In this issue:- National Secretary resigns Report on 2006 Easter Meet
Preview of this years Wortley Hall event
To Clarion membership and officials Re: Resignation of National Secretary Charles Jepson
Following a committee decision to change the secretary’s ‘discretionary spending’ to ‘emergency and administrative spending’, our secretary has decided to resign from office.
These spending powers, which are limited to a maximum of £250 between committee meetings are necessary to allow the smooth running of our club. The proposal was carried with a majority of 4 to 2 at the meeting and sadly Charles took this as a vote of no confidence in him personally.
As Chairman, I support the decision of committee which was non-personal and intended to ensure that the committee, it’s officers and future officers spend our finances wisely. The spirit and letter of the proposal was not intended to restrict the secretaries efforts, but to ensure that any non-budgeted or non-administrative expenditure is referred to the committee who have been elected to run the activities of the Clarion.
Charles Jepson has served our club well and his efforts have been considerable. Indeed during his term, membership has increased by more than any other time in recent years. I would like to thank him for his efforts and trust that he will continue to support and ride with the Clarion in the future. Charles has stated that he feels that he: “can best serve the interests of our historical socialist movement by other means”.
As Chairman and Vice President, I have accepted Charles’ suggestion that all communications should be directed to myself and unless the committee requests otherwise, I will continue this role until the next committee meeting on October 28th. As many of you will know I was secretary for 7 years or so, during the 90s and the committee has some of the strongest officers that it has had for many years so there is no reason for alarm.
At the next committee meeting an ‘acting’ secretary will be appointed and then at conference in 2007, a new National Secretary will be appointed.
My message to the membership of the Clarion is that they can influence the direction of this special club of ours by taking part in the democratic process. They can propose and elect all of our officers together with the National Secretary, but they need to take part. Individuals can attend section AGMs, committee meetings and advise their delegates how to vote at conference. All things can be changed, all you need to do is get involved. Charles took the Clarion in the direction that he felt was right. With a new National Secretary, that person will surely do what they feel is right and follow the feelings of the membership. Please start thinking about who you want to do this important job.
T would like to think that the Clarion can continue to be unique, will remember it’s past with pride but look to the future. A future where cycling (for racing or leisure) will give us all a great quality of life, great friends and much fun.
Tan Clarke Chairman and Vice-President National Clarion CC.
National Secretary's Report
Presented to Meeting of the National Committee held at the Arden Arms, Stockport on Saturday March 4th 2006
Both the Lowestoft and Bolton Wood Street Sections are now active. Lowestoft have published a programme of short monthly rides. Bolton Wood Street Clarion have 21 members and met on three occasions. The Section has received donations of well over £600 towards the production of a Clarion Marching Banner in memory of those brave Clarion members who fell in the Spanish Civil War. Contacts have been established for possible new sections in Devon and Cambridge. A Section of just one member is better than no Clarion presence in an area. The Easter ribbons have arrived, the trophies are at the engravers and the medals have been engraved.
The advertisement in ‘North Wheel’ for Denis’ book “Fellowship is Life” generated a good response. This magazine was unable to take an advert for Manchester and Stretford Section due to CTC policy. The editor of this excellent publication has been most supportive of the Clarion.
The open time trial for Wortley has appeared in the CTT
Handbook on the wrong day, steps are being taken to correct this error on my part. Our advert in the CTT Handbook appears opposed to the Sunderland Clarion Time Trial weekend. All Sections should encourage their members to support what promises to be an excellent weekend in the company of one of our friendliest Clarion Sections.
The response from Sections regarding the non-racing awards has been extremely poor, a proposed rule change at Conference should address this situation,
A Clarion beer is now being produced by independent brewer Richard Hand launched at Heaton Moor Conservative Club, which I found rather ‘bitter’!!! Bernard Heath(Central Section) formerly of Huddersfield Clarion donated a book to the Club. The First Fifty years of Huddersfield Star Wheelers. This has been passed on to Donald Lever(Bury Section) who will in turn pass it on to others.
Charles Jepson
RACE ROUND UP
Itis not easy to get accounts of members racing activities so this column is written from the remarks made on chance encounters. The first story then relates to the 2005 season and the remarkable participation in the national team trial championship run over 50 kilometres by the highly successful Fenland Clarion. Dave Langlands entered a team in this event and this became two teams when he suggested to [an Clarke that he could make a team up from those Fenland members who had not been selected for the Fenland ‘A’ team. The team started in the first half of the field and had the pleasure of seeing that they were in the leading position when they finished. The top teams had yet to come in but they did finish in a creditable eleventh and beat Fenland ‘A’ team.
While Ian was riding the event his wife to be Jayne Bevitt was riding her first 50-mile time trial and she had the pleasure of winning the handicap section of the race. Derek Hodgins riding his last 100 of 2005, was thwarted in his attempt to wrest the lead in the Clarion Time Trial Championship from Paul Dickenson as the event was aborted. He philosophically reflected that there is always another year well after all he is only 73! Already this year he is under the hour at 25 miles and witha 4.33.50 ride in the Anfield RC 100 he is obviously not going to be an easy man to beat. Other Clarion riders in this classic event were Dave Smith, Nottingham, 4.43.01 for third handicap; Dave Albut, Crewe, 4.44.15;
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Kath Smith, Nottingham, 4.58.10. At the time of writing these riders other times are not available but Derek’s average speed for the three distances is 23.36mph. Dave Albutt is highly motivated this year and is making great efforts to do well in the VTTA BAR. He continues to ride L.V.R.C. road races and has recently had 6th and 7th places. Crewe’s Ged Barker, a fi ss roadman in the 1980's with a record of beating some top time trialists of the era is back with a vengeance. He did a 57.45 in the Stone Wheelers 25 and is joint leader of the Clarion Points Competition. Also competing was
Mark Namgauds, another Crewe man, who must be feeling pleased with his performance as his 59.25 was well ahead of Derek Hodgins’s 1.1.35.
New member Andy Fisher and Chris Goode, both members of Manchester Stretford section rode the recent Tandem Club 10 miles time trial championship. They posted 21min 07sec which was good enough for second place.
The latest news on the Clarion time trial Championship is that in the BDCA 100 on the 24 June Derek Hodgins posted 4.17.19 and David Albutt 4.17.59. It looks like the Clarion Time Trial Championship is going to be a splendid competition this year. I will keep the contenders up to date along with the Points Competition all I need is an email address.
Peter Roscoe
email: proscoe @beeb.net
FINANCIAL REPORT
The financial statements for 2005 were accepted at conference and copies have been distributed to all section secretaries. If any member would like a copy I would be delighted to supply. There has only been one objection on how the committee has spent our funds. It must be assumed, then, that the membership in general
is satisfied with the stewardship of Clarion funds. All committee members have been given information that will enable informed decision making be made in relation to the 2007 budget. I will take any concerns of members to the committee but you will know that we all have different views on spending priority.
The National Clarion Cycling Club is an organisation that throughout it’s history has been noted for it’s welcoming and friendly attitude to all cyclists. This is never forgotten by ex members and the memories of their early days with a Clarion Section come back strongly with the slightest reminder. I received the following letter and subsequent article from an ex Barnoldswick Clarion member which illustrates this admirably. Ed.
Dear Richard, a few weeks ago we were up at the Clarion Clubhouse near Roughlee enjoying a brew by the welcoming open fire when I spotted some copies of ‘Boots Spurs’ and was amazed how many Clarion Sections still remain. I switched clubs many years ago but fond memories still remain of many happy times with the Clarion. Just thought you might like to read and perhaps publish some of my memories in Boots Spurs.
Yours faithfully Francis A Forest
PS. Lam still riding and have three vintage bikes, one Curly Hetchins, a Hill Special and a Bertini
Happy Times with the Barnoldswick Clarion Cycling Club
by FA. Forest
In the fifties cycling was in its heyday and members of all ages enjoyed a virtually traffic free paradise on our club runs in the Dales.
