no.961 june 2017 anﬁeld circular

No.961 June 2017

� @AnfieldBicycle www.anfieldbc.co.uk

Anfield CircularJournal of the Anfield Bicycle Club (formed March 1879)

Runs List

lunch - 1215hrs June 3 Miners Arms Maeshafn 10 Nets’ Cafe Denhall 17 The Bull Shocklach 24 Parish Rooms Coddington (*Committee1130*) July 1 Old Ma’s Gatesheath 8 Dysart Arms Bunbury 15 The Goshawk Mouldsworth 22 MRC 24 The Club House, Oak Road, Wrexham LL13 9RG. 29 The Druid Inn Llanferres August 5 The Pheasant Burwardsley 12 The Britannia Halkyn 19 The Buck Bangor-on-Dee 26 Parish Rooms Coddington (*Committee1130*)

September 2 Nag’s Head Lavister 9 Cross Foxes Overton Bridge 16 Old Ma’s Cafe Gatesheath 23 The Plough Christleton

Closing date next issue 26 August 2017

Contacts

Hon Secretary: Peter CatherallTel 0777 3587793email: [email protected]

Hon Treasurer: Phil Mason

Editor: David Birchall

Olympian Adam Dugglesby MBE powers up Cotwall Hill setting a new Anfield 100 event record - 3 hours, 31 minutes and

eight seconds.

Anfield 100 2017 - new event record3:31:08

Photo by Chris Pickles

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No.961 June 2017

e-Clips

• Dawn Taylor (Ben Griffiths' daughter): Just a note to let you know that a little over £450 was collected at Ben's funeral which my brother has now sent off to the BHF. If you could pass on our thanks to anybody who was there and contributed I would be grateful. Thanks again.

• Tim Dawson, a collector of cycle club badges, has contacted the Club: 'Looking for original ABC cap badge (the early first type one with the intertwined initials) - very good price paid. Would much prefer an original but a repro one might be considered. Tim Dawson [email protected] 020 8504 3570. Many thanks.' Only one original has survived - thought to have been the one traditionally worn by the Captain. But if anyone knows of others we would be delighted to hear.

• Peter Robinson has thrown more light on the old photo of the Miners' Arms, Maeshafn (December's Circular). According to David Rowe's book 'Flintshire Pubs and Breweries', the 'cyclist' enjoying a pipe and a pint was Mr England, a teacher who lived locally but taught at a school in Everton. His journey to work was far from conventional. The story is that he started each day with a one mile walk to Gwernymynydd for a bus to Birkenhead and ferry to Liverpool. What a journey - it must have taken three hours each way. Maybe he was excused morning assembly, and no wonder he needed a pint at the end of the day. And the bike? It belonged to Ray Davies who took the photo.

• From John Thompson: I know it's some way off but at the AGM I would like to propose that 15 mile events are added to the prize rules, Club standards and Club records at the next AGM. This follows the CTT recognition of this distance (for men) as from 2016. I would also propose that the 'best on record' be recognised should the rules be changed as proposed to give those racing an incentive to set a 15 mile time.

� @AnfieldBicycle www.anfieldbc.co.uk � 2

Obituary - Brian MorrisonThe funeral of Brian took place on Thursday morning 13th April 2017 at Shrewsbury crematorium. Brian and Gill Morrison readily accepted the invitation to time the Anfield 100 upon the retirement of Bob McNamee, in 2009, through ill health. And they have continued to time the event every year since, in all weathers, the last occasion for Brian being 2016.

On more than one occasion Brian said that it was an honour and privilege to time the 'Anfield'. And we, as a club, have been blessed by his and Gill's dedication and steadfast support. To recognise their contribution, in December 2015, at the WCTTCA annual prize presentation, the Anfield presented them with an inscribed glass trophy. Our thoughts and sadness for her loss go out to Gill at this time.

Keith Orum

Racing ResultsBirkenhead North End CC Hilly 22 14th April 2017: Graham Thompson 52.06Wrexham RC Mountain TT 30.5 mile 19th April 2017: Geraint Catherall 2:05:05Mid Shropshire Wheelers 50 (Quina Brook Circuit) 14th May 2017: Geraint Catherall 2:47:34(no other report available)

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•Neil France reports: This photo was at the inaugural event by Ford as part of their Team Sky sponsorship this year. A fast 50 mile blast with guys from Shaftesbury CC and a new ABC Maillot Noir was a fab way of spending a Sunday morning. Ford dealerships are holding the events all over the UK and free goody bags are included!! Recommended!

