On the day there were 24 riders. Frances met us at the lunch destination and so 23 riders set off from the excellent Molesey Rowing Club cafe. It was very pleasant on the top deck in the sunshine.
I set off with nine riders and followed the route through Esher, Cobham, Bookham and then down to West Humble and finally Stonebridge at the Royal Oak. I had intended to go to the Good Intent, but Brian bagged it in the last ride and the London ride had visited Muswell Hill, another location. So it was a last choice. During the ride the second group overtook us led very ably by Peter. Then Andy H. past us and so the first group became the last. Unfortunately this scrambled the preparations of the catering. I had carefully set out the groups and names with meals and the pub had pre prepared the food chronologically. In future rides where pre-orders are required I will supply a list of riders with meals without groups. That way catering can be planned at the pub as people arrive. Otherwise if there is a delay confusion reigns.
Anyway we had a pleasant lunch in the sun.
The other groups comprising seven in the second group and six in the third group and Frances had already left by the time we finished lunch. So six remaining riders made our way steadily over to Banstead via Reigate Heath where we stopped to look into the windmill at the golf club. They kindly lent us the key to the interior which had once been a converted church.
After grinding up Hollly Lane to Banstead we went to the Lavender Kitchen where we had a relaxing cuppa in the sun. I also managed to steal Simon's carrot cake by mistake, but traded my Danish pastry so no harm done.
Thanks to Andy H and Peter for leading the other groups. Many thanks to Dave V for back marking and to Diane for helping to back mark in the afternoon. Top marks to everyone who attended and enjoyed the sun.
Steve D.
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