Richard Gorst, having had such a good season of riding cross country events in the south and south-west, decided to go up country and first of all stopped off to take part in the Malvern Classics XC event, which bagged him a brilliant win in the veteran's class.

Moving further north, he then took part in the penultimate round of the HSBC National XC series at Newcastleton on the Scottish Borders, where he completed a solid ride, finishing 5th in his class.

Feeling the need for a fun hillclimb event, Richard then went on to the Isle of Bute and entered the Serpentine Hillclimb, finishing 9th overall--the photo shows just some of the many hairpin bends on the climb, which has a national reputation. More to come possibly this year but certainly next year.

Well done Richard.

Last year, because of Covid, Axe Valley Pedallers had to cease our normal monthly Sunday rides.

It is very much welcomed that we are now able, within guidelines, to resurrect this AVP tradition, kicking off with what was described as an easy 22-mile ride at chatting pace, which attracted a crowd of 23 members.

After an early coffee, we set off from the Filling Station Cafe /Colyford Cycles at a steady pace , out of Seaton and on to Branscombe and then a steady climb up to Oakmead, where we stopped again for refreshments before returning to Colyford via Farway Common, Church Green and Colyton. A great ride and good to see such a decent turnout, which everyone enjoyed.

Sue and John Hodgetts had an away day riding over the South Downs Way, which is a National Trail 100 miles long following the old routes and droveways along the chalk escarpment and ridges of the South Downs.

They enjoyed the ride and were fortunate with the weather but will need to return to complete the route. The track was quite rough in places and a set of good wide tyres is a must next time.

Midweek Herald: Axe Valley Pedallers on their travelsAxe Valley Pedallers on their travels (Image: AVP)

Midweek Herald: The long and winding roadThe long and winding road (Image: AVP)

Midweek Herald: September riding for Axe Valley PedallersSeptember riding for Axe Valley Pedallers (Image: AVP)