NEWPORT TO PETERSTONE: Newport U3A’s Cycling Group latest outing took them on a 12 mile ride on quiet roads and lanes across the Gwent Levels towards Peterstone.

Following National Cycle Route 88 from Pencarn Way, Duffryn, they were soon out in the countryside and heading west towards Marshfield on Percoed Lane.

The quiet of the countryside was broken only by the trilling of unseen birds from the hedgerows and reed beds and the occasional rush of a train from the main line across the fields.

At Marshfield there was a short climb over the main line railway bridge.

A line of stanchions heading for Cardiff and in the distance some new concrete bridges, signalled the progress being made towards electrification.

The next stop was at Peterstone Gout, a large basin that collects water from the reens to prevent inland flooding at high tide.

The bikes were left there and they walked along the banks of the in let out to the sea wall.

A peaceful scene with the mud glistening in the sunlight as the tide receded.

The only noise coming from birdsong and the occasional click of a well struck ball from nearby Peterstone Golf Course.

The return trip was rounded off with a circuit of the lake at Tredegar House to see the huge rhododendron bushes in full flower, and ended with a well earned cup of tea at the Tea Rooms.

If you want to know more about joining the  Cycling Group, e-mail John Dainton on dainton.john@yahoo.co.uk or phone 01633 212349.