AMY McLarty's band of beginners supporting her efforts to bring cycling to newcomers is growing.

The largest group setting out from the town hall at 9.am. were the beginners, off to Dunham Massey park just beyond Warburton in Cheshire. The youngsters are now gaining in experience and eager to express their newly found confidence. A nice morning with a stiff breeze ran contrary to the weather forecaste, but who's complaining?

The country park was gained in good time with just one short stop on the way at Hollins Green. Like any estate, attractions are plentiful but cyclists priorities usually consist of finding food and drink first. An old watermill on the river flowing through the estate warranted investigation and with the good weather continuing it was good to be outdoors.

Remarkably good time was made on the return to Bolton, a strong wind assisting all the way home. The youngsters were proud to learn they had covered a distance of some fifty miles, roll on next month's ride.

Daniel Jones made third place in his mountain bike race at Leisure Lakes near Southport. As Daniel finished his under sixteen 5/8s race he was delighted to learn his younger brother had actually won the under twelve event. Looks like he is in for stiff competition in the coming years.

Three rides on offer for the clarion this week with easy going C Ride heading for Inglewhite set beneath Beacon Fell in Lancashire. The B Ride are bound for Pendle Hill calling at Roughlee. The A Ride complete the Lancashire destinations with a trip to Knott End. All rides meet at the town hall square for a 9am start. Information from Secretary Amy McLarty, tel. 01204 491595.