One run we did was up to a waterfall called Cautley Spout near Sedburgh, alongside the road where we left our bikes is a stream with a deep pool, as it was a male only run we used to swim in the altogether.
One chap worked on the roads and he was always as brown as a berry, we would all dive underwater and come up at once and someone would say “Where’s Harry?” then a great white rear end would pop up and we would all shout in unison “That’s Harry all right, he’s safe”
After our swim we would all go up to the waterfall then ride back to Ingeletoncafe for our tea then home to our clubroom above a butchers shop in Barnoldswick, a round trip of some eighty miles.
Other members, one of whom was called Nelly Dean would make tea and bicuits and then we played table tennis till around ten oclock at night before going our separate ways home.
In the summer months we had time trials, racing against the clock, the last event was a more laid back affair in the way of a free wheeling competition, this was held at Halton West.
Those riding a fixed gear had to take their chains off, most lads rode fixed, those on sturmey archer hub gears and derailiers had to conform too in case they might have sneaked in a quick turn of the pedals.
Another novelty event was a treasure hunt, I was riding on an old tandem stoked at the back by a lad called Gilbert, it was a drizzly sort of day and the ancient cantilever brakes didn’t work very well.
We were going down a hill from Stirton that joins the main Grassington Road and I thought these brakes are not going to hold and we will never make it round the bend at the bottom.
So I said to my stoker on the back “I’m going to ditch it”, and steered the machine into the deep ditch alongside. He shot over my head then I followed, we both landed flat on our backs. There wasn’t a mark on us and we had a good laugh about it but he wouldn’t ride any further on the tandem even though we fixed the brakes, the treasure hunt leader bravely volunteered.
One run we did was over Blubberhouse Moor to Harrogate then on the Knaresborough where we would hire boats on the river. Here we engaged in water pistol fights. Very risky with nota life jacket in sight but at that age you feel imortal don’t you?
Some of the girls used to struggle up the steep Kex Ghil climb on the way home and we gallent lads would take turns at pushing them up the long hill, you couldn't do that now on the busy A59.
Tea was partaken of at Halton East, where the blind cafe owner ably dished out steaming hot mugs of fea at one shilling a time and didn’t spill a drop.
Winter didn’t curtail our club runs much despite the frequent severity of them. Snow often fell on untreated roads and we used our fixed geared machines to keep some semblance of control.
Cycling clubs had their own language, when the leader shouted “behind”, everyone dismounted, if anyone tried to ride up he or she was unceremoniously dragged off their bikes to join the rest of us on foot.
There was “car up” or “car down” and honking was when you stood on your pedals to climb a short steep bit,
this practice was strongly disapproved of by some of the older members.
When you were suffering from “hunger knock” it meant that your legs had given up the ghost and taking instant food on board was the only cure for this condition. Traffic was of course minimal and the cry of “car up” brought us all into single file until it had passed us by, there was no such thing as ‘road rage’ and everyone shared the road space amicably.
There were joint club sports meets at other Clarion clubhouses like the one on Otley Chevin and also a very big meet at Long Ashes near Threshfield where there were close to one hundred riders taking part.
What great days they were way back in those fabulous “50’s” with a superb bunch of lads and lasses all of us sharing a wonderful healthy hobby together on two wheels.
THE TEN AND TWENTY FIVE MILES CHAMPIONSHIPS
PROMOTED BY SUNDERLAND CLARION 16th 17th June 2006
Despite the North East being one of the more remote regions for most Clarion members, there was a good turn out for the time trial weekend hosted by Sunderland Clarion on the 17th and 18th June. 15 Clarion members made a weekend of it and stayed overnight in the area close to where the time trials were held just north of Newcastle upon Tyne (Sunderland is some twenty miles south of here but there is a distinct lack of courses nearer to Sunderland). After three weeks of dry and sunny weather, these conditions had been predicted to continue by the local weather forecasters, but no sooner had the first rider started in the 10 mile TT than it started to rain. Despite the wet weather, the conditions remained reasonable with a relatively light wind for this coastal course.
Organiser Allen Armstrong provided headquarters for the event by using his caravan and awning! He was also able to provide tea and biscuits to organisers and supporters, which was most welcome in the rather damp conditions.
In the evening, a number of Clarion members, both visitors and from the host section, met up to discuss the
days events and compare notes on cycling and life in general.
The weather had improved for the *25’ on the Sunday morning and despite overcast conditions, the wind was relatively light which was a relief as the course could best be described as undulating. If riders had been able to take note of there surroundings, they would have appreciated the beautiful Northumberland landscape! With all riders back safely and the results given and studied, the weekend completed with some of the visitors joining the Sunderland members for a coffee in nearby Ponteland. To celebrate the first National Clarion time trial event hosted by Sunderland section, a commemorative medal was awarded to all Clarion riders and helpers.
The overall winner of both events by a clear margin was Sunderland section member Ian Taylor. Ian, who normally specialises in road racing, was clearly in top form, having won two other events in the preceding week,
Allan Smith
Clarion email newsletter
So that we can keep you more up to date with news about the Clarion, please ask to be added to our email newsletter mailing list. You can email Jan Clarke on clarionce @ntlworld.com
Please note that many people have given us email addresses that are no longer valid or may have been spelt incorrectly.
About 20% of all contacts we have on our email mailing list are bad addresses. So if you think you should be email newsletters and are not, then please email us ag Thank you.
Please also remember that we can add your club's events to to help promote it amongst other Clarion sections.
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Question:- How many Clarionettes does it take to change an inner tube? Answer:- Four, three to look for the hole and one to look concerned about the abuse of workers rights in a Slovak rubber factory
Left to right:- Chris Goode, Martin Perfect, Charles Jepson and Stuart Walsh. 18th June Sunderland Clarion promoted Clarion Championship 10.
TEN MILES TWENTY FIVE MILES
Time Time
1. Ian Taylor Sunderland 20.31 1. Ian Taylor Sunderland 0.56.25 2. Damian Field Central 21.19 2. Damian Field Central 0.59.15 3. Andy Horner Bury 21.46 3. Julian Mortel Stockport 1.01.21 4. Jan Clarke Fenland 21.48 4. an Clarke Fenland 1.02.25 5. Julian Mortel Stockport 21.57 5. Richard Brown Stockport 1.03.57 6. Will Sanderson Stockport 22.22 6. Chris Goode MIC Stretford 1.08.13 7. Richard Brown Stockport 23.03 7. Allen Armstrong Sunderland 1.08.45 8. Chris Goode Mic Stretford 23.38 8. Jayne Clarke Fenland 1.10.16 9._ Jayne Clarke Fenland 24,53 9. Will Sanderson Stockport 1.10.52 10. Allen Armstrong Sunderland 25.09 10. Steve Smith Oakhill 1.11.47 11. Steve Smith Oakhill 25.21 11. Mark Bain Sunderland 1.14.42 12. Clive Surman Wells Sunderland 25.22 12. BobDuckworth Bury 1.16.37 13. Bob Duckworth Bury 25.48 13. Charles Jepson Oakhill 1.16.46 14. Charles Jepson Oakhill 27.52 14, Alan Smith Sunderland 1.18.35 15. Martin Perfect London 31.05 15. Martin Perfect London 1.27.31
PLAN NOW FOR THE ABSOLUTLEY SPLENDID WORTLEY HALL WEEKEND
Friday 29th September to Sunday Ist October 2006
1. Members book direct for Friday and Saturday or just Saturday by ringing Wortley Hall 0114 288 2100 this should be done Thursday 14 September as our block booking for 22 Bedrooms will lapse and the rooms will then be available to all comers. It is vital that you tell them that you are with the Clarion Cycling Club otherwise they may tell you that there are no vacancies 2. A non-returnable deposit of £10 per person is required payable by credit card or debit card. Or if you are making a postal booking by cheque to: Wortley Hall Ltd. Wortley Hall, Sheffield, S35 7DB
3. The cost per person per night for an en-suite double room is £35 or £38 for a premier recently refurbished double room.
