ChrisP

Best wishes to Hilary as today is her birthday. Lots of love Chris.

A cold start but Roger and I set of to meet up with the famous five at Bewdley. As we arrived Leigh was about to set of for home planning what he would be cooking for lunch when he gets back . A good job the ladies turned out today must be made of tougher stuff. Our happy team. An interesting ride back our leader Moira taking us on a number of loops to make up a few extra miles. A nice trip with good company. After a shave and shower refuelled with a small slice of home made Victoria cake, raspberry jam filling and butter cream icing on top. After cooking dinner will settle down to catch up with The Tour of Flanders's on the tele.

After the reprimand from our Sunday leader last week roger and I set of for Clives this morning. We set of at ten o'clock but the bright sun shine fooled us as with the wind against us the temperature never got above 10 degs. We both seemed to be on a good day and made the cafe by 11:45 the others were already tucking into tea cakes and jam plus tea. The return ride was slightly longer but flatter going via Pershore and Philpott Manor before heading for Tardebigge and home. We did spot Julie as she wizzed past us down the Bristol Road. A few pictures of feeding time. A nice steady ride back and time for a catch up chat.

Great report Julie nice to see I wasn't the only one out. Yes it was rather cold but Roger was feeling better and was ready to do some miles. We arranged to meet up as usual and do a non stop ride save cooling down then trying to warm up to ride home. I arrived first at our usual place with Roger coming down the hill not far behind me. His first words were I'll have to return home my freewheel is freewheeling in both directions you'll have to go without me Although it isn't far he could walk or scoot but cycling shoes aren't good for walking. Having had the same problem last year I do have some cable ties in my tool bag. After tying up the cassette to the hub he set off on his way. I then set off on a couple of hour solo ride around Henley in Arden area. Please to report Roger managed to ride back home OK.

Set off alone today, Roger on the sick with a bad cough Tess off on holiday for three week to South Africa to see her Mum having not seen her for nearly three years due to Covid. Took a roundabout route via Great Alne and Temple Grafton and getting to Hillers 11:45. Due to lack of numbers Barry kept the ladies in order. As John was missing I stepped in to look after Moira for him. A nice steady ride home dropping Julie of at Tardebigge then spotting Ivor sneaking a few miles in.

Set off with Roger 10 o'clock. Temp about 4 degs. possible black ice about. fortunately didn't find any. Set off on a loop round to Broadacres via Coughton Court and Feckenham. Arrived about 11:45 to find the Saracen Car Club in the outhouse looking out across the sunny fields. Note! Richard being the odd one out on the BIKE. Nice to see Roger & I weren't the only ones to brave the cold. Me and Roger set off for home with the others looking settled in for the afternoon. Good tea and chat as always. .

We would like to wish all our readers a HAPPY & HEALTHY NEW YEAR. The Saracen Road Club prepare for another year for great days in the saddle with good company. Wishing everyone Happy New Year. Chris & Hilary

Due to Covid restrictions Mick's funeral date and time has been rescheduled. It will still be held at Redditch Crematorium on 19th January at 3:30pm.

Following the death and funeral of David, Judy would like to thank all who have sent cards and messages of sympathy and condolence. They are very much appreciated. The club wreath was a fitting tribute for the many years service as Club Secretary.

