B Group Aprl 4th

A group of 15 of us set off from Cobham for the 21-mile devious route to our lunch spot, The Pelican on the Wey Navigation Canal at Addlestone - Liz, Carol, Terry, Norman, Les, Ed, Ed C and daughter Leslie (just arrived from Alaska for a 2-week holiday) on the tandem recumbent, John G., John Scott, Harold, Cliff, David, David A, and me, Gill leading. We took the Downside road out of Cobham, turning off on to the Drift Golf Course road and up to the roundabout at West Horsley. Following the line of the A246 we used the quiet back road, Blakes Lane, while it lasted, then back on to the dual carriageway to the turning for Clandon. We had had the wind behind us up until now but turning north we met the full blast of the icy NE wind and it was a chilly downhill ride to the Burntcommon roundabout just over the A3. Here we did a dog-leg off to the left and came into Send via Send Hill. Our route now took us across on Papercourt Lane to Pyrford and down to West Byfleet. Here we started the towpath section of the ride - beside the Basingstoke Canal then the Wey Navigation Canal. At Cox's Lock we crossed to the other side of the Canal, crossed the railway by a footbridge and were at our destination - The Pelican. At long last the sun was trying to make an appearance but not sufficiently for us to sit at the outside tables right by the waterside. By the time we emerged from the hostelry the weather had turned fine and sunny. We rejoined the Wey Navigation Canal at Town Lock, enjoying the warmth and admiring the beautifully mown lawns of the large houses on the other side. The last lap was along the Thames Path from Weybridge down to Hampton Court, still enjoying the sun and the pleasure of being by the water even if there was a bit of a headwind. Afternoon tea, with indulgence by those not restricted by Lenten pledges, was in the pretty courtyard at Lynda's favourite cafe by the bridge.

Gill Finlay

C Group April 4th

A bit cooler than of late but still good spring weather. The turnout from Cobham was very good and with Phil M leading, there were about eighteen riders en route for The Stepping Stones pub. After crossing Bookham Common most of us took a left turn just before the main road, the main group's intention being to take the hillier Polesden Lacey route. I've tackled that hill on previous occasions and along with Mark and Roger, opted for a flatter way to get our lunch. We went through Bookham and took a right turn just before The Anchor and a left at the traffic lights. A fast downhill along Young Street brought us to the cycle path on the A24 and thus to our destination. We got there first and chose a large round table just as the others arrived. We managed to squeeze thirteen of us around the table; John C, Lynda, Helga, Deanna, Brian S (on a rare ride with 'C' group), Beryl, Roger, Fuzz, (I didn't ask which route he took), Bill and Pat Matthews, Bill P, Mike W and me. Mark and Ron, who stayed in the garden, joined us as did leader Phil who was leaving us. For the return ride Ron led along the cycle path to Leatherhead after a short diversion over the Mole and through the farm. At Leatherhead I made a beeline for home via Stoke D`Abernon and Cobham. I clocked just over thirty miles and enjoyed every one of them but as, dear reader you can see that's about the limit for my aged frame! ------------- Albert

Meanwhile, Ron's off-road, side streets route via Ashtead Common took us to the Wells Centre at Epsom for tea, then on to where used to be The Rembrandt Cinema at Ewell, where we finally dispersed ...... Brian

Current Runs List

To new viewers please note the easy access to the runs list on the right

A Group at Dorking

Leader Rob Maskell (in Grey) gathering his troops at Dorking.
The big bang resulted in a 18" blow out at Colgate for Pete
Pictures by Pam

B Group March 28th

'B' group of Norman, Nev ,Terry, Bill, Les , Angie, Ken, John, Cliff, Harold Somers, Liz, Lorraine, David, Dianne, Andre, Judy, Jill, and Robin, eighteen in all, set out along Dorking High Street going east onto Reigate Road, right into bridle path to Brockham Green. Turned south to Newdigate, then right to Capel, and then half way round Charles Green roundabout Left onto a public pathway through private property and a footpath across the railway. Turned left along Weare Street, we were about 10 days too early for the bluebells. Straight on over the A29 to pub lunch:- good service. Went westward to Walliswood, left into Froggets lane, right onto Lowerhouse Lane. Kept going north through Holmbury St Mary, right at Sutton Abinger onto Raiches Lane. Straight on over the A25 and White Downs to Effingham, right into Lower Road to Leatherhead with nine for tea at Annie's. It was a beautiful warm and sunny day.

Cheers Robin.

March 28 2007

Hello Wayfarers and friends

Glorious spring weather inspired us all - I've never seen so many Wayfarers at Dorking - almost 60 of us, including several guests, Janice, Pam back from her long holiday and a new man whose name I failed to note. What with another big turn-out at Kingston, this might rate as our record. Somewhere amongst you all there must be someone willing to assume the mantle of Wayfarers Secretary, from which I announced at our AGM I was retiring - nobody has done me the favour of even enquiring about what is involved, which is worrying me a lot. We can't get to the next AGM with no-one in the frame. For starters, is there someone willing to take on receiving leaders reports, editing as necessary and distributing to members and to the Wayfarers blogsite? If not, we will have to discontinue weekly Newsletters.

Unseasonably warm weather brought out the Spring flowers and also Wayfarers in profusion at Dorking. There were far too many in 'A' group to name individually, but I counted 26 starters, which may be some sort of record. Frank C helpfully held some riders back so as not to form too large a peleton. We set off strictly due South down Chart Lane, through Blackbrook, past Henfold Lake and into Newdigate. Then the route took us into Rusper, where we regrouped before dropping down across the A264, across the railway line at Little Haven and into Roffey. A contingent then peeled off to get lunch in Horsham (unfortunately finding Wetherspoons tempoarily closed but an open pub next door), while the main group carried on through Roffey up the hill to the Dragon at Colgate, where it was warm enough to lunch outside, not bad for March.
Confounding the doubters, the 'Horsham' contingent rejoined us at the Dragon as planned, and we set off down Tower Road towards Faygate. Hardly had we started, though, when a loud explosion stopped us in our tracks. First impressions that pigeon shooting might be behind this were found to be false, the real culprit being Pete Mitchell's rear tyre, with several inches of material being blown away from the wire. What luck that Ed carried a spare. Not to be outdone, Ian also picked up a puncture on this stretch. After that, there were no further mishaps, and we took a fairly direct route back via Lambs Green, Langhurst and along Partridge Lane into Brockham, finishing up at Denbies for tea. After that most headed back via Leatherhead, where Ray and I spent some money on bike bits at Lidl before returning home. Rob

If I hear from 'B' group, I'll pass it on.

The weather is still great; sunshine all the way and no wind. Harold led a pretty large 'C' contingent from the Bradbury Centre in Kingston en route for The Stoneleigh pub in Epsom where a few remained as it was pretty early when we arrived so we pressed on to Lynda`s watering hole, The Spring Tavern in Ewell. Apart from Harold and me there was Lynda, Carol, Helga, Mark, Bill, Roger and Dave who made it to Ewell. At the start there were Fuzz, Dennis, Bill and Pat Mathews, a couple of chaps new to me, Paul and John (not one of our regular Johns). Most of the route was rather urban with a few spots of offroad. When we got back to Hampton Court for tea, Harold only claimed a third share in the navigation with Lynda and Dave! It was good to see Tom and John H at elevenses. Guess I`ll soon be joining them soon in the senior age group. I clocked up 36 miles and felt pretty bushed but am now recovering with my usual whisky/mac. bless you ------------------------- Albert
p.s. Apologies Harold for missing your name on my last report!! ----- A.

