In June the A group ran one of its regular park and ride outings. These go to beautiful parts of the north west, all within a @hours drive of Ormskirk. It’s nice to ride new roads in stunning countryside.

This one was to the gritstone part of the Peak District, aka the Dark Peak.

Adapting a 100km Audax route, the ride set off from Marple. The first big climb was Holme Moss used on the Tour de France. After a long descent to Holmfirth, the next was national hill climb champs venue Jacksons Bridge, before the 4 climb section of immaculate tarmac known as Strines. Also used in the TdF.

A welcome cafe stop in Hope, led onto Mam Nick a brutal 2 mile climb averaging 11%! It brings you out at Mam Torr. A sweeping descent to Chapel-en-le-Frith followed by a couple of back road climbs returning us to Marple. The 70 mile, with 7,800ft of ascent, was challenging but once in the rhythm of climbing was great fun. All the riders all rode well, supported and encouraged each other and had a great laugh. The stunning views and warm sunshine helped make it a perfect day on a bike. One of those perfect days on a bike. In the beautiful Peak District, with dry, warm weather, and a great bunch of HMCC riders.

Thank you Stephen Nelson, Stephen Graham, Rachel Whitfield and Ben Sharratt.

It’s nice to see the B and C groups doing some park and rides too.