Report for the Easy Riders - 29th November

The Easy Riders piled on the layers in preparation for near-freezing temperatures. So imagine our surprise to come upon two ladies of mature years in their swimming costumes about to take the plunge into the Thames passing the boat club houses on Lower Ham. Some are made of sterner stuff!

The turnout at Kingston YMCA was the biggest for many weeks and included John Bellamy - his dodgy knees allowing him to join us at elevenses for the first time in a while - and Bernard Power, who was returning for a full day's ride after being sidelined for seven months with a serious tendon injury. Unfortunately, John didn't feel able to continue but it was encouraging to see him back on his bike.

Our route took us across Kingston Bridge and it was hard to believe the warmth of the sunshine as we rode along Barge Walk. There were still signs of a winding down of operations at Hampton Court Palace after Rishi Sunak's business bunfight on Monday.

Passing Imber Court we were overtaken by a truck with an illuminated passenger-side rear light depicting a cyclist overlaid with a no-entry symbol.

Believing Littlemoor Common might present problems after Monday's rain, we turned left opposite Sandown Park and headed for Claygate. This is familiar territory for those of us travelling from North Cheam at Chobham once a month, the difference on this occasion being that we were moving in the reverse direction. 

Interesting to note on the roadside two ladies clad in hi-vis jackets equipped with a speed gun. Was this DIY law enforcement or outsourcing by the authorities? Impossible to say.

A little later than intended our 14-strong group arrived at the Jolly Coopers near Stamford Green. Lunch didn't disappoint.

The sun had disappeared and temperature had dropped by the time we departed.

 

~ Frank Carter

Report for the Easy Riders - 22nd November

Lovely to welcome Lynda B back to our company at North Cheam this morning, we haven't seen her for ages!

After coffee at Leatherhead, most of the group headed up the Lower Road to Bookham, then up Polesden Lane and down Bagden, downhill all the way to Westhumble and lunch at Stepping Stones. Lovely to see a couple of the B groups heading in the opposite direction up the hill, bless 'em they work so hard to deserve their lunch...

At The Stepping Stones

No teastop for us this afternoon as all wanted to be home before dark.

~ Helen

B Ride 29th November

Short days and cold weather prompted me to plan a short ride with lots of off road paths and parks. We have not ventured to the Sir Michael Balcon (Wetherspoons) before, so this was the planned lunch stop.

25 signed up for the ride, but A.M Wednesday morning and the dropout messages started arriving. An we lost 6 riders, but a few left home late and made their own way to lunch, craftily by using my Strava route 10 out of 10 Steph, although I didn't use that route in the end.

3 groups were needed with these numbers and I planned early starts. 10.20. 10,30 and 10.40, Ray leading group 2 and Tim C leading group 3. Going North of the river to Twickers, then towpath to Isleworth, Syon Park and the towpath to the Great West Road, my group, the first away, got through okay, but groups 2 & 3 found the section of towpath closed and had to re-route, oops. Back roads to Gunnersbury park and a short, cycle path, section of the North Circular, led us to Ealing Common and lunch. 

 

                                     Tonys group in Gunnersbury Park

Wetherspoons is always a great lunch stop for no booking and large groups, groups 2 & 3 soon joined us and we were all seated in one section. Much banter as usual and the imbibing of beer, for some anyway, my groups was soon raring to get back on the bike. Back around Ealing common and then back alleys down to Brentford, through Brentford North Quarter, (or West Chiswick as I liked to call it when I lived there) and we were soon going back through Twickers, Bushey Park and to tea at Dish, Hampton Court, some of each group stopped, but by now the temperature had dropped again and we didn't linger too long. We were lucky with the weather in that it was very cold but bright and sunny and no snowball fight.

 

Tims Group in Gunnersbury Park

Thank you all for your company and a special thanks to Ray Y and Tim C for sub-leading and the back markers, it was really a good day out.

Tony.. 

 

Ride Report 29/11/23, sub leader, second group, Ray Youlden

We were greeted with a wonderful sunny but cold day for our ride to Ealing. Due to leave at 10.30but the warm atmosphere of the Hawker Centre proved difficult to persuade people to come out plus two places to possibly meet meant we left later than scheduled. My group was made up of Tony Hooker, Stephen, Christina, Pete, and Grant. We started with a relaxing ride down the river Thames, across the bridge at Teddington where painters were busy painting the bridge, and then along to Twickenham. 

Here we started to discover the complexity of Tony’s well thought out and devious route. Here we took a left at the traffic lights and followed the cycle path along Wharf Lane, down to the Thames and along to York House gardens where Stephen spoke about his son’s wedding reception that used the gardens. This led to a general discussion about the flood height of the Thames and various other points about the area. Following the tow path along to Richmond Bridge where we crossed into Willoughby Road and onto Syon Park. 

 

Rays group on the canal Towpath

We then entered the Grand Union Canal tow path but after approximately ¼ of a mile were met by a group of workmen who advised us that the canal tow path was closed due to someone leaving a lock gate open and that the floating pontoon was unsafe to use. So, it was back to the main road to find a route through the back roads of Brentford. On our way we encountered Tim Court’s group at the canal entrance and gave them the bad news. 