Olleh Hub

A Group

March 21 2007

Hello Wayfarers and friends

At Shepperton Greeno Day Centre we had the pleasure of the company of our doyen Tom Fish, celebrating his 93rd birthday. Amongst his cards was a Janice and Ken special featuring photographs of Tom in his prime - what a man!

The long range forecast had been dire but bright sunshine more than compensated for a cold northerly breeze. Two football/cricket teams (or if you prefer, one set of snooker balls) lined for the "A" ride from the Greeno

centre. By name they were Graham, Bob, Brian, Ed, Frank C, Grant, Irene, Jen, John M, John S, Scottish John, Julian, Mike M, Mike Wakely, Nigel, Pete B, Pete M, Ray, Richard, Rob, Toni, Vic. The route went west to Chertsey Bridge then south to Row Town and New Haw. Next Pyrford Church and Send Marsh were graced by an extended peloton before Potters Lane was taken to the A3. With time in hand and unscripted, the Wey towpath was ridden to the A320 where confusion reigned as nobody including the leader knew the way. Bystanders' advice and hurried glances at the Surrey cycle map eventually lead us onroad to Wetherspoons in the centre of Guildford; Bob who had stayed on the towpath was already settling into his meal! Belatedly ordered cups of coffee muddied our departure made more ragged when several headed for home via the Leatherhead road whilst others tried riding the wrong way up one-way streets! It was back to the A3 (no towpath this time); at the roundabout north of Ripley Vic hit a pothole, mounted the kerb and fell off. Uninjured he opted to fix the puncture and head for home - not a happy return after his recent accident. The remaining dozen carried on to Ockham Bites for tea and cakes before splitting up. Graham Hill

Leaving late from Shepperton (what has happened to our famed punctuality?), I led 'B' group of Carol, Christine, Gill, Judy, Liz, Cliff, Ed, Harold S, Ian, Les, Norman, Ray H, Roger S, Terry and Tony H through the back passages of Chertsey, to Lyne and Trumps Green. After taking the scenic route through Wentworth golf course and estate, we entered Windsor Park at the Wheatsheaf. In the Park, we took the tarmac path along the Southern shore of Virginia Water, and then turned North-East and then North (noting the abundant Spring flowers) to Cumberland Gate; then Eastwards to The Savill Garden and the Sun Public House, where some of our party had a long wait for lunch. In the afternoon, we took a direct route through Englefield Green, Egham, Staines and Laleham, but a mile or so before Shepperton, we turned off the main road and took an off-road path over the M3 to tea at Shepperton. After tea,, most of the party cycled through Lower Sunbury, Hampton and Bushey Park to Kingston, where we dispersed. John Gould

Still rather cold but plenty of sun and very little wind. Good turnout at Shepperton. My turn to lead with Lynda, Beryl, Mark, Bill, Roger, Ron and Dennis. John C and Phil plus a few more of our regulars were at elevenses but did not participate. We took the long way round through Laleham, Staines, Egham Hythe, Thorpe Lea, under the M25 to The Rose and Crown at Thorpe Green. I must have made some mention of The Red Lion at Thorpe when refering earlier to our intended lunch stop and Dennis and Ron missed us in consequence. On calling for support, the rest of the disloyal lot said ""we followed you" !!. I am happy we are all good friends. The lunch was good, the route was tarmac and pretty flat and only about twelve miles in all. We returned to Shepperton for tea via Thorpe Road and Chertsey.

The sun was still shining when I got home----------------------------Albert

Choose between Dorking or Kingston next week.

Olleh Hub

'A' Group

Temporarily lost at Woodbridge Guildford

March 14 2007

Hello Wayfarers and friends

Early arrival of Spring must have been responsible for the largest turnout at Caterham in all my years, 25 or so. Eric had an enormous smile - he had just received a special personal postcard from the lovely Lara.

To read of 'A' group's fine ride to Knockholt, visit our blog at: http://midweekwayfarers.blogspot.com/

14 'B' group riders led by Norman, Liz, Angie, Christine, Bill ,Dave, John S, JohnG, Les, Nigel, Phil L, Ray H, Robin and back marker Terry. We started in convoy with 'A' group along Burntwood Lane across the Caterham By-pass into Woldingham Rd up the "former" Slines New Road into Lunghurst Rd to Woldingham. Past the Golf Course we separated from the A's, and carried on to Tandridge Hill over the A25 to Tandridge Lane on to Crowhurst and on to lunch at the King and Queen in Edenbridge. Phil departed for his sandwiches. After lunch Ray, Angie, Dave, JohnG and Nigel, having to be back early for various reasons, departed. We remaining 8 cycled via Lingfield to Blindley Heath where our West Surrey members, Terry and John S, went home via Outwood. At the top of Tilburstow Hill, Bill went home via Caterham and train and 5 carried on to Fanny's Farm and home..... Norman

Good weather still, warm and plenty of sunshine. Dave was leading 'C' group from Elleray Hall en route to The Anchor at Bookham. I counted twelve of us; Ron, Alan, Beryl, Lynda, Mark, Roger, Bill and Liz Mathews, Fuzz and Bill H. If my arithmatic is correct that makes a round dozen with Dave and me. We went to Hampton Court via Bushy Park, over the bridge and turned right towards West Molesey. After a good bit of tarmac we took to a not so good bit of offroad and for the purpose of this report I have only praise for Dave`s navigation and thanks for my being able to recognise Downside Common as we emerged from River Lane (rather muddy) near the village pump and small chapel where a left turn to Bookham Road took us under the M25 and then across Bookham Common which now is quite navigable. Up the main road to the left turn by the church and the `squareabout` where we split up with six of us pressing on to the pub. It took half an hour to get lunch as the staff were busier probably due to the good weather. We returned to Downside by the same route and thus to Cobham for tea where we became a baker's dozen with the arrival of Dennis.
--------------------------------------------- Albert

Please note that on 11Apr07, 'C' group will meet at Walton Day Centre and be led by Mark; "Sou'Wester" rides list omits this listing. Please tell all 'C' group riders.

We are all together again at Shepperton Greeno Centre - can the good weather last?

Olleh Hub

Mike Morley Grovelling to the Leader

Photo by Bob Starey

A Group March 14th

March 14^th at Caterham found Bob, Brian, Pete B, Ray, John, Mike, Mike M, Ed, Stephen, Ian ready to hit the road in Kent. A & B groups coincided at first causing some confusion but at the top of Woldingham we managed to go our separate ways. Dropping down to the Pilgrims Way Mike Morley disgraced himself by turning to early taking a few others with him! He duly offered himself for pump punishment at lunch and promised to behave in future. The Crown at Knockholt provided good service and value as always giving us the energy to tackle an afternoon of hills – many steep – Cudham, Biggin & Shirley Hills delivered us to tea at the Pond Tea Rooms at Shirley Hills where tea and cakes in the sun followed by a walk round the lovely gardens resplendant in spring colour.