4. Single rooms may not be available and single occupancy per night of a double room is £46 or £49 for aroom with a view.
Bar meals and sandwiches will be available from 12.00 to 2pm and 6pm and 8.45pm on Friday and Saturday.
6. Ithas been the custom for the majority of attenders to book the Saturday evening meal. The cost of this is £17.50 and YOUR CHEQUES FOR THIS AMOUNT MUST BE WITH PETER ROSCOE BY TUESDAY 12 SEPTEMBER WITH YOUR SELECTION FROM THE FOLLOWING MENU. Cheques made payable to National Clarion and sent to Peter Roscoe, 6, Horncastle Close, Bury.
Starter Thai Green Prawn Kebabs Sat on a bed of Noodle
Beet Tomato Buffalo Mozzarella salad Drizzled with Basil Oil
Main Course Chicken Breast Stuffed with Brie Leeks Finished with aCreamy White Wine Garlic Sauce
Citrus Crusted Fresh Monkfish With Anchovy Shallot Dressing,
Field Mushrooms Caramelised Onion
Steamed Suet Pudding
Selection of Desserts Tea or Coffee
The programme of events is as follows:
Friday evening September 29th
Informal get together in the bar at Wortley Hall for a chat, bar meals if wanted from 6.00pm.
Saturday 30th September
Book sale in Henry Collins room will run throughout the day. Please donate books/videos of any kind. The
proceeds help to defray the costs of the hire of rooms for entertainment.
11.0lam First man off in 10 miles time trial on course V915. Start Shepley just south of where A639 crosses A635, which is the out and home course down to H Island. Volunteers needed for marshalling at this good vantage point. The Harold Lamb award of £50.00 to the fastest rider breaking the course record of 21 min 5 secs. Please note that this is an ‘open event’ and entries must be sent to Charles Jepson by 6pm of Tuesday, September 19th.
2.00pm Annual Ramble led by Steve Heath (Central Section) starting from front steps of Wortley Hall.
2.30pm Club Run led by George Fenwick (London Clarion) starting from in front of Hall to accommodate those who will be taking their bike by car to the ten. Run ends back at the Hall
7.00pm Annual Dinner and Fair Trade Raffle. Peter Roscoe will make the ‘toast’ oozing with whatever he can think of.
8.30pm Entertainment in the Henry Collins Room by ‘Rambling’ Bob Duckworth, the Tottington Troubadour’ and you.
Sunday Ist October 9.30am Group Photograph on steps of Wortley Hall be there be part of a legend.
Clarion Hill Climb arby Finkle Lane
10.00am Signing on for Championship at start of course on ne: (left through village from hall then first right). Ride or cheer just be there. Fun Prizes f ‘ond, third, first lady, slowest, record breakers (records include mountain bike, age categories, fully equipped touring bike mudguards and saddle bag).
10.31am_ First man despatched on this ‘fun’ course of 1000 metres i.e. you don’t have to be super fit to get up.
11.15am_ Presentation of Hill Climb awards back at the Hall.
11.30am_ Peter Shepherdley’s annual awesome quiz on “The escalators of pre war Vienna’. The usual fun prizes will be awarded to the winning team.
12.30pm Farewells to those on their way home and pledges to meet at Wortley in 12 months time or stay until 1.00pm for the excellent modestly priced carvery lunch,
1.00pm Carvery lunch £7.25 tickets purchased in bar.
Brian Braithwaite Photographic Competition winner, Easter 2006
The winning picture this year was submitted by our Chairman Ian Clarke and is of his wife Jayne, taken with a bit of imagination which no doubt attracted the judges eye.
Don’t forget to keep your own eyes peeled for photographic opportunities during your cycling year and submit your pic for inclusion in the next Easter meet competition in Hereford.
Please submit your photo’s for next years competition. Entries may be taken to the Easter Meet 2007 at hereford or sent to:-
Tan Clarke 31 Poppy Field Biggleswade Bedfordshire SG18 8TU
EASTER MEET 2006 SHREWSBURY
What a marvellous meet we had in Shrewsbury! We had a first-rate venue with The Lion Hotel, a very nice place, right in the centre of town, with comfortable rooms and excellent food (particularly the breakfasts). They even let us keep our bikes indoors, in a carpeted room!
Ian and I had made good relations with the Head of
Tourism, Alison Patrick who had helped us with many extras such as a complementary tour around the town and our very own Town Crier, all 7ft 2 of him, who on Sunday announced to all in the square, the commencement of our Clarion club run to Ironbridge. We resurrected the tradition of having a Mayor’s Civic Reception this year: it was held on the Friday night in the Ball Room. Mayor Farmer and his wife, Madam Mayor Farmer, were very welcoming along with other people who had helped to make our circuit races possible. There were speeches of warm welcome and complementary wine and nibbles for all.
After the guided tour of Shrewsbury on Saturday morning, it was over to Sundorne Sports Village (a brand new complex), to enjoy the circuit race.
The venue was perfect and ready for us on the day,
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thanks to the enthusiasm and determination of George Watkins (Mid Shrops Whs) and Alan Jones (project manager).
That evening we gathered in the Ball Room to be entertained by Terry Egglestone and his band ‘Global Disaster’. We all enjoyed a good dance, Ceilidh style! The entertainment provided by Peter and Merlin was excellent too, particularly the cycle bits quiz and the ‘kipper flapping’. Everyone loved it and we would like to thank both for their hard work.
Sunday's 25 TT was great, thanks to Dennis and Pat Milsom of Mid Shropshire Wheelers, who invited the Clarion to take part in their event. That afternoon, another stunning photograph, full of Clarion reds, oranges and yellows, was taken of us all at Ironbridge, to mark our 11th Easter Meet.
The ride, neither too long nor too short, took in a few hills, and as ever, a good pub for a spot of refreshments was found. We definitely made our mark on Ironbridge! The Prize Presentation Dinner was excellent, both the room and the food were superb. We all sat on big round tables, under huge chandeliers, with our special guests
Some of the attendees at this years Easter Meet pictured beneath the famous ‘Iron Bridge’ at Ironbridge
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Tony Bowles collecting the British Workers Sports Association Trophy. This trophy is awarded to the section who accumulated the most miles riding to the Easter Meet and Bolton Clarion are this years winners.
Tan Clarke, Fenland, proudly accepts the trophy for the Clarion Track Points Champion
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including: Mayor Farmer and Madam Mayor Farmer, Alan Jones and his wife, Terry Egglestone and his wife and of course our Guest speaker, Adrian Timmis and his wife Nicola. Aspeech by the Mayor and welcoming speech by Merlin Julian was a perfect combination of formal and fun. Our happiness at being in Shrewsbury and their happiness in receiving us, was felt throughout.
Easter Meet guests were encouraged to put their questions to Adrian Timmis as he sat on the stage with Ian to be interviewed; the question/answer style allowed everyone to participate. The Mayor Adrian presented prizes
for the racing and non racing awards, Roz Cutts, Heanor Clarion accepts the award for “Club Lady
and we ended the night with a raffle draw.
The following morning saw a prompt start to our AGM in the ball room, with all members welcome to participate. Next year (6th April to 9th April 2007) We're off to Hereford! We’ ve already booked the Green Dragon hotel (8 twins, 35 doubles, 16 singles) at a secured price of £30 per head B&B (so if you want to book now, please do phone the hotel or Caroline Tiller 01432 272506, who has rooms reserved for us). Ian and I were very impressed with Hereford’s historical buildings. museums, cathedral, variety of accommodation and restaurants etc. as well as its beautiful river and countryside. We were thinking of a mass participation ride, ‘cyclo-sportive’, instead of a
of the Year” from Councillor Farmer
circuit race for 2007, what do you think?
