and Alan Hockham. Apologies had been sent in by Rob Cook, Reg Bagshaw and John Rickett. It was noted that the café is now open on a Sunday so we’ll be able to meet up inside with a 'cuppa' if required.

Starting out on the ride to Brackenborough we had the benefit of clear blue skies, the temperature already a warm 23 degrees Celsius. A slight breeze from the NW of little hindrance. Plenty of other cyclists on the road too and a delight to hear the distinctive call of the yellowhammer and the sights of the soaring buzzard overhead.

All too soon it seemed we were passing by Covenham Reservoir and to the surprise of Mike a route that would take us alongside the Louth Navigation to the ‘West End’. Not the one by Piccadilly Circus but Marshchapel's West End.

A final turn off the A1031 would take us through North Cotes village to the former RAF airfield and a chance to view the 'Wings and Wheels Festival’. The last time we had been here was back in January 2020 and to the ‘Brass Monkey Fly-In’. Alan had reminded us of the chill winds and heavy downpours on that day, what a contrast to today’s hot and sunny weather. Plenty of activity too with a multitude of small aircraft and helicopters flying in and out of the airfield. In addition to the aircraft there were a number of classic cars on display which were of particular interest to Chris who had spotted an MG RV8.

Amiable chat, drinks and refreshments made for a super morning and Tim also enjoyed another chance to visit the small but informative Museum detailing the daring deeds of the Bristol Beaufighter and Bristol Beaufort stationed here in WWII. Alongside the Bristol's of 22 Sqn, Swordfish of 812 Sqn were also tasked with laying mines in shipping lanes and attacking ports and airfields along the coast of France, Holland and Belgium. These open cockpit bi planes were vulnerable to attack and many crews were shot down. One notable P.O.W. was actor Rupert Davies, who after the war was best known as 'Inspector Maigret'.

Mike would head for home as he had BBQ duties to perform whilst the remainder would head for Waltham (a decision to take refreshments at the ‘’Dragonlfy Tea Rooms’ had been made at Northcotes). The temperature as soon as we departed the coast rose steadily and by the time we arrived in Waltham the mercury had risen to a hot and humid 29 degrees Celsius. Something that Alan certainly remarked on.

Chris would at this point also head for home but Tim, John and Alan would now enjoy a splendid lunch in the shaded gardens of the Dragonfly Tea Rooms. Amiable and great service from the ladies too.

Having cooled down, we would continue our journey back on the ‘flat route’ choice which entailed retracing our steps through Tetney and onwards to Fulstow, where purely for medicinal purposes, liquid refreshment was ordered at the Cross Keys. Many thanks to Alan.

The final leg and by now we were enjoying a strengthening NE wind which gave relief form the hot sunshine. Temperatures were much more comfortable at 25 degrees Celsius.

On arrival at the Meridian Leisure Centre, Tim had spotted a team from the Rotary Club who were organising a ‘Memory Walk’ in aid of the local support for Dementia in Louth. Tea coffee and cake. Cake and more cake! It seemed churlish not to offer support and Tim thoroughly enjoyed a cup of coffee and a slice of chocolate and banana loaf. Many thanks to Harriet, Janice and Florence!

A little over 40 miles ridden by the Louth contingent, and 50 miles by Chris. Great effort! Many thanks to all for their company.