48miles (hilly)

From Pete Mitchell

A Group at Knockholt & Coombe Park

A public flogging for disobeying the leader

Midweek wayfarers A group

A forced stop at Thames Ditton

Wayfarers Lunch at Cheam

A few pictures from Barbara Johnston from a wonderful occasion

March 7 2007

Hello Wayfarers and friends

Tom was at Cobham today (taken by car by Harold) and seemed in fine fettle as he endeavoured to foist his stock of cycling goodies on his unwary public. At 93 this month, he challenged the less encouraging suggestions of last autumn's messages. We were also joined by a second Harold, Mr Somers, or Harold S, who we welcome to our ranks.

General opinion has it that our Anniversary Lunch today, at Prezza in Cheam, was the best in at least ten years, with the venue, space, service and food all excellent. More about all this can be found at http://midweekwayfarers.blogspot.com/, recommended reading. We welcomed guests Shirley and Colin, Dawn and David, Babs and Sally and Angie, plus 44 members, some of whom were still not home by 7pm.

A lot of us 'A' group set off from Cobham. Not surprising really because it was the special event of the Wayfarers’ lunch in Cheam village. It’s easier to say who was not there rather than list who was, so I won’t include the usual list of participants. I thought that we might give the others a chance to get there before us by going round the houses a little bit rather than going straight there. My usual practice is to stay quite close to the leader so that: a/ I can’t be accused of holding up the group b/ If I get a puncture someone else might know about it and C I’m unlikely to get lost that way. Of course, if you’re the leader, then it’s more difficult to do either A or C. Anyway, we set off heading north, across the main road and up by Cobham post office. We travelled progressively in a straight line before hitting (fortunately not literally) the road leading over to the left and the A307. There we did turn left and headed towards the American school on the A307 from Cobham to Esher. So far so good. We wandered down into Esher and then took the left fork over the back by the church and headed off down More Lane and Lower Green Road which took us round Sandown Park Race Course, and then across the main Esher by-pass to Hampton Court road (the A309), onto Weston Green Road ending up in Thames Ditton. From there we made our way steadily down to the Thames at Hampton Court before going along the towpath into Kingston, admiring the exceptional height of the river as we went. From Kingston we went through the market area and along the back streets to the cycle path that runs along Lower Marsh Lane leading past the (rather smelly- because the wind was in the wrong direction) sewerage farm to Berrylands station, hence through the back doubles and onto to the main road into and through Worcester Park. Thus travelling, we came upon the Italian restaurant in Cheam where our lunch was to be served. A very leisurely affair it was too and the bar prices were such that you could see why the restaurant was able to offer a reasonably priced meal. When we had finished partaking of lunch, we all wended our separate ways rather than go for tea somewhere. All in all, a good day seems to have been enjoyed by all. Stephen

From Cobham I led a 20 strong B group briefly alongside the very high River Mole, turning into the much quieter Tilt Road, Bray Road and Station Road to rejoin Stoke Road. No time to stop at Seymour's, we carried on along the A245 to Leatherhead then onto the shared cycle track alongside the railway line. Over the railway line then along Barnett Wood Lane to Ashtead, and via Woodfield Lane and Grove Road to the peace and quiet of Ashtead Park. Past Epsom Hospital Norman took over since it was considered my proposed obligatory off-road stretch wasn't on. He led along an alternative route via Kiln Lane, Bourne Hall and Nonsuch Park to the Prezzo restaurant, Cheam and the splendid dinner organised by your good self. Thanks from us all. Terry.

Real spring-like weather had me in shorts and as the three groups en route for the annual lunch were assigned leaders I chose the indelicate heading of "Odds and Sods". Harold had collected Tom and his sale items so was unavailable and Dennis had something else on, which just left myself, Dave and Beryl to our own devices. We decided to have lunch at the Half Moon in Ripley and made off up Plough Lane in brilliant sunshine. The fields either side were like lakes but the large puddles we encountered were quite rideable. We entered Ripley via Rose Lane near the bakery. Dennis had seen our bikes outside and came in for a word but could not be persuaded to join us for tea at my place which we reached via Newark Lane. Plenty of flooding again either side and almost up to the road surface. I did 21 miles which is plenty for an old sod like me!-------------------------Albert
 

Caterham Douglas Brunton Day Centre is the venue next Wednesday for stalwarts, otherwise make your way to Elleray Hall Teddington. Location information for most venues can (thanks to Graham, I am reliably informed) be found on the DA website.

Olleh sated Hub.

Anniversary Lunch

No doubt others will blog on this one or even report. It was a fantastic day with so many riders at Cobham for elevenses. The lunch at Prezzo in Cheam was attended by 53 members and was excellent value for £9, two courses and coffee including gratuity. The colorific value was enormous. I would like to put my name on record, in thanking Brian, as was done at the lunch today by others, for organising such a fantastic event.

The whole ambience of the day was great, especially with such fantastic weather and such wonderfull company.

Thanks also to Bob, Brian's kid brother for suggesting a nightcap in the local wine bar( for that is what it turned out to be-I got home to Walton le Hill at 7.30pm. the final cause of delay at the wine bar was Lynda still trying to sell her tea shirt printing. She rode by on the pavement around 5.30pm, having seen us in there at around 4pm, on first arrival. We bought her a lemonade to ensure she did not dehidrate on the way home, while we continued with another 95% alcohol free beer. We met a very interesting retired policeman who was emigrating to Cyprus. He is starting up a course fishing business for trout, bream and American Sea Bass, which apparently is deliciouse and is all caught on inland rivers and lakes.

I am sure that someone will put some pictures on this blog but I must repeat a fantastic day out and thanks again Brian for putting it on in style.

Wayfarers A group lunch 28th Feb

Another new Weatherspoons lunch place

Feb 28 2007

Hello Wayfarers and friends

It was nice to be out with the Wayfarers again, after a couple of absent weeks, and I was glad I made the effort. Thanks for all your goodwill messages. On my way, I passed Bernard, puncture mending with Brian N's help and was humbled and inspired by Bernard's ability to overcome adversity. We welcomed newcomers Senan Doohan and Ian Appleton, both choosing 'A' group for their debut. We missed Ed S who was having a check-up, but my call to him this morning was very positive and he sounded very cheerful. And Vic too, who sounded reasonably up-beat, his house being cleaner than ever - a vacuum cleaner doubling nicely as a crutch! We should see the both at Cobham next week, although Vic says he won't be joining rides for some while yet.

'A' group visited the latest JDW pub The Jack Fairman at Horley, opened only this month. The name commemorates the former use of the building as a racing car dealership, whose proprietor was well known to enthusiasts. Our group comprised Jen, Pete M, Senan, Pete B, Mike, Ray, Stephen (155 miles on Monday), Frank H, Ian (who found us at Horley after being inadvertantly left - sorry, Ian) and the brothers Grime. The ride out was via Pixham, Leigh and Norwood Hill and we returned via Meath Lane and Reigate Hill, enjoying tea with magnificent vies from the North Downs Way. Thanks for a great ride and venue, Bob.

