Seventeen of us left Claygate in what looked might stay a dry but cold day.We got away by 11.15 taking a route across the A3 on the bridle path to the B280 and thereon to Oxshott via Crown land crossing the A244 to Stoke D'Abernon.From here via Tilt road we skirted the cemetary to cross the River Mole on a track which by this time snow was falling fast.Continuing on to Downside and across to Hatchford,Ockham and Hungry hill there was no let up with the snow.In Hungry Hill we appeared to have lost three riders which I believe were John Scott ,Nigel Cornwall and Don Clarke. When we arrived at the Saddlers Arms at Send Marsh we were down to thirteen which included Julian Calder, Graham Holder,Mark Gladwyn,Pete Mitchell,Jeff Tollerman,John Bassett,Will Almand,Edd Sharp Graham Hill, Peter Barnard, Rob Maskell,Toni D'Italia and myself. John Scott arrived about half hour later having had a puncture and was I understand helped by Don and Nigel, although I believe arrived separately from John.Bob Starey had started with us but at some stage did his own ride since we did not see him at lunch.
It was fortuitous that we arrived early at 12.15 so that we did not clash with a Wake which was due at 1.30. I knew that the host was a bit concerned but at the same time gave us a good welcome and service.
We were away at 1.30 less John Scott, I hope he did not have further trouble.
Our route back was similar to the outward ride as far as Downside then to Cobham and the A246 to Annie's at Leatherhead.
Some had gone home and those of us left enjoyed a natter and left about 3.15 just as the 'B' group arrived.
Ray Dare
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