HALF a dozen Ayr Roads CC/Harry Fairbairn BMW members set off from Beresford Terrace at 9.30am on Sunday for the weekly social club run.

The weather was surprisingly mild after the recent colder spell which allowed the riders to continue to wear their shorts for at least one more week before the onset of the more wintry temperatures to come.

However, there was a noticeable breeze in the air coming from the south which dictated that the route for the day would be south to utilise a tail wind on the return journey to Ayr.

The group headed out of Ayr at a steady pace along the well travelled Corton Road before passing through Dalrymple.

Paul McGhee and Alastair McGibbon decided to head over the Ballycoach climb to Kirkmichael, with the elder statesmen of the party - Alex MacLean, David Allan and Allan McGibbon – along with the not quite so elder Brian Armour - opting for the flatter route to Kirkmichael via the Ayr to Straiton road.

Upon meeting back up in Kirkmichael, Crosshill was the next destination before Cloyntie Toll, Blackies Brae and the Assel Valley brought the group to Pinmore.

A 5-10 minute break was taken at the bus stop where it was remarked that auld Alex had certainly been leading from the front with the pace he had been setting up the valley!

The descent of the Byne into Girvan provided glorious views out towards Ailsa Craig and hammered home the fact that not only is cycling an enjoyable pastime but it also allows you to get out into the countryside to enjoy the fantastic scenery which is on our doorstep.

The return to Ayr was aided by a tailwind up the coast, which is always appreciated.

A great day was had by all, particularly when the yellow ball in the sky made an appearance as the group approached Dunure.