B Group Aug 25th

The forecast was not good, so I was expecting only a handful of takers for the B ride. How wrong could I be? I set off with a group of 23, becoming 21 at Staines: Judy, Irene, Pat, Stephanie, Frank, Pete M., Bernard, Grant, Les, Johns G, M. & S., Robin, Kens x 3, Mick, Bob, Robin, Eddie, Paul and Terry. For a change we headed due north out of Shepperton down Old Charlton Lane, across the M3 on a footbridge, through Charlton village to Ashford. At the first set of traffic lights we turned left and followed a series of back roads westwards before taking to footpaths past HMP Bronzefield, over the railway and across Shortwood Common - two kissing gates rather slowed our progress here but fortunately the cows with calves were keeping their distance. Coming into Staines near the station we soon found ourselves dicing with traffic queuing to get into Shopping Centre Car Parks as we made for Moor Lane. The rain was now making itself felt. Continuing northwards, we followed the path by the M25, threaded our way - literally under a fallen branch at one spot - over Jct 14. After this it was a straightforward ride through Horton to The Royal Stag at Datchet. Tables had been reserved both inside and outside. Not surprisingly we opted for the former! Service was quick and the food was good.

With the rain now falling steadily, full waterproofs were donned by those who'd come prepared, while trains from the nearby station proved irresistible to some. In view of the conditions, it was a speedy ride back via Old Windsor, Runnymede, Egham, Staines, Thames towpath to Laleham and on to Shepperton. Here 9 of us stopped for a warming cup of tea at the Bakery before venturing back out into the rain and heading home for hot baths. Well done, everyone! One puncture to record - Grant at Laleham - and thanks to Terry for being back marker. (Gill Finlay)