Annual Coast to Coast trip 18 – 19th October 2008 When the trip was first discussed between myself (Will) and Bryan Johnson, we had planned to do the trip on 11 –12th October, but because of other club commitments we changed the dates. This resulted is some people not being able to make it. The plan was that there would be a northern start point in Tynemouth and a southern start point in Hartlepool. The 2 groups would meet at Hexham and travel to Stranraer ( staying at http://www.thethistleinn.co.uk/ which Bob had found on the net) with a lunch stop at Gretna Green. We had all decided to try to avoid the A75 and make the most of the smaller quieter coastal roads. Saturday 18th October The northern group meets at Tynemouth The line up Will, Graeme, Alison, Barry and Lorraine (Im not sure how were all going to fit onto 1 bike though !). The Southern Shandy Drinkers group Bob Keith and Tony (at least they remembered to bring a bike each !) After a bit of a slow start and Graeme needing air (only to find that the garage was having a refurb and the air was out of order) we finally got on our way to Hexham. I thought it was a great idea to strap my camera to the bike and try and video the guys in front. Great idea, until it rained ! (the camera was working after a few days drying out).
All the gang together. Don’t we all look very happy despite the rain. I thought Keith would lead the ride out but as he pointed out, it was my idea and I had the GPS. So we set off, taking the route of the old roman wall, up to Longtown and on to Gretna Green for lunch. By the time we had got to Gretna Green I was getting the hang of being lead scout. Its hard work trying to work out the route and look behind to make sure you have all the bikes behind you. We went to the old blacksmiths at Gretna. Judging by the price of the food I don’t think anyone of us could afford to get married there ! We then hit the coastal routes, miles and miles of perfect roads with some outstanding scenery. We arrived at Stranraer around about 6 in the evening, the thistle inn is a lovely pub/motel type, having decent accommodation which look like motel rooms. No Keith is not asleep ! just meditating after a hard days ride. The blurry effect is using my waterlogged camera. Sunday 19th October We awoke to a nice day, windy but dry. After a hearty all round English/scotish breakfast we were back on the road. Once again TomTom was pointing me in the direction of a lovely little track which was a short cut to the next village, however as I pulled up and looked at it the rest of the gang were shaking their heads in disgust ! I think they were scared of getting their nice shiney bikes dirty ! All in all it was a fantastic weekend and the damp weather did not dampen our spirits. Will English |
