A Group of Hardy Cyclists Ride to Wonersh - 1st November.

The weather on the recce was benign but the forecast for ride day was less so. Unfortunately I had to go to a re-arranged hospital appointment so I left all the leading in the capable hands of Janice, David and Dave. (I too got wet as I cycled to and from Queen Mary's Hospital.)

Janice led the first group away from Cobham and here is her report -

With Storm Ciaran making its way towards us the weather was wet and windy. Nevertheless there was a full turnout for my group with Neil W, Mike, Hans, Ged, Patrick and myself.

We set off promptly, pushing ahead to avoid a mass start with a B group with the same start time. In view of recent rain we avoided Plough Lane but after our detour we were surprised to find the B’s already on Ockham Lane having used Plough Lane.

It was into a stiff headwind and towards the hills, only two in the morning according to my Garmin but my legs definitely counted more than that. Some had optimistically started out without rain jackets but soon changed their minds as the first downpour started. It could’ve been a day of jackets on, jackets off but the showers were coming thick and fast so we kept them on making for a warm and humid ride.

Arriving at the Grantley Arms in Wonersh we had a friendly welcome and a fire was lit to help dry us out. We all agreed that the sandwiches were excellent.



Reluctantly we set off again and although the sun was breaking through we all opted for jackets on as the damp from the morning left us feeling cool.

With the wind now mainly behind us and only one hill we made fast progress towards Cobham. Having seen the B’s use it in the morning, we took the risk of Plough Lane and were surprised to find that its wasn’t flooded in the slightest. Maybe they’ve improved drainage in the area?

Everyone stopped for refreshments in Cobham and with the sun shining decided to sit outside.



Thanks to Hans for back-marking, my group for their cheerful good company and Neil C for a lovely route.
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David Jackson then followed with Jennie, Peter S, Richard and Sue C. He reports it as an interesting and challenging ride. 

He thanks everyone for their company, with particular thanks to Peter for assistance when his Garmin failed. (It is now on its way back to Garmin for replacement.)

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Dave Vine led the third group, reporting - 

My group comprising Brian, Dave F, Andy C and Steve D made steady progress into the headwind, hoping (unsuccessfully) to dodge the forecast showers. In between the showers the sun made an occasional appearance so that on Shere Road we were able to admire the autumn colours in all their soggy glory.

There were a couple of tricky descents on wet leaves, but all arrived at the Grantley Arms, damp and looking forward to some respite in the warmth. Our reception was very friendly, and food was good, only the fish goujons appeared to challenge the kitchen.

The afternoon was a pleasant contrast, with sunshine and a tail wind, so we were at tea in Cobham by 3pm. Thanks Neil for the route, which we followed with ease, although I opted for a quiet finish via Tithebarns Lane and Hungry Hill.

Thanks to Steve for back marking and to Andy for the photo, and to all for your company.

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Thanks to all the leaders, sorry I missed the fun.

Hope to see you all next week.

Neil C