That's what I looked like when I first started my undergrad course, I used to take everything and shower when I got there including spare going home cycling clothes and had a bright orange carradice cape.
how things change with time - now I'm on my post grad I don't care if my merino smells like a wet dog...
Thanks - that's a nice offer. I still hope to be able to build up my stamina enough by the time of the ride, but other options are always handy!
There is a turn off the Greenway beside Padiham Leisure Centre onto Park Rd. Turn right to go past the centre and follow Station Rd to the A671 in Padiham. Turn left and climb up to the mini-roundabout. Turn right there and climb up Moor Lane which becomes Slade Lane at the top. Turn right onto the A6068 and almost immediately left off that onto the continuation of the old Slade Lane which becomes Sabden Road. Proceed along that and continue along Whins Lane, ignoring the R turn for Sabden. (Whins Lane is signposted as an alternative route for HGVs to Sabden.) Eventually, straight on at the crossroads. There are various side roads after that but Whins Lane is the one to stay on. Continue at the sign saying Whalley 3 miles. Eventually, the road turns to the right and climbs to a junction of Back Lane and the Old Roman Rd. Bear left on the old Roman Rd, signed Whalley 2 miles. Soon you will see a 20% descent sign on your left - take heed! Plunge down the s-bends to the bridge over Sabden Brook and try to maintain enough speed to get you halfway up the more gentle rise in the road on the other side. Go straight on at the junction with Sabden Rd. [NB If you do this ride in the opposite direction it is very easy to accidentally miss the Old Roman Rd and follow Sabden Rd all the way round to Sabden!] Climb to the top of the hill where Sabden Rd becomes Portfield Lane, bear left and start descending, bearing right on the same road down to the A671. Spring Wood is about 100 metres to your right by the traffic lights. Either cross to the other side of the road and turn right at the lights into Spring Wood car park, or (what I sometimes do) to avoid crossing the traffic flow - nip along the short stretch of footpath. There is usually an ice cream seller at the entrance to the car park. A visitor centre and toilet block is to the left as you enter the car park.
40+ and we're still 10 weeks away