The route I chose proved to be a pain due to a railway foot bridge that we had to walk
up and down a very steep set of steps. If only I knew, we could have gone along Somerset Road Boston Manor Road and used a road bridge that proved to be the way Tim had taken his group. This meant that we were now the third group on the road. At Gunnersbury Park, Tim let our group overtake, we then cycled around the park, past the Round Pond and along the cycle track, next to the North Circular along to Ealing.
 

The Sir Michael Balcon pub was up to the normal Weatherspoon’s efficiency, good service, and lots of room to enable us to find some seats. There had been some concerns regarding where to lock the bikes up, but this proved not to be a problem, with bikes being chained to lamp posts, the chain link fencing of the pub, as well as cycle parking just outside of the pub.
Our afternoon ride started with Brenda joining our group so she could get home earlier. We started the afternoon ride with a short walk to Florence Road, where we started the ride. We soon entered a section of cycleways, starting with Bayless Walk through to Clayponds Avenue, we crossed the M4/A4. 

Then onto Brentford, Syon Park, across the A316 and onto St Margaret’s. Here we found a
deserter from the first group, Mick who joined us to ride through Twickenham. At the junction with Cross Deep Road and Heath Road, Mick, Brenda and Christina left us to go to Kingston Bridge while the remaining five cycled to Bushy Park where Stephen left us before cycling to the Dish Café at Hampton Court for tea.

Ray Youlden

A Group ride from Kingston YMCA to Harrow on the Hill, 29th November 2023.

 You don't normally expect to see wildlife on an urban ride. Of course, there's deer in Richmond Park, and though obviously not wild, you can often catch sight of a herd of Charolais cattle in Osterley Park, on the edge of urban Hounslow. But it was a surprise on our ride to see a fox running amongst shoppers in South Harrow High Street! And there was a rat, (dead) on the Grand Union Canal towpath. Bright green screeching parakeets were seen in Richmond Park. Bird life was also abundant on the canal - including coots, moorhens, and gulls. However a group, (collective noun a bevy, a bank, a herd or a gaggle?) of swans tried to disrupt our progress on the canal towpath at Southall. 

Bird life on the Canal

Frances's group was first away from Kingston YMCA. They made such good progress that reaching the Moon on the Hill at noon, decided to press-on to have a late lunch/afternoon tea at The Stables, Osterley Park. I'm sure they must have reached home by mid afternoon!

Osterley Park late lunchers.

Coffee at the Hawker Centre.

 Dave Ward led his group next - having sensibly recommended Barnes railway bridge onto Dukes Meadow instead of the notorious South Circular to Kew bridge. In his words "the 10.35 departing group had a very uneventful experience on Ged's ride, and that is just the way I prefer it!   Neil W, Neil C, Peter S, Simon L, Steve D and I set off promptly in the lovely winter sunshine and made steady progress around the route, even avoiding the temptation to 'cut off the corners' in Richmond Park.    I always seem to get caught by the 'double jeopardy' at Vine Road level crossings and this time was no exception, but we only had the briefest of delays, and were on our way again before you could say 'shiver'!   A fastish pace keeps the cold at bay and we somehow managed to arrive at lunch just after 12.00 pm.   Service was friendly and efficient and we were on our way again, suitably refreshed, by 1.00 pm.   Leaving Harrow town centre  a minor navigational blip (I blame the Garmin) required a very short retrace.    This was the only excitement of the whole ride and  we were quickly enjoying a lovely ride along the Paddington Branch towpath.   At Osterley we caught up with Frances's group and I was able to switch to auto-pilot!    This rested my brain but did mean we had to exert ourselves a bit to keep her group in sight as they did set a mean pace over the last few miles!

Thanks to Ged for master-minding what was an ideal ride for a short winter's day, to my group for their company, and to Steve D for back-marking all day."

Barnes bridge.

My group caught-up the middle group at the 'Spoons in Harrow (which lacked baked potatoes and served some dubious beer!). 

Moonies

The ride along the Canal was sometimes challenging, caused by the blindingly bright, low winter sun reflecting off the water.

Dave W's group.

Blinding light!

After stopping in Osterley Park for the traditional comfort break, Dave's group left Steve Duffin to greet us at the Richmond Bridge Cafe. 

Osterley Park - a traditional stop.

Out of a total group of 18, four made it to tea in Richmond. Feeling chilly as the sun went down, Steve and I tried to cycle home on the Thames towpath - only to discover the high Spring tide left the path impassible under a few feet of water! A trek up to the Petersham Road was the alternative.

Richmond high Spring tide.

Many thanks to Frances and Dave Ward for sub-leading, and for the many helpful suggestions on route changes in making the ride so enjoyable. After wet Autumn riding a sunny, although chilly day, was very welcome.

This was the route - for future rides up to Harrow on the Hill.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/239932509

Report for A Group - 22 November

It was a dry but cloudy day for a hilly ride for 19 'A' Groupers from the Fairfield Centre in Leatherhead.

Dave F’s Report:

My group (Frances, Dave V, Pete B, Richard and Geoff kindly subbing for Andy C who was off with a cold) were first away, roughly on schedule. No mean feat given the numbers assembled in the day centre with similar departure times.

