Twelve intrepid Loipers launched from Oldchurch Bay and paddled against a strong southerly breeze all the way to the ferry landing at Aira Point, a little over 3 miles distant. We rafted up part way down the lake and Alan and Mark swapped over with Jane and Jane to even out the paddling power. After a pleasant stopover in the NT café at Aira Force, we relaunched off the south facing beach (into the increasing swell) and had a challenging few minutes getting around the point before paddling back to our start aided by a following wind. Dramatic skies and low sunlight (eventually), plus wonderful Lakeland scenery and autumn colours (all seen from the water). Thanks Mike and David for organising and thanks Jane Brantom for organising the facilities at Oldchurch Bay.

1. Paddling around south Aira Point  2. Twelve intrepid Loipers before relaunching at Aira Point  3. Relaunching into the swell

Seven of us had a great bike ride on the day of the AGM, starting from near Blanchland. Thanks to Mark O’Keeffe for coming up with the route (and then missing the ride!). It didn’t take us long to realise that we were riding into a 40mph head wind, so the route was changed and we headed down to Heatheryburn Farm and through to Beldon Shield and then into Slaley Forest. Total 19 miles – great ride.

The 2018 SSE roller ski coaching weekend was again hosted by Tyneside Loipers. We had a very successful weekend, thanks to the SSE coaching team, Barbara Grogan, Martin Watkins and Dagmar Junghanns. Thanks too to Peter Sedgwick and Judi Webb for organising the refreshments and keeping the track swept. 10 members of Tyneside Loipers participated in the weekend and enjoyed a high standard of coaching, with participants also from the London and York Dales Clubs. Alasdair Wilson organised the race on Saturday afternoon (a 9km classic style handicap race) part of the 2018 British Roller Ski race series. It was a close finish and proved quite exciting for spectators and marshals.