Fairly well attended, best were Pete Greenfield's Christmas Lunch (24), and Maurice Gilmore's Flowerpot circular (21). The wet summer meant a few rides were curtailed or abandoned. Approximate average for the year for Sunday, was 9.6, compared with last year's average of 9.5.
These rides have grown in popularity, although the summer weather has probably affected attendances. Dave Walker provides the basis of these, and Alan Wright and other's provide considerable support to establish a fortnightly programme.
Evening Rides.
No support for these, so none run, a good job bearing in mind the wet summer, but Alfreton's are very popular. Paul Hilditch led an overnight ride to Lincoln.
These were initiated and organised by Paul Hilditch. We ran one a month since May, mainly on a Saturday afternoon, from different start points. Liz Seal, John Dodson, Clare and Robert Calder, Paul and myself all led at least one. They proved successful in terms of attracting some new adult riders, as well as proving popular for those with families, some of who had previously ridden with the club pre-family and are to continue through the winter.
Ride to the Black Cow at Lees on the Wed evening, the only none-club rider was one of my workmates. This event has never attracted any new club riders to my knowledge.
In total, about 70 led rides were provided by the club since the last AGM, a considerable achievement by all involved.
John Mitchelmore resurrected the China Run (200k), last run by Paul Bagshaw some years ago, and added the China Teapot (100k) . They ran from Quarndon in July, and both attracted a good field.
Keith Scholey organised two events, Over and over the Trent mark 2 and Over and over the Trent to Dance and Play from Darley Abbey, with similar numbers to before.
Tuesday socials continued as usual. I'd guess attendances were generally lower, mainly due to the poor summer. Four pre social meals were organised, with good attendances. My 40th birthday party, and Richard and Diane Peart’s pre-tour party were very well attended. Two bowls nights at Burton and Shardlow in conjunction with Mercia CC/Burton CTC and a Slide Show by Bob Pitt at Derby Mercury club room were well attended. DMRC Bangers (Nov 06) and Pancake night (Feb 07) were poorly attended.
Several new riders have joined us this year, most we haven't seen out again. Neil Bannister was the only rider to regularly join the club.
Easter in France. Ian and Gloria Horne organised a tour in conjunction with Yorkshire Bikeliner, based in a hotel in Sainte Anne d'Auray, in the Carnac region of France.
New year Butterton camping barn (6), Thurlby (DA organised) 4 from Derby, Hathersage/Mankinholes/Hartington (3), and Once Brewed (8).
The York Rally. Well attended.
Mildenhall. Small party attended.
An order was placed with Impsport for 12 garments to the existing design. There is one garment in stock (short sleeved top).
I represent CTC on this, and have chaired the last few meetings, in addition to the May CTC/CCN conference. Some CTC members joined in a critical mass ride about the closure of the River Path at the back of the old Police Station, which embarrassed Derby Cityscape into a few concessions, mainly in relation to future closure of cycle tracks.
The sad loss of CTC stalwart Jim Thomas during September. A good effort by several section members to support his widow Kathy. A collection in lieu of flowers raised 94.62 for Macmillan Cancer care, in addition to many other donations made directly to the undertakers.
My third year as Derby section secretary, and though not always intending to, I've put more time than in the previous two years. Others have also put in more time, which is starting to bear fruit, not just in numbers of riders, but those willing to organise. Paul Hilditch for his enthusiasm, and his time on the website, in addition to his DA duties, and Dave Walker's continuing Thursday programme. Thanks to all those who lead rides for the club. Although I am willing to continue as secretary, I have a career change approaching at Christmas, so probably won't be able to devote as much time in the coming year as I have been able to this year.
Ian Alexander
27/10/07