• One notable absentee from this year’s 100 was Anfield friend and Seamons CC stalwart John Pardoe. No sooner had he and Carol returned from a springtime holiday exploring North West Scotland than John found himself in hospital undergoing heart surgery. We’re pleased to report he is now on the mend, and wish him a full recovery. We promise that the Pardoe’s marshalling spot at Cotwall is safe for 2018.

Mighty Midget Geoff Sharp has a fascinating article in the current issue of the MG Owners’ Club magazine. Geoff reports: There has been a number of letters in the magazine about the longest owned MG and for a few weeks mine exceeded them by about 10 years. However, Lord Bamford of JCB was bought an MGA in 1960 for his 17th birthday by his parents, on the condition that he sold his 500cc motorbike. Having still got it this obviously exceeds mine by 5 years, but mine is considered to be the longest owned MG Midget. The article describes the car's history and its part in the family’s cycling career: ‘during the 90s the rear bulkhead was removed and my son’s racing bicycle was carried behind the rear seats to race locations around the country - yes, we fitted in, 2 people plus bike and equipment.' Inspirational too: one of the European Tours ‘included crossing the Sierra Nevada mountains on an un-surfaced 10,800ft pass (highest in Europe) passing close to the summits of the Pico Valeta (11,129ft) and mainland Spain’s highest mountain Mulhacen (11,421ft). This crossing was only recommended for Land Rovers and involved 20 desolate miles of shifting rocks and filling holes to enable the Midget to get through’ [poor Vivienne - Ed]. The adventure proved irresistible to Stan Wild, our 600,000 miler. In the '70s, then in his mid-sixties and with many of Europe’s high passes bagged, but not this one, it wasn’t long before he made the crossing on two wheels with success at the second attempt, snow having blocked the first.


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Clubruns Net’s Cafe, Denhall - 4th March 2017 'Hello', said the man from Sustrans on the Chester Greenway in Guilden Sutton, 'Where have you ridden from?' 'Here', I replied, which was true, but seemed to throw him. 'Where are you riding to?' 'Nets Cafe at Denhall.' 'You can ride all the way there traffic-free you know, thanks to the Sustrans boardwalk at Burton marshes.' 'Yes I know.' Then came the curved ball: 'Will you join Sustrans?' Tricky. Had I been prepared, I would have countered by handing him an Anfield membership form. We could do with new members. Sustrans do a good job, levering £15 from officialdom for every £1 of income. And their next plan - to link the Chester Greenway to Prestatyn - is praiseworthy. But join Sustrans? 'Not today thanks.' So the conversation ended. And I was on my way down the old Northgate railway, sheltered from a brisk crosswind by its cuttings and trees. At Nets, Keith, Geoff, Geraint, John Lahiff and Nigel had arrived early. Tony and Chris rolled in with the March Circular hot off the press, and John Whelan completed the party. Returning over the marshes, now into a strong headwind, the Longstaff, with eighty copies of the Circular onboard was no match for the carbon and titanium road bikes of the others (definitely the problem was not me). However when our route diverged at Hawarden Bridge, I noticed my pace slowed significantly for the rest of the ride back to Guilden Sutton. DDB Dysart Arms, Bunbury - 11th March 2017 Only Jim Gibson and Geraint Catherall attended this run. Geraint reports: I set out from Sychdyn in fine weather and rode through New Brighton, Ewloe Green, and Ewloe down to Broughton; then Dodleston, Rossett and Holt, over the Dee and Farndon. Next it was Churton and Pump lane to Handley. After crossing the A41 came Tattenhall and Beeston Castle, from where it was just a short ride to Bunbury. Jim Gibson was first to arrive. Most of the tables were reserved, though there was one spare where Jim and I sat and chatted. Nearby was group of ladies one of whom had two large Irish Wolf hounds. Good job Wilber was not there to eat them. Homeward it was through Gatesheath via Old Ma’s. From here I followed the A41 to Christleton and the A55 to Broughton. And so home, a total distance of 61.32 miles. The Goshawk, Mouldsworth - 18th March 2017 Peter Catherall reports: It was not actually raining when Nigel picked me up, but the sky looked threatening. As we arrived at the Goshawk it did actually start to rain. 'There'll be no one out on a bike today' said Nigel at which Geraint cycled into view. 'Bit wet isn't it?'. 'Well it was dry when I set out' was the reply. We trooped in and bagged the table and seats next to the fire. Soon we were joined by David and Mary Birchall accompanied by Wilber. Our main topic revolved around the '100' with diversions to grandchildren and large American cars. All too soon it was time to leave. There was steady heavy drizzle by now so we wished Geraint a speedy ride home. David, Mary and Wilber remaining in the warmth of the Goshawk for a little while longer. Miserable weather, but an enjoyable day. Bad weather notwithstanding, even Geraint enjoyed it: I set out from Sychdyn and rode down to Northop, Cycle Route 5 and the Greenway to its end at Mickle Trafford. Here the rain started. Between Bridge Trafford and Dunham on the Hill I passed