From Bockett's I led 'B' group of Irene, Liz, Bernard, Brian, Cliff, Grant, brother Geoff, John G, Les, Norman and Robin up to the A246 into a noticeable headwind, then continued to Bookham, turning south at the first opportunity. Soon we joined the Dorking road and at the top of the hill (140 metres asl, thanks Bernard) I reminded The Six Bells at Newdigate of our impending visit. Then down Bagdon Hill, along a flooded Chapel Lane, under the A24 to Pixham Lane and alongside the A25 to turn off to Brockham. Turning left past the church we passed through Dawesgreen and Leigh until Oak Farm where I punctured. The group carried on to The Six Bells, slightly worryingly I couldn't find the cause of the puncture nor a hole in the tube, so fitted a fresh tube and hoped for the best. The landlord had reserved tables for us and the meals couldn't be faulted - portions were very generous. When he came to clear away he enquired if we wanted coffee or tea - nobody did - but at mention of that magic four letter word (FREE) surprisingly everybody changed their minds. There had been at least one shower whilst we ate but it was fine when we left for Annie's at Leatherhead via Henfold, Red Lane, Root Hill and Tilehurst Lane to the A25. Irene turned into Westhumble Street to tackle Bagdon from the opposite direction, Bernard, Brian, Cliff, Norman, Robin and I stopped for latish 3s and watched the rain fall at approximately 45 degrees from the west. When it stopped we left and went our separate ways. Terry

For most of our 'C' group ride the weather turned out better than forecast. The turnout was good with John C leading, to our lunch venue at The Royal Oak, Brockham. We had two ladies, Lynda and Sonia, Bill H, Bill M, Harold, Mike, Mark, Roger, Fuzz. Ron and me. I only counted twelve although Dennis was at the start but that`s the last I saw of him. There was a lot of standing water on the bikepath along the A24 and with Harold on his fixed wheel he had to plough through it. There was plenty of sunshine and only a bit of wind. The food was good and we made our way back to Leatherhead for tea. In the last fifteen minutes of our retuurn we had a heavy rainstorm so tea was a pretty damp affair - at Wetherspoons. I must confess I took my car for the return trip but still only got home by four oclock.---------------------------Albert

Next week we are at Cobham RBL Club, after which we ride to Cheam for our Prezzo lunch. At Cobham, I need to have £7 from each £2 deposit participant. Although many have advised their menu choice, this is too unmanageable, so Prezzo will take your orders at the table. I have collected £2 deposit from all listed (exceptions noted); please have your £7 ready, otherwise we'll never get away from Cobham.

Olleh gritty Hub

Wembley

A Group at Wembley

Photos by Francoise

From Gerry Hulbert

This from Gerry Hulbert entitled life in Thailand, multi e mail no1:

Well this is it, I hope it gets to you all.

I am still having a lot of problems with computing, and the internet, and with a slow connection phone line, sometimes it just won't work at all. At the moment I am sitting round the pool listening to Mozart, and enjoying fresh fruit for breakfast, 6 or 7 different kinds as well as coconut, and crousons. I have become a very good Mosquito hunter, and at night when its bed time you must make sure there are none in the bedroom or bathroom, (their favorite spot) because they love to eat you at night, I also have a bat like a tennis racquet, with batteries in the handle that gives out a small electric shock, on contact with a mossie, and in this house there are 4 such bats, and I have not had a nip for at least week.

Its almost time for a swim, then off to the beach, to spend some time with John's mum, on to play Bridge at the Tropicana Hotel on beach road, they supply unlimited tea and coffee, plus a sandwich in with the table money, of 150bt about 2 pounds. When the game is over we go for a few drinks with the lads, and pick up on the latest news and what’s going on over the weekend, and who is in town. Then around 7:30pm visit the night market, which is busy around then and very cheap, large and exotic, with fresh meat, fruit, vegetables, and sea food in abundance. Drive back to the house about 5km, make dinner maybe have swim, and plan on going out to Mick’s bar, till about 2or 3 am, then half an hour on the scooter back to the house. Do the Mossie hunt and then bed. T hats all for now folks.

Hope this gets to you.

The wayward Dingo

Part 2

I knew there would be a fair bit of standing water offroad so I stuck to the tarmac for my 11ml. ride to Kingston for elevenses. The weather was warm for February and there was a good turnout. Ron was down to lead but probably failed to get the change of venue. Harold took over followed by Beryl, Dave. Bill, Mark and your scribe. All went well until we entered Richmond Park where we experienced some pretty grotty mud most of which was unrideable. Beryl upbraided Harold who apologised abjectly but we still needed to get through and turned up at The Rose and Crown at Kew with dirty shoes. A very nice establishment near the river but rather in need of a change of both staff and prices, We made our way to Hampton Court for tea via Teddington and Bushy Park. Both Harold and myself suffered falls and I fear he is pretty bruised, For me it's to be expected anyway. I had a call from Harold re my welfare when I got home at 5.30 having covered 39miles. I will take the car to Leatherhead. Guess I'm getting too old!------------------------------Albert

Thanks, Albert

Yes, Ron did fail to learn of the venue change and went to Claygate (along with about five others such as Geoff, Pat & Bill and John H).

I've sent them a print-out of Wayfarers News (Part 1) along with their Sou'Wester, as compensation.

Brian

Hilly 50k 2007

A Group's Target

News 22Feb07

Hello Wayfarers and friends


On Saturday I helped out at our DA's major event, the Hilly 50. I knew that it was a demanding course, but only now having assisted first hand did I realise what a great event it is that Ed Sharp has organised for the DA over the years, encompassing a series of major climbs over 50km of Surrey lanes.. Three years ago the entry was a couple of dozen or so, but with excellent warm weather and internet coverage, 153 riders from all over set out on this daunting course and virtually all completed it. I have nothing but total admiration for all who took part for completing this awesome ride and offer warmest congratulations to our own Grant, Rob, Ray, Mike (luckily almost unscathed after a nasty fall en route) and Jen (plus husband Simon and sister Jake - whose husband Gary got round fastest in 1hr46min). Pete M was around the course with his cameras, so check out http://midweekwayfarers.blogspot.com/, where we may be seeing more on this. Ed is so modest about his major role in the Hilly 50, but that his event is established on so many riders' programmes is testimony to the esteem due to him as organiser.

Just a note to say Cycling Weekly tomorrow will be doing a four-page spread on the Hilly 50. Can you tell the others? Thanks. Jake

It may be in other papers, but p13 of today's Telegraph has a story of the man that bought a used bike in 1956 that has since completed 100,000 miles. He's now bought a new £1200 Trek - look out for it!

Belated but nontheless sincere apologies to the six or so members who failed to learn of yesterday's switch from Claygate (under refurbishment) to Kingston - my recent absence meant that no announcement was made at previous elevenses and the Sou'Wester note appeared too late. I hope they got together for an impromtu ride in the sunshine. Quite different weather today (Thursday), when we are back to dull and wet.