For those of us of a certain age. A message from Eric Moody, yes he is still with us. Still living in France. Hello all,this email is to wish you all a very merry Christmas and an excellent New Year and wishing good health to you all. I am not sending cards out this year for 3 reasons,firstly to be green, not wasting all that paper, 2ndly rising cost of stamps and thirdly because i cant write anything that you would be able to read So I am dictating to my secretary (Ingrid) and she is typing this out. Not much change here in Mohon, very quiet in La Noe, but very pretty this time of year with the changing colours, i happen to be the youngest and most eligible bachelor here at the age of 79 with my neighbors in the age range of 81 to 100, i am thinking of setting up a speed dating evening in the village, with a bit of luck i could end up as a toyboy . I stopped driving in March 2020 as i could no longer feel the pedals under my feet and with shaking of my hands and feet i decided my driving days were over, however i have an excellent chauffeur (Ingrid) and also a private taxi paid by the health service here to take me to physiotherapy twice weekly. Due to covid i have not seen my children with the exception of Ingrid who lives about 15 mins away from me, I am hoping that 2022 will be possible for them to come and visit me and also in the pipeline is hoping that we may be able to go to Grand Cayman next september to have a family reunion , fingers crossed !! This year's highlights, well in March this year I went 2 laps on a local racing circuit in a ferrari with a pro driver doing speeds up to 220km/hr , followed by lunch out, a really lovely day out, thankyou James & Ingrid for that xmas present. In July this year I purchased a tricycle with electric assistance in order to get out a bit more locally and get some exercise, completely different to riding an ordinary bicycle and not particularly easy, however, determined I was to get the grips with this beast with 3 wheels I went for a spin round the village and somehow managed to end up in the ditch and had to wait until a motorist came past to come to my aid. I was not hurt or injured and the tricycle was not damaged, If anyone would like a reasonably priced electric tricycle that has been used once please contact me September this year I spent 5 weeks in a re-education hospital, this was to assess my Parkinsons, have daily physiotherapy etc, I was allowed home at weekends, I have to say the food was not excellent but the nurses, showers and bed baths were certainly worth going there for . Also in September there was a surprise visit from my Granddaughter Kaya who is now 20 years of age, where does the time go ? Also recently i returned to the local race car circuit with Ingrid & my son in law Guenole to do 2 laps in BMW m3 dressed up as an American highway patrol car to do the drift, this entails driving speeds of up to 160km and sliding round the bends , great fun !! The covid situation here at present doesn't seem to be too bad, however to lead a normal life here you have to be double vaccinated, if not then the only thing you are able to do is go to the supermarket and go to work, there are controls daily by the police in the bars and restaurants, cinema etc, if you are unable to provide your vaccination certificate there are pretty hefty fines including fines for the bars, restaurants etc. So here we are once again with Christmas just around the corner, so Happy Christmas and New Year to you all and once again wishing you all very good health Lots of love Eric xxx If there is anyone you think i may have missed out or forgotten to mail this to, feel free to forward on

Happy Christmas to one and all. Best wishes for the new year and more great rides together. Chris & Hilary

For those who stayed in bed. A hearty but not very healthy Breakfast was enjoyed by our regular hardy chefs plus one guest. In the kitchen today were John S, Tim C, Dave H, Chris K, Mick H, Mick M, Andy S, & myself plus Guest John Bayliss. Our party set off as usual from Lydiate Ash. Leaving home mist & fog made visibility very poor. As you will see the mist and fog disappeared after Rubery. Mick McClure came for a short while to give out his Christmas cards trying to save his pennies. Lets get the oven warmed up. Careful preparation of the finest of ingredients. Oven up to temperature, lets get cooking. . As you can see all meat should be cooked through and pipping hot. Finally sit back relax and enjoy another Christmas feast. Note!!! after many years of Christmas festivities the experience outdoor chef will take to using the fashionable water repellent overshoe overshoe. Team photo's All good things come to an end. Same time same place next year? Not sure what John Edwards was looking for behind that tree must have been something quite small. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Monday evening saw the first presentation of The Eddie Smith Memorial Trophy. " The Eddie Smith Memorial Trophy, awarded for the first time in 2021 was recently presented to Laurie Bird at a Rugby Racing CC meeting. This magnificent trophy was donated by Saracen Road Club to commemorate the long service of one of their club's founders, Eddie Smith who served on the Midlands Committee and the RTTC National Committee for many years. Handing over the freshly engraved silver-plated 19-inch high trophy, Midland DC Chairman Steve Walker said " Laurie was nominated by three clubs and is highly regarded by many. He is a stalwart Time-keeper, TT organiser, a thorough and helpful District Treasurer, and a genuinely nice guy to know. " His contribution was also recognised for his local philanthropic work with the Rugby Credit Union. Three more nominations were considered for the Eddie Smith Trophy, they are Trevor Page (Hinckley CRC) for his involvement in the club over many years; Jan Ford (Leamington C&AC) and Peggy Humphreys (Coventry CC) who have been providing refreshments and good cheer at TTs for many years. We cyclists love our cuppas and cakes! The Trophy will be awarded annually, we will be asking for your nominations again later in 2022, so there's plenty of time to see who is a candidate in your area. "

Will meet as usual 10ist in Lydiate Ash Road before potting off to the cosy kitchen to cook breakfast. Note!! the pub gathering has been cancelled.

