IT was almost springlike for the start of the A group's ride to Rathmell near Settle in North Yorkshire. But the forecast was for rain later and as usual they were correct.

It was the usual ride out through Accrington, Whalley and Sawley. Then in the lanes past the Copy Nook pub and into Wigglesworth. Here for a change we took a gated track that wound its way round to Rathmell. This track was at least an inch deep in cow manure, which stuck to the tyres and we all hoped we didn't get a puncture.

Despite being a little village Rathmell has a famous equine centre for injured racehorses. They have their own swimming pool where you are able to watch. There is a craft shop and a tearoom. A local farm offers B&B.

After lunch it was back to Wiggleswick and Hellifield. The road from Long Preston to Nelson, over Blako (A682) as just been declared by the Dept of Transport as the ninth most dangerous road in Britain. Judged from the amount of accidents, the M6 is safer.

After a spot of climbing over Swinden Moor to Little Stainton and into Earby. We had a stop at the caf at Foulridge before carrying on to Nelson and Burnley. It was now the climb up the summit, down into Rawtenstall and back to Bury.

We had travelled through four different counties, Gr. Manchester, Lancashire, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire.

This Sunday's rides are Marsden (A), Delph (Morning) meet Bury 9.30, Rochdale 10.00. Or Tatton Park (B) meet Bury 9.30.