Going Frome strength to strength on 40th birthday

The club was started by devoted local cyclist Paul Truscott, who remains Frome’s Life President and is still an active member.

The Somerset club’s first-ever ride was held on 8 January 1977, ending up at Avoncliff, and every Sunday morning since a group of members has ridden out from Frome in all weathers, exploring quiet lanes and frequenting many cafes in the area.

On 8 January this year, CTC Frome celebrated its 40th anniversary with 12 members cycling that same original route to Avoncliff.

The winter weather was kind – no rain or frost – and nobody had a puncture, so fate was clearly smiling on this occasion. The tea stop was at Merkins Farm near Bradford on Avon, with the CTC element of Frome’s title living up to its nickname– the Coffee and Tea-Cake Club!

Cycling is now very popular and our membership is at an all-time high.

Richard Hounsell, CTC Frome Chairman

Club Chairman Richard Hounsell said: “We are all very grateful to Paul Truscott for his dedication to CTC Frome for 40 years.

“Cycling is now very popular and our membership is at an all-time high, but 20 years ago the club could easily have folded and it is thanks to Paul that he kept it going through those difficult times and we are seeing the benefit of his vision all those years ago.”

In 2015, Frome riders went on a tour of the Mosel Valley in Germany, and this year 16 members are going to the Alps to tackle some of the classic Tour de France mountain climbs.

The club meets at 9am every Sunday at the Cheese and Grain for a 30 to 35-mile cycle ride with an average pace of 10-13mph, and new members are always welcome.