Thank you to the motley bunch for the birthday greetings. Haven't spent the weekend as intended. Looks like a good turnout weather was kind.

A new Highway Code and a hierarchy With the new Highway Code rules laid before Parliament today, head of campaigns Duncan Dollimore reports on what’s great, what’s good and what could have been better People have been asking us for months when the new Highway Code rules would come into effect. The Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed in July that it intended to introduce all the amendments proposed in a consultation last year, though we were still waiting for the final text. New rules laid today The proposed rules have now been published, with an explanatory table and are being laid before parliament today. The Secretary of State can’t finalise them until 40 days have passed, though, excluding any period when Parliament is dissolved – like Christmas. This means that by February, we should have a new Code which better protects vulnerable road users, with changes including: A 'Hierarchy of Road Users' Simplifying the rules for non-signalised junctions New rules to tackle dangerous overtaking and ‘close passes’ The inclusion of the Dutch Reach, to help prevent ‘car-dooring’. We’ve been anticipating these changes for many months, but this is the first opportunity we’ve had to report on the final text of the new rules, so I’ll concentrate on the ten key changes we focussed on and asked people to support. The big four Of the ten key changes, the big four asks were: The introduction of the 'Hierarchy of Road Users', which we have referred to as a ‘Hierarchy of Responsibility’. This recognises that road users who pose greater risks to others have a higher level of responsibility Simplification of the rules relating to non-signalised junctions, which will make junctions safer and address ‘left-hook’ collisions New rules to tackle dangerous overtaking and ‘close passes’, with a guideline minimum safe passing distance. The inclusion of the Dutch Reach, to help prevent ‘car-dooring’. Those four changes are all being made, with two qualifications: Firstly, the DfT has stuck with the phrase ‘Hierarchy of Road Users’, rather than our suggestion to frame this as a ‘Hierarchy of Responsibility’. The text of the rule hasn’t changed, and it’s the same principle, but the former rather implies that some road users are more important, whereas the latter refers to responsibility rather than importance as a class of road user, which we thought would a less contentious principle to communicate. Secondly, the wording on the guideline minimum overtaking distance is different to the proposals we submitted. We had argued for a minimum distance of 1.5 metres at speeds under 30 mph; a minimum distance of 2.0 metres at speeds over 30 mph; and for large vehicles, a minimum distance of 2.0 metres in all conditions. The new rule 163 does reflect the logic of our submissions, saying that drivers should “leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds”. It doesn’t include the 2 metre reference, however, simply referring to ‘more space’ at higher speeds and in certain conditions. Yet, in the grand scheme of things on all four of these changes, we’ve secured what we wanted, with a slight variation to the wording. The other changes And that takes me to the remaining six rules mentioned in our ten key changes document: Rule 66 – group riding Rules 67,72, 213 – road positioning Rule 140 – priority at cycle tracks, and that cyclists don’t have to use them Rule 151 – allowing pedestrians and cyclists to cross in front of you in slow moving traffic Rule 178 – Advanced Stop Lines Rule 186 – drivers to give priority to cyclists at roundabouts. The short summary is that what we asked for is being implemented, with one disappointing exception, on rule 66 and group riding. Rule 66 – group riding The old rule stated that cyclists should “never ride more than two abreast, and ride in single file on narrow or busy roads and when riding round bends”. It was often misquoted to suggest that cyclists either shouldn’t be riding two abreast or had to single out to allow drivers to overtake. The DfT’s proposals last year suggested deleting that wording, replacing it with advice simply to “ride in single file when drivers wish to overtake, and it is safe to let them do so”. We were concerned that this could be misinterpreted by some people as a rule suggesting that cyclists should always single out when a driver wants to overtake – or