Tan and are stepping down from the role of Easter Meet organisers after Hereford as we feel that someone else might be out there who can take over and once more inject some new ideas into the meet. It’s hard work organising the Easter Meet, but highly rewarding, and we would certainly be there to help our successor/s. Anyway, just something to have in the back of your minds for 2008! See you in Hereford, if not before! Jayne Tan
For info: contact 01767 314207. or email: clarionce @ntlworld.com
Lto R: Will Sanderson, Adrian Timmis, Julian Mortel, Les Copeland. The Stockport team are pleased to collect the Czech Trophy from Adrian for the Team Pursuit. (absent was Duncan Hewitt).
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Round the Sections
Every issue of “Boots” will have a round up of local news or items of interest from the various Clarion Sections providing can put sufficient pressure on someone from each section to send the info to me. Please send me photos and text of your sections
activities and it will all go in.
CALDER
At the club prize presentation this year we had no club B.A.R. champion. The ladies B.A.R. champion was Mrs Chery! Truman who had personal bests at the 10.25.and 50miles she hopes to improve on that this year. Our Sturgess Trophy winner was veteran Jimmy Blankley this trophy is a very hard one to win as it’s competed for during the season on a handicap basis by most of the Calder riders on our 10mile club events over the whole season. There are fifteen events of which ten count ona points system with the best on handicap. During the night I read a poem out which was penned some years ago by Jean Hall it was about the club runs on a Sunday naming a club member who shall be named in the poem as the club captain
SUNDAY RUN
And there came a day when the captain heard a voice calling to him. And the voice said unto him that he must write a list upon a tablet of stone which shall henceforth be known as the Sunday Runs List. And on the holy day he must gather his people unto him at Agbrigg Road or Tingley Roundabout or Where Ever
And so the captain bade them come to him and he sayeth
Email: richard@hallane.com
unto them. Gird your loins and pumpeth up your tyres for we must journey today. And the road will be hard and the undulations extreme but fear not for I will guide thee through the perils and dangers of the path. And if any man punctures so shall his comrades wait for him (unless the rain poureth down).
But after many miles of toil and sweat the Calderites grew sore and weary and spake unto the captain and said "We are hungry and we thirst" But the captain said "Be of good cheer lads for the cafe is round the next corner, and thou may soon have thy fill of tea and bacon butties".
And lo! they reach the cafe and when they had rested and eaten and drunk their fill the captain said unto them "Unlock thy bikes lads for the journey is not yet over, but follow me and I will lead you to the Promised Tetley House"
And lo, they reached the Promised Tetley House and the beer and the pork scratchings flowed freely. And the men grew merry. VERY VERY MERRY!
And when it came time to disperse homewards the captain said unto the Calderites "Same time next week lads!"
BOLTON
Club Ten Championship
Paul Dickinson Gold, Anthony Bowles Silver, Frank Myers Bronze.
The remarkable story of this years champs has already been told in part but what is more remarkable is the trio of medallists. Paul, gold, nothing remarkable about that except the large gap between him and the next two on the list. Tony, silver, my first medal in a club championship, and at sixty eight. Frank, same age as myself, bronze medal, run of the mill stuff for Frank, he has medalled in bronze before.
The combined age of the winning trio is one hundred and eighty one now that in itself is truly remarkable and has to be a new club record.
Little stories out of the event, Frank was beaten into third
place by a mere seven seconds, nota lot, but at least I was glad. There was even less of a gap between former Andy Horner and Paul, one second. Andy was gutted as he had misread the result board and elated thinking he was over a minute better than Paul. A look of disbelief came over his face
member
was
when I told him Paul had stuffed him for one second. Frank and Paul thought the story of the missing shorts was hilarious, bringing a bit of fun into the afternoon, And of the afternoon, well the sun was out, the wind was blowing strong and across most of the way but just
enough behind for the last mile or so.
Average heart rate for the event for me was 176, was struggling to keep it down.
Now for the 25 championship
BURY
In contrast to the halcyon days of Bury Clarion we only get together socially at the annual prize presentation and supper. The admirable Christine and Bob Duckworth not only organised a splendid 2006 event but also prepared a splendid meal. Bob also engaged the ceilidlh band he is a member of and on this occasion arranged it for free. Guest of honour was Robbie Duncan, the mentor and companion of the former international footballer Geoff Thomas on his epic ride of the 2005 Tour de France route. Since our junior riders were not attending the Easter Meet we arranged for Simon Horner to be presented with the Harold Lamb trophy for being the most meritorious junior rider in the Clarion and Simon Yates to receive the Handforth cup for winning the junior omnium at the track championships. Because of his outstanding progress in 2005 Adam Yates (Simon’s twin brother) was awarded Bury Clarion’s trackman of the year trophy. Andy Horner won the club 25, 50, hill climb and best all rounder competition. Philip Albiez made a late season come back to defeat Andy in the season long tens championship.
In 2004 I reported on the amazing mile eating solo sponsored ride of Frank Jefferson who rode 1300 miles in 14 days. In May of this year just before his 7Ist birthday he rode with John Butterworth (Bury
Clarion/CTC) Andy Ascroft (Bury Tandem Club for Blind/Bolton Clarion) Alan Webb (CTC) and Duncan Limbert (CTC) to Schorndorf in Germany. This was reciprocating Bury’s twin town initiative. Two years ago a group of German cyclists had ridden to Bury to reinforce the links between our two towns. The 630 miles ride in mostly unfavourable weather conditions took seven days. The Mayor of Schorndorf was highly impressed when he learned that Frank was a septuagenarian.
Simon Yates won the first round of British Cycling Federation’s junior and youth omnium championships held at Manchester Velodrome. Martin Wolfenden finished fourth and Adam Yates fifth, This was on the 21st May and two weeks later the trio were in Dundee for the second round of the competition. On this occasion Simon slipped back to second position but Adam improved to fourth displacing Martin who was relegated to fifth place.
The club is pleased that Donald Lever has joined Peter Roscoe on the national committee of the Clarion. Donald's expertise will undoubtedly be a great help in maintaining and developing our membership base. For Merlin Evans the job had been a pure labour of love but Donald is also delighted to employ his talent for the benefit of the Clarion.
FENLAND
So far this year Fenland have had a good season of racing events all of which have been well supported, except perhaps the 50, which Steve Clarke our Racing Sec felt abit disappointed with. Itis a daunting distance and three riders failed to finish. Our club ten series is supported by up to 40 riders every week and at the time of writing, tonights event (Wed July 5) there will be 60. It is a combined event with some other clubs in the area but still an impressive entry for an evening ten.
A keen group of riders are on there way to ride the
Marmotte in France this weekend.
The touring activity is less well supported but those that take part have had a great time with the usual pub lunches and an annual Garden Party finish to one ride. We have the Mildenhall Rally firmly booked in again this year and good number of Fenland members will be camping for the long weekend. There are many events that our riders take part in from full grass track racing to touring rides. There are very many trade stands and a cycle jumble, cycle auction and other activities which make it an event well worth travelling to.
MANCHESTER STRETFORD
Two of our members have recently had some success on a Tandem. Andy Fisher and Chris Goode rode in the Mike Dixie Memorial Ten on Ist may, in East Yorkshire. It was their first tandem race, winning with a time of 23 minutes and 19 seconds. At the end of may, they also rode in the Cleveland Coureurs 25 miles time trial on a course north of Thirsk, this time they were second, 63 seconds behind the Shorters (56.42)
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Stuart Walsh and Chris Goode joined in with the banner painting at Bolton Wood Street Socialist Club in April. Best wishes go to Terry Lynch who is recovering from a recent illness and is starting to get back on his bike. Terry is one of our more recent members, along with Steve Holmes and Ann McIntyre.The section has doubled its membership in the last two years and is now in double figures!