When I announced our 'A' group destination was to view the new Wembley stadium, the comments varied from "Wow" to "O my God", but 13 of us left the Kingston Bradbury Centre sharp at 11 o’clock, for the challenge. They were, Pete M. Pete B. Irene, Bob S. Julian, Frank and wife Francoise, Sou’Wester Editor Mike, recumbent Ed C, Mick Wakely, Grant for just a planned couple of miles and Ed S. Crossing to the north side of the Thames at Kingston Bridge we took the back road past Teddington Studios to Twickenham then the tow path to Richmond and Isleworth, and through Syon Park. We past Brentford football ground and past under the M4 to the cycle path at Gunnersbury Park, then disaster struck, recumbent Ed caught his front wheel on a ridge on the cycle path and down he went, bringing two others with him, fortunately there were no injuries, but half of Ed’s handle bar had snapped off. It was out of the question he could continue on the run and after some debate, decided to walk/ride the short distance to Kew station. We continued on the maze of side roads and quiet cycle paths across the North Circular, under the A40 at Hanger Lane and under the North Circular again to Stonebridge, along the service road past the famous Ace Café to Wembley and the stadium. A ride of 16 miles from Kingston. Pictures were taken and after a short break we rode the short distance to lunch at the pub, the Pleasure Boat, by the Grand Union Canal at Alperton, good food and very cheap, Bob preferring Wembley's JDW. After lunch it was a shorter route, keeping west of the North Circular to Kew Bridge, then Sheen, into Richmond Park and tea at the Roehampton Gate Café. From there members went their own way home. Fortunately the weather was far better than the forecast. Frank C.

Brian, You missed a fantastic ride yesterday, Frank took us on an exceptional traffic free route to Wembley Stadium. It looked fantastic but a bit off a mess all round;they are knocking the Wembley Conference centre down etc. We had good weather but the distance from Walton was a long way and the ride back a bit of a grind after Richmond Park but the Deer there were magnificent in the afternoon sunlight.

Hi Brian, I had a spill approaching Chiswick and broke the right handlebar on my P38. I managed to ride home using the pliers on my Leatherman. I'll have to get a replacement from California, so may be out of action for awhile. I got away with a small bump on my elbow. I'm sorry I didn't get to Wembley. Ed Campbell Also brought down were Pete M and Mick W, who injured his hand - could have been worse!

Hello Brian, On a much-better-than-forecast morning, Norman led a sizeable 'B' group (good to see half-termers Stephanie and David) plus a few usual A and C group members to Kingston Bridge. I then led along the towpath to Hampton Court Bridge where we turned into the Hampton Court Road. Still in sight of the river we noted daffodils and crocii in bloom and the parakeets serenading overhead (we don't have parakeets in Effingham). Soon we turned into the quieter Lower Sunbury Road which led to Walton Bridge, thence to Weybridge but using the road in lieu of the towpath, very briefly alongside Wey Navigation then up the hill , past Weybridge Station to cross Brooklands. (The northern half of the runway is now part of Mercedes test track with built in water jets. The Brooklands museum now has a Concorde and a very early Harrier outside). Through Byfleet to Murray's Lane and the Wey Navigation towpath, over Dodd's Bridge then onto the rather damp Dodd's Lane. (I did hear Christine promise to swear in French if it got any more challenging, but she didn't so presumably it didn't). At the end of the lane we stopped to re-group, clear mud from mudguards (and I think curse the leader) then rode on to The Seven Stars at Ripley. B group hadn't been there for a few years, it is now much improved. Most people had lunch there, some went home or to The Half Moon in Ripley where we all met up later. Tempus fugit so I chose the direct route along the old Wisley runway to Cobham (where some left) and tea at Seymours,Stoke d'Abernon, after which we went our separate ways. Brian - hope you're soon back in the world of the pedallers. Terry [thanks, Terry and thanks Harold and Mike who asked aout me - see you at Bockett's Farm next week]

Brian, can you do me, or at least Lynda, a favour. She was disappointed that I had not put anything in the Sou’Wester about printing Dieppe Raid shirts. I suggested you may be able to put out a general circular. Let Lynda know if you have any garments for printing with our "Sou'Westers" logo. Mike M.

'C' group report will follow, if and when.

Leatherhead or Bockett's Farm next week - enjoy!

Olleh Hub --

Potholes&Trails

Having reviewed part of the Hilly 50 course and found potholes, I would encourage all to use the new http://www.fillthathole.org.uk/ and the http://www.clearthattrail.org.uk/ facility. I used it for the first time today and the system works great. You can home in on the Google Map and pinpoint your pothole with the mouse, which then shows a red flag like a golf hole flag. At first I thought it was someone else that had flagged it up and was already in the system but No! it was my flag.

To prove this you move the cursor on the map, click on the mouse and the flag moves to where you have clicked on the map. I am not yet clear how you know if someone else has picked the hole up and reported it already. Anyway it seems to me to be an excellent tool and full marks to CTC. You can get at it by clicking on above or go to the CTC link on right-hand-side of this blog and it's under new tools. Give it a try when you find your first dangerous hole. I think we should highlight these two www. permanently in our Sou'Wester.

Mike M.

Feb 14th

Hello Wayfarers and friends

Having agreed to swap with Frank to lead this week, the dreaded lurgi
got me over the weekend and I am grateful to Irene for volunteering at short
notice to take over 'A' ride leading - subsequently 'B' leader Robin reported
similar lurgi symptoms and Irene manfully (to coin a phrase) took on the
combined 'A' and 'B' rides - with memorable success, in that all three groups
 coincidentally lunched together for the first time in my recollection.
 Thanks again, Irene.

A second-hand account from Graham:  Both designated leaders had previously
gone sick on a wet day to start with but rapidly improving. After a brief
council of war, the combined A & B group was led out by Irene; Pete M, Pete
B, Les, Toni D'I, Ed S, Gill, John B, Ray, Norman and finally Terry
following on behind. From Shepperton the route via Chertsey, a muddy
Penton Hook, Thorpe Park, and Trumps Green before the dash down Staple Hill
into Burrowhill and The Red Lion arriving well before 1pm. Rather unexpectedly
'C' group were already there - talk about tortoise and hare as we were first
away from Greeno. The direct route back to Shepperton saw us devouring doughnuts,
 carrot cake, and apple pies in Holts Bakery (scheduled to close at the end of
the month; may reopen?!).
Best wishes for speedy recovery to our stricken leaders and others in
similar straits. Many thanks from Irene to Terry for his excellent back
marking.  Graham

With a pretty grim weather forecast, wet roads and lowering skies, the
turnout at Shepperton was good. With Roger leading and with no intention of
even trying to go offroad, Beryl, Harold, Bill, Phil M., Mark and me, we set
 off for The Red Lion at Chobham without a drop of rain and almost no wind
through Lower Shepperton,then over Chertsey Bridge. In Chertsey we took a bit
 of a diversion down Free Prae Road, Highfield Road and Station Road, over the
 level crossing and along the Guildford Road for our first hard climb up
 Holloway Hill. Stonehills Road was less demanding on my ancient legs and before
entering Chobham we made a short detour right which brought us into Red Lion
Road and our destination of the same name. During a pleasant lunch we were
joined by A and B group.    They say `great minds think alike`. By this time the
sun was well and truly out. Apart from Harold and Mark who had a fair ride in
front of them, the rest did me the honour of coming to my place for tea. A
very nice ride Roger------------------------------------Albert   

All together at Bradbury Active Aid Centre Grange Road Kingston next
week -
hoping for a grand turn-out! 