It was an easy ride to put my hand up to sub lead, as I was very familiar with most of the route. Clive had promised a generous helping of hills and it certainly delivered on that. After ascending to Headley via Ashtead we then had a swift descent of Boxhill, waving furiously at numerous B group riders who were ascending it and spread out from the top of Boxhill to the Westhumble approach where we then had the challenge of Ranmore Common Road which we had not ascended for some time. Because of the road closure through Westhumble it was attracting slightly more frustrated motorists than normal. A couple of us experienced some uncomfortably close passes. 

Clive’s morning route had quite a sting in its tail before lunch. It involved cycling down Hogden Lane and then doubling back up High Barn Lane before the traditional decent of Critten. After consulting with my group following feedback from some who had joined the Recce on Monday regarding the poor road surface conditions we opted to skip that short sharp dog - leg. Of course, we were all hugely disappointed as we would have loved those extra 10% ascents just before lunch!

We were the first to arrive at the Running Horses that I had not visited for many years. And pleasantly surprised I was as well. We fortunately managed to get our orders in just before a large group and finally found our designated seating area in a cunningly concealed back room. The sandwich choices included the option of “ a handful of chips” at a more reasonable supplement than many we visit. After a comfortable 60-minute break we were again first away.

At lunch, Frances had already bade us farewell to take her own route home, it was time the rest of us to visit Headly for the second time and onwards and upwards via Hurst Lane to Walton. Several of us were very complementary of Clive’s unusual route to Tattenham corner. Epsom Lane South and Preston Lane were both a first for me before familiar route to a busy Moat House where we were the first of the As or Bs to arrive around 3 pm.

My thanks to my sub group for a very enjoyable ride and to Clive for arranging an unusual but very suitable winter ride. Not sunny, but at least dry and reasonably mild.

Clive's Report:

My group was last off and was made up of: Fiona, Peter S, Hans, Dave B, Neil W and Mike R. The morning route was a loop from the Fairfield Centre in Leatherhead and back to Leatherhead for lunch at The Running Horse.

We set off in the direction of Ashtead, over the footbridge across the M25 and a few minutes later came across David J’s group fixing a puncture in Parker’s Lane. It was bad luck to get a puncture so soon after setting off but they seemed to have it under control, so we left them to it and continued through Ashtead and up to Headley via Farm Lane/Walton Rd. and then to the top of Box Hill.

As we descended Box Hill at speed, we came across the Bs toiling their way up it, en route to Woodmansterne for lunch. But it wasn’t long before we were also toiling away up Ranmore Common Road.

A controversial part of my route was a section that goes down Hogden Lane, from Ranmore Common Road, and then back up, on High Barn. I had received some feedback about the road surface here but I thought it was ok when I recce’d it the previous week. My group was prepared to give it a go so I decided to go down there anyway and I think everyone appreciated the extra hill!

When we arrived at The Running Horse, Dave F’s group was already there and had placed their orders. But a large group of people had got in there between Dave's group and mine, so our food was slow to arrive. I don't think the other two groups had that problem. Apart from that, the staff were friendly, the food was good, and very reasonably priced in this nice traditional pub.

Coming outside after the cosiness of the pub, the day seemed to have become rather grey and cold. So it was a good thing we had a long gradual climb out of Leatherhead up to Tyrells Wood to concentrate on and warm us up. Then, at Headley, we crossed over our path from the morning, and headed up Hurst Lane towards Walton-on-the-Hill and Tadworth. Then to Tattenham Corner, past the racecourse and we arrived at the Old Moat garden centre for tea just after 3pm, where it was a pleasure to bump in to the Bs again.

David J also led a group made up of: Jennie, Patrick, Sue C, Dave E, and Alan I.

Thanks to Dave F and David J for sub leading and to my group for an excellent day out.

A Group Ride, 29th November.

 You are invited onto the A Group ride on 29th November from Kingston YMCA to Harrow on the Hill. Lunch is at the 'Spoons. 'Moon on the Hill', and tea at the Richmond Bridge Cafe. 33miles in total, (18 to lunch 15 tea).

Approximately 4 miles after lunch is on the smooth, hard-surfaced, Paddington Arm of the Grand Union Canal - from Greenford to Southall. However those adverse to riding near water can choose the option of an all-road route - which is one mile shorter, but joins-up with the canal route in Southall. (Frances and myself recced both today). Route details etc. will be sent out to those signing-up for the ride.

The normal guidance applies for winter riding - it's getting colder and with dusk earlier, so be prepared, but hopefully you should be home before dark.

Please respond to:- gedlawrenson150@gmail.com if you wish to join this ride.

Thanks

B Group Ride - 22 November '23

 Mick A writes :-

Nine of use, Mick, Fixie Dave, Colin, Tony H, Terry, Bernard, Sabina, Grant and Ken left Leatherhead more or less on time. The weather was reasonable for the time of the year, cool and sunny but no sign of rain. After negotiating the first hill ‘Chapel Lane’ most of descended into Westhumble together apart from Bernard and Sabina who punctured. They instructed us to carry on, Fixie volunteered and rode back with a map of the planned route. After fixing the puncture they joined the third group.

 

All went fine until we reached Chipstead Way just one mile before the pub, I had forgotten to warn about this very steep but short hill,  We were rewarded with a good lunch at the The Woodman.