STOCKPORT
Bluffing The Three Peaks (25th September 2005) Always fancied doing the Three Peaks and then I suddenly found myself on the start line (near the back) with my new spangley Decathlon cross bike wondering if this was such a good idea. It was comforting to see that all the other 'big' lads were at the back. I was working on the general race plan that it was best to start slow and overtake people gradually over the entire course.
The click of pedals and the nervous laughter and comments signified the start of the neutral part of the race. 5km of tarmac behind an escort, hey just like a road race, I'll probably get dropped then, better put the harnmer down.
This neutral part of the race seemed to be where the natural selection occurred between, winners, challengers and hopefully finishers. I obviously thought I was a challenger and so head down I went flying down the outside of the bunch to find myself in the first 40 riders. Upon looking up I see my nemesis, a short sharp rise I try to move further towards the front of the group to prevent the inevitable.
Back where I belong amongst the hopeful finishers my nervousness disappeared as I settled in a group of similar ability riders. I start to remember that I am in fact in the Three Peaks race and the first of those peaks Ingleborough must be somewhere near, hard to tell with the swirling cloud, drizzle and sun!
Lots of marshals waving their arms, sharp left they shout. ‘Yes! Here we go!’ I say to myself in the hope of stirring up some more competitive urges. The farm track approaches, everyone visibly slows, so I stamp on the pedals trying to maintain my momentum from the road for as long as possible and I pass about 10 riders. Ingleborough now dominates the horizon and a multicoloured trail of scrambling riders are trying their best to scale this monster of a hill. The route up is the most direct and steepest approach you could possibly imagine carrying a bike up. Near the top the trail follows a dry stone wall anda fence. These are used wherever possible to help haul yourself ever upwards. I'm doing alright up Ingleborough, no more places lost or gained a temporary truce as we all battle against the hill. As we summit the trail becomes rideable but unfortunately does not start to plunge back down straight away as I had imagined. Instead a tricky moorland traverse of about 10 mins greets us. The riders all around me silently appear and disappear among the clouds and minor undulations.
My legs notice it first, appreciating the slight ease in gradient. My hands move from the hoods to the drops I'm now in the infamous 'Tomac Attack' position and my aim is to show all these cross and road riders what riding a bike downhill is all about. I'm feeling giddy, this is easy. The cross bike seemed well suited to this fast moorland
descent, rocky sections usually revealed a smoother line at the last minute and these were exploited. The thin tyres cut through the boggy bits as long as these bogs were not too deep. Or to put it more precisely not deep enough to allow the bog to suck your wheel down into it's stinking depths and then send you soaring rather ungraciously through the air like the guy just in front of me. that bog chewed the front of his bike off as he and the rear end of his bike joined the 'soaring free’ club.
A crowd had gathered, experience reminded me that human nature lures people to watch those more unfortunate than themselves. Like vultures they were baying for blood. They were however a polite bunch of vultures and rewarded any skilful riding over the tricky sections with shouts of, "Good riding!". The moorland descent now offered several rutted lines as 1 quickly approached a group in front of me. I scanned the ground and spotted my line, a quick sideways hop from left to right once my current rut became too rutted! 1 nearly ran into the back of the group in front of me, they slowed down on a boggy section. A flick of the hips helped my bike slew away from this danger towards the baying vultures who all quickly jumped aside and squawked something in reply. It felt good to give them a bit of what they were waiting for.
After a series of silky grassy switchbacks I popped out on the first road section to Whemside. All of a sudden I seemed to be flying and reeling in riders quite quickly. This gave me a lot of confidence and I started pushing even harder, 1 was even shouting at the riders 1 passed to get on my wheel. They all declined the offer with the benefit of experience or due to the numbing pain that accompanied their legs as they spun out these road sections. ‘Spinning out' these road sections seemed to be what all the riders I passed were doing, whereas I was in head down good old fashioned time trial mode.
Only one rider reacted as he found me following his wheel before I attempted my illusion of ease as I glided past. He turned around and made a quick mental judgement e.g. he's ona DECATHLON bike he must be crap, better dig in and drop this loser. All of a sudden I am racing again. His wheel has gone but I pushed on at the same pace as before. It was just a little flurry, a tester to see what I was made of. I get back on his wheel, and put a little dig in myself just before the brow of a small rise in the road knowing that I'll get a few seconds to recover on the other side. He comes past again and makes an obvious mental readjustment and we start working together. The aim as before to make up time and places before Whernside.
The approach to Whernside does not reveal the difficulty of this climb it even suggests it could all be ridden. Whernside is one of those climbs where you feel like you aren't actually getting anywhere. You can never see the actual top and this seemingly endless climb eats into your energy reserves and morale. Then it's suddenly too
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steep to ride or even push. So the bike is now slung over my shoulder and carefully follow the footsteps of my road alliance. I'm purposefully making little Sherpa steps rather than big bounding strides that my legs could easily allow as they are meant to be more efficient. am not even looking up anymore just following the pair of sidi shoes in front of me.
The descent of Whernside is evil especially on a cross bike. It is partially paved with massive paving slabs, either side of these is more stinking bog. There are usually gaps of 3 to 4inches between each paving stone and every so often there is a water bar or even worse a rock step. All of this on narrow tyres pumped up to 1OOpsi (to make sure that I don't puncture). Anyway made it to the bottom in one piece and without puncturing so I was happy. The final few |OOmetres of this descent are set against the impressive viaduct at Ribblehead, it was the first time I had ever seen itand this view is a memory from the race that is frequently conjured up in my mind.
Another road section looms and I still haven't learnt my lesson. am catching up a lot of the vets now who set off half an hour before me. They too seem content to ‘spin out' the road miles. Again the gaggle of marshals and increasing number of spectators mark the turn off for the out and back charge up and down Pen-y-Gent. I start the climb and am briefly startled by the flurry off colour heading back down the track. Then it sinks in these riders have already been to the 'top' and were now on their final run back to the finish at Helwith Bridge. The spectators are quite animated here with lots of shouts of encouragement for both those descending and those like me who had yet to 'top' out. This climb was rideable but very hard on already tired legs. The climb was also frustrating me because although it was rideable I really needed a lower gear in fact I really needed my mountain bike equipped with it's full suspension and super low GRANNY gear to make this climb so much easier. should not have been letting my thoughts wander on to
these things. The cracks had appeared and no amount of gritting my teeth and heaving on the bars to help propel me uphill was going to detract from the fact that it all would have been so much easier on my mountain bike. I get off the bike and start to walk. Straight away my calves ache. I stop and they still ache. I look up and see the stream of riders heading to the top. I stop and sit down and watch the faces of the riders climbing up below me. Real mixtures of emotions are on display many share the look of despair I just experienced upon my brief scan of the mountain. Some look happy, many look focused and some look........just like the vets I passed half an hour ago on the road from Ribblehead! I let them pass I know I have not got the legs to keep up. I wait for a gap and restart my ascent of Pen-y-Gent. I do not enjoy one minute of this climb from here on it is all just about getting to the top and handing in my token to the summit marshal before starting the descent. The descent is rocky and bumpy but not overly technical like Whernside but I am so tired even descending is not much fun anymore. I try to ride as fast as I can but this descent shakes you about so much I had to stop now again to uncurl my fingers from their death grip on the bars. Tarmac! This so smooth black stuff (not Guinness) is all that stands between me and the finish. I look down the road and see one rider who I judge might just be near enough to chase after but he quickly disappears. I'm almost glad that he has, it is just me, my bike and the road now. A clatter of chains behind alerts me to two riders approaching behind me (i.e. just about to overtake me). stand up on the pedals in a feeble attempt to protect my position. I just manage to get on to the second riders wheel. I settle back down into my saddle only to rise out of itagain to keep my tempo up over the bridge. Cresting the bridge reveals the finish line and my best efforts at a sprint earn me one place back to finish 177th out 350 in atime of 4hrs 38mins 41 seconds.
Will I do it again? Absolutely!
Entry forms are out in July any takers’?