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a physiotherapy centre with an ambulance in the car park and a rapid response vehicle just leaving. I turned right off the A56 and rode through Alvanley and so to Mouldsworth. The rain unfortunately did not stop over lunch. My return journey took me back through Dunham on the Hill before joining the Cheshire Cycle way then onto NCN route 5 back through to Connahs Quay then the climb back up to Northop and Sychdyn. All in - a ride of 47.5 miles. The Druid Inn, Llanferres - 25th March 2017

A bright morning, the sunshine was glorious. Alison didn't need the car, so, as I'm still getting over a chest infection, Fellows cheated and left the bike in the garage (I know, it will get cobwebs). I picked up Peter Catherall and we made our way to Llanferres, 'We are going to be miles too early', I said, arriving at 1145hrs. But the pub was open and rare bird Neil France was there to meet us. Food ordered, we sat outside soaking in the sun, and talked. Neil, just back

from South Africa, had hoped John Whelan would help him home, but in John's absence Garmin would have to do. Geraint arrived next, followed by Team Pickles and more food was ordered. A lovely day, and thanks to all for your support. Nigel The Plough, Christleton - 1st April 2017

Rain put paid to cycling for everyone today. Oh how W P Cook must be spinning in his grave at such a pretty pass. Still, even he acknowledged that supporting the run, by whatever means, was better than staying home. Round the table were Peter Catherall, Nigel Fellows, Tony and Chris Pickles, David Birchall, Peter Jones, and Jim Gibson, while Club mascot Wilber kept a careful eye on us from under it. We were delighted to have Peter Jones back again after last month's Red Lion

drama. Still under doctors' orders, walking is his regime at present pending a return to cycling. The Britannia, Halkyn - 8th April 2017

The gods were smiling today, the frost of the early morning had gone and bright sunshine was the order of the day. The Met Office does get it right sometimes. Noble steed out of garage and checked out, and off we go to Halkyn. I noticed quite a few people out on their bikes, amazing what a bit of sunshine can do, and I'm glad that cycling is becoming more popular again. At the first hill and hear someone puffing and panting, yes it's me, not over the chest infection yet. Then a rider passed me like I was going backwards. Feeling totally deflated after that, I arrived at the Britannia to see already there David Birchall (back from a walk with Club mascot Wilber), Brian Whitmarsh, and Peter Robinson (attending his first club-run

since 1958). I get a drink and order food and meet David Bettaney doing the same. Nice to see


