Nova Raiders

Sean Lacey heads out with a Newport-based club that combine competition and camaraderie

- Sean Lacey

Arriving into Newport, initial thoughts are that the red carpet had been laid out, especially with the High Street closed and a party atmosphere in the town, but as it turns out, although the Nova Raiders are involved to some extent, it is for the annual Newport Carnival — a nice welcome all the same. As such, the meeting point is away from the usual spot outside Nova Cycles but easy to find by following the steady flow of riders in red and white. Unusual for a British carnival day, the sun is out and with it a large group of club mates intent on enjoying the day, enough to give the ride leaders a job in sorting the groups.

Away from the town and traffic, the Shropshire countryside opens up magnificently in the summer sunshine; the route is rolling early on and plenty of social conversation ensues in the bunch. The main topic is how friendly the club is and how they have attracted so many new members in recent years through the many rides and events they run — remarkably there is a ride or social gathering on almost every day of the week during the main summer season, catering to just about everyone with an interest in riding a bike.