SUNDERLAND
On an evening in January the section once again held its annual dinner and prize presentation at South Shields South Shields is only a short drive north along the coast from Sunderland and is a typically lively sea-side resort in the summer months with plenty to offer its many visitors.
It has a good beach, a well-developed promenade from which access to a long pier can be made, a permanent fun-fair, ornamental parks, an open-air market and of course restaurants, shops and pubs in abundance. It has even a small and highly regarded pavilion theatre where a variety of plays are very well performed throughout the year. And even out of season South Shields still retains
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some of its ambience for the sea, beach and promenade, even with scaled down attractions, still draw visitors like a magnet; although admittedly not in anything like the numbers to be seen in the summer months. Which leads me to say that it is for none of the previously mentioned attractions and amenities that we hold our annual dinner there, but purely and simply because the Sea Hotel, which is situated close to the promenade, serves excellent a la carte meals in a large and comfortable dining area!
Sixty two guests, comprised of section members, their families, or perhaps friends, together with a sprinkling of visitors from other clubs such as Barnesbury C.C., Houghton C.C. and Zeus C.R.T. made up the total. Clubs in the region tend to support one another’s functions, even if only to a moderate degree.
Guest of Honour, and presenting the awards, was north east region Cycling Time Trials racing secretary Janis Wildsmith, whose late husband Paul filled the post so well before he succumbed to motor neurone illness and who it may be remembered won the R.T.T.C.
National Hill Climb Championship in 1967. Janis has continued with the position admirably and is held in high regard by the region’s time trialists for the work she has undertaken to do.
The main race awards were shared between Allen Armstrong (2 awards); Peter Foster (1); Kirk Robb (2) and Ian Taylor (6). Further aw: for race placings went to Mark Bain, Andy Lee and Clive Surman-Wells. In the 1950s and early °60s, when members were still strongly disposed towards social pursuits and activities and the ever-increasing interest and enthusiasm for competition had not yet fully taken hold, hostelling at least once each month was a regular feature of club life. Sadly this has declined to such an extent that it is at present only one hostel run in twelve months that now
takes place! Nevertheless, for those nine members who rode south to Osmotherley on the edge of the North York Moors in late November of last year, a distance of perhaps 60mls when avoiding where possible major roads, it proved to be an exceptionally good weekend. The general feeling afterwards being that one more hostel weekend could well be fitted in during the year. A possible 100% increase in hostelling activity might well be forthcoming!
More recent news is that Jim Halley and Andy Lee set of f on Tuesday, June 6th. from Land’s End to John O’Groats. If they succeed, or have even possibly already succeeded depending on when our excellent Boots and Spurs magazine reaches our readership, then they will be emulating the successful rides of Sunderland Clarion members Fred Hall who achieved the distance in 1988 and also that of Les Jameson who together with Gary Milner of Houghton C.C.did likewise in 2003.
Ending on a very sad note, Fred died on June 4th.after a long illness at the age of 80.
OAKHILL
Members of the mountain bike section ran another of their very successful ‘Klarion Kids’ cycling skills course for children age 3 to 11.
The course, based at the Section’s HQ of Oakhill College, attracted 18 children from a number of schools in the local area. Week saw the children taught basic handling skills. In week 2 these skills were then put to use in a series of competitions. The final session was “Race Day’, where some creative handicapping ensured that every child went home with a victors medal.
The Track Section organised their now annual trisection meet between the Oakhill, Bury and Bolton sections a the Manchester Velodrome. Victory at the end of a series of individual and team events went to Bury Clarion, the hosts came second followed very closely by Bolton Clarion.
The Road Section enjoyed a three day tour of Shropshire. Using the Elizabethan Manor House of Wilderhope Manor Youth Hostel, situated close to Church Stretton, as their base. The group each day
toured the almost totally traffic free lanes in search of
‘Real Ale’ and managed to find plenty. Sunny days, quiet back lanes, pub lunches, good company ‘boundarising” at its best.
Five members of the Section supported, the now annual,
heritage ride led this year by Bury Clarion to the ILP Clarion Tearoom at Roughlee a peaceful haven above the industrial town of Nelson, where Socialism remains ‘The Hope of the World’.
GET YOUR NEWS AND VIEWS ALL AROUND THE CLUB
EMAIL OR POST YOUR INFO TO: Richard Newcombe, 67 Hall Lane, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6RA
or email: richard@hallane.com good sharp photos welcome, or high resolution jpeg if sent by email
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Fenland Clarion CC 50 Mile Championship TT Incorporating the National Clarion 50 mile Championship
SADLY only National Clarion Racing Secretary Julian Mortel (Stockport) to ride the Fenland Clarion’s club 50 to contest the National Clarion Championships, but he had to give second best to Fenland’s Dave Langlands, who was making his debut at the distance.
In calm, sunny conditions Langlands produced a creditable 1.59.44 to take the title. Langlands was 2.24 too quick for Mortel.
Former top national junior lan Waddilove from Fenland
turned in an impressive 2.02.57 for the 3rd place in the championship, he’s now SO years old.
Clarion Chairman and his Easter Meet organising partner and wife Ian Jayne Clarke rode to a 2.02.46 aboard their gunmetal grey Bob Jackson tandem.
a shame the event didn’t attract a few more Clarion riders from other sections or indeed the Fenland themselves, perhaps it would benefit from being an open event and in the CTT Handbook.
Result
Pos Name Actual Hep Hep Time Award
I Dave Langlands 1.59.44 SCR 1.59.44 Ist Nat Clarion Champion 2 Julian Mortel (Stockport) 2.02.08 10.00 1.52.08
3 Tan Jayne Clarke (Tandem) 2.02.46 08.00 1.54.46
4 Tan Waddilove 2.02.57 12.00 1,50.57 2nd
5 John Royle 2.10.46 15.00 1.55.46 3rd
6 Simon Pidduck 2.14.33 16.00 1.58.33 2nd Hep
7 Steve Walters 2.17.06 20.00 1.57.06 Ist Hep
DNF: Keith Kinsey, Sean Beard Steve Clarke
Well done to all those that rode on what was a pretty good day. Thanks to Richard Newcombe for timing and Spider
Clarke Birgit Scott for marshalli
and putting out signs.
Letters have been few and far between, but the founding of the new Bolton Wood Street Section has raised this little flurry.
Dear Richard, I was surprised and concerned when I read the misleading extract from Bolton Clarion Newsletter headed ‘New Section in Bolton’. Enclosed are Dave Bisset’s letter to the members of Bolton Wood Street Clarion Section dated 26th Oct 2005 and my reply on their behalf nine days later. I hope in the interests of accuracy and to put the record straight you will include the letters in the next issue of Boots and Spurs. Sincerely, Dennis Pye.
26 October 2005
To all members of the new section, fraternal greetings from Bolton Clarion Cycling Club. We have learned from National Secretary Charles Jepson that a new Section is to be founded at Wood Street Socialist Club in Bolton and that this section is to be a political section, founded at the time of the 100th year anniversary celebrations of Wood Street, in keeping with the founding principles of the National Clarion.
Though we are not a political section, but an active
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cycling section we have great pride in the history and origins of the Clarion Cycling movement and we greet and salute the new section which is now our nearest neighbouring section.
May you have success in your venture and we hope to meet and join you in fellowship both on and off the road. Yours fraternally Dave Bisset
(Chairman and co secretary, Bolton Clarion)
4 November 2005
Dear David, I write on behalf of the newly formed Clarion Section at Wood Street to thank you for your comradely greetings.
Please be assured that in no sense is this new section intended to be a rival or competitor of the longestablished Bolton Clarion. It is meant for those who are already members of the equally long-established Socialist Club and our activities will be mainly social in nature. Competitive and longer distance cycling will be left to your Section.
We shall hope to keep you in touch with our doings and would be delighted to welcome any or all of you to number sixteen Wood Street, which was Bolton Clarion’s home for at least eighty years of the last century.
