When I left Darwen it was fine rain. Going through 'The Printshop' the rain turned to hail. By the time I reached Vaughn's at Tockholes to start the ride. The hail had turned to snow and visibility down to a few hundred yards. Vaughn greeted my unexpected arrival with the news that traffic in Blackburn and Darwen was at a standstill. How many were stuck on the drive to the start? I was beginning to wonder if the first ride without any support from Brian might be a solitary one when Ken walked in. We enjoyed a cuppa and just about to leave, when we were joined by Gary. The snowing had eased and with waterproof layers applied we made our way off into the woods. A few dog walkers out, very wet and slippy. Next stop Brinscall, a little late but Geoff was waiting still, more coffee, and we ventured out again. Passing the pond into the Goit, quite greasy and muddy, knobbles were an advantage. However at least the sun had made an appearance and even some blue sky. Geoff's and Gary's local knowledge enabled us to find the least wet and muddy route through to Rivington Village Tea room where Ken was waiting patiently, our being later than planned.

After the welcome refreshments,and having left the others to go their separate ways Ken and I followed our usual route through Lead Mines Clough, and back along a heavily waterlogged Goit. On this occasion we avoided Butterworth Brow and retraced our route along the old railway track, Joined a short section of Bolton road through Abbey Village then back into Roddlesworth woods alongside the reservoir. Making our way up the track we emerged opposite Fine Peters Farm which I passed alongside heading back to Darwen whilst Ken followed the road back to the car park.