 

After lunch it was a straightforward run over Epsom Downs for tea at ‘The Old Moat’ garden centre. Bernard and Sabina defected to the third group, Colin and Ken left the pub with us but tailed of before tea to make their way home. On arrival Fixie started singing ‘9 to 5’ referring to the nine of us who had departed and five that made tea, not bad for a winter ride.

And Tim G writes :-

The day began with a cooler ride to Leatherhead Fairfield Centre for our customary 11’s. 25 B group cyclists in 3 groups assembled and later left at ten minute intervals. 

As we had covered a series of relatively flat routes over the last few weeks I thought we might all appreciate a slightly more adventurous challenge with a few hills thrown in for good measure. 

We initially meandered around Fetcham then took a less familiar quiet route up to Great Bookham. From there we climbed at a leisurely pace up Chapel Lane towards Polesdon Lacey and then down to Westhumble where we met Bernard and Sabina wrestling with a suspected puncture. As they were insistent that they were in full control we passed by and made our second and very familiar accent up Box Hill. At the top a lady, walking her dog, kindly offered to take a group photo of the assembled company. 

On along tried and tested s via Walton-on-the-Hill, Banstead Heath, over the A217 and through the very stately Warren Estate we followed the tree lined road, in all it’s autumn glory towards Chipstead. 

At this point I thought a little surprise was in order by cutting up Court Hill and onto the ‘rollercoaster’ Chipstead Way. The ‘big dipper’ view ahead took some by surprise as it’s not a section often cycled before. Nevertheless it made for a brief dramatic prelude prior to our welcome lunchtime stop at ‘The Woodman’ at Woodmansterne. 

Despite the pub being quite busy most of us were fed and watered in a reasonable time in the comfortable surroundings of the dining area. 

The ‘no hills’ (perhaps just a couple) route in the afternoon took us via Banstead, Burgh Heath, Epsom Downs, Chalk Lane, Epsom, Woodcote, across and through Epsom common to the ‘Old Moat’ garden centre where we met up with our fellow cyclists from both A and B groups for tea. By 4.04pm the sun had set so suitably refreshed and lights activated we made our way  home. 

Many thanks to all those who participated in making today’s ride a success and especially to Peter B and Mick A who ably led the first two groups. A very good turnout for November and hopefully a good day had by all. 

There are numerous photos posted on the 'Wayfarers B Group' WhatsApp.

A Group Ride - 22nd November

Next week's ride is from the Fairfield Centre in Leatherhead. 

Lunch will also be in Leatherhead, at The Running Horse.

Followed by tea at The Old Moat garden centre at Horton. We might meet the Bs there.

It's 23.5 miles to lunch and 12.5 to tea. About 2,500 feet of hills over all.

Please let me know (clive.janes@gmail.com or WhatsApp) by Monday evening if you would like to join this ride.

Hope to see you on Wednesday.

Clive

B Group Ride - Wednesday 22nd November '23

Our ride on Wednesday from Leatherhead will take us to Woodmansterne via Bookham and Walton-on-the-Hill for lunch at 'The Woodman'. A distance of approximately 18.5mls.

The shorter afternoon ride will take us over Epsom Downs for tea at 'The Old Moat' garden centre at Horton.

Please reply by Monday evening to be included on the ride list.

Email - timgibbons1@virginmedia.com

WhatsApp - 07756961505

Looking forward to seeing you all on Wednesday.

TimG.

Report for Easy Riders - 15th November

Eight Easy Riders set out from Weybridge - Sandy, Anne, Don, Jane , Bill, Ken, Ed and myself.

I don't know that our ride merits a report as it followed a fairly familiar route and was uneventful. But we squeezed in as much as possible in daylight hours - some of us covered over 40 miles - crossing the Thames at Chertsey Bridge, then upriver to Laleham, past the enormous Netflix studio building project at Shepperton and then back to the river via Dockett Eddy Lane for lunch at Thames Court. Homeward later via Lower Sunbury and Bushy Park.

Bill took a shorter route, via Walton Bridge to lunch on this occasion. He had a long journey home afterwards and, sensibly, caught the train from Shepperton.

~ Frank Carter 

15th November 2023, B Group Ride to Uxbridge and back to the Pheasantry, Bushy Park

 

On the 15^th of November we were greeted to a bright sunny day for our ride from Weybridge to Uxbridge and back to the Pheasantry, Bushy Park. The plan was to set off from Weybridge and travel north, going through Shepperton, Ashford, Heathrow, Harmondsworth, West Drayton and on to Uxbridge. Our return route took use to outskirts of Hillingdon, West Drayton, east of Heathrow, Hounslow, Teddington, and Bushy Park. I was ably helped by Tony Hopkins and Clive Janes who agreed to sub lead.  

1^st Group led by Tony Hopkins

As subleader, Ray had given me the first group away at 10.25. Tim G had kindly offered to back mark the group of 8. Luckily the weather was on our side, chilly but fine. Heading to Chertsey bridge and along the river heading for Ashford and the Western perimeter road of Heathrow. Heading for West Drayton, with the Sun, yes Sun, shining on my Garmin, I missed the turn-off through Closes Park, but soon picked the route up again. We soon hit the canal towpath, which for the first few hundred metres was fine, the mud and puddles soon appeared. A consultation with the group was unanimous, "get off the canal", a main road and a few back roads and we were soon locking our bikes up at the lunch stop.

