Perfect weather for the latest Witham Wheelers reliability ride encouraged 39 riders to tackle a rolling 64-mile route taking in Castle Bytham, Witham on the Hill, Edenham, Heckington and back via Londonthorpe.
After several weeks of poor weather, fitness levels varied but all groups kept together well. First on the road were on schedule at an average 15.4mph with special mention going to Tony Hardenberg, Suzanne Holdsworth and D. Winthorpe who persevered to finish despite becoming detached from the main group.
The second group was the biggest with 21 riders, however a couple of punctures halfway round caused them to split with most riders finishing in either 17.5mph or 18.2 mph average, with a few struggling on the run-in as the distance began to take its toll.
The third group, with only six riders, had a good workout, splitting on the run back into Grantham but all finishing around the 20mph average.
There was also a separate group which took on a less ambitious route but had a really enjoyable ride of 34 miles at around 14.3mph.
This Sunday is a hilly but scenic route via Melton, Tilton-on-the Hill and Oakham. First group to tackle the full route leaves at 8.45 from the Cricket Club in Gorse Lane. There will also be a shorter route leaving at 9.15am which is suitable for the more inexperienced rider.