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him looking better. Geraint and Team Pickles were next. We all sat outside to enjoy the food and fantastic views over the Dee to the Wirral. On such a beautiful day, in the warm sunshine, it would have been easy to while away the whole afternoon. But we didn't - it was back on the bikes, and home in time for the Grand National. Thanks to all, another great club run. Nigel The Buck, Bangor-on-Dee - 15th April 2017 Fresh as a daisy, Chris Pickles led his dad into the Buck. In contrast Tony looked slightly wilted: 'Head wind', he muttered. Lunch put matters right, and very good it was too. The renovated Buck is back in business; and, we also learned, is now in the same ownership as the nearby Royal Oak next to the bridge. Alas the collection of teapots is no more, taken by bailiffs, allegedly. A very fit Brian Whitmarsh was trying out his new electronic gears. 'They are the future', said Tony, and, you know, I believe he's right. Also enjoying lunch and the chat were Peter Catherall, Nigel Fellows, and Geraint. The 100 cropped up - sorting out the marshalling is always a challenge, like playing chess. But arrangements seemed under control, and entries are pouring in. For Mary, your editor and Wilber, after lunch it was a walk in sunshine following the great loop of the River Dee through the fields to the north of the village. Sheltered from the wind on this Easter Saturday, and being far from the madding crowds, it was very peaceful. DDB Red Lion, Parkgate (Veteran-Cycle Club Wirral weekend) - 22nd April 2017 The sun was shining and the air clear, but, with the wind in the northwest, the day was cold and brisk. I headed for Shotton and the cycle track across the marshes, where Geraint overtook me. He continued at his pace and I at mine, which was slower. At the Red Lion we met up with Geoff Sharp, Team Pickles, John Whelan, and our V-CC friends. Guided by David Birchall, the V-CC party had ridden from the Glegg Arms, through Thornton Hough, Willaston and Burton.

After lunch the weekenders set off along the Wirral Way towards their Saturday overnight stop in New Brighton. However, on leaving the pub, one of the party found a puncture in his back tyre. David and I offered help, but there were complications and it was almost an hour before we were on the road again. Even then, the trouble was not over. Disaster struck again, with another puncture, same tyre, but this time no repair, just a long walk back to Heswall; leaving David and me to rendezvous with Jim Gibson, waiting patiently 4 miles up the track at Thurstaston. With David returning to Heswall, my ride ending in West Kirby, and, with the rest of the weekenders by now over the Leasowe sandhills and far away, Jim was left to his own devices, although I am told he did report a distant sighting, through binoculars, of the Huntington penny-farthing. 'Twas not a mirage, says Jim. Thanks to all for a great day and great company. Nigel Fellows


Tony Huntington at the Red Lion, Parkgate

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For our V-CC friends, the weekend had started on Friday with a visit to the iconic Eureka Cyclists' Cafe at Two Mills, and ended on Monday with a ride past the house in Forest Road, Heswall, where Anfielder and Scottish V-CC stalwart the late John Farrington grew up. Homage was duly paid with Alec Lindsay leading the ride-past on John's Birkenhead-built Clifton, now restored to its 1950s specification. After Saturday's 'beating of the bounds' around the Wirral, Sunday started with a leisurely ride along Egremont Prom, followed by a ferry trip to Liverpool. The day concluded with a late afternoon amble, led by Geoff Sharp and David Birchall through the streets of Birkenhead, out into the lovely countryside of mid-Wirral, and so back to Heswall for an enjoyable group dinner in the evening. Anfielders helping fly the flag (additional to those already mentioned) were Keith Orum, Phil and Brenda Mason, and Mary Birchall (with club mascot Wilber) in the sag-wagon. A delightful and friendly weekend, thanks are due to Jim Gibson who masterminded the event, and to those who supported it, more than a few travelling very long distances to be with us. DDB