You can't beat a Wetherspoons for a non-booked group ride. Now off heading south and across the Grand Union Canal where I suspected my rear tyre was very soft, it was, so a quick session with the pump and we were off again, but only for around another half mile, a puncture, the second in 2 weeks on that tyre, a change of inner tube and we were back on the road, but not before the second group had passed us and 2 of my group jumped ship, Ann and Dawn,  

Down to Cranford and the off-road path at the side of Heathrow, which was in full flood, more like an off-road stream, but we got through, wet of foot. We pressed on through Hounslow Heath and just before, Pam headed West for home. As time was marching on before we reached Bushy Park and John still had 15 miles to go, we took the shorter route of Powder Mill Lane, Fulwell and Hampton Hill to the gates of Bushy Park, where we departed company and headed our own ways home.

A good to be out on a Sunny if chilly day with a good group, thank you all and especially to Tim G for doing a splendid job back marking and to Ray for the organisation and route planning.

2nd Group led by Clive Janes

We could not have been more lucky with the weather for this ride to Bushy Park via lunch in Uxbridge.  Wednesday was a brief window of glorious sunshine after an extended period of wet misery. My group of nine (Me plus: Christina, Brenda, Tony Hooker, Dave C, Martin, Arwyn, Geoff G and Stephen H) set off from Weybridge, under blue skies, and into what was to be a very cunning and varied route through Chertsey, The Thames, Laleham, around Heathrow, past a field of cabbages in Harmondsworth, along the Grand Union Canal (twice) and on to Uxbridge.

When we got to Uxbridge I cycled straight past the Good Yarn (being a Weatherspoon’s I was expecting a more prominent frontage). This must have dismayed my group who, I think, were ready for lunch. I certainly was, having been catching mouth watering aromas of curry spices for quite some time along the route. Once inside the pub I quickly sought out the curry options on the menu and ordered a Chicken Jalfrezi which was very good and served with the usual Weatherspoon’s efficiency.

The afternoon ride to The Pheasantry in Bushy was no less cunning than the morning’s ride. Along the way we went past Tony Hopkins’s group who were carrying out a puncture repair and, in the process, picked up another couple of passengers that decided to jump ship: Ann Bath and Dawn Moriarty.

We (I) got a bit lost going through Crane Park but fortunately Tony Hooker knew how to get us out and heading towards Bushy Park. We got there at about 4pm which was about 45 minutes longer than I was expecting when we left The Good Yarn.

After Crane Park the group was gradually whittled down to 4 (Dawn, Dave C, Martin, and I) that stopped for tea at The Pheasantry. I was tempted to head home myself as it was getting late and dark, but I’m glad I didn’t because Dawn offered me a very welcome lift home in her van which she had parked in Molesey. Thanks Dawn.

Thanks also to Geoff for being an excellent back marker, to Ray for the weather and the cunning route and of course to my group for the company.

3rd Group led by Ray Youlden

We left somewhat late from Weybridge and made our way around the back paths of Weybridge and took the cycle path along to Chertsey Meads, across Chertsey Bridge and along the Thames before arriving at Laleham. From Laleham we rode to Ashford and then along the west side of Heathrow using the perimeter road. We then took an off-road trail that led passed a field of cabbages to Harmondsworth. Then on to West Drayton where the traffic was light compared to the recce, as we passed under the GWR bridge followed by the bridge over the Grand Union Canal. Here we turned off the main road and along the canal to Packet Boat Lane, past Little Britain Lake and back on the canal to Uxbridge.

The 3rdGroup taking a break along Old Mill Lane 

We found the Good Yarn pub that provided us with food, drinks, and a comfortable seating arrangement with all ten of us seated around a round table in the corner of the bar. A good choice!

 

Enjoying lunch at the Good Yarn

A little bit later than planned, we left the pub and started on our way back to Bushy Park. During the first part of the journey, we used mainly small roads that took us past Brunel University, over Horton Bridge, which was cyclable, with sloping ramps, Simpson, and Cranford. This where my plan failed me! The two routes along the river Crane looked unappealing and with daylight slowly disappearing, we decided to retrace our steps and use the cycle path along The Parkway to cross the Great West Road on the east side of Heathrow. This junction took some time to cross as the group was spit by the timing of the traffic lights. Once reassembled, we cycled on to Hounslow Heath and then the junction with Hospital Bridge Road to cross the A316. This once again took some time but allowed us to put the lights on the bikes that were need for the rest of the journey home.

On reaching the Phesantry, we meet the remains of the 2^nd group and after a brief discussion decided not to stop but to push off for home. A big thank you to Anne, Paul, Maggie, Diane, Mick, Maria, Ian, Grant and Julie for their good company and tolerance of my revisions of the route and not forgetting our backmarker for the day, Tim Court who did a sterling job of keeping all the group together.

 

The route to Uxbridge

Ride Report - 'A' Group 15 Nov 2023 (Weybridge and Camberley)

 

Leading this ride I felt I was also leading a charmed life!   Not only was there a brief window of dry and sunny weather sandwiched between seemingly never-ending rain and gloom, but I was also very fortunate to recruit the services of two very capable sub-leaders (Hans and Steve D), who are up for anything, even the challenge of leading one of my tortuous routes from .gpx!      Those on the ride might not have noticed but I'd also plagiarised large sections of route from others (Dave V, Dave B, and Ged to name but a few), so credits to them!   In addition I think this ride was (quite inadvertently) timed to coincide with the peak of autumn colours.    Anyway, my gratitude knows no bounds!