Mike Morley Chickens Out

Congratulations all you MW-Wafarers that braved the rain on Wednesday. At Walton on the Hill it poured untill lunchtime though turned sunny in afternoon. I felt shattered after the Tuesday SRCC offroad ride (lead by Bob S) to the new Weatherspoons at Horley. It opened Monday and is well worth a visit.
I had a chat to Vic White on the phone and he is in good spirit and on the mend.
Hilly 50km
I rode part of course today upto 25.2ml mark (A25 bottom White Down). The rain has washed many of the roads fairly clean and the council were sweeping the road from the 9.7ml mark (Wooton Hatch towards Friday St.) Whatch out for two massive potholes about 500meter past Wooton Hatch pub. Just before this point look for home made cake and jam stall outside house on right. Lovely Ginger Bread 50p. Also watch out for further large pothole near private school after Holmbury St. Mary. There is the usual dirt and muck on the decent from the RT after 6.8ml mark having gone down the dip and round sharp left bend towards Westcott. Generaly watch out for brambles and branches hanging out from the hedges after the wind. Also mind the sandstone rock thats in the verge on A25 ascent to Wooton Hatch. Hope to see many of you at Ryka's 10.30hrs Saturday 17 Feb. Mike M

Midweekers A&B groups

Virginia Waters & Red Lion Chobham

B Group

Twas a fine clear but very cold day which nevertheless saw a pretty good turnout at Cobham. Though the temperature was just about freezing, the previous few days had been dry which kept the roads fairly free of ice. Twelve of us, Cliff, Norman, Ed, Roger, Bernard, Les, John, Gill, Brian, Terry and Nev, led by Rob, set out down the well worn Plough Lane, soon to be passed by the dynamic speedsters of A group. Passing the Black Swan, we then headed for Ripley followed by Send. In Papercourt Lane, it became apparent that a good proportion of the group was missing. Investigation found that Terry had had a puncture and would meet up with us later. So we pressed on through Old Woking and crossed the A320 near Mayford into Prey Heath Road. After that we passed Worplesdon Station and then Fox Corner before arriving at the Cricketers at Pirbright, where the landlord had reserved a table for us, and where the food was good and the service quick - other leaders may wish to note. After lunch, we returned via Salt Box Road and Jacobs Well, before picking up the A3 path which took us all the way to our tea stop at Ockham Bites, arriving shortly before A group, which proves the old adage about the tortoise and the hare! We also found Terry had beaten us there, having lunched at Sutton Green. After tea, we took a detour through the woods and then picked up Pointers Road, before dispersing at Cobham in rapidly subsiding temperatures. I covered 54 miles in all. Rob

Feb 7

Hi Brian-- It is 9.30 Tuesday morning 06Feb07 and I`ve just had a call from Vic who was hit from behind by a woman motorist last evening and although he says no bones are broken he is some considerable pain and wanted me to let everyone know he will be out of commission for some time. At the moment he is at his cousin`s home in Addlestone phone 01932 844207. He was here at my place with Bill for tea and left around 6.30. See you at Cobham----------------------------Albert

Thanks, Albert I've spoken to Vic, who is fairly upbeat, albeit fairly uncomfortable and won't be out for a while. He has organised a wheelchair. BS

Cobham hosted another good turn-out, including Tom Fish, who seems a lot better than a few weeks back. A birthday card went round for Derek Robinson, our latest octog, not seen for several months. We hope our card encourages Derek to get on his bike in the Spring. Again, Wednesday was a fantastic day then, lo-and-behold, Thursday morning a heavy overnight fall of snow has brought everything to a standstill.

Suffering from a non-avian respiratory problem, I was intent on a modest target for lunch. A bright but very cold morning meant a muddled departure from Cobham. Groups 'A' (Graham, Bob, Brian, Ed, Irene, Jen, John, Julian, Mick, Mike, Pete B, Pete M, Steve) and 'B' headed off in the same direction and we overtook them in Plough Lane. After Ockham (where Julian fell on black ice), Hungry Hill and Burnt Common we used the A3 path to Jacobs Well. For a change the northern half of Guildford including Stoughton barracks was next before the turn was made towards Wood Street and the Royal Oak. They were fully booked but obligingly erected folding table and chairs on the oche. Lunch became a protracted affair with several meals (2 courses for Mike M!). Due to the overcrowding we had lost Brian and Bob to the White Hart and next Jen and Mike M headed for home. The way back was via Fox Corner Mayford and Pyrford to Wisley where we met up with the soon-off 'B' group. By now we were down to 4 but there was still time for a detour to Chatley Heath Tower. Hope I havent forgotten anyone! Graham Ray's picture of a group labelled midweekers is at http://midweekwayfarers.blogspot.com/

It must have been the coldest day so far this winter but we had a good turnout at Cobham RBL. With Mark in the lead then me, Roger, Harold, Bill, John C plus another John, Fuzz, followed by the ladies, Lynda, Carol and Dianne with a welcome back to our 'C' group of Beryl we set off for our lunch venue to The Half Moon at Ripley. Up Plough Lane (accent on the `up`) we crossed over to the Ockham Road at The Black Swan. After passing Ockham we took a left up Guilshill Lane. That`s the one with a bit of a climb where oncoming cars usually stop for one to get by. Then there`s this bit of a quick drop to a left turn where one can usually encounter loose shingle in the middle of the road and attempt to avoid it by picking a careful line by some pretty ghastly potholes. On this ocassion the area was flooded for about 25 yards with a large amouint of frozen slush where not only me but Mark took a purler. It was mainly bruising for both of us and he rang me to see how I was after reaching home. We then joined Rose Lane over the A3 into Ripley and a decent lunch and pint. As the others were going back over the A3 to Ripley for tea I took a route home down Newark Lane . At least we were a day early and avoided this snow!!!----------------Albert

Derek Robinson rang this evening to say how delighted he was by our special card and that he hoped to challenge Mrs Robinson's ban on bike riding before too long.

Afasic are organising a charity bike ride during national bike week and we wondered if you might be able to publicise this to your membership for us. Starting Sunday 17th June to Saturday 23rd June 2007 from Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, right across the country to Barmouth in North Wales. Access details via our website: http://www.afasic.org.uk/how1.htm Thanks. Mark Thompson

Olleh icy Hub

Hi Mike

Thanks for the encouragement. I seem to have found a way into the system now through Google, but it's rather roundabout and I have to work it out from scratch each time! Perhaps I'll keep posting trivia until I've burnt the pathway into my memory—so people will be seeing boring paragraphs like this for some time to come. Big thanks too to Lisa for help with this at the weekend.

I'm glad to say that I don't seem to have any ill effects from the encounter with the black ice near Ockham yesterday. After Ed's story of his fractured elbow, I was delighted to be able to move mine when I woke up this morning.

Julian

Hi Julian

Just to let you know and to encourage others to keep trying, you can blog through Google. I see Julian you can still get into the SWLDA blogg, so try typing into a new post and see what happens. Sorry for this trivia to the rest of you but don't be frightened, it does work even if it is a bit of a blogger. Mike M.

