Thursday, November 06, 2014

'A' Group Ride - 5 November 2014

A good turnout of 19 riders assembled at Cobham, though we didn't finish with quite that number. The first stirrings of Winter were evident in the early morning temperatures though a few of our number were still in shorts, boldly defying whatever the weather could throw at us.

Today we travelled South from Cobham past Effingham Junction, into Effingham and then Bookham, before passing Polesden Lacey. The descent of Bagden Hill preceded our arrival at Denbies where for once we avoided the magnetic pull of the tearoom, instead following the Denbies train's scenic route up to Ranmore, giving a panoramic view of the extensive wine estate. After a short delay while Jeff fixed a rebellious chain, we looped back past Denbies and then climbed Box Hill, before lunching at the Tree, Headley, where we took full advantage of the Senior Citizens' cut price lunch menu. There we were joined by Mark and Pete Betts plus crutches - we hope Pete is soon back on two wheels.

A heavy shower started during lunch, but tactfully moved on before our departure, as we smugly rode on in the dry. The way after lunch was via Walton and Chipstead. Our tea stop in Banstead was at the Boutique Cakery, where not only was a good cake selection on offer, but also a cake making course, involving the use of a variety of exciting cake making aids. After some discussion, we reluctantly decided against a group enrolment, and went our separate ways home.

Thanks are due to Neil for a grand job as back marker.

Rob

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