Dashing to Derby

Life in the Lock Keepers cottage at Stoke Golding has settled into a quiet routine.  We could stay forever but there is a job to be done, a tour to be ridden and yes the concerts to play and the light show to be presented!  We woke to rain pouring down and it was a relief that we did not need to step on the bikes until after lunch.   One or two essentials needed to be sorted in order to continue the tour in a well ordered way.   Travelling light means that my wardrobe is somewhat limited.  I have never assumed the  role of a style icon so it is not a major problem. Laundry becomes an obsession and keeping on top of the washing is crucial.  Luckily ironing is not involved.  This concern does not apply to his Lordship who up till now on the trip has had his clean clothes delivered on the weekend visit of Louise and family.   You can get an idea as to how the other half of the tour team lives.     I walked to the shop to get one or two items and managed to get soaked.   Whilst in the village I called in at a flower festival being held in the Stoke Golding Methodist all set out on the theme of the Love  of Gardens. It makes me realise how much I have missed my own garden at home over the past few weeks.  Back to tour HQ followed by trip to local supermarket for essentials.  Rain was still falling steadily.  A light lunch and then  the time came to depart for our destination for the day, Derby.   We could not put it off any longer.   This ride would require our wet weather gear.   Setting off in the rain it became a heavy downpour. A test for our determination together with our kit. Heading north and keeping to the quieter routes we did make excellent ground over the time.  No sooner said than done we were on the edge of Castle Donnington and looking a place to rest the bikes for the night.   The weather had eased and the sun came out.   For the evening we had decided to go to the Derby Tenpin Centre.  50p wager and winner takes all. I think Richard thought it was going to be a walkover.  His biggest fear,  being beaten by me.    He made a good start to the challenge and took an early lead, ever competative.   Louise, Felix and I rolled with the punches and played some consistent ends.   RD more concerned with my game failed to see that Felix had made a last minute effort and took the jackpot with his last bowl.   I came in second, first of the losers,  but ahead of RD.  There will be excuses of course.   Back to base and a delightful buffet supper but not before we had lit a fire to keep us warm on what was a very cold summer evening.