A GROUP of nearly 30 Fullarton Wheelers recruits at the weekend set out to Applecross in Wester Ross for a combination of cycling and socialising.

While their club members did a variety of local rides, taking advantage of some quiet single track roads and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

On the Friday evening they were treated to a display of BMX riding skills and tricks by Howie Christie, which included backwards riding along the main street, much to the delight of the tourists gathered from across Europe.

On Saturday the main event of the weekend was a 44-mile coastal loop culminating in the famous Beleach-Na-Ba pass road that rises from sea level to over 2000 feet. The climb in renown as one of Britain’s toughest as riders must tackle steeper and steeper gradients with tired legs the closer they get to the top of the climb.

The majority of club members successfully completed the climb and an enjoyable weekend away was had by all attending.

Eight turned out at Irvine Cross for this week's Fullarton Sunday Run. With a strong south westerly wind and rain threatening, the riders decided to head inland in search of cover. Heading north towards Kilwinning the group then took the back road to Dalry.

From Dalry to Kilbirnie they were assisted by a very strong tailwind, all the while knowing they would pay with a headwind home.

Lochwinnoch was next up where they turned onto the A737 and back into the wind.

Cutting across country through Beith, Lugton, Dunlop and Stewarton the team soon reached Kilmaurs and the club's favourite coffee stop, The Rendezvous Cafe.

Well re-fuelled the riders headed for home, some towards Kilmarnock, the majority heading for Irvine, with a few brave souls taking a detour to Dundonald Hill to put some climbing in the legs. A good day out, although tough at times, with 40 to 50 miles for most.