Photo by Geoff Sharp

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Nag’s Head, Lavister - 29th April 2017 Mike Hallgarth is chasing miles: today from Minera he climbed over the moors to World's End, then up the Horseshoe Pass to Llandegla and back to Minera before lunch. Geraint and Nigel had an easier morning, dropping down from Mold, both happy to face the hills back, while John Whelan rode from the Wirral. The rest of us, Dave Bettaney, Peter Catherall, Peter Jones, your editor and Wilber, all had good reasons to support the run with motor assistance. The food at the Nags Head is excellent and the service friendly. Over a leisurely lunch, we talked about last weekend's tour of the Wirral with our Scottish friends, the 100 marshal roster, observing red lights (and the perils of not), the looming election, and Boris Johnson's ‘mugwump’ quip about Jeremy Corbyn. Our national media seldom ask the right questions, unlike the Anfield Circular. 'Mugwump - wot that?' Most enjoyable (and true) definition: 'A politician who sits on the fence with his mug facing one way and his wump the other'. DDB Nigel Fellows adds: A hazy sunny day with a cool wind, I get the bike out and wear a few extra layers to keep warm. First stop, a new inner tube from the cycle shop in Buckley to replace the one I gave Bob Bennett at Parkgate last week. Then via Kinnerton and Dodleston to the Nag's Head. Homeward, the wind was behind for a change. Parish Rooms, Coddington - 6th May 2017 With many not able to attend, the committee meeting and run were cancelled, somewhat late in the day. Unfortunately the news didn't reach Peter Jones (Hon Sec's apologies), and Peter Robinson would have been there too, but for a chance email. Cross Foxes, Overton Bridge - 13th May 2017 After a week grand-parenting in Cornwall and a visit to Sir Roy Strong's garden in Herefordshire your editor and Mary diverted, homeward bound, to attend the club run. A bit fraught the travelling, but worth the effort to see Nigel, Peter Catherall, plus Geraint, Tony and Chris Pickles at the Cross Foxes. I thought everyone had heard of Sir Roy Strong, but nope, we drew 100% blanks. So our visit to the Laskett, and that we'd been greeted by the man himself, meant nothing to those present. Ho hum. What dominated the conversation was the 100 - Peter reporting the event over-subscribed, and Nigel the marshalling sorted and (touch wood) the course clear. DDB Old Ma’s Cafe, Gatesheath - 20th May 2017 Today it was rainy in West Cheshire. Supporting the run were Peter Catherall (handing out 100 Start Cards, fresh off the press), Geraint, Nigel Fellows, Dave Bettaney, Jim Gibson, and your Editor plus Wilber (poor dog, not allowed in the cafe). The Plough, Christleton - 27th May 2017 Nigel and Peter rolled up in a very large van hired to carry the signage for Monday's 100. Peter Jones joined me for a short walk with club mascot Wilber before opening time. Rod Anderson's Land Rover was parked, no sign of Rod. He'd gone for a ride. ‘Over the Peckforton Hills?’ ‘Hills what hills ?' queried Rod, now resident in Devon, where hills mean hills: 'Cheshire's rolling lanes are heaven for cycling.' It was good to see him, his first club run since the 1999 Tints weekend. Geraint, Bill Graham and John Whelan arrived from morning rides, with Dave Bettaney and Team Pickles completing the turnout. The day was blisteringly hot, with thunderstorms not far away. Although Christleton escaped, with no rain at all, a few miles east, it was torrential. DDB


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Anfield 100 - 29th May 2017

After last year’s stunning ride, 3:33:20, by Ryan Perry we thought event record had been shelved for good. But how wrong we were. Who would have predicted that, a year on, the record would fall again. But it did - to Olympian Adam Dugglesby MBE. He lopped off another 2 minutes 12 seconds with the amazing time of 3:31:08. And as if it were not enough, the previous day he had ridden a 1:38 fifty. I quipped that without it his 100 time might have been even better, under 3:30:00 perhaps? But he dismissed the thought. It’s all about the latest advances in bike design he said. He would also have been justified in adding ‘and the rider’, but he didn’t. Did the weather help or hinder? Over the weekend, the heatwave had broken down in torrential rain and thunderstorms. By Bank Holiday Monday the worst had rolled away northwards; and the day dawned gloomy and damp with spells of heavyish showers and a light wind from the south east. It was described to me as ‘a low pressure day’. Such days, I was advised, increase oxygen levels to the benefit of riders. With ten finishers under four hours, may be the conditions did help,

but it was not so pleasant for the marshals and timekeepers, who worked very hard through the soggy morning to deliver a safe, well-run event. Amongst the racing ladies, Becky Lewis, Mid Shropshire Wheelers, was the star. Becky’s outstanding ride, 4:12:45, set a new womens’ event record, superseding Christine Roberts’ 4:22:22, unbeaten since 1994. As Christine said, Becky is her worthy successor. The ride was also special for the Anfield too: Becky’s grandfather Ernie Davies was a long standing Anfield member, and we are still in touch with gran Joan. Mike Hallgarth’s Cycling Time Trial Forum is the place to go for post race chat. Year on year, there are two consistent forum themes about the