Twenty or so of us set off in three groups and headed for Brookwood via the Brooklands banking, Pyrford, Woking Park and Hook Heath.   The only disappointment for me was that plans to use Muddy Lane to avoid the unpleasant A245 had to abandoned, the bridleway being not so much muddy as waterlogged!

The routing through Brookwood and Pirbright cemeteries was a mere fluke of Garmin route-planning and not genius on my part, I'm afraid!   The military cemetery in particular was surprising and impressive.

My group perhaps (understandably) lingered a little too long on sightseeing but we eventually got rolling again and began the long slog to Deepcut and the outskirts of Camberley, scaling the dizzy heights of the Brackendale Road footbridge to cross the M3.

We arrived at the Claude Duvall (Wetherspoon's) just before but it was busier than expected and the food service was slow, so it was 2.00 pm before we set off for home.    With the stiff westerly wind now behind us, we made light work of the initial climb out of Camberley and the road to Lightwater.   Unexpected flooding of the road at Blackstroud Lane checked us a bit, and I decided that would suffice for a ford challenge for my group and we duly bypassed Pennypot Lane to save a bit of time!   In the event we arrived back at Walton Bridge just after 3.30 pm.   Three stopped for tea at The Boathouse, the rest were keen to get home before nightfall.  Thanks to Andy C for very kindly back-marking throughout the ride.

Han's group's experiences seem to have been marred somewhat by a contretemps with a white van, but the police have been made aware and are taking action thanks to Mike's camera footage!   Hans was I think, the only one of us all to have bravely attempted the ford challenge!   I must admit, had we not side-stepped it altogether, I don't think I would have tried it on this occasion!

Steve writes: 'It was with some trepidation that I agreed to lead from gpx. Even more so when both Patrick and Richard contacted me to say they were too ill to ride. However Sue Chasty kindly agreed to join us and with her, Ged, Peter Suchy and Dave and Jennie Jackson we set off from Weybridge.    Well you know it was a lovely sunny day and started with a familiar route into Brookland via Weybridge station. Then shock and awe! We go right instead of left. Past Mercedes World and the model of Concorde and out past the banking of the old Brookland race track. Then quiet roads past Wisley and Byfleet villages out past Woking along Cemetary Pales road. Then shock and awe! We turn into Brookwood Cemetary with the military graves of the fallen of commonwealth nations. 1601 from World War 1 and 3476 from World War 2. The latter figure includes 43 brave Canadians who died of their wounds during the Dieppe raid, which we remember every year on our three valleys ride in France. I must revisit Brookwood.    Onwards we rode again through Deepcut on quiet roads past Frimley to our lunch stop at Weatherspoons in Camberley.   The afternoon return was pleasant on more uncharted roads through Lightwater, Chobham, Ottershaw and finally the Wilde Brunch cafe which was closed. Sue and Peter left us to go home and we waited for Dave who had not arrived. Eventually Jennie signalled that Dave was on his way so Ged and I carried on to the River Barn cafe. Later we learnt Dave had received another gift from the puncture gods. Same rear wheel'. 

Anyway, thanks all for your company, and photo credits to Simon, Steve and Andy.

B Ride to Uxbridge and back to the Pheasantry, 15th November 2023

 

On Wednesday the 15^th the B ride will be going to Uxbridge where we will be eating lunch in the Good Yarm that is a Wetherspoons pub, so there is no need to order lunch in advance. It will be approximately 18 miles to lunch with 1.4 miles being along the Grand Union Canal path. The route to our tea stop, at the Pheasantry, Bushey Park, will be approximately 16 miles back with 1.3 miles along the river Crane and across Hounslow Heath. To try and allow time for everyone to get home at a reasonable time we will be starting earlier than usual with the first group starting at 10.25.

To book yourself on the ride could you please send me an email stating your preference regarding starting time by Monday 18.00. ryoulden@virginmedia.com

The courses can be found on the following websites:

The ride to Uxbridge, https://ridewithgps.com/routes/44838209

The ride back to the Pheasantry, Bushey Park,  https://ridewithgps.com/routes/44838238

Ray Youlden

Plans for the 'A' Group Ride - Weds 15 November

Do join the 'A' group ride next Wednesday.   Among others, we'll be climbing the Brooklands banking and passing through the surprising and rather impressive military cemetery at Pirbright.    There could be a ford challenge involved too, subject to rainfall totals.....    A round trip of no more than 40 miles from Weyridge back to Walton-on-Thames, with a slap-up lunch at the posh-sounding Claude Duvall at Camberley (sadly, just Wetherspoons)!    A bit of off-road is involved, with a couple of short, unsurfaced sections, but I'm not expecting a mudfest.    There is about 1,500' of height gain, with no big climbs, and we will mainly be using routes we have covered before.   I will be seeking kind volunteers to lead sub-groups from .gpx if needed.  

If I haven't managed to put you off so far, do e-mail me at cycledave23@gmail.com to reserve your place!     Expected start times from Weybridge are from 10.30 am to ensure we all get home before dark, so let me know if you're coming a long way and would prefer a slightly later start.