Yours in fellowship, Dennis Pye
POINTS COMPETITION
Up to and including the ‘50’ Championship
At the time of writing Damian Field and Julian Mortel lead this competition and with 130 each. If the eventual top scores are equal then I will refer to the number of riders beaten to establish the winner. Thirty-Eight riders have so far competed and the top ten are shown below. Best four of any rider’s scores in nominated events count.
The remaining events in the competition are:-
20 Aug Clarion Road Race championship run in conjunction with Stockport Clarion Road Race. Ring Julian Mortel for information.
email: jules @stockport-clarion.org.uk
3Sep Clarion Track Championships at Newcastleunder-Lyme. Ring Charles Jepson 01254 51302 (see note
on page)
24 Sep Cyclo Cross, Heanor Clarion, Ring D. Flint for information 0115 932 2995
30 Sep Clarion 10 at Wortley see CTT handbook (incorrectly stated 29 September)
30 Sep Crewe Clarion 25 see CTT handbook
1 Oct Clarion Hill Climb Championship. Finkle Lane, Wortley. Ring Peter Roscoe 0161 761 6856 for more
information.
Ten Mile Time Trial Championship
Ist lan Taylor Sunderland 20.31 2nd Damien Field Central 21.19 3rd Andy Horner Bury 21.46 Lady Jayne Clarke Fenland 24.53 H’Cap Bob Duckworth Bury
25.48 less 7min. 18.48 Veton Std Allen Armstrong S’derland 25.09 6.51
Here is the latest points position. Only Julian Mortel and William Sanderson have achieved four qualifying rides and both have opportunities for improving their
With four best rides qualifying it does look like the final outcome will depend on what interest there is in taking the competition to the end of the season with the two Wortley events.
1 Julian Mortel Stockport 155 2 Damian Field Central 130 3. Gerald Barker Crewe 100 4 lan Taylor Sunderland 100 5 William Sanderson Stockport 85 6 Andy Horner Bury 60 7 DaveLanglands Fenland 50 8 Paul Silverman Heanor 46 9 Tan Clarke Fenland 45 10 [Cooke Calder 40 11 AllenArmstrong Teeside 33 12 Chris Goode Manchester Stretford 32 13. John Royle Fenland 31 14 Mark Namgauds Crewe 30 15 Tan Waddilove Fenland 30 16 Tony Wallet Crewe 30 17 Tan Brown Stockport 28 18 Tony Peach Crewe 26 19 DerekHodgins Stockport 20 20 Steve Palmer Heanor 19 21 Steve Smith Oakhill 19 22 Jayne Clarke Fenland 16 23 BobDuckworth Bury 15 24 Martin Perfect London 15 25 Charles Jepson Oakhill 13 26 David Clarke Clarion 12 Mark Bain Clarion 9 28 Steve Hope Fenland 9 Steve Giles London 8 30 Clive Sutton-Wells Sunderland 8 31 P Wallet Crewe 8 32 Geoff Downes Oakhill 7 33. Bob Harber Brighton 7 Rik Warrington Bury 7 35 Paul Morphet Stockport 6 36 Simon Pidduck Fenland 6 37 Alan Smith Sunderland 6 38 David Albut Crewe 5 39 Fred Smith Bolton 5 Steve Walters Fenland 5 41 Stuart Walsh Mic Stretford 2
Twenty-Five Mile Championship Ist Ian Taylor Sunderland 56:26 2nd Damien Field Central 59:15 3rd Julian Mortel Stockport 1:01:21 H’Cap Jayne Clarke Fenland 53.16 Veton Std Allen Armstrong Sunderland +13.08 Team of Three
Ian Taylor, Allen Armstong
Mark Bain Sunderland Lady Jayne Clark Fenland 1:10:16
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Peter Roscoe writes:
Sunderland do deserve an accolade for organising this Clarion weekend. It was pleasing to see that Martin Perfect travelled all the way from Tunbridge Wells to support the event. All racing men should be grateful for the support of the man who finished last without their participation there would be no event.
NATIONAL CLARION RECORDS
New record setters will receive a certificate in recognition of their achievement and everlasting glory
10 Miles Senior Dave Langlands Fenland 19.57 1998 Woman Lindsay Clarke Fenland 22.11 1994 Juvenile David Lunds Teeside 22.35 1980 Junior Paul Hodgkinson Crewe 21.23 1989 Veteran NOT CLAIMED TBA Vet Tandem Alan Wray Ken Hartley Calder 21.20 1982 VetTandem Team Alan Wray Ken Hartley Calder 21.20 1982 R.Asquith A.Lumley Calder 21.17 1982 D, Smithers L.Smithers Calder 22.09 1982 Tandem Dave Hinde Alan Roberts Crewe 18.59 1982 Mixed Tandem Dave Hinde Jayne Connell Crewe 20.03 1985 25 Miles Senior Paul Hodgkinson Crewe 51.29 1996 Woman Christine Spotswood Crewe 57.18 1987 Veteran Roy Hodkinson Crewe 54.16 1994 Junior James Williamson Crewe 56.10 1998 Tandem A.Barroclough Alan Wray Calder 48.35 1984 Mixed Tandem Dave Hinde Jayne Connell Crewe 50.02 1985 Trike W. Fisher Sunderland 1.03.58 1986 Vic Trigger Crewe 1.03.58 1992 30 Miles Senior Gary Wharton Nottingham 1.06.01 1993 Tandem Jon Waddilove Bob Waddilove Crewe 1.03.40 1993 50 Miles Senior Alan Robeits Crewe 1.45.00 1997 Woman Christine Roberts Crewe 1.59.35 1987 Trike Vic Trigger Crewe 2.05.53 1990 Tandem Mixed Alan Roberts Christine Roberts Crewe 1.51.35 1991 Team Frank Taylor Notts/Derby 1.46.01 1976 Dennis Hoe Notts/Derby 1.51.05 1976 Francis Grafton Notts/Derby 1.53.50 1976 100 Miles Senior Alan Roberts Crewe 3.48.48 1992 Woman Christine Roberts Crewe 4.10.03 1994 Trike Vic Trigger Crewe 4.54.50 1990 Tandem Alan Wray Ken Hartley Calder 3.56.50 1985 12 Hours Veteran Roy Hodgkinson Crewe 270.99 1995 Woman Christine Roberts Crewe 256.78 1994 Trike Vic Trigger Crewe 218.00 1990 Team Alan Roberts Crewe 262.81 1991 Roy Hodgkinson Crewe 257.51 1991 Christine Roberts Crewe 253.88 1991 24 Hours Senior Mark Botteley Fenland 469.277 2002 Woman Christine Roberts Crewe 461.446 1993 Veteran Ken Hartley Nottingham 400.79 1987
No Veteran Records at 10, 30, 50, 100 miles something must be done about that! Claims for records can be sent by Section Secretaries or by individuals to the Records Secretary,
Mrs. Audrey Waddilove, 36 Brookland Drive, Sandbach,Cheshire CW11 2LX.
She needs to know: DATE, EVENT, COURSE NUMBER and YOUR RESULT. To be a Record Holder at any level of sport is a really meaningful thing as it gives others the incentive to improve, so our National Record Holders really do deserve a BIG VOTE OF THANKS. They have done their bit for The National Clarion, will you do yours?
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The Clarion 3rd Annual Heritage Ride
006
4th June 2
Four of the twelve riders who were on the recent Clarion Heritage ride at Bury Town Hall.
From left to right:- Donald Lever (Run leader, Bury Clarion), Stuart Walsh (Manchester Stretford), Bob Duckworth (Bury Clarion), Steve Hepworth (Oakhill). Stuart Walsh is wearing a Clarion top. Anyone interested in acquiring a top or short sleeved jersey contact Peter Roascoe (0161 761 6856).