where a driver thinks it is safe to overtake – rather than when the cyclist chooses to single out because they think it’s safe to be overtaken. We therefore proposed alternative wording, namely that: “[cyclists’ should] be considerate of the needs of other road users when riding with another and in small or large groups. You can ride two abreast and it is often safer to do so, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders. Switch to single file if you consider it safer to allow drivers to overtake.” Instead of commanding when to ride single file, this wording would have made it clear that you can ride two abreast, and immediately highlights reasons where this can be safer. It also suggests riding in single file only where you – the cyclist – consider it safe to allow drivers to overtake, and retains the core intention of the DfT’s proposals, that you can ride two abreast, that this can be safer in certain circumstances, and that you should only single out when it is safe to allow overtaking. The DfT has changed the drafting, but unfortunately only partly as we suggested. The new rule says: “[cyclists’ should] be considerate of the needs of other road users when riding in groups. You can ride two abreast and it can be safer to do so, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders. Be aware of drivers behind you and allow them to overtake (for example, by moving into single file or stopping) when you feel it is safe to let them do so." We believe our proposal was clearer and less likely to be misunderstood or misinterpreted. Inconsistent with the hierarchy principle We’re pleased they’ve taken on board the point that it can be safer to ride two abreast, and expressly referenced that, which is a positive. But it’s the final sentence that’s a problem. It’s not difficult to see how a rule that mentions cyclists stopping to let drivers pass could be misinterpreted by some who might infer that this is exactly what cyclists should do. This implies the larger and faster vehicle has priority - "might is right". This is completely inconsistent with the principle that greater power brings greater responsibility as expressed by the introduction of the Hierarchy of Road Users. Additionally, whilst being aware of other road users is clearly a sensible general message, and nobody would advocate the opposite, being aware of drivers behind you is less straightforward than it once was. Twenty years ago, I’d probably have heard the engine in the car approaching me from behind. That’s less likely today and will increasingly be the case as more people transition to electric cars. I’m not suggesting for a minute that checking behind before a manoeuvre and trying to be aware of what’s around you isn’t sound advice, but when someone drives up behind a pedestrian, cyclist or horse rider, it’s their responsibility to see what’s in front of them. A rule drafted in a way which implies that the vulnerable road user in front should be aware of something they might not yet have heard or seen is concerning. But still positive news Nevertheless, if we’d been asked eighteen months ago whether, on balance, we’d be happy with these proposals in their entirety as the overall outcome of the Highway Code review, the answer would have been a resounding yes. The key changes are being made, though we’re frustrated about the changes to Rule 66, and will have to continue to press the DfT on that issue. The reality is that they are likely to have to look at further rule changes fairly soon in relation to e-scooters and increasing automation of vehicles, so hopefully we won’t have to wait too long for an opportunity to review this. Communicating the changes And that takes me to an issue I wrote about last week – communicating the changes to the code, and the need for a properly funded, well informed and widespread public awareness campaign. Of course, it’s one thing to change the rules, but it’s also imperative to communicate them. Whilst road safety organisations and charities like Cycling UK can play their part in this, the lead responsibility rests with the DfT, who simply have to get this one right. Thank you to our members and supporters Finally, I’ve written numerous articles and blogs about proposed changes to the code in recent years, so it’s probably fitting to end this one by just saying thank you. We couldn’t and wouldn’t have secured these changes to the code without your support, with nearly 17,000 of you backing our campaign, so please all take a bow.

