A Group, 1 February. Cobham - Chilworth - Ripley

The weather was miserable when it was time to leave Cobham and so the excuses started - "I've got a puncture", "I've lost my helmet", "I've lost my wallet", "I've lost my Garmin", "The dog ate my homework"......

Finally a dozen headed off via Downside, Ockham, West Horsley and on to the concrete track from Jury Farm to Sussex Farm. Past the prison, through East Clandon and up Staple Lane.The bend on Combe Lane was flooded to add to the usual hazard of gravel but we all safely arrived at the A25. Towards Albury but then left up to Albury Heath and Farley Green.

Here we encountered a "Road Closed" but pushed on to see just how closed. Finally as we were descending into Shamley Green we were brought to a halt by workmen digging a hole in the road. They were friendly enough but the spoil tip spread the full width of the road between steep verges. Various techniques were used to scramble around the obstruction but most ended up with very muddy feet and bikes. There were plenty of road-side puddles to try and clean ourselves up but with limited success.

We continued to Blackheath and followed the "This Way" sign to bring us to The Percy Arms in Chilworth. Still with dirty feet we were glad the pub had stone floors and not carpet. The pub has a South African theme and a rather unusual menu but most chose the sandwiches and baguettes served with really nice chips.

Geoff's photo of the cyclocross team (oblivious to their next challenge behind them)

After lunch we soon (much too soon for some) ascended Halfpenny Lane to pass St Martha's Hill and Pewley Down before descending into Merrow, Burpham and by the A3 to Burntcommon and on to Ripley.

Here nine of us took tea at Pinnocks before pushing on for home.

Thanks to Colin and Geoff for backmarking, all the corner markers, Mark for the map and profile, and everyone for a good (if muddy) day out.


P.S. One or more of the excuses in the first paragraph may not be true.