I was supposed to be working today but had an invite out on a ride to my favourite cafe, Dearnford Lake, with 40 minutes notice and could not refuse. I can always work into the evening so not a problem.

I drove over to Hinstock as I did not have time to ride it like I usually do and we set off to Dearnford via the usual route.

The wind was from the west and very strong today, which made parts of the route out very interesting indeed. Still, not a major problem and no worse than the wind I had in my face for 50 miles on the way back from Chester on Wednesday!

At Dearnford we found a seat out by the lake in the sun and had a lovely coffee and cake (coffee and walnut!). We saw some other cyclists and they were all kitted up as if it was a really cold and wet winter day. Did they not get the memo saying this is summer and it’s strictly summer kit only :).

After Dearmford, it was the usual route back via Brown Moss Nature Reserve, where the roads were especially mucky and we all got sprayed with mud off the road. Great fun!

Back in Hinstock we said our goodbye’s and I headed home to wash my bike and get some work done.

Route: click here