On Wednesday 19th February 10 of us met at RLE for our third ride north westerly since we reinstated rides in that direction. We started with a short wait while Tim fixed the puncture he had acquired on the way to the start. Weather was not looking good, then the rain started.
We left at 10.15, stopping for waterproofs to be donned and then to say goodbye to Tim whose puncture was obviously still ongoing. At elevenses in the rain, Judith decided to head back due to the cold. Eight hardy riders then continued via Blackwell, Burcot and Bromsgrove. At that point we realised we had lost Stratford Bob! Upon making contact, he reassured us he would meet us at Belbroughton.
We continued on quiet, undulating but dirty lanes and were relieved there were no floods. We went the long way through the Chartist village of Dodford, built in a grid pattern.
The next mishap was very close to Belbroughton - a closed road - but we got through and had an excellent lunch at The Horseshoes, where Bob was waiting for us.
The return route was uneventful and featured a significant climb through Barnt Green but after that a change to the usual route between the Bittell Reservoirs meant there was less of a climb. All that was left then was Weatheroak Hill, or Forhill for those heading into Birmingham.
It was agreed that it was a good route and a good pub. We climbed about 2000 feet and think the area is worth further visits.
