Malvern Cycle Sport Steady Social

Finally a crisp clear night for the Thursday Social.  Proper cold winter weather at last. 13 riders, of all abilities, turned out for the normal 'chat-ride-chat some more' tour of the hills.

The mud stiffened and crisped as we pedaled. Puddles became sheets of ice to crack like creme brulee and the trails twinkled with a frosty glitter. Trees lit up as riders flew past.

We regrouped at the saddle between Sugarloaf and the Beacon, as the lights of the Severn Valley stretched out into the distance.

Our riders converged briefly with another big Thursday group who we often see in passing. We exchanged pleasantries; the intermixing continuing for a while as we rode. 

Lady de Walden's Drive is a wide bridleway that skirts the high flanks of North Hill, and overlooks Great Malvern town and the beautiful Abbey. A proper sea of lights, stretching out until the Cotswold escarpment rises into the blackness of the distance. 

Finally we reached the top, and folks tried to take shelter from the cutting icy wind until everyone had arrived. We battled ferocious cross-winds as we descended the open hillside, before plummeting rapidly to the pub. 

A cracking evening as always, and so good to see such a range of abilities out, supporting each other and just enjoying the time spent on good trails with great company.