Fastest lady: Becky Lewis, Mid Shropshire Wheelers

Photo by Chris Pickles

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Anfield 100. The stretches of coarse surfaces on Shropshire’s roads is a problem universally acknowledged: this year between Cotwall and Crudgington, riders had to contend with a top-dressing of granite chippings, dubbed ‘Crudgington cobbles’, in addition to the notorious ‘Peplow Pavé’. In contrast, consistently appreciated are the event’s organisation, marshalling, and friendly support offered to all involved. Hosting the VTTA National Championship this year, over 140 would-be competitors applied to ride. But out of consideration for the timekeepers and safety we limited the field to 120 (of which only 100 actually started). The course features a seventeen mile circuit, with each rider passing the timekeeper five times. For a field of 120 it works out (if my maths are correct) at between 2 and 3 riders per minute for over four hours without a break. Keeping track is a nightmare, and our sincere thanks go to Gill Morrison and her team for their cool heads and expertise. How they manage I don’t know.

Results 1 Adam Duggleby Vive Le Velo 3:31:08 2 Richard Bideau Pendle Forest CC 3:38:40 3 Carl Donaldson GS Metro 3:41:51 4 Mark Turnbull TORQ Performance 3:42:02 5 Mark Nulty Glossop Kinder Velo CC 3:45:17 6 Philip Graves NOPINZ 3:53:58 7 Victor Chetta Mid Shrops Whlrs 3:54:11 8 Steve Ayres Bronte Whlrs 3:55:38 9 Howard Lewis Mid Shrops Whlrs 3:58:25 15 Becky Lewis Mid Shrops Whlrs 4:12:45 37 Jill Wilkinson Chester RC 4:25:10 44 Jasmijn Muller Born to Bike 4:32:26

Fastest Team - 12:05:21 Mid Shropshire Wheelers (Victor Chetta, Howard Lewis, Becky Lewis)

Our grateful thanks to the many ABC members and friends who provided help from before the crack of dawn throughout the day. Without you there would be no event. Our thanks also go to the ladies at HQ for looking after us so well with tea, homemade cakes and sandwiches, all proceeds to Shawbury Parish Church funds. Well done and thank you again to one and all. DDB Quote of the day (John Thompson): ‘Getting a full field - with some of the country's fastest 100 milers - must mean we are doing some things right. On Mike's forum our event got over 2000 views and many of the comments were complimentary’.


Why run the 100 in Shropshire? Historically it was the quiet roads which provided safe space for competition away from populated areas. Unfortunately there now seems to be no such thing. We aim to be early away from the busiest places - the A41 and Tern Hill - but there is no avoiding the build up of traffic on the A53 as the morning progresses. Even the B roads used on the circuit are now busy with lorries, tractors, and cars. Time-trialling and heavy traffic is not an ideal mix. This year a motorist complained about a competitor, alleging illegal riding, at a traffic bottleneck near Edgebolton, and took photos. Asked for his side of the story, the rider accepted responsibility, and was therefore disqualified; regrettably. Necessary, but a pity nevertheless: he would have finished sixth fastest had his time been allowed to stand, and so the first ten riders all would've been under four hours.

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Talk by David Birchall, Archivist of the Anfield Bicycle Club (Report by Alex Robertson reprinted courtesy Veteran-Cycle Club News & Views)