Mick sadly died a couple of weeks ago after a long illness. Mick joined the club a few years back but unfortunately his cancer diagnosis cut short his return to cycling. Our thoughts go out to his brother Gordon also a club member and family at this sad time. R.I.P Chris & Hilary Pardoe. Funeral Thursday 19.1.2022 3:30pm Redditch Crematorium. Date & time rearranged see post below.

Not to be put of by the thought of wind, plus it was 5degs warmer than last week, Tess, Roger and camera man met up as usual and set of for The Cowshed at Wootton Wawen. Out via Earlswood and Hockley Heath we spotted The Solihull CC in Lowsonford holding their annual mince pie run from the village hall. Still with the wind behind us we sped on to the cafe. The place was busy with cyclists and Sunday walkers. But the room was warm and the food and drinks were welcoming. Roger having 40 winks. The naughty boys room out in the cold. Now for the ride back. Wind not so bad plus the high hedges in the lanes back via Ullenhall and Weatheroak ended a good trip out.

David's family have decided due to the current Covid situation not to hold a gathering after his funeral. The families request knowing the type of man David was, is that a more formal dress code would be in keeping with his demeanour. No club kit or bright colours.

After a quick chat with Roger we decided to step out into the fridge and do a couple of hours. Plenty of winter woolys on. Rode out towards Droitwich before turning at Wychbold and heading round to Rowberrys. Having left home with the Garmin reading -0.8 it felt quite warm as we turned into the lanes. Upon reaching Rowberrys positive figures +2.0 But we decided not to enter and cool/warm down and not be able to get going when we left. Hope all inside had a good morning. Not to bad a ride better than the turbo.

It is with great sadness that I have to announce the sudden death yesterday of David. He has been a long time member of the Club with his wife Judy. Over the past years he has been the club secretary and tried to keep us informed with any news, by producing a letter or two each year. Our thoughts go out to Judy and the family. Chris and Hilary

Rather a cold day must be winter. Our trio set off as usual but were soon held up at Barnt Green where Roger puncture. This is how our 75 year old changes a tube. Unfortunately after settling in the warm inside the cafe forgot to get the camera out again. Although it was busy we did enjoy the tea cakes. As we were about to leave a masked waitress came up and asked if all was ok. Looking closer I recognised who it was, only Aunty Rita from the cafe at Flyford. which has been closed for sometime. She has taken on the Reindeer Cafe opening from Tuesdays to Sundays. I then realised Barry who was doing the cooking also cooked at the Flyford Cafe. As already mentioned the return trip home was cold and rather windy.

Expected to meet you there today Ivor to cold ? Having got our timing right today Roger and I arrived at the cafe 11:45ish. only to find Dave M sitting alone wandering where the club had disappeared. Had they changed their minds and gone to Clives at Cropthorne as it wasn't raining. After a brief chat on what might have happed we decided to find a seat inside out of the wind and have refreshments. Dave gave us a history talk on how he grew up in Harborne and Quinton area and Roger brought him up to speed with the pubs that still remain. At this point the others appeared. A tea party was set up in the greenhouse. I think Alan is giving a talk on home improvements or his forthcoming heart improvements. Bev tries to help Moira as she seems to be having trouble finding her way round the mobile phone. No that's not the way to do it. That's it well done. I think by now we're all getting to know Julies navigational skills. Leaving the cafe the plan was to return to Tardebigge and retrieve the problem front mudguard Julie had hidden in the grass. Her skills were to be displayed as she new exactly where she had hidden it. As you will see it shouldn't be a problem. I know it must be here this is where I left it. Someone must have taken it I know it was here. Spread out it must be somewhere. I decided to jump of the bike and lend a hand. Fortunately after a quick look it jumped out into my hand. With problem solved Moira helps to stick it up the back of Julies top. The three of them then turned for Bromsgrove where John would refit the offending part. I hope all went well. Roger and I continued over the Lickeys to home. Pleased to say we caught and passed a group of Beacon on the way to the top of Rose Hill.

Yes what a grey day. After leaving home in the rain it turned to drizzle by the time I met Roger, We set off over the Lickeys for Tardibegge hoping it would clear up. (Wishful thinking.) and continue to Fladbury etc. Unfortunately the rain got worse and by Priest Bridge we put rain tops on. At the junction we turned right and right again to head for Droitwich and home. Along the way it eased off so tops off but still drizzle in the air. Pity we didn't head in the direction of Philpott Towers before turning for home to find refuse. Still non stop saved cooling down then trying to get going again as the temperature didn't get above 10 degs. Third time lucky then Moira?

Headed straight out via Redditch to catch the club at Blackminster. Decided to ride as far as Honeybourne then turn across to the cafe. Just before Honeybourne some great views towards the Cotswold under blue skys. I hope they're not locked up here and have been let out for the day. As usual they've arrived at the cafe early and enjoyed much tea and food. Now to sort out bikes and set of for home. Hiller's looks tempting. Don't look just push on. Looks like a brave lady coming the other way near the Wheelbarrow & Castle. That's a retro top or could it be Eddy Merckx Lost control of the camera. Moira's favourite climb back to Tardebigge. Oophs A bit of green to finish. Another great day in the saddle.