Easy Riders Oct 29th

A beautiful, sunny day; John C led Roger, Bill H, Dennis, Fuzz, Beryl, Lynda, Dave and Harold from Walton Day centre towards Hersham. We continued onto the cycle path going towards West End. We made a left turn taking us up on to the old A3 road. From there, we turned left at the Rugby ground, then forked right which took us to The Running Mare at Cobham. A very nice pub with excellent food and service.
After lunch, we got our layers back on and made our way thro' Stoke D'Abernon and into Oxshott; down Birds Nest Drive and into Claygate Common. As John phoned from the pub; the ladies at Claygate Day centre were waiting for us with a pot of hot tea. Then we made our way home before it got dark.

Lynda.

Postcode links

KT125AB

KT122PD

Free Wheel Day

Wayfarers freewheel competition

The Wayfarers fwc (free wheel competition) is held annually about this time and this year will be held next week i.e. Wed 29 October (as publicised in The Sou’Wester). This will be the second fwc this year – because we didn’t have one last year.

A few thoughts before the event.

In ideal conditions of no wind (but tail wind would obviously help), the smaller personal frontal area the better, less wind resistance means you travel quicker and consequently further.

So – any forward-facing hemispherical protuberances eg caused by consumption of vast quantities of alcoholic beverages could create a disturbance to the airflow around you, thus affecting your distance travelled so either get rid of them or, probably easier, try and smoothly blend them in.

Owners of a large proboscis should keep ‘eyes front’ – unless there is a side wind, in which case try to turn the head 90 o (to reduce area exposed to the wind).

Any follicly challenged person could take advantage of the situation by a light application of Cherry Blossom (or similar) light tan polish.

Conversely, anyone with excessive facial follicles should seriously consider appearing clean shaven for the event (and hopefully remaining so) – if an award winner proof of identity will be required.

Polish (or, at least, clean), front forks and head tube.

Ensure the lever of qd wheels is horizontal.

On the day – head down, tyre pressures up, one eye looking for pot-holes, one eye looking for tractors, one eye analysing the road ahead and selecting the optimum route, think thin (unless it’s a tailwind), cranks horizontal – and – good luck.

See you at the bottom of the hill.

Terry

22 October 08

The Full Picture

In the interest of equity and inclusiveness, I am adding this image to show that Adam was with us in every way on Wednesday.

Wednesday Freewheeling Event

The Freewheeling is due to take place after 11s at Dorking. It is very easy all down hill! all riders welcome. Finishing for lunch at Brockham

Easy Riders Oct 22nd

Here is an account of 'C' group ride:-

Ron led a very autumnal ride from Teddington over to Esher Common to West End (Prince of Wales). After lunch we went over Oxshott Common to Arbrook Common then tea at Claygate. The trees were lovely golden colours, and to my surprise we didn't come across too much mud. There was just one puddle at the end of Arbrook Common. It was a very interesting ride and the weather stayed fine.

Lynda.

B Group Oct 22nd

Here is the B Group report for last Wednesday.

It was less than a minute after leaving Elleray Hall that our 19 strong party took a wrong turning into a cul-de-sac (mea culpa). But we eventually found Bushey Park and, after cycling through it, emerged on the High Street at Hampton Hill. We took a combination of quiet side roads and off-road paths through Hampton and Sunbury and, by mistake (mea culpa again), found ourselves in the middle of the Hazelwood Golf Course. So we cycled across the fairway ( the riders at the back claim they were sworn at by golfers) to re-join our intended route at School Walk. We then passed through the villages of Upper Halliford and Charlton before cycling along the main A308 for a mile or so, next to the Northern boundary of the Queen Elizabeth Reservoir. (I understand that the Highways Authority owns the land around the reservoir. Could they not build a cycle path on reservoir land that would enable cyclists to avoid this dangerous bit of road?). We then cycled via Knowle Green to the riverside at Staines and on over the bridge to the Jolly Farmer, our lunch stop on the South side of the river.