Here is the route https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/237128530

Ride Report - Hersham A Group Wed 8 November

I had planned this ride in early October when it hadn’t rained for weeks, when Muddy Lane belied its name and all the tracks were dry. Fast forward to November and the final recce last Friday revealed widespread flooding and impassible paths. So I revised the route to avoid the deepest water, which necessitated more main roads than normal.

As Wednesday approached the forecast got wetter and windier, so I was surprised to get 18 booked in for the ride. Come the day five had found more inviting alternatives, so a still creditable 13 of us set off from Hersham, in three groups fortified with warm drinks and massive slices of bread pudding.

Dave F was first away:

I put my hand up to sub lead on 30 Oct thinking that we were inevitably due some crisp bright autumnal days to enjoy. Indeed we were, but on any day except Wednesday it seems.

With a dire forecast there were several sensible withdrawals from both A and B rides, but as a volunteer sub leader I was not one of them this week. The forecast predicted a long morning of incessant light rain with strung gusty headwinds all the way to Puttenham, even wetter over lunch and an increasingly dryer pm, but minus the tailwind home. It was not wrong!

My subgroup of Daves W and E and the non-Dave Ged were in pole position on the starting grid, setting of promptly just after 10:30 with our leader expecting groups to arrive for our pre-booked lunch from 12:30. We went deliberately slightly off-piste on route to Oatlands Ave (my muscle memory route to many 11’s) which shaved a couple of hundred metres off the mileage, but thereafter the route was extremely easy to follow from .gpx on my phone, protected from the elements by my clear top but not entirely waterproof bar bag.

We made good progress as a compact peloton for the first hour through Byfleets, Old Woking and Mayford but thereafter the pace dropped a tad as the 36 mph gusts were particularly felt on the remaining long straight fairly open roads. The bright autumnal leaves in several places cheered us on, but no one felt like stopping to take pictures. We finally reached Wanborough Hill (often descended but seldom ascended) knowing that after a final effort, from there it would be a short downhill cruise to lunch. Approaching it, it doesn’t appear particularly challenging, but the gradient coupled with the rain and head wind, it felt vertical. 

We opted for the leader's recommended safe controlled descent down the footpath to lunch where we were the first to park our bikes in the dry marquee and wring out our sodden gloves around 12:20ish. Unfashionably early, the bar team were not quite ready for us, but it was warm and dry and as we subsequently placed our orders the other groups arrived. The excellent food arrived almost too quickly as we anticipated that the longer we lingered, the dryer our afternoon ride might be. Dave E kindly treated us to coffee and Dave W decided to make an earlier break for it. 

After peace negotiations with Dave Vs group, we agreed to join forces for an eight-person peloton on the mostly dry return leg to Cobham, where Dave V rewarded his residual followers with afternoon tea. It really should have been the other way round! A surprisingly enjoyable ride in jovial company. Many thanks Dave.

My hardy group of Sue F, Paula, Gill and Andy C were next:

On the road the rain and wind lived up to expectations and traffic levels on the A245 from Byfleet to Woking didn’t help. Just shows how important Muddy Lane is for a civilised route south and west from Byfleet. En route we were passed in West Byfleet by Neil’s group of Richard, Patrick and Neil W.

Beyond Mayford there was much less traffic, enabling us to observe the autumn colours through rain-spattered glasses. Low cloud obscured the full challenge of Wanborough Hill until tired legs registered the increasing gradient.

Lunch was well received, though more logs on the open fire might have helped get us warm and a little drier. Gill kindly treated our group to coffee which gave me enough energy to start the return climb up Puttenham Hill. We were joined by Dave’s group for the final push to Cobham. Gill and Dave E left the us at Cobham seeking direct routes home.

Tea was taken indoors at Gail’s where we observed the survivors of Neil’s group taking alfresco refreshments; hardy folk.

Andy back-marked am and Dave F did likewise pm. Photos courtesy of Dave’s F & E

Special thanks to my colleagues Neil C and Dave F on not the easiest day to sub-lead, and to everyone who came out to skirmish with the gods of rain and wind, and came through in such good humour.

B Ride 8th November

 Looked out of my kitchen window, was pleased to see brilliant sunshine and the temperature of 25c, then I woke up, looked out of the kitchen window to see a constant drizzle and a temperature of 7c, tempted to go back to bed, but.. I was leading the ride.

25 had subscribed for the ride, switched the phone on to find lots of Whatsapp cancellations. Phoned both sub-leaders, and they were still going to 11;s at Hersham, drat. Waterproofs on and off to 11's.

 

 

Hersham Day Centre

 

There was a good turnout given the awful conditions, these old timers are a hardy lot. We scrubbed the pre-planned groups and settled for 2 groups, instead of 3, owing to the reduced numbers. As I had also scrubbed the pre-planed route in favour of an ad-hoc ride, a tad shorter. We set off, it meant a slower ride as we had to keep the second group insight. A merry route out to Ottershaw, Longcross, Lyne and the back way over St Annes hill and into Chertsey, round the back way ans across Chertsey Meads to the Bridge Hotel.

