Pathfinder ride from Gnome World, February 24th 2019 led by Martyn and Margaret

Apologies for the lateness of this report – the result of no-one volunteering (or being coerced?!) to write one, on the day itself.  From now on, an official scribe will be named at the beginning of each Pathfinder – you have been warned!

Twenty Wheelers, Nineteen bikes  including five electric, met at the layby near Gnome World at Indian Queens, and we set off to cross over the main road and head south, in brilliant sunshine, along a new and very attractive route via the old A30 on Goss Moor, then through Roche and Bugle to the coffee stop at the King’s Arms at Luxulyan.  Before we arrived there had been two mechanicals; Phil 4’s tyre had split, and Robin’s handlebars were wobbling.  Fred had some Kevlar tape which temporarily fixed the inch-long split in Phil’s tyre, and Robin stopped at a garage and borrow a drill and a self-tapping screw to sort out his handle bars.  No one could accuse FWs of not being resourceful!  Before setting off again, we admired Peter’s very snazzy, bright orange electric bike, with its full range of gears, and a battery so disguised you have to look hard to see it.

On our way to lunch at St Austell we cycled south and west through Penwithick, Carthew, and Trethowel, all looking lovely in the sunshine with plenty of daffodils everywhere.  Into the town, past the big church and up a pedestrian area to the back of Wetherspoons, where we were able to sit outside and enjoy excellent food at very reasonable prices – plus free coffee refills!  By this time Phil’s tyre had split some more, with the inner tube bulging out; there was no way he was going to get home on it, but luckily there was a Halfords open in town and he was able to get a replacement.  But it took all his money with none left for lunch – didn’t anyone offer to pay for his food?!

Leaving Wetherspoons, we had a short sharp hill follows by a long cycle track, with great views of the huge cone shaped hills from the china clay workings.  We passed the museum and park at Wheal Martyn, then Stenalees, Nanpean, and Treviscoe, followed by a long climb with more good views of the white hillsides.  Getting to the top was a relief, and we were soon back at our starting place.  30 miles for me and Paula, but much more for everyone riding all or part of the way home.  Keeping up his record for long distances, Raymond rode 106 miles that day!

A very enjoyable day out, and thanks again to our leaders, Martyn and Margaret.

Liz

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