By Tom Paterson
OFF-ROAD CYCLING is proving popular in Saddleworth as a group of friends have launched rides to gear up residents for some two-wheeled countryside cruising.
Rob Newton, Phil Spector and Mick Ely will lead the ‘Saddleworth Circuit’ rides fromUppermill on the second Tuesday of every month to help people admire the countryside and get some good exercise.
Rob revealed he got the cycling bug after moving to Uppermill seven years ago while life-long cyclist Mick has written books about off-road routes in the Peak District and the South Pennines.
Rob said: “I’ve always done a bit of cycling but I got going properly when I moved toUppermill. I found the Sky Rides and I learned that they did a range of guided cycle rides.
“I went out regularly through the spring and summer and I really liked it but felt I could do with being out a bit longer than a couple of hours because I fancied something a bit more challenging.”
Then three years ago Rob signed up for rides in the South Pennines Walk and Ride Festival, which were led by the RSF Off Road Cycling Club, and has been a club member ever since.
Rob, who persuaded Phil to join him and Mick at the club a couple of years ago, added: “I went along and found it was just the right type of club for me.
“I had to give up some of my team sports because of cruciate ligament problems and I hadn’t found anything that gave me the same satisfaction and sense of being part of a group so it’s been really nice to be part of a club again.”
And keen to share their hobby with others, the trio launched the rides around Saddleworth last month and were pleased with the response.
Rob revealed: “We got nine people out in the morning and we were very pleased with that because with your first ride you never know how it’s going to go.
“We aim to explore the countryside of Saddleworth and further afield in Oldham and Rochdale using the many bridleways, towpaths, tracks and country lanes.
“The aim of an RSF ride is to enjoy the countryside by bike at leisurely pace in a convivial and non-competitive atmosphere.”
The next cycles will take place on November 12 and anyone is welcome to come along. Riders will meet at the Lime Kiln Cafe at the Brownhill’s Visitor Centre from 9.30am for a 10am start or at 1.30pm for a 2pm ride.
If arriving by car please use the canal side free car park just off Wool Road as there is only limited parking at the visitor centre. Please remember cycling is a potentially hazardous activity and anyone joining the ride is responsible for his or her own safety and equipment.
Ride Programme:
The following is advisory and the route may vary according to the weather conditions and the wishes of the group.
Tuesday, November 12: Two easy half day rides. Morning starting at 10am, afternoon at 2pm.Back at Lime Kiln Cafe for lunch.
Tuesday, December 10: Moderate day’s ride with some hills, cafe or pub stop for lunch, finish around 3pm. Lights are recommended.
Tuesday, January 14: Moderate day’s ride with some hills, cafe or pub stop for lunch, finish around 3pm. Lights are recommended.
Tuesday, February 11: Moderate day’s ride with some hills, cafe or pub stop for lunch, finish around 3pm. Lights are recommended.
Tuesday, March 11: Moderate day’s ride with some hills, cafe or pub stop for lunch, finish around 3pm.
For more information please contact Rob Newton on 07941 757685 or visit www.rsf.org.uk
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