Friday, November 03, 2006

Nov 1st

At Cobham yesterday, after a good response to the Poppy Appeal, Brian Nixon warmly bade farewell to Brian Stead, who returns to Oz this weekend after 14 weeks of tending to his dad and to his dad's affairs. We all enjoyed your company, Brian and from your response, it was gratifying to know how much you enjoyed being out with us. We had a very welcome visit from Fran Humphrey and look forward to more of the same.

'A' group, 13 strong led by Pete B, set out from Cobham in brilliant sunshine, if a trifle on the chilly side. The route took us down Plough Lane, past the newly refurbished Black Swan Martyr's Green, Ockham and East Clandon to climb Staple Lane and admire the views across London from the top. Then the fast decent of Coombe Bottom, up through Shere and down Jesses Lane to arrive at Peaslake and a gentle climb before dropping down to Ewhurst. Here Toni suffered a puncture (new tyres fitted last night!) but, assisted by Ed and Brian, quickly fixed the problem and they were able to join the back of the lunch queue just along the road at the Little Hatch in Cranleigh where there were now 15 of us. After a sumptuous meal, it was back along the road to Ewhurst Green to take another Plough Lane towards Holmbury. Unfortunately John Scott suffered our second puncture (more new tyres!) and John Mason kindly offered to take him back the flatter route whilst the rest of us, now somewhat split up, continued through Holmbury and Raikes Lane before tackling the dreaded White Down. Some stopped for tea at the Bakery in Effingham but most, with wintertime now with us and the nights drawing in, decided a direct route home was in order.

Great cycling weather on All Saints Day from Cobham. Phil was down to lead 'C' group but for some reason was unable and Mark was to do the honours but in his turn had an appointment for a flu jab so it was left to Roger who decided on lunch at The New Inn at Send. There were around fourteen of us, Bill H., Bill and Pat Matthews, Mike and Mary on tandem, Brian Stead and another Brian (no not you old chum!). By jove - Brians were thick on the ground yesterday. Then there was a welcome return with Beryl also Dave, Fuzz, Dennis, John C. and me. The route was familiar up Plough Lane, straight across the road at The Black Swan, then a right and left at the end to Hungry Hill Lane. A bit of a climb and a right turn on the main road to Send with what seems to be an interesting diversion to the left at the roundabout where all the vans are parked, to enable us to reach our destination without passing through Send itself, Tea was to be at Cobham Day Centre so we all rode down Tannery Lane to the Newark Road near The Seven Stars which is where I split for home having some earlier appointments which was true apart from being nicer to say than "afraid I'm a bit clapped". A splendid day all round ------------------------------- Albert

Les Johnston, one of our most regular and most reliable ride leaders, tells me that he wants to ride but not lead from 2007. I can only say thanks for all the originality and research you have put into the task and that you are a hard act to follow, Les. More recently Gill, John G and Robin have begun to lead 'B' group and we hope that they will continue; anyone else out there feeling overlooked only has to offer.

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