Bury Cyclists' Touring Club
Last Updated 12/11/2016
About Us
EVER TRIED CYCLE TOURING?
Each Sunday morning, in all weathers, Bury CTC members get on their bikes and leave Bury for areas of scenic beauty surprisingly near to home. The Ribble Valley, Lancashire Plain, Forest of Bowland, Calder Valley, South Pennines and Cheshire are all within easy reach.
On longer runs, but well within a days ride for a reasonably fit cyclist, are the Yorkshire Dales and Peak District National Parks.
Runs are always planned to take in the quieter roads whatever the destination.
CYCLISTS' TOURING CLUB
Founded in 1878, the CTC is a national organisation (now known as Cycling UK) which is subdivided into Local Groups. Bury Section is part of the Manchester & District CTC (formerly Manchester District Association).
Bury Section began life way back in 1929 with club runs held every Sunday since then - only interrupted by the Second World War. In 2004 we celebrated our 75th anniversary with the production of our new stylish orange and blue ‘CTC Bury’ cycling strip. The jerseys feature an illustration of local landmark 'Peel Tower' which is sited high above the town on Holcombe Hill.
Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill. In the foreground is Ramsbottom. Bury town is just off the picture at left. Just visible in the far distance are the Winter Hill TV masts.
CLUB RUNS
Our main activity is a regular programme of Sunday rides (we call runs) covering a distance of between 40 to 100 miles depending on the season and the weather.
There are two groups A & B. The B group rides are at an easier pace. It doesn't matter what type of bike you ride. For the comfort of other riders in the group, a bike with mudguards is preferred in wet weather.
For those who only want a morning ride, there is always the option to ride just part way and return early.
All riders are advised to carry some food, a drink, tools, a spare inner tube, some waterproof clothing and a little money. Cafe stops are made. You should make sure your bike is in good order before setting out - especially the brakes.
We particularly welcome younger riders, but under 14s must be accompanied by an adult and if under 18 you need parental consent.
The club also offers you opportunities to cycle tour further afield at home and abroad; and Youth Hostel and camping weekends on Bank Holidays.
WHERE DO THE SUNDAY RUNS START?
Both groups always meet outside the Wilko store on The Rock, Bury.
We sometimes pick up riders at secondary points half an hour after the start time. If we are heading north usually at the Rostron Arms bus stop in Edenfield; if heading west outside the Ainsworth Arms, Bolton Road or if heading east in Rochdale at either Chris Paulsen Cycles or the Town Hall. See the sports pages in the Bury Times for the latest information. See the 'Runs List' page on this website for forthcoming runs.
SOCIAL LIFE
Our quarterly club meetings held at The Trackside pub adjacent to the East Lancashire Railway station on Bolton Street, Bury, offer an opportunity to socialise off the bike too.
We have male and female members, and as a newcomer you would not have to join immediately, but you can participate in a number of rides to see how you like it. It is normally required that you join after riding four club runs.
The subscription is paid annually to national headquarters and not to Bury Section. The current annual cost for full membership (age 18 to 64 years) is £43. If you are under 18 or a full-time student it costs £21.50. If you are over 65 or unwaged, then membership costs £28.50 for a year. For the latest information and an application form contact headquarters. The address is:-
Cycling UK, Parklands, Railton Road, Guildford, GU2 9JX
Tel 0844 736 8451
e-mail [email protected]
Membership is good value for the insurance benefits alone. And a bi-monthly magazine ‘Cycle’ is delivered to members’ homes free of charge.
AN INVITATATION
Come and sample the enjoyment of club cycling with us. Cycling’s easier in a group and newcomers of all ages, male and female, are always welcome.
See you on Sunday!