Fans of the 80’s TV series -The A-Team – will need no reminding of Colonel John “Hannibal” Smith’s immortal catchphrase “I love it when a plan comes together”.
Today, a plan did come together. Perfectly. Well almost.
What did work so well were the logistics. 11 pilots superbly matched with 11 stokers. And no arm twisting to balance the numbers involved. We planned to leave storage at 09.30. We left at 09.31. We planned to start riding from Penistone shortly after 10.30. And sure enough that’s exactly what happened. . The 1.5km trail diversion at Dunford Bridge was a joy to ride. Julie maintained her gastronomic reputation of serving the biggest, best and cheapest bacon butties and chip sarnies this side of the Pennines. Even the weather behaved itself.
If there was a slight downside it was that the Dawes Edge punctured. Again. But it’s two tyres are now destined for the skip.
But back to the positives. On arrival at Dunford Bridge we were warmly welcomed by Azad, Tom and Kevin, guys working on the National Grid – Morgan Sindall project to route the 400kV power lines underground. Full marks for the absolutely first class diversion that’s been built. It’s superb, and as regular trail users, we sincerely hope you leave it in place, once your work is all done and dusted
And finally, just to show our appreciation, Judith (who else) refused to leave until Azad had agreed to have a go on a bicycle made for two ….
