| Gearing Down -i.m. Graham Mills (1949-2007)
Driving the lonely road between Gwyddelwern and Melin-y-Wig I squint and see a rider, Recognizing the pensive style, unhurried pace and something in the profile, I prepare to pull onto the verge and wave him down; ask him where he’s off this time. He’s hungry, not just for miles, -wanting rather to feed off the green lanes, the “dual cabbageways” and secluded places. Expecting understatement and a laugh I gear down. An impish smile, a grin or the flash of eyes to let you know that all is well. “Stop off at Lowri’s for a cuppa` -ring Bren’ to let her know I’m on my way”. An apparition - The solitary rider waving; a simple gesture. Gone in the stroke of a pedal. How many times have I seen him now? It heartens me that cyclists seek the green deserted roads of Rugg and Iâl and Glyndyfydwy. Glyndwr’s land was his land. Wind and bad weather his bosom friends -that’s not to say there wasn’t sunshine aplenty; And if he was a brigand his sword was kindness. We all knew that. Incisive and thoughtful; committee man - a mate! What style! He seemed to levitate. If only our touch could be that light. Back on the bike, I’m gearing down for these hills now. Knowing that when I gasp my way to crest the hill, Gasp again in wonder at the vista, I shall hear a chuckle, a laconic remark, And maybe in the dusk glimpse A wirey rider, pedaling over the next -“undulaltion”. Alun Jones |
Minute's Silence 3072x2304 2007-03-24 09:00:29 |
Minute's Silence 3888x2592 2007-03-24 09:00:48 |
Minute's Silence; Roger Bolton (foreground) 3072x2304 2007-03-24 09:02:17 |
Setting off 3888x2592 2007-03-24 09:02:21 |
Setting off 3888x2592 2007-03-24 09:02:24 |
Setting off; Brian Saunderson leading 3072x2304 2007-03-24 09:02:26 |
Setting off 3888x2592 2007-03-24 09:02:29 |
Setting off 3072x2304 2007-03-24 09:02:42 |
Late Starters 3072x2304 2007-03-24 09:04:26 |
Crossing the Dee 3888x2592 2007-03-24 10:51:44 |
Approaching `Country Cooks' 1 3072x2304 2007-03-24 10:52:23 |
Approaching `Country Cooks' 2 3072x2304 2007-03-24 10:52:26 |