The Veteran-Cycle Club Cheshire Section elected a couple of years ago to spend some of the funds accumulated through participation in the Manchester Velodrome annual cycling jumble on a yearly talk for the benefit of section members and friends focused on a subject related to vintage cycling. This year’s event took place before a large and enthusiastic audience on Wednesday 8 March at Woodside Golf Club, Cranage. David Birchall, the official Archivist and Historian of the Anfield Bicycle Club, gave an illustrated presentation on the ‘Amazing Anfielders’ project and the considerable documentary and photographic archive which illuminates the Club’s activities since its foundation in Liverpool in 1879. David began by describing the effort that he and the club’s volunteer members put into gathering together, sorting and cataloguing the considerable body of records generated over the years, from minute books to fascinating ephemera like the menu cards of annual dinners (they didn’t half do themselves well!); and the support received from HLF and the Cheshire Records Office. With such a wealth of material to work with, David very wisely concentrated in the rest of his presentation on a few specific facets of the Club’s distinguished history: including the Club's origins in Liverpool at the height of the Victorian era, the contribution of the Anfield to frustrate Kaiser Bill’s ambitions from 1914 to 1918, and the history of time-trialling from the perspective of the famous Anfield 100. Amazing characters abounded, like W P Cook – a leading light in the CTC and one of the instigators of the Cyclists’ Memorial at Meriden. Then there was W M Robinson, aka ‘Wayfarer’, a distinguished cycling journalist, lecturer and authority on cycle touring. It was Robinson who recorded the ride from Rossett, near Wrexham, to Corwen over the Berwyns on a snowy weekend in March 1919 – which he and Cook had undertaken as a way of getting home after a club-run. His account was published in Cycling on 8 May 1919. Most heroic of all, perhaps, was G P Mills, who rode his ordinary from Lands End to John o’ Groats in five days, won the Paris/Bordeaux race of 1891, was instrumental in the foundation of the Tour de France, and carried with him when racing a Colt revolver to shoot dogs which attacked him en route. F H Koenen, the Anfield’s Flying Dutchman (whose great-grandson, by a happy chance, was in the audience) was cast in a similar mould: an ‘Amsterdam bird of passage’, he won his first race in 1886, raced ordinaries at Belle Vue in Manchester and was an active club cyclist between the two World Wars, as well as being a regular musical ‘turn’ at club dinners. David was deservedly and warmly applauded by the appreciative, numerous (50 or so) and suitably refreshed audience at the end of his most interesting talk. Our Hon Sec, Patti Wilson, also expressed our appreciation of the efforts of Bob Bennett, the organiser of this event. It was later agreed that the Section should make a donation in support of the Anfield Archive in Chester.


After the presentation, the V-CC made a very generous donation to the ABC archive fund. The Club's appreciation and thanks have been forwarded to the V-CC. Anfielders attending the evening were Glynn Stockdale, John Lahiff, Jim Gibson, and Alec and Janet Baxter. Thank-you all, I very much appreciated your support. In addition, courtesy of the web, John Moss and Phil and Brenda Mason made a brief virtual appearance from South Africa. It happened just before the interval when the iPad and iPhone used in the high-tech Keynote presentation latched on to their incoming Skype video call. What timing! DDB

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Snowdonia Day Ride, 9 May 2017 One of the benefits of retirement is being able to choose the day to ride a bicycle and co-ordinate it with clement weather. Today was that day. Five members responded to my email, and met in Betws-y-Coed. We prepped the bikes, and, after a short discussion regarding the route, at 10.30 we were on the bikes and away - an initial shock to the body the 5%, six-mile gradient on the A5 to Capel Curig. We continued on the A5 still climbing then levelled, with Llyn Ogwen on our right before the very fast downhill of the Nant Ffrancon and the left turn just before Bethesda onto the B4409 through Tregarth to continue to the T junction previously B4366, now a new ‘A’ road taking in Pentir and a couple of recently planted traffic islands. The plan was then to ride to Llanberis. However, this was not to be, because of a somewhat fogged democratic decision to re-route to Beddgelert on the promise of tea and cakes there - a fair reward for an extra thirteen miles! So at Llyn Padarn we turned into the lanes with steep hills which nobody walked but which proved a straight route through to Waunfawr. Here we joined the A4085 and a fast descent lasting most of the way into Beddgelert for the promised tea and cakes. Refreshed, but with one or two false starts, we rode, each at our own pace, the long scenic climb re-grouping at the summit, Pen-y-Gwryd, by the junction with the Llanberis Pass road. After a photo, it was the final twelve miles or so, through Capel Curig and right fork onto the A5 back to Betws-y-Coed. Messrs Hallgarth, Orum, Sharp, Whelan and Whitmarsh agreed it was a good day. Technical data: distance 55.55 miles, riding time 3:42:15, average speed 14.9 mph with 3400 feet climbed, maximum speed and calorie count confidential. More day rides are being considered. Somebody calculated the five of us totalled 340 years of life! No further comment! Keith Orum


Bus passes at the ready? Messrs Whitmarsh, Sharp, Hallgarth and Whelan at the top of Nant Gwynant Photo - Keith Orum

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