I've had a very positive response on this, both from those who want to come and from some who'd rather not, but who still think it's a good idea. The route is above and here are the arrangements:
At 0900 sharp on 14th April the Seaside Party will leave Cheam crossroads. There will be plenty of others there - it's an early start day anyway. We'll go via Henfold Lakes, but will only take a short break and will be gone well before 1100 - nb those who plan to join us there. The route then goes on through some pretty countryside to Shoreham, where I had a good two-course fish lunch at the Crown and Anchor when I rode the route on Monday.
The return route is via Steyning, skirting Horsham and rejoining the outward route at Rusper. We will finish at Leatherhead, before 1800 if all goes well. Wetherspoons for those who fancy it or straight home for those who don't. 92 miles Cheam to Leatherhead - those who want it will easily score their Century.
I would emphasise that this is neither a hard nor a fast ride. There are some small hills, but nothing challenging, and the pace will be the normal 'A' Group Wednesday speed of about 12 mph. Those who are daunted by the distance need not worry - the return route parallels the railway line from Horsham so anyone who wants can peel off at any time - even on the outward leg, if need be - and take a train back to Leatherhead, Cheam or wherever. So you can have a good day out and lunch at the seaside for 55 miles or so of steady riding with the train helping you out on the last bit.
A couple of logistic points. Depending on how many come, I may divide the party into sub-groups of five or so. It makes it easier to keep the pace up. And it's probably a good idea to carry a bottle and a snack. There are not too many cafes on the route so a snack 'hors sac' may be welcome at some stage.
If we're blessed with decent weather then it'll be an excellent day out - and, as ever, we'll have a good ride whatever the weather. I'm looking forward to it.
Mark
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