Easy Riders Dec 30th

A drizzly start for a day's ride. We left Albert with Bill and Margaret at the Day Centre, they were going to join us for lunch by car.
Fuzz led 'C' group out of Walton Day Centre and towards Molesley Heath. We were, Phil, Bill H., Mark and myself. Dennis followed a bit later, as he got to the centre as we were ready to leave. We thought, at first, going off road was a bad idea; but decided to follow on condition we would turn back if it got boggy. We were surprised, that a new surface has been laid, and it proved to be bogless! But we did go through some puddles on the smooth concrete path afterwards. We cycled around the back of Walton and stopped to read a plaque where the Walton Manor stands. It was built in the 14th C! and improvements made in the 16thC. It still looks a fine building, with a wavy roof. It is situated down near the river, round the bend from the Swan pub, on the left; before the next pub. We continued over Walton bridge, keeping to the right side and going down to the Marina. It started to rain quite hard by now; so we caped up and continued to The Flowerpot where the others were already eating their lunch. Dennis, Phil and Mark went home after their sandwiches; and Fuzz, Bill and myself continued to Hampton Court station. I left them to catch a train and I continued home in the rain!

Lynda.

Having been offered a lift by Bill and Margaret the best I can offer is this shot taken at The Flower Pot.
A Happy New Year to you all ----------- Albert

Easy Riders Dec 23rd

Not only `easy` but darned cold at the start; Pete and I got to Walton DC to find our group consisted of just us two plus Dennis!
The other two groups fared a little better with Pam`s cheerful outgoing to brighten the gloom. Believe me, I was in two minds about the weather, but after twelve it became a bit less cold and the three of us made a beeline for Weybridge through Oatlands Drive and down Baker Street, then after a brief visit to the cemetery to visit my family grave we went for liquid refreshment to The British Volunteer and a spot of nosh. I used to pass this pub every day on my way to school but this was my first visit. Dennis was determined to make his home run to Surbiton via the towpath so we two came home where it was not only warm but whisky mac was available--Albert

Easy Riders Dec 16th

Our thanks to Lynda who arranged our Christmas lunch with the cafe at Ewell Court. This was very enjoyable.
Seven of us Lynda, Bill, Roger, Cliff, Sonia, Les and me left Leatherhead Fairfield Centre as the snow was starting to fall which increased as time went on. We crossed the bridge over the motorway and proceeded to Epsom via Ottway Lane, Parkers Lane, Ashtead Park & Avenue Road. Bill left us here as he had enough snow and carried on to Epsom Station to get the train back to London. The rest of us continued via quiet roads and cycle paths to Ewell village and onto Ewell Court via King George Field. Chris had cycled direct from Claygate and was already at the cafe when we arrived. After lunch we went home our various ways still snowing and starting to look pretty if you like that sort of thing.

John

Easy Riders Dec 9th

There was a good turn-out at Kings Centre in Chessington for 11's. For some, it was their first time there. A bit of a hiccup; as there was an 'Accountancy Exam' taking place in the hall adjacent to where we were sitting having our 11's. They had signs up saying, 'Exam in Progress - Please be quiet'. Well, we are a bike group! And I did notice that, Fuzz, has the deepest voice! So, after a while, a very nice man came and politely pointed to another area of the cafe where we could sit and be a bit quiet. Pat and Bill were there; Albert and Peter by their tandem trike, Dennis and Bill H., who decided to go to Hampton Court for lunch.

The rest of the group, Roger, Fuzz, John C. Chris, Lisa, Jono, Helga, Les J., Charles, Mark and back-marker, Ron. I led them the back roads of Chessington and Ewell to Longmead cycle path. We then headed for Ashtead Common going through part of Epsom Common. At Ashtead station we turned right to go over the path on the green towards The Woodman on Barnetwood Road. I was quite surprised that the Common was well drained and no problem with puddles. After lunch, we went up to Ashtead High Street and turned left and right to go through Ashtead Park; the back of Epsom Hospital and the back streets to Ewell; where we had afternoon tea with cake/mince pies. A gem of a place; but cannot reveal where, as we are going back next week for our Christmas lunch!

Lynda .