Believe it or not, the pub had run out of draught beer, and the printed food menu was out-of-date. Nevertheless the food that was still on the menu was good value and most of us were served quite quickly. Unfortunately, it eventually became clear that lunch orders from 3 of our cyclists had failed to reach the kitchen. One of our number (Harry) cancelled his order and went without lunch. Another (Judy) received her re-ordered jacket potato, but left most of it because, in the rush to get it to her, it was largely uncooked.

After lunch we stayed on the South side of the river, taking the cycle path next to Chertsey Lane, and the path thru' Laleham Reach and Laleham Golf Course to Chertsey, whence we proceeded via Shepperton, Walton Bridge, and the Thames Towpath to tea at Hampton Court.

John Gould

A Group 22 October 08

At the Five Bells, Horton (sorry Adam!)

MWW Ride Report 22 October 08


A gloriously sunny, cloudless and crisp late October morning witnessed a flock of Wayfarers (genus: birota peregrinensis), resplendent in their autumn plumage, gather on the telegraph lines of their usual North Cheam roost. At the sound of the starting horn, off they soared, their instinct taking them, unerringly though circuitously, through the confusing to some, backways of SW London to their mid-morning watering spot of the Elleray Hall at Teddington. Grateful thanks to a determined Norman who headed the flock to its destination. A nominal novice ‘leader’ kept a respectful distance, shepherded by the ever watchful Lynda to the rear of the group.

At Elleray Hall the flock doubled in size, each member having its number tag duly checked on arrival, before being allowed its reward of tea and cake. With all refreshed, an imperious Pam called ‘time’ and the chattering flock reassembled, splitting into sub-groups each now with a destination of its own.

The genus ‘alpha’ sped off, this time headed by a perhaps over-enthusiastic and definitely inexperienced pioneer, who really had little idea where he was going, or rather how reliably to get there. Soon the flower beds of Bushy Park gave way to the filter beds of Sunbury and so along the house-boated banks of the Thames to Shepperton. Fate decreed that respite was needed and John A. duly punctured. Frank, as ever the rock, remained to supervise the repair and guide the victim back on route. The damage to the innertube alas proved terminal. Off again to spin around the single helix bridge across the M25 to the wonderful Nutty Lane, where the ‘leader’ disappeared to leave some of the flock in doubt about its left or right – a serious misdemeanour! From then a scoot through Charlton, Ashford (brief stop to check the compass and take advice), Ashton Moor, a well advised off-road diversion to avoid near certain death in crossing the M25 near T5 and a welcome arrival at the Five Bells, Horton.

A nourishing lunch enjoyed by most, not all, before a hasty photo-call (apologies to the missing half of Adam), remount and back through Wraysbury (familiar to last Sunday’s Cheam & Morden ride). Then back through Staines along the B376 to Shepperton where a very early tea was taken before the flock dispersed, each finding its own way back to its home coop. The distance perch to perch a modest 59 miles.

As for that probationary test ride, this time I fear no pass certificate. The provisional licence remains, no date yet fixed for any retest.

P.S. Remember, this was the last Wednesday before the clocks go back. Dust off those lights, recharge those batteries and fit them on the bike , not leave them in the shed, before you get caught out!

Jeff

Interesting Bikes

Interesting Bikes from John Gould

Easy Riders Oct 22nd

Picture from Mike Pontin

The Man soon 2 be from WogaWoga

To the author of that dastardly trype and water closits, I say what good humour you have. I have to admit I hardly noticed the reference to FWC, never having heard of one. I've heard of FWC and MWC even Unisex, its amazing what you learn in the Blog.
Have a great "F" in ride and may the best man or woman win!

Alberts Progress

The doc told me yesterday I need another op soon (Nov.14) to fix the job they did on my right eye and he ordered `no cycling pro tem. Hope I`ll be able to see you before Christmas!!

All the best----------------Albert

Open Letter to Mr Disgusted of Wogawoga

Dear Mr Dundee (or should that be Carrot Cake?)

I was most distressed to read of your