Polkadots and Pink Flamingos: Bella in Sella

Do you cycle??? I love to get out and about on my beautiful Pashley Britannia bicycle 'Doris' whenever I can. It's wonderful to get out in the fresh air with the wind blowing in your hair whilst you pootle along at a leisurely pace. It's also a lovely hobby to share with the children although they are usually way ahead of me!!!

Dress by Heyday!

Bicycle - Pashley Britannia in white

Hair Flower by Miss K's Floral Fancies

Along with a few of my friends I am part of a vintage cycling group Nottingham Classic Ride who regularly organise vintage style bike rides around the beautiful Nottinghamshire countryside. Last Sunday, 21st September, was the BIG one entitled 'Bella in Sella' which means 'beautiful in the saddle'. The group organises a variety of different rides throughout the year with a BIG classic ride in September which is always very much looked forward to. The weather was glorious and everyone had come suitably attired for the occasion in pretty frocks, straw boaters and bow ties.

My lovely friend Amy on her bike

Over 50 cyclists came along for the ride from Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. It was wonderful to see so many people making the journey to join in the fun. We started off at a central, riverside location in Nottingham and our ride took us through urban and rural landscapes to our lunch stop at West Bridgford Park for a picnic and prize giving for best dressed, best rider and best bike before setting off back to the start where everyone enjoyed a refreshing après ride beverage or two at the pub around the corner, the Vat and Fiddle.

The dashing chaps from The Guvnors' Assembly

Everyone is welcome on the rides whatever your ability. Fellow cyclists are so friendly and supportive that a fun day is certainly guaranteed. I can honestly say that I rarely laugh as much as I do on our vintage bike rides. The kids think we are all bonkers but secretly enjoy coming along, they have definitely become more competent cyclists and I have gained in confidence as a rider too. Check out the facebook group for more details of future rides and do come along and join us. You don't need to have a vintage bike to join in or even dress in vintage style as everyone is welcome. Social cycling is definitely the future!!!