Sandford and Banwell Blow 24

A bit of a wind blowing today, not as bad as the 100mph + they have had in Scotland fortunately. Not a bad afternoon for a ride, temperature in double figures and a westerly wind. Heading off to Banwell and Sandwell today, going to explore uncharted cycle paths. Might even have a cup of tea on the way.

Weston F.C.

Situated on Winterstoke Road, the 'Seagulls' have been playing on the Woodspring Stadium since 2004 when they bought this ground from Westland Helicopters. Currently in the 6th tier of English football, the club had a decent run in the FA Cup.

Fat Controller!

Left Weston and went out on the A370 towards Banwell. Carried on through to Sandford and took a small diversion off the main road to visit the old railway station that used to serve the Strawberry Line.  This genial old fellow was surveying the platform of the old station and he reminded me of the Fat Controller from Thomas the Tank Engine. To all you aficionados of Thomas, yes the hat is completely wrong.

Sandford and Banwell Railway Station

This station was opened in 1869 and was absorbed into the Great Western Railway in 1870.  It closed to passengers in 1963 and was used by the council as a storage depot. A local company Sandford Stone, then took it over and kept the buildings preserved until going into liquidation. The whole site is now a sheltered housing complex with the station, a grade 2 listed building, being an integral well kept part of the site.
Notice the restored coach left on the platform. The station has a little cafe which, unfortunately, was closed.
Carried on from Sandford to Puxton and Hewish where tea was taken at Caffles, the garden centre and cafe used by the Old Gits on a Tuesday.

A blustery ride today, with a particularly strong cross wind on the sea front. A good 24 miles though.