Interest in the ride was good, and we would have been at maximum capacity of 24 but a few last minute apologies, so no fewer than four groups (Christina's Coureurs, David's Desperados, John's Jaguars, and Dave's Decimators set off in turn from Lower Shott, Great Bookham. This proved to be quite a good elevenses venue, with a helpful cafe open just round the corner, a baker's in the High Street, and a public toilets available.
The route to lunch at Newlands Corner took us along the track from Effingham to East Horsley, then, after West Horsley, and following an ascent of Shere Road, along another off-road section on the North Downs Way. Shere Road isn't the easiest climb of the North Downs, but it's definitely one of the most rewarding, and the 'B's' took it in their stride!
The weather was disappointing with sometimes overcast skies, and occasional drizzle, so we found ourselves cooling off a bit at lunch after our earlier exertions, and didn't linger too long. Both cafes were open, and their wares were sampled. The public toilets were shut, but Tony reports that The Plucky Pheasant does have toilets available for anyone ordering food. Apart from Christina's group and Dave's group, which just missed each other, we all met up at lunch.
After lunch we whizzed down Trodds Lane to get to some (open) w.c's at Stoke Park, then picked up the old, familiar route to Burpham, Ripley, Ockham and The Medicine Garden for tea.
Thanks to all for supporting the ride and for your kind words, and particular thanks to the ever-helpful John Austin, and newer leaders, Christina and 'Fixie Dave', without whom it wouldn't have been possible.
1 comment:
Well done - Christina and Dave. Always good to have new leaders.
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