Despite the forecast, eighteen riders were up for the ride and set off. We set out for Eton, going via the bridge across the Thames at Walton; then through Shepperton, then on B376 to Laleham. Just as forecast there was rain, but not heavy rain. From Laleham we went round to the north of Staines joining B376 again going towards Wraysbury. At Wraysbury, we took the left turn towards Sunnymeads. Still on B376 we went to Datchet (it was still raining). From Datchet, we took B470 to Windsor Riverside crossing the bridge into Eton, stopping at the Waterman’s Arms. Somewhere along the way, Ray Wren’s bike had punctured. However, the problem was fixed by some miracle substance injected directly into the inner tube which avoided removing a wheel, a tyre and changing the inner tube. Well done Ray.
The meals and service at the Waterman’s Arms were good. There was also a reasonable choice of beers and lagers. One drawback was that hot meals were served on cold plates however. The Wayfarers had been there before.
After lunch, the rain was more serious and we went via Datchet, Horton (where the poet John Milton lived), and across M25 at Junction 14 (an off road section here); then through Stanwell Moor, Stanwell, Ashford, Charlton to Squires Garden Centre at Sunbury for tea. It was still raining. By this time, due to desertions along the way, we were down to eight riders.
Finally, I am very grateful to Tim Court who backed-up for us and stayed back with Ray when the puncture occurred. Getting good back-up support is essential for a successful ride.
Peter Carpenter
Peter's route to Eton (15.8 miles) and back to Squires for Tea (12.9 miles). How did we avoid the worst of the rain that was forecast? A Group were not so lucky.
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| Tony checks the weather before we head out |
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