After collecting the lunch orders and phoning in 21 of us set out, the temperature cool and only a light breeze, ideal weather.
As leader I was not aware of the travelling conditions behind me but try as the group could to leave gaps in the peloton there were still a number of drivers who took chances, thankfully no problems ensued.
As mentioned before, our outward journey covered many of the routes south to get us to Warnham.
Arriving at The Greets Inn just after 1.00 we were soon sitting down with our drinks, and it was not to long before the food started to arrive, each group of items ordered came out as a batch so it was easy to identify the owners, there were I think three orders that were not quite right, not bad for such a large group.
Setting out on the return route ( I was going to write 'leg' but I am sure there would be a comment from some wit, though they may still make a comment on the above wording)
We soon had our first problem the road was being tarmacked but after asking if we could pass we were instructed to use the pavement, much to the annoyance of another worker further along, we did get away with taking some of his tar, HeHe.
After circumnavigating Horsham we turned into Rusper Road and unfortunately Liz came off her bike and cut her knee, luckily not too badly.
We soon had our first climb up Wimblands Hill passing the Frog and Nightgown, an interesting pub worth a look in, check that they are open first.
We got that over with then through Lambs Green and up Langhurst Lane into Orltons Lane ending up in Partridge Lane.
Charlwood Lane, Russ Hill, Rectory Lane then a climb on Norwood Hill Road. (I did say flattish ride)
We soon came across the second Road Closed sign and with a quick suggestion from Neil we set off along Bunce Road and a quick down hill to Brockham and tea in the Village tea rooms, yet again a warm welcome.
A big thank you to all of you who joined me on the flattish ride, to Dave Vine for back marking and to the many corner and junction markers who made the ride go so smoothly.
Geoff
2 comments:
Geoff - the Frog and Nightgown is fine - but only if there are few of you. I had planned to take the Bs there a few weeks back but when on recce I mentioned our possible numbers the helpful lady said they couldn't cope with that number in a reasonable timescale. If you choose to go there on Sunday lunchtime there is only pizza available but you may take your own edibles. You can get a meal there Sunday evenings.
Terry
To add to Terry's comment above - the Frog & Nightgown is a pub at the weekends and in the evenings, and a tea shop during weekdays. However - they will serve drinks from the bar if you order them at the tea shop counter, so perhaps it's the best of both worlds!
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