Brighton & Hove Clarion Cycling Club  
 

 

History

The Origins of the Clarion Cycling Club and cycling in the 1890s

19. Liverpool CCC and 'Swiftsure' on Sunday cycling

As well as various things reproduced already in early Circulars, the Clarion of 13 October 1894 included, this report, on 'Swiftsure's' cycling page.

Liverpool Clarion C.C. reports:-

October 7, 1894

Allow me on behalf of the members of the club to thank you very much for the prominence you have given to our doings, they have given us a splendid advertisement (Advertisers please note)

Today we met at Newsham Park at 10 a m, proceeded to Cronton, through Knotty Ash, Broad Green, Huyton, Roby, and Tarbuck.

We distributed lots of literature and had a most enjoyable picnic. Returned to Liverpool about 2 a m. I hope all Clarionette cyclists will join us, and so spread the good news among the heathen. As for those who haven't a 'bike' let them sell their shirts and buy one

Hy. Cummins, Hon.Sec

P S Next Sunday's run to Chester; meet at Birkenhead boat at 2 p m

I've passed on bits and pieces of 'Swiftsure's' musings on this and that cycling issue from time to time. Here he is again (in the same issue) on Sunday cycling.

I think that the best time for a pleasant ride is a Sunday morning.

Pious people may hold up their hands in horror, but it is then that the true beauties of the countryside can be best enjoyed. The roads are free of traffic, except for the noisy milk-cart. The crisp morning air has a bracing influence which is not felt at any other time. One little factor is, however, prominent, and one which, no doubt, many will have noticed; and that is, that every man, woman or child who have a dog seem to take them out for a mad gallop on a Sunday moring.

* * * *

I don't want to say they have no business to do this, but its certainly a nuisance to the cyclist at times. Thre is one thing, however, I can say about dogs which I can say well here. Never expect a dog to run out of your way. It doesn't follow because a dog will get out from under cart wheels – ay, by inches very often – it will do the same with yours. If it sees you it may get out of the way, but its safest to get out of the dog's way. Steer well clear or risk disaster.

The roads have changed a bit since the 1890s – but I'm not sure dogs have. So let's heed 'Swiftsure's wise words.

Next time - More Liverpool activities and 'The Bounder on Tour' near Stratford upon Avon.

 
 
 
 

^ top