Easy Riders Dec 2nd

I am sending this report of C group of today's ride from Cobham.I was quite surprised the number of people came on our ride. our leader decided to have a short ride as he had some problem with his gears. the total number of people were five mark Roy, Roger Mitchell, Les, Ron and the leader Phil Marx the destination was a pub in the middle of Leatherhead. the route was through Bookham.when we reached Bookham Ron decided to visit Mike Withers so we were left only four. However we reached our destination hurried our lunch to go for tea at West Ewell I wanted to avoid the rain which was forecasted for the after noon so I did not stop for tea and rushed to reach home before the rain but no I was caught only half a mile from home and got drenched.I must say it was a brave effort on our part, I am sure all other C group people will agree. Mark Roy

Easy Riders

A surprising number for a windy day. Began at the Elleray Centre by buying 3 ladies their teas (they gave me the money) as they were getting a little tired of waiting for the queue to go down. Then a lovely day in the sunshine, through Bushy Park, in and out of gates. Thanks Ron for being back marker and for enlightening me, the gates in an out of the water garden are not intended to make it difficult for us to get in but to stop deer from getting in. Along the R Crane in sunshine, back roads to the long footpath at the side of Strawberry Hill railway and down to Tides End Cottage. Service good considering numbers but delayed our afternoon start so a short run along the north bank of the Thames to Kingston and back into Bushy Park to join As and Bs at tea in the new cafe. Good to see Albert and Peter who joined us for lunch. Mick, Roy, Fuzz, Frank and John C, who left us after lunch, and Roger, Chris, Jono, Les, Eddy, Lynda and Liz who stayed for tea. From Stephanie

Easy Riders Nov 18th

It was quite an eventful day.

We had a pleasant ride through Ewell Park to Claygate with Liz. Then, as it is a closer destination from our start, we had a leisurely tea/coffee before getting into our groups. Albert led on his trike, followed by Chris, Bill H., Fuzz, Roger, John x2, Beryl, Angie, Les and Mark towards West End. It was a very windy day and the threat of rain loomed overhead. We got past The Bear at Esher when there was a camber in the road; with potholes. It was a very bad stretch for those on two wheels; (Les took some photos on his phone camera); but, unfortunely Albert got unbalanced and went down. His injuries consisted of a cut on the top of his nose; caused by his glasses and a cut hand,which looked quite deep, even though he had gloves on. Chris and Bill stayed with him to contact his son, Peter; the rest of the group continued to The Pub; (can't remember the name now); next to Garsons Farm. It was good to get there early; as we were first served. Its a very popular pub with very good food and service. After lunch, Roger lead to Hampton Court; where we enjoyed cake and tea at, yes, you guessed, Five on the Bridge. Beryl was telling us stories of her recent holiday in Australia, where she stayed for 2 months and 2 weeks . We were down to six then and made our separate ways home. On my way through Nonsuch Park I saw Lionel Blair walking his two dogs, on a rather long lead. It was stretching right across the path; he was 'miles away', so he didn't see me on my bike till I came face to face with him; he said, Sorry! He's the only smart person I know with a tan that walks their dog in Nonsuch Park. Then, I called in to Nuffield for a jaquassi and sauna. Its Harold's moving day today - hope all went well. I'm off to the cinema this evening to see, 'Men starring at goats' - say no more!!!

Lynda.

Easy Riders Nov 11th

Pretty wet and chilly for the most part but we had a good turnout at Walton. Ron`s original intention was to have lunch at The Plough at Stoke d`Abernon but owing to the shortness of the daylight, decided to make it The Albion at East Molesley. A good decision and although Pete and I considered using the main road and the others the towpath, we changed our minds and found the towpath route a pleasant way to go on the tandem trike. In the event we all got there a the same time rather damp but glad of the good food and liquid refreshment. Ron led the ride with Bill H., Roger, Lynda, Les, Fuzz, Chris, and one or two more,with Pete and me as stoker. Tea was to be at Claygate but Pete and I made a beeline for home with the exception of a coffee shop stop in Weybridge where the old firestation used to be.---------Albert

Easy Riders to Harold's

Nov 4th, I led the C ride from Cobham up Fairmile road, Blackhills towards Ciaygate then down towards Littlworth rd, towards Hinchley Wood then to Longditton.
then down Portsmouth rd to Kingston and onto Harolds where we all met up from our ride and we met A & B group there.
we had a lovely ride out & a lovely afternoon at harolds for lunch.
then we all made our way home.

from Roger -M.

