The numbers involved in those rides are the main reason why I stay away. Keep it nice and low key and I'm in.
On the Lakes stw ride I had two other Guides on the day and Intended riding in different areas to avoid one big group.
I was advised everyone wanted to ride in en-mass, and I must admit i thought this was not Ideal.
The other leaders took on a leading and sweeping role and this worked out well,(Thanks Anne,Matt and Max)we covered 20 odd miles with no problems from "others" on some pretty sustainable trails,some routes/sections were avoided due to the potential for accidents,(we went through a wall instead!)and the lack of hardpack underfoot.
I think staying on the quieter trails meant we avoided the walkers and it actually made a better days riding imho,although I would be reluctant to lead a big group in the Lakes again,It just felt a bit wrong at the time,and a bit hazerdous on the roads,Irrespective of where we were on the trail.
Oh, perhaps you mean about the park authority ? I think the group we met were Biketreks riders, so he may have heard something from Andy Stephenson. I was sceptical but didn't pursue the matter
Andy and the team at Biketreks very kindly donated some freebies to the ride,and I gave them a mention in the origional thread,I do not think it would be in there interests to promote riding "off piste"in large groups,I have apologised to them on this matter and I know Andy is keen to stay on the right side of issues like this for the long term future of mountainbiking in the Lakes.
sorry for the hijack/rant
I hope everyone enjoyed themselves on the day though!