The much anticipated and long delayed Way of the Roses cycle ride happened in the first weekend in September when 41 riders assisted by 10 support team members cycled cross country from Morecambe to Bridlington, taking in the very best of the forest of Bowland, the Yorkshire Dales with many of its picturesque villages including Settle and Pateley bridge before eventually descending via Ripon and York toward breezy Bridlington some 171 miles and 3 days later.

The group had stayed at an outward bound bunkhouse just outside Settle, food graciously pre prepared from Jane and the staff at Middlesbrough Masonic Hall was most welcomed to make sure the team were well catered for, the support team splitting themselves between cooking and ferrying the team around to the start and finish points each day.

A special mention must go to the Morrisons supermarket staff at Ripon and Bridlington who had their arms twisted and their egos massaged into donating sandwiches and energy bars to the team on days 2 and 3, this was greatly appreciated.

Likewise to Robert Ward and Vic Thompson at Pocklington and Driffield Masonic Halls respectively who threw the doors open and provided teas, coffees and much needed toilet rests for the weary riders as they passed through, again relief indeed.

It was also good to see Jack Sharpe and Mark Iveson giving up their time on a Sunday morning to see the team safely through the rabbit warren that is York city centre….thanks lads .

The team were greeted at the finish line by none other than the new PGM, RW Bro David Chambers along with many family and friends of the cyclists who had come from far and wide.

There was hardly a dry eye in the house as the riders filtered through the finish line one by one to rapturous applause, joyous scenes indeed.

A successful weekend had by all involved, 171 miles on pedal power, great food and drink in between, and many lasting memories made en route.

Roll on the next challenge……