This year’s ride once again was to the ILP Clarion tearooms situated near Roughlee in the heart of Lancashire’s Pendle Witch Country. Clarion riders from Oakhill, Manchester Stretford and Bury sections were led by Bury’s vice-captain from Bury Town Hall. It was a warm and sunny start for a few miles out of Bury prior to the drop down to Summerseat station on the restored East Lancashire Railway, which runs from Bury to Rawtenstall. Negotiating an unpaved track alongside the railway no steam trains came today. Our group passed the old mill buildings now a restaurant and an apartment block at Brooksbottoms to cross the River Irwell at the bridge where the mill also spans the river while the railway travels above on a viaduct. Thence alongside the river for a while and a short climb to Pot Green, a hamlet of old weavers’ cottages and an 18th century farm before joining the main road at Holcombe Brook.
The next rise, used by Bury Clarion for their annual hill climb, brought the group to Holcombe village below Peel Tower, a well known local landmark. A few miles further took us along the high road above Ramsbottom, the town in the valley of the ransoms or wild garlic and nothing at all to do with sheep. As we approached
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Helmshore we could see across the Rossendale Valley to some quarries one of which supplied the paving stones for Trafalgar Square. A swift descent brought us to Helmshore Mill, restored to a working museum, and on into Haslingden. We rode by the town through a nondescript industrial estate on Sustrans national cycle route number 6 before a short detour to avoid the large roundabout at Rising Bridge. Here a sharp shower meant “caping up” before the descent into Accrington riding quickly through the former mill town. Ascending at the side of the old yew bank, where the push along carpet cleaners (Ewbanks) were manufactured, we swiftly rode on to Clayton.
After clearing the built-up area we sped into the lanes and across Sabden Brook but the next steep climb had us all out of our saddles dancing on the pedals. As the sun appeared we stopped to remove our rainwear before cycling along the top of the ridge. Shortly we caught up with another group from Oakhill Clarion and together we rode through Spen Brook to Newchurch in Pendle finally dropping down Jinny Lane to the tearooms. Here we met more Clarion members including Clitheroe section.
Donald Lever Run Leader (Bury Clarion)
SECTION SECRETARIES
Birmingham
Bolton Clarion
Bolton Wood Street Clarion
Brighton Hove Clarion
Bury Clarion
Calder Clarion
Central Section
Clitheroe Clarion
Crewe Clarion Wheelers
Dorset Clarion
Fenland Clarion
Gwynedd
Heanor Clarion
Hereford Clarion
Laneaster Clarion
London Clarion
Lowestoft Clarion
Manchester Stretford
Roger Shayes Tel: 0121 603 7536 19 Princethorpe Close, Shirley, Solihull, Warwickshire B90 2LP
Dave Bissett Tel: 01204 853127
10 Vale Street, Turton, Bolton BL7 0EB
Dennis Pye Tel: 01204 842869 denis.pye@ntlworld.com 34 Temple Road, Halliwell, Bolton BL1 3LT
Tan Bullock Tel 01273 682133
104 Bonchurch Road, Brighton BN2 1XE
Peter Roscoe Tel: 0161 7616856 proscoe @beeb.net
6 Horncastle Close, Bury, Lancashire BL8 [XE
Andrew Spittlehouse Tel: 01226 709436
12 Hardwick Close, Ryhill, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 2PR
Ann Burchell Tel: 01404 891740. The Engine Shed, 2 Wulphere Close, Dunkeswell, Honiston, Devon EX14 0UU
Edward Ireland Tel: 01200 446488 13 Townend, Slaidburn, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 3EP
Andy Grace Tel 01270 841836 7 Artlebrook Cottages, Audlem Road, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7QT
William Edgington Tel: 07840403200 Flat 6, 3 Charmouth Grove, Parkstone, Poole, Dorset BH14 OLP
Ken Clarke Tel 01733 562217 16 Bew Close, Stanground, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE2 8TF
Robin Hartley Tel: 01248 605424 5 Tandderwen, Rachub, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 3HD
Cliff Cutts Tel 01159 329304 thecutts @supanet.com 15 Honingham Road, Shipley View, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 9JZ
Alvin Smith Tel: 01568 770327 Castle Cottage, Castle Street, Wigmore, Herefordshire HR6 9UA
Donald Taylor Tel: 01524382673 9 Buoymasters, St Georges Quay, Lancaster LA1
Peter Shepherdly Tel: 0208 5729672 74 Albion Road, Hounslow, Middlesex TW3 3RT
Sian Charlton Tel: 01502 563262 5 Avocet Close, South Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk
Christopher Goode Tel: 01723 341050 56 Raleigh Street, Scarborough, North Yorkshire YOI] 7LQ
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Nottingham Clarion Paul Harwood Tel: 0115 9126436 Pump Station House, Daleside Road, Nottingham NG2 4DH
Oakhill Clarion CC Charles Jepson Tel: 01254 51302 Aysgaard, Beardwood Brow, Blackburn, Lancashire BB2 7AT
Stockport Clarion Julian Mortel Tel: 01625 575959 14 Ingersley Road, Bollington, Cheshire SK10 SRF.
Sunderland Clarion Allan Smith Tel: 0191 584 8948 5 St Aidan’s Terrace, New Harrington, Houghton-le-Spring DH4 4LZ,
Teeside Clarion Colin Armstrong Tel: 01947 880488 Glen Ray, Station Road, Robin Hood Bay, Whitby, North Yorkshire YO22 4RL
West of Scotland Clarion John Harris Tel: 01236 730157 20 Lomond View, Condorrat, Cumbernauld, Scotland G67 4JR
York Clarion Andy Scaife Tel 01904 671804 9 Suffolk House, Lowther Terrace, York YO4 4AQ
If you know of people who are not near a local Clarion Section then please encourage them to start anew Section. A Section of just one member is better than no Section at all. For further information please ask them to contact the National Secretary
Interested in Running? You are not alone! Archive
Anumber of Clarion members have already expressed an interest
a in running the Dublin Marathon. material
If any Clarionettes, who also run, would like to share experience with fellow running cyclists you could contact:
michaelm.walker@ btinternet.com wanted
Info on Clarions running marathons full or half or 5 or 10ks etc most welcome
Any members, or members families who own any material,
ppokthe Clanton Sticker. documents or memorabilia
Has anyone else seen unusual transport sporting the Clarion logo? which is relevant to the Clarion
If so send in a pic and prove it! are respectfully asked to First in line Ruth Coates (Oakhill) somewhere
foreign on a (Nat Clarion) Camel.
donate such material to the National Clarion Committee if itis no longer wanted.
A serious lack of archive information has been noticed by the Committee who are currently investigating having a permanent display at the Pump House People’s History Museum.
CURRENT CLARION OFFICIALS
President John Lees 38 Nook End Road, Heanor, Derbys, DE75 7QQ
Vice President damG@larke schnell epee clarioncc @ntlworld.com Secretary Vacant, acting Secretary Ian Clarke
Treasurer RetcHROSCOC yeaa proscoe @beeb.net Standing Orders Sec. Denistye wenn carne denispye @ntlwworld.com Racing Secretary Wes\(Copelandiae les.copeland @talk21.com
116 Broadhill Road, Stalybridge, Cheshire SKIS IHW ...........2.......-4 01613 039998 Saas Gor On Mobile: 07770 347133
14 Mosley Avenue, Ramsbottom, Bury BLO9UH ...............-.....-0.-% 0.1204 883584 Minute Secretary Ruth: Coates 01254 823546 Social Secretary Vacant
Easter Meet Organisers Ian Clarke Jayne Bevitt
31 Poppy Field, Biggleswade, Beds.SG18 8TU ..............0.0.-0- 01767 314207 COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Merlin Evans, 3 Green Lane, Heaton Moor, Stockport SK43LE 01614 428441 Ken Hemsley, 117 Southcliffe Road, Carlton, Nottingham NG4 1ES 01159 873118 BOOTS SPURS EDITOR
Richard Newcombe, 67 Hall Lane, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6RA 01733 706498
_On the road
ee 2 ag by