We locked our bikes up under cover and into a warm welcoming restaurant, bliss. Plenty of space and food soon on the table. Some had chosen to continue on home not wanting to face removing and re-donning wet wet clothing.

 

An attempt at drying gloves

We did linger, it was comfy, soon we must away, 11 left now, but not all wanting tea, but there was the hardy few who needed the fix of tea and cake, I led to Hampton and home then the cake addicts carried on to Bushey park and the Pheasantry.

 

The Bridg Hotel

What a day, although I shortened the early part of the ride, I did and on a bit just before lunch, revenge for making me lead on such an awful day. The group were a great crowd and stood up well the conditions. I would like to thank Ray anfor sub-leading the second group and Tim as a resvere, plus everyone else who braved the conditions Thank you all.

Tony. has anyone else now got webbed feet?

London to Brighton

Dave Jarvis on a 1903 BSA cycling the RAC London to Brighton.

               Well Done Dave

Tony..

Wednesday the 8th of November,

 Wednesday the 8^th of November,

B Group

Sunset 16.24. Dusk 1700

11's Hersham, Lunch will be at the Bridge Hotel, Chertsey Bridge.

Around 16 miles to lunch with a few lumps and bumps.

Tea will be at the Pheasantry, Bushey Park, which is around 10 miles.

Please make sure you have working lights.

Please PM me if you wish to join the ride.

Tony..

Ride Invite A Group Wed 8 November

Wednesday’s ride from Hersham will be to the Good Intent in Puttenham.

About 22 miles to lunch, 18 back to tea in Cobham.

You may be relieved to know that Muddy Lane is under water, but so are several other traffic-free short cuts we take. So the ride will be all on tarmac, just like when I started with the Wayfarers.

It’s a longish ride, but only 2 hills. We will be leaving Hersham around 10.30, planning to get you back to Cobham between 3 and 3.30pm

We need to pre-order lunch, so please check the menu from the Good Intent website and let me know your choice (d.vine207@btinternet.com) by Monday 7pm.

Here’s hoping for a dry(ish) day. Don’t forget your lights.

A day of two halves and Grant teaches us a new way to keep our saddles dry....

 

I thought a bad Halloween joke was being played on me on Tuesday when I called our designated lunch spot only to discover that they only had one chef on duty on Wednesdays, they could only accommodate 15 of us and I should have been told that they do require pre-orders. Plan B had to be hurriedly formed and I decided that I would lead group three and we would have lunch at The Yurt in Pirbright.

Given the forecasted rain, a few folks dropped out on Wednesday morning but a hardy  group of 21 riders set out from Cobham with Gill, Paula and myself leading the groups. 

Gill's report

The skies were very heavy as we left Cobham and we were accompanied by showers most of the morning. Our first group of Tim C, Ann B, Anne W, Maria, Jane, Alan and myself, set a steady pace in the wet conditions but Paula’s second group slipped past us at Send as we took a short water break. The route was mostly on quiet leafy lanes but still there were an amazing number of traffic light controls around road works. Useful for regrouping! It wasn’t cold but a heavy downpour just before we stopped for lunch made the warm dry pub most welcome.

Food and service at the Royal Oak was good, despite being busy. We hoped the third group had found their alternative lunch venue okay. Happily we left the pub in beautiful autumnal sunshine which mainly stayed with us for a lovely route back through the trees via Gracious Pond road to a sociable tea at the cafe by Walton Bridge. A lovely day out! Thanks everyone.

Paula's report

After a bit of switching with the groups, I set off to lead the second group, which for some reason comprised only the male variety! With John A back-marking and Terry Martin Mick Clive and Fixie Dave following dutifully we made it to lunch slightly damp. I discovered during only my second time of sub-leading that the male variety of cyclists prefer to cycle with minimal chat!! Over lunch we discovered that all the female variety of cyclists were in the other group where there had been no shortage of chat! After a very nice lunch we set off in lovely sunshine to have tea at Walton bridge where both the other two groups also stopped. Plenty of chat and giggles to finish a very lovely (and slightly unexpected) day of cycling in a range of weather conditions. Thanks to Sue for organising.

My report

I set off with the last group  into worse than predicted rain and  Gill F and Ray sensibly decided to peel off and head for home just before Ripley.  The weather seemed to tease us all the way to Pirbright with the sight of blue sky ahead whilst being pelted with rain from above. 

Lunch at The Yurt was a theatrical experience; our bowls appeared containing  nothing but a couple of slices of leek and a bit of green oil. Our waiter then, with great aplomb, poured out our soup from individual jugs. And delicious it was too. 

Warmed through in the cosy yurt, we ventured out into  lovely sunshine for our ride back to Walton. Madeleine left us at Addlestone and at Walton riverside  we spotted Gill and Paula’s group at the Wild Bunch about to have tea.

Now, if any of you are interested in how to keep  your saddle dry whilst idling by the side of the road, Grant has an ingenious method. Waiting whilst I faffed with my bike in Ripley, Madeleine was concerned to see that Grant seemed to have his leg stuck halfway over the bar  – imagine a sort of yoga tree pose. Worried that he had become stuck in this position, Madeline enquired if there was a problem? No says Grant, I’m just keeping my saddle dry!  It was definitely worthy of a picture..

Thanks to my sub-leaders, back-markers and all group members for their excellent company on a wet but very enjoyable ride.