A group Ride Report Brockham Picnic 24rh August

 Having met at Leatherhead Fairfield Centre we had a pre-ride coffee served by the depleted ranks of the centre. We all handed our lunch boxes to Jennie Jackson who kindly organised transportation to Brockham. Our numbers were depleted also because of holidays, but it made for quiet roads and so at 10.35 I led the first 20 mile group to Brockham. Dave Vine, Pete Beyer, Peter Suchy, Frances, Sue Chasty, Brian, Neil and Jon Warland and I made nine riders. We rode at a moderate pace and enjoyed the scenery. The climb up to Walton on the hill was hot and sticky and while we rested Pete Beyer visited his butcher (eatmymeat.co,uk) to top up his water bottle. This was followed by a refreshing descent of Pebble Combe hill, although a large lorry followed me down a bit too close for comfort. Nevertheless we completed a quiet tour of Betchworth and Reigate Heath before eventually getting to Brockham Cricket pavilion at 12.05. Jennie was there making teas and coffees. Orange squash was also available on the porch.

It was good to see old faces and catch up on news.

All three groups were present.

Tony d'Italia made an impression.

Neil Crocker had his tales of daring-do from his

London-Edinburgh-London adventure.

The second A group led by Ged and Simon with Pete Betts and Richard Bailey joined forces with Hans and our group to ride to Hampton Court for tea. Brian, Neil Crocker and Dave Ferret stayed behind to help Jennie and make their own way home. Hans, Pete Beyer, Sue and Frances went home after a while. So Ged, Simon, Neil and Jon Warland, with Dave Vine, Richard Bailey, Peter Suchy and I stopped for tea at the East Molesey Cricket ground.

Thanks to everyone for attending and particularly Jennie for organising the lunch and drinks and her helpers. I appreciated the leaders Simon and Ged for their support and Dave Vine for back marking.