Checking

Checking I can still get into the blog....Julian

Midweekers 'elevenses' 7th Feb

Thank you Lisa

Thank you Lisa for the invitation to blog. I've got this far—let's hope it's solved the rest of the problems I had............Julian

B Group Jan 31

After helping Graham eat his birthday pie, nine 'B' group riders - Bill, Brian N, Ed N, John G John M, Ken, Les and Terry, led by Norman, left Anita's cafe , turned left into School Hill, right under bridge into Nutfield Road, up the steep Cormongers Lane, across A25, down Fullers Wood Lane to Clay Lane. These lanes derive their names from the fine talc-like clay Fullers Earth or Fullers Clay dug from the local hillside and used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Into Kings Cross Lane, under M23 into Coopers Hill Road, Prince of Wales Road then right after The Dog and Duck into Green Lane, Axes Lane, crossing A23 at Salfords to Lodge Lane left into Meath Green Lane, right into Lee Street and Mill Lane. Over A217, Horsehill and Irons Bottom, left to Deanoak Lane, right into Smalls Hill Road to The Plough at Leigh where we found Mike Morley waiting, he had got "mislaid" somehow at Merstham!
After lunch back towards Brockham, Blackbrook, Punchbowl Lane, Pixham Lane, Mickleham, riders leaving homeward en route to Annie's at Leatherhead. Five stopped for tea then we went our various route home after a fine winters day. Norman

Photographic competition - We need to judge entries for the 2006 competition. If anyone has contributions to make, please let Brian know asap.

If anyone wishes to submit a verbal entry for "most punctures", also please let Brian know.

Hungers End Merstam

Ed's A Group Report

Wayfarers Jan 31st 2007
Elevenses Hungers End Cafe Merstam
Nearly everyone was there. It was Graham's birthday so an apple pie disguised as birthday cake was produced for us to sample - thanks Graham.

Ride A - Destination Dormansland Pub, Leader Ed,
On ride Bob, Brian, Pete M, Jake, Jen, Graham, Pete B, John, Frank H, Rob, Ray, Steve, (Richard & Mike first time out).

Weather dry and sunny.
Route out Nutfield, Outwood, Newchapel, Lingfield, Dormansland. Route back Blindley Heath, South Godstone, Bletchingly, Merstam.
Graham treated some of us to tea at Fanny's Farm - thanks once again.
Distance for me was 50miles. No punctures, home before dark
From Ed Sharp

Jan 31st

Hello Wayfarers and friends

After two pretty atrocious Wednesdays, yesterday was as all-things-bright-and-beautiful as to be hoped for in January - it was one of those days that make this little corner of England as attractive as anywhere, fabulous as would appear many Holiday 2007 locations.

Added to that (or maybe because of that), 'A' and 'B' groups turned out in numbers not previously known for an "eastern" 11s venue, traditionally venues on or east of A23 being too far for mainstream SW London members.
We were boosted by the welcome return of Ken Preece and octogs Eric and Ned and also by new members Richard Hoskin and Mike Wakely, the last three named being mates enjoying a Redmon CC (aka Morden) connection. Welcome Richard and Mike - we enjoyed your company and hope it will be a regular occurrence.
Thanks to birthday boy Graham for the delicious Anita-baked apple pie - Graham had hoped to be at Merstham in time to buy 11s for both groups, but those 'A' members hanging on (literally, Ed) till tea were treated at Fanny's Farm instead - a very warm and kind gesture, Graham. Ten
years and one day younger, Stephen provided chocolate cakes for 'A' group at The Old House at Home, another lovely gesture for which many thanks too, Stephen.

What a perfect January outing. Ed's report and Ray's photos are at:
http://midweekwayfarers.blogspot.com/, where also on the website can be found rules for our annual DA photo competition, due for judging now, prior to awards at our 31Mar07 barn dance.

At tea someone remembered a special visit made several years back (when Steve Bott was Tsar) to Frogmore Royal Mausoleum in Windsor Great Park, on one of the few days that it opened to the public (free). That visit was a real special, in that it is the only Wayfarers ride I have taken part in on a Tuesday (plus, I met Babs), so I remember it well as a popular success.
I have checked the possibility of a return visit, to find that Frogmore Mausoleum is open similarly Wednesday 23Apr07, when 'C' group are expected for 11s at Molesey (where I've yet to visit), fitness freaks being due to go for 11s on the North Downs at Newland's Corner. I am asking regular riders to respond to the suggestion that 'A', 'B' and 'C' go to Molesey 23May07, then those that so wish, to Frogmore and Windsor. We could then postpone 'A' and 'B's visit to Newland's Corner to 13Jun07, for tea after our mid-summer early start for 11's at Horsham. All I ask is that you respond by preferring Molesey then Frogmore (Option 1), or Newlands Corner et al ('A' and 'B' groups, as programmed) (Option 2). If sufficient opt for Frogmore Mausoleum, we will go there 23May07; if sufficient opt for Newland's Corner 23May07, we may do both, an extra leader being tasked to lead from Molesey to Windsor.

Norman led a large 'B' group from Merstham to Leigh, where a leisurely lunch at The Plough was sufficient to recharge the batteries enough to get most to Annie's at Leatherhead for tea.

On the last day of January the weather was less cold and the sun was shining. We 'C' group had a very good turnout at Molesey. Several ladies were present including Lynda and Carole. Tom had also made the trip out and from those present we could have made up at least a couple of rides. In the event around twelve of us with Phil M leading set off for The Victoria at Woodham. Apart from me there was Mark, Harold, Bill, Dave, Robin, Fuzz, John Barrett, Roger and Ron. John C was there but I did not see him after the start.
The first part of the route took us into Rydens Road and The Halfway at Walton. At Sir Richards Bridge we took the footpath alongside the railway, at the end of which we turned left and made for Queens Road, Weybridge which we crossed into Princes Road and came out on Hanger Hill (an ancient Roman camp). On arriving at Weybridge rail station I lost sight of the others who were waiting over the bridge in Brooklands Lane. In earlier times (no, not olden) it was a cul-de-sac and I had never explored it. Now it introduced me to the first spot of the day's offroad. I just managed to stay upright as I followed their wheel tracks. At one stage we climbed some steep steps to cross double rail tracks where a stationary train was to our right.
Good old Harold insisted on lugging my bike over this obstacle. and after we had all got across the train continued on its journey seemingly having merely stopped for our benefit! After some more offroad we reached the Wey Navigation canal towpath then over the bridge to the towpath of the Basingstoke canal which just about took us all the way to the pub, After lunch and being on home ground I led off for the Woodham and New Haw Day Centre where the sandwich lads had gone. They did not follow me so I assumed they had pressed on to the tea rendezvous at The Greeno at Shepperton.
Five of us carried on in the Shepperton direction. We parted company in Addlestone and although they appeared to take a strange route, I am sure Phil had something up his sleeve! ------------------------------------------ Albert

Now Blogging thru Google

Just a test to see if it works. The transfer to google as Lisa said is fairly straitforward ( assuming this has worked). As Lisa says try to create a post in the old way and it does ask you to transfer using you old user name and password, which you repeat twice and then you have to give your current e-mail address and then you create a google account ( which I didn't have before) and as Lisa say's it should be useful to have. Happy blogging. Mike M.

Graham's Birthday

(Hungers End) Merstham
Above- (Old House at Home) Dormansland

Hassle

It is a bit of a drag being forced into creating a Google account, but the appearance of this will test whether I've negotiated at least some of the maze. The 'New' blog system doesn't seem keen to let you sign out either—but perhaps it's just warming up. I'm sorry that I missed Ed's ride from Merstham today. Hope I'll be at Cobham next Wednesday. Julian

Blog Upgrade

Sorry folks.

As those of you who have posted recently will know, Blogger has been pushing "New Blogger".
All the blogs have now been moved over to New Blogger, but this means (I think) that for you to post, you will all have to create "Google" accounts from your original Blogger accounts. It's a bit of a hassle, so my apologies, but in the long term it will be beneficial. I also think that the Google accounts will allow other possibilities with the club sites, so it is all for the best really.