Easy Riders Oct 28th

A very good turnout at Shepperton in splendid weather with no wind and warm sunshine we enjoyed elevenses and set off for The Bell in Staines. Ably led by Bill M., with Lynda, Chris, Tom, Roger, Fuzz, Ron, John C., Peter and myself on the tandem trike plus Dennis and I believe one or two more, we took the route thro` the nearby gardens and the bridge with the spiral climb and descent which crosses the main road near Shepperton. When we reached a park which included a kissing gate and a five mph limit, we knew it would be impassible for the tandem trike, so we headed for Staines on the Kingston Road only managing a sip of our beer before the others arrived. Dear old Tom reported the loss of his wallet and Lynda telephoned the Greeno to no avail. When we arrived back there for tea, the missing item was found lying on a chair! A good day enjoyed by us all---------------Albert

Easy Riders Oct 21st

We had a joint effort leading yesterday. Roger's route and me in front.

15 of us left Kingston for the ride; a few others called in for coffee and cake.
There was me and Roger up front, followed by Dave, Alan x 3, Ron, Dennis, Bill H. Pat, Cliff, Les, John, Fuzz and Albert.
Fuzz got a puncture and told us to go on; but think he went home, as he didn't show at the pub for lunch. Albert went back before lunch; I thought he was being rather optimistic after cycling all the way to Kingston. I had a call later on from him, so he must have been relaxing with his usual! The rest of us took the pretty way to Cobham via Hinchley Wood. Decided not to go through Arbrook Common, so continued the usual way to Blackhills. Passed the Fairmile and left at the Rugby Grounds. A right turn at the junction took us to The Tilt. Then we headed over to The Running Mare. Always a popular pub; with quite a few cars in the car park when we arrived at 12.15pm. But, we got served fairly quickly; and their food and presentation always very good. We returned, passing The Plough at Stroke d'Abernon. Through Oxshott via The Crown Estate; and made our way to Claygate for tea. Some went straight home and 6 of us had tea. I caught a shower on my way home; but it fizzled out as I was going through Ewell Park. It just shows; don't listen to the weather forecast!

Lynda.

Easy Riders Alberts story

We had a goodly turnout for the AGM after elevenses at Hersham and Roger led around fifteen of us to The Albion at East Molesey. I was stoking my tandem trike with my son Peter at number two followed by Fuzz, Bill H., Ron, John C., Lynda, Alan, Chris and the amazing Tom who at the grand age of 95 can knock the spots off many of us, to name a few enjoying a pretty flat ride in decent but rather overcast weather. Tea was to be near Chessington so since I had an appointment we peeled off home having covered around 20 miles--------Albert

Easy Riders Oct 14th

After the AGM thirteen of us left Hersham & rode to Molsey to the Albion pub where we had lunch.
when Alan came out of the pub, a lady had put a notice on his bike about locking it to her fence.
after lunch some of us went to Chessington Kings centre for tea.
& after tea we all made our own way home.we all had a good days ride.

from roger - m.

Easy Riders Alberts story

Weather forecast was pretty dismal but we had a good turnout at Cobham with nine or ten on the actual ride. John C. was leading to The Anchor at Bookham with Bill H., Bill ?, Roger, Fuzz, Chris, Lynda, Ron. Alan, and me to name but a few. Upon arriving at Bookham Common I found no trouble getting my trike between the posts but foolishly did not wait for someone whom I could follow and came off the edge of the path into a bramble. I`ll have to get some better glasses! The meal and the beer was welcome but tea was to be some distance from my home run, so I chose to return across the common and consequentally missed a turn which resulted in a total of 35 and a half mile total, all in driving rain! I`m not sure how long my powers of recovery will last but they came up trumps last night----------------------Albert

Easy Riders Oct 7th

In view of the weather forecast I decided a short ride would be prudent.Fourteen of us left Cobham via Downsend and Bookham Common Crossing the common Albert fell off his trike luckily into brambles although not pleasant cushioned his fall .we pulled him up, no damage and continued to the Anchor in Bookham.The sandwich folk going to the church porch,whilst in the pub the rain started.Albert and Mike Whitton left us after lunch .Mike will be having his hip operation early November we wish him well. After lunch we were left with eight riders the others heading for home.We proceeded in heavy rain to the Ashtead Park Garden Centre for tea.Unfortunately i lost four en route the rest of us had tea and very nice
cake. After which we went our various
ways home.

