ON a colder-than-expected morning, due to thick mist, Bull Hill was a welcome start to the day, the extremities warming on the long ascent.

At the top, bright sun broke through briefly before the plunge back into the cold mist down to Darwen. On approaching Blackburn, however, the mist cleared and the skies became an inviting mix of deep blue and white fluffy cloud offering clear views across the Ribble Valley as we freewheeled down to Whalley.

On to Clitheroe and our first break at Waddington, the picture postcard village looking at its best bathed in the morning sun. Our large group soon had the tables laden with beans on toast, the brisk pace had really honed the appetites.

Though Slaidburn is only 10 miles from here, it's a tough test via Grindleton Fell and the four-mile climb. The compensations on this climb are the fantastic views over Pendle and the peaks of the Yorkshire Dales, and today we see them in all their splendour. The climb takes us out of the Ribble Valley then rushes us down via Harrop Fell into the equally attractive Hodder Valley and Slaidburn.

A leisurely lunch is taken by the village green on the riverbank in Slaidburn, the mid-day sun is warm and very relaxing, almost too relaxing, as we eventually have to leave.

Travelling south westerly down the valley, we pass through the picturesque villages of Dunsop Bridge and Whitewell before arriving at Chipping. Heading from here we are soon through Longridge and on the fast road to Preston crossing the Ribble for the last time as we leave.

A couple of miles or so and the last tea stop comes into view at Higher Walton, where batteries are recharged for the last few miles home. Another glorious days cycling and all on our doorstep. Happy days. Clarion Race Scene ON Saturday afternoon, Fred Smith again showed the younger vets in the club a clean pair of heels up on the Levens 10-mile course, recording 23mins. 20secs.; Darren Topping, a minute behind Fred, with 24mins. 20secs. Jim Ince took Rob Entwistle to task, beating him for the first time by a two-second margin with 24mins 42secs. to Rob's 24mins. 44secs.

Frank Myers rode the Sunday morning 10-mile event at Garstang recording 27mins. 40secs. -- a decent time after his setbacks this year. Sunday rides THE Easy Pace section are out again this week with a ride to Ainsdale, while the Medium Distance group head for Wharfedale and Bolton Abbey near Skipton.

Meet for both rides at the Town Hall Square for 8.30am departure.

Details on the above rides from the secretary, ring 01204 491595.