I believe that next time you log in to post, with your old account details, you will be prompted to create a new account based on an email address. It seems to be fairly straightforward, but if anyone has any problems please get in touch and I will try to talk you through it.

Please make a note of your new username and password, as I will no longer be able to look usernames up for those who forget (I think).

Finally, anyone who hasn't yet signed up for the Blog and would like to, please email me for an invitation.

Lisa

Jan 24

What a surprise it was to wake up to that white world this morning!
Fortunately the roads cleared quickly and the snow was melting fast as Irene and I cycled to the Day Centre at Weybridge. Here we joined a very depleted group and after waiting to see if anyone from the Cheam and Morden group was going to join us, 'B' Group set off shortly after 'A' Group at around 11.20 am. There were four of us - Terry, Bernard, Ed and me, Gill. Taking a similar route to 'A' Group to start with, we cut across to Chertsey Meads and took the Willow Walk path, leading to the Laleham Golf Course - closed due to snow - and on to Pentonhook Marina. We skirted Thorpe and instead of the M25 and headed south, past the magnificent Elizabethan building of Great Fosters Hotel, to Virginia Water. This was the challenging part of the ride - three steep hills in quick succession! A noisy stretch of road parallel to the M3 (Chobham Lane) followed. It was a relief to cross the motorway on to Chobham Common and once over the summit of Staple Hill, it was a good downhill run all the way to the Windsor Road and into Chobham. By the time we reached Chobham Common there were only vestiges of snow lying around, the views were great and the gorse seemed to be in full bloom. We had lunch at the Red Lion, Burrowhill.
As we set off again at 2.00 p.m. there were patches of blue sky around and glimpses of sunshine from time to time! The return journey was quick and easy, along the Gracious Pond Road, Stonehill Road and into Chertsey.
Afternoon tea was at the bakery in Shepperton, where we were joined by the remnants of 'A' Group, and by 3.30 p.m. we were on our way home. Although not a mammoth ride in terms of miles, it had been a good day out.......
Gill

Cold with a blanket of snow and the cyclepath to Weybridge was pretty tricky in places. Considering the weather the turnout was not too thin at elevenses, but when it came to departure there was just the two of us.
Harold who was leader and me to give this report on the ride. We went through the town and up Heath Road past what used to be St. Charles Church where I was baptised, confirmed and married some years back, At the rail station we turned left along Hanger Hill and at the war memorial right up Queens Road past the Weybridge cricket ground where I first learned to ride on my mother's Raleigh with the old loop frame (I still need to learn several bikes later). After this we turned right down Seven Hills Road to the roundabout where we went left with a good downhill on Burwood Park Road to Byfleet. The lunch venue was still Harold's secret as we pressed on to The Halfway under the rail bridge and the next left before the traffic lights. This road emerged in Cottimore Lane in Walton and we headed in the Hurst Park direction. By this time my leader had informed me he was heading for the river and the Weir pub so we took a left turn at the next roundabout with just a short ride to lunch.. A most satisfactory nosh and the beer helped too. Harold had left his car at the Weybridge end of the towpath so that's the way we both went. This must be a first since I haven't forgotten anyone's names. See you all (non-Merstham-bound riders) next week DV ------------------------ Albert

A Group 24 January 2007

On a day when the Banstead Alps were shrouded in thick snow, only nine A Group riders--Ed S, Pete B, Pete M, Irene, Vic, Graham, Ray, John B and Julian--set off from Weybridge aiming for Windsor. Ed punctured alongside the A317 but the rest of us crossed Chertsey Bridge and followed the tow-path past Penton Hook to Staines where we crossed the bridge and followed the towpath under the M25 to Bell Weir Lock where Ray took pictures.

The going had been muddy in places with occasional patches of soggy snow but no serious problems. We joined the road past Runnymede and, deciding that a detour through the Great Park might be pushing our luck, took the route through Old Windsor and Datchet (where Pete B punctured and the sky started to show some blue) turned up past the Castle and one of the Wetherspoons down the pedestrianised Peascod Street into William Street and the other Wetherspoons. Here Ed and Pete rejoined us and, after rearranging our bikes to the satisfaction of the management, we all enjoyed the Wetherspoon specialities of good, prompt, cheap food and drink and sound-off telly.

Coming back, we went through Eton and followed the B376 threading past reservoirs to the bakery at Shepperton where Ed, Vic and Julian joined B Group for tea while others made straight for home. In all it was an enjoyable Winter ride, chilly but no biting wind, soaking rain or slippery ice, getting indoors before needing lights...........Julian

'A' team 24th Jan.

Weatherspoons Windsor after lunch, leader Julian and Postman Pete preparing to leave.

Jan 17th

Atrocious wet and windy weather scythed into our turn-out yesterday and absentees included your Hub, who spent time writing to SCC about improving safety where a recommended cycle route crosses A217 at B290.

Hello Brian,
By the time we reached Redhill for 11s I expect most were wondering if they'd made the right decision, especially since the rain fell even harder as we watched while teaing and cakeing. However, when we were ready to leave the rain had almost stopped and I led a combined group of Bernard, Grant, John, Les, Mike M, Pete M and Tony d'I southwards on/alongside the A23 before turning right into Pendleton Road and soon the peace and quiet of Lonesome Lane. Good to see the teddy bears were still out to greet us at Meath Green. We crossed the A217 then headed for Plan B lunch stop at The Fox Revived, Norwood Hill. (Plan A had been Newdigate, too far given the conditions). While heading west we could see blue sky to the north over the Downs, encouragement indeed ! On arriving at The Fox the previous landlord and the new landlady were just emerging and informed us neither food nor drink were available this week due to refurbishments. Plan C was hastily drawn up - The Plough at Leigh - as Pete remarked 'It's downhill'.
Good food quickly served pleased everyone, and through the windows we could see bright sunshine - what a bonus. We returned in the sunshine via Tapner's Road and Bunce Common Road to Brockham, through the deserted golf course then via Pixham Lane and the cycle track to Annie's for tea where John, Pete, Tony and I stopped. I recorded 42.5 miles. Terry

Hi Brian.
I`m sending this on Thursday morning and although the weather was pretty wet and dull at first yesterday, it was preferable to this howling wind! In spite of the conditions we had a good turnout at Walton -- Geoff, Mark, Ron, Bill, John G, Robin (new to me) and Roger S (usually with B group). With yours truly and sans Ron we made a wet start over Walton bridge through Shepperton, Laleham and Staines en route for The Rose and Crown at Thorpe Green. A short holdup after crossing Staines bridge at the level crossing at Egham Hythe after which my navigation went rather pear-shaped and I missed the left turning towards Thorpe Village and we carried on over the M25 to take a left turn towards Virginia Water on the Stroude road thus adding over a mile and some pretty steep climbs to the traffic lights near VW station where a left turn and a few hundred yards brought us to the pub. After lunch the sun came out and we had a more pleasant ride to Shepperton via Chertsey where we took tea at the Greeno Centre. I think I`ll keep off the bike today though! ------------------------------------ Albert

Hoping for better weather next Wednesday and good turn-out at Weybridge Day Centre - see you there