John Conacher

Easy Riders - 30th Sept 2009

Fuzz was leading the group, there were 15 of us altogether & it was nice to see Tom out on the ride.
We left Teddington & rode through the roads & back alleyways to Isleworth, then on to the Aprentice pub for lunch for about 12:30.
Some of us had our lunch inside the pub & some outside in the back yard.
After lunch we rode back to Isleworth through Richmond & through Sheen Gate in Richmond Park for tea.
We all had a good day out & the weather wasn't too bad for this time of year, then we all went on our different ways home.

regards Roger.

Easy Riders Sept 23rd

Easyriders, Wednesday 23rd September. Names first, before I forget them all, Alan and Alan, Bill, Roger, Fuzz, Chris, Ron, and the fast lads, Dennis and Albert, and Lynda and Philip. Also good to see Mark out at Weybridge. A familiar route, through Poets corner and straight through Addlestone, Ottershaw, Foxhills Rd and Gracious Pond to the Red Lion. We were with Albert at Addlestone level crossing, from thence he became a disappearing blotch of fluorescent jacket on the horizon as he sped his way on that racing trike to reach the bar way before the rest of us. On the return journey we passed through Chobham said goodbye to Bill and turned left for Stonehill Rd. Again Albert made his bid for freedom but this time hotly pursued by Dennis. I am still in shock as it is the first time I have seen Dennis sprint uphill. However as you can see from the photo when we reached the summit Albert was nowhere in sight.

A lovely day and lots of fun, thanks for continuing to put me through my apprenticeship, I think it will be a good few years before I qualify. Thanks to Philip for showing me the route through Homewood Park onto Bittams Lane. We all did manage to get to tea at Walton Bridge. Steph

Easy Riders - 16th Sept 2009

Thank goodness the weather was better than yesterday.
Apart from a bit of breeze the sun was shining as we met at Leatherhead. Once more I was riding shotgun on my tandem trike with my good son Peter up front. We made for The Old Plough at Stoke D'abernon by the direct route down Randells Road for a very satisfying lunch, after which we decided to have tea at Claygate. A pretty good turnout included Bill H., John C., Fuzz, Ron. Roger, Mike, Chris, Alan plus we two. I saw Dennis at elevenses and one or two more who did not make the ride.
32 miles in all --------------- Albert

Easy riders Sept 9th

The weather seems to be getting a bit autumnal but still fine as we met at East Molesley. We had a good turnout and were graced with the presence of the mayor, a most pleasant man who engaged us all in conversation. Charles managed to take a photo and with luck may place it on the blog to complement my effort. Lynda led the ride to The Anglers at Teddington with Fuzz, Mark, Bill H.,Bill M.,Charles, Roger, Dave, Chris, myself and Alan (a newcomer who hails from Claygate). We took the route by the river from Hampton Court to Kingston bridge. It had been our intention to take the towpath to Teddington and to cross the river again via the tidal weir, but we were informed this route was closed. I had this from Bill H who kept an eye on me and followed me over Kingston bridge with the gen. We took a right turn after recrossing with a pretty straight road ending at our lunch spot. The food was good and so was the beer. Tea was to be at `Five on the Bridge` so Mark, Bill and I made for Bushy Park. Bill and I took the park route and Mark pressed on towards Kingston. I waited for a while at the cafe but it was getting chilly and I felt a spot of rain so headed for home. Have a nice holiday Lynda-------Albert

Easy Riders Sept 2nd

I`m still wondering why I volunteered to write this up for the blog since from my vantage point as stoker on my tandem trike my view of the route was largely obscured by my son Peter who handles the front end. However here goes. The weather forecast was pretty grim which made the turnout rather lower than usual at Cobham. As it happened we must have got the right slot of sunshine for a pleasant ride to The Albion at East Molesey. There were Lynda, Bill H., Roger, Chris, John C.,plus me and im at the rear. Ron who was to have led has been suffering with a bad cough and could not attend so I can only assume our destination was the result of a consensus of opinion. We went from Cobham up the old Portsmouth Road to West End.Then the dual carriageway to Hersham where we took a right turn at The Barley Mow, then Molesey Road to West Molesey with a pretty straight ride up Hurst Road to our lunch. It`s just as well we do not all ride such monsters as the bike parking at The Albion would not accomodate more than a few. Tea was to be at Chessington but Pete and I made off down The Hurst Road for home after a most pleasant outing. Just under 25 mls. See you next week--Albert