Shaun's ride report: the Bell, Harborne

I am Shaun the sheep and I manage to get out with Pushbikes when Val joins the runs.

I thought I was going to get soggy yesterday as Val still has not got me a raincoat, or a helmet, or a high viz jacket. Although the 'bling' that I wore to the Black Eagle a few weeks ago is rather lovely- lots of jingle bells.

At least I wasn't left behind at the MAC. Andrew DID leave his helmet behind and had to turn around to retrieve it.

The "grown up" boys then hid behind a big bush so they could jump out and scare him as he pedalled back extremely quickly.

Val made sure the pace was much slower for the rest of the evening, although I kept kicking her to keep up a decent speed. I smiled at Simon behind me for most of the journey. I'm sure he kept hoping she would speed up, but no-one moaned and everyone insisted on keeping together at all times.

David who rescued me when I was left behind at Salford Park on the Heartlands Ring as part of Bike Week, led the ride last night. He is my hero for rescuing me. He managed to shepherd the unruly adult humans to Harborne and back to the MAC.

We went via the Rea Valley route to Breedon Cross/Lifford and joined the canal there, back towards the city centre, exiting at Somerset Road. Then up the hill to Harborne. We were given the choice of several routes but this one seemed to win the votes (route 5 and the canal, not the hill).

It didn't rain- indeed it was a lovely evening for a bike ride.

And returning to the MAC downhill by the direct route through the University was wonderful.

I nearly lost my 'froggie' bracelet- (rear light as I sit on Val's back), but David saved the day again. I must have dropped it when dancing around and sneaking a sip of everyone's beer. We had to move inside at the lovely pub because the outside tables weren't big enough for 7 Pushbike members, a friend, and a sheep.

Once we knew Spain had beaten Germany Andrew was desperate to phone Alex- who hadn't joined us because he wished to support Germany (he is German after all). James was sorely missed too and did talk with us on the phone.

More trips like this please............