Bob the Bike Man

It’s been weeks now since I’ve been able to cycle regularly which isn’t helping my health or temper - missing the endorphins! First the bad, rainy, windy weather kept me indoors. Then an attack of gout in my left big toe prevented me from even attempting to put a cycling shoe on, let alone ride anywhere. Then Christmas and now all this white stuff and, blow me, another gout flare up!

I did manage one outing early in December with a few guys to raise money in support of Focus Birmingham in aid of the blind and visually impaired. The ride was well organised by Andy Kilminster and took us from the Old House at Home, Harborne, up the Harborne Walkway and into town along the canal. Thence out on the Rea Cycleway to Northfield, along the roads over Frankley Beeches and back through Bartley Green to the pub for lunch. Twenty five miles or so with a couple of  much appreciated Christmas cake stops! Andy had even organised emergency support from the St. John Ambulance in the form of two cyclists. They were both equipped with what looked like a mini Queen Elizabeth Hospital strapped to each bike!

Pitstop in Cannon Hill park.

Andy completed the ride dressed topically as Santa. I’m looking forward to the next fund raising ride….in warmer weather!