Ride Report A group 5th February 2025

 It was with some trepidation that I was to lead a ride from Cobham as my fitness the previous Wednesday was questionable. Having altered a route we had done in 2022 I did a partial recce and found roadworks galore. After I settled the route, it was pointed out by Dave V, who offered to lead a group, that the Castle Road bridge in Epsom which led to the cycle path was still closed. A quick re-plot of the route 3 more times and sending out the wrong one, eventually I finished up with something workable.

So 20 wayfarers arrived at Cobham to start the ride. Andy C couldn't come, but a surprise arrival was Dave B who I had cycled with in the Over 40s club for some years. It was very good to see him and that he was still a fit, strong rider. 

Everyone had the opportunity to benefit from Ged, who, celebrating his birthday kindly supplied drinks and cake at elevenses at the RBL.

Dave F left first with Dave W, Brian, Sue C Richard and Diane P.

Dave V left next with the second group and here is a few words from him.

Ride Report – Brockham Red Lion

There were 6 in my group. Simon W, Frances, David J; Jennie, Peter and Neil C. Steve’s

route had it all, offroad on a slightly gloopy Bookham Common, two sizeable climbs, some

nice gentle descents, and a pub we had not visited for several years, and of course

roadworks. We were lucky enough to pass through the latter on Little Bookham Lane,

having charmed the dumper truck driver into moving his truck.

The rest of the morning passed pleasantly in sunshine, with snowdrops a-plenty on

Flanchford Road. Both David and Frances left us before lunch to go their separate ways.

Lunch was served promptly and generously portioned in the red Lion’s marquee, where

temperatures varied from sauna to shivery.

A quick photo in the garden, overseen by some strange creatures was followed by a

warming dash for home. Neil helpfully dragged us along the A25 to Pixham. I trailed the

group led by Jennie up Box Hill. Simon carried us across Headley Common, after which

Peter signed off as ever watchful back marker on the descent from Headley to go

straight home. Thank you, Peter.

Four of us stopped for tea at the Old Moat, together with members of Dave F’s and

Steve's groups.

A grand ride in excellent weather. Roll on spring.

I had Patrick, Neil W, Clive, Dave B, Janice and Dave B in my group.

I rode out in front with Dave B having a chat about rides past. We crossed Ranmore,

down through Dorking and in the blink of an eye it seemed we were at the Red Lion Betchworth.

We were catered for quickly in the cosy Marquee and quite soon we were ready for the climb up Box Hill.

It was good to know most of the climbing was done at the top.

Some riders then headed for home, but 8 from all three groups stopped for tea at The Old Moat garden Centre. We had a little sun today, could do with more and higher temperatures as well.

Many thanks go to Dave F and Dave V for not only offering to lead rides, but for their personal recces and advice to make the route as safe as possible. I also appreciate the offers to lead from many other riders. Thanks to Janice also for back marking in my group and to all the riders who braved the cold.

Steve D.