B Group - 2nd April

We all assembled at The British Legion, Cobham. Despite dire forecasts of high levels of air pollution, 22 of us set out for Shalford. The weather turned quite warm for the time of year. The chosen route was via East Horsley, to Combe Bottom; this is a steady climb nearly all the way (but not too steep anywhere). Then to Albury, Chilworth and Shalford (14 miles). At Shalford we stopped at The Parrot Inn where lunches and drinks were served.
The meals at The Parrot Inn were of a reasonable standard and the staff did an excellent job coping with a large group together with their usual customers also having lunch. Unfortunately hot food was served on cold plates.

After lunch we set off towards Guildford taking a route on the periphery via East Shalford Lane, Tilehouse Road, Pilgrims’ Way, Echo Pit Road, Warwicks Bench Road and Sydenham Road, eventually joining the A246. We continued on the A246 until we reached East Clandon. Thereafter, we followed a route via Send HM Prison and Ockham back to Cobham for tea (also 14 miles). Above twenty bike riders is a largish group to manage, so I was grateful to Terry who did backup and to other volunteers who did some marshalling duties in the middle of the group. Having this kind of support is essential with a large group.

Peter Carpenter