A Group - 29th March - Mucky Duck, Tisman's Common

Fifteen riders were prised out of The Vineries Garden Centre by 11.15 for our trip south. Orestan lane led us to Green Dene where we ignored the "Road Closed" signs. The obstruction was soon reached and circumvented leaving us on a much quieter than usual ride up to the top of Combe Bottom.

After swooping down to Shere we were soon climbing again towards Pitch Hill, before a right turn brought us to the top of Barhatch Lane. Here there was another "Road Closed" sign,  but not wanting any possibility of having to climb back up we diverted over Winterfold Heath and down to Smithwood Common.

Cranleigh had the worst traffic of the day but we turned South again and headed into the wind to reach Tisman's Common and The Mucky Duck around one o'clock.

Lunch was promptly served and we were on our way again shortly after two. However the weather had deteriorated over lunch, so those that had them donned their waterproofs while others just commented that rain wasn't in the forecast!

Due to the weather the planned trip to Gibbon's Mill was saved for another day and we kept to the road to Buck's Green and The Haven. Some of the riders seemed concerned that we were still heading South as the rain got heavier but at the A29 we turned North and got the wind on our backs.

Taking the back road to Slinfold, and over to Broadbridge Heath, we crossed the railway at the Warnham level crossing. Then is was just familiar roads to Rusper, Newdigate and Punchbowl Lane to tea at Denbies.

Eleven of us stayed for a leisurely break before heading out into what was the best weather of the day.

Thanks to all who kept the ride moving, Geoff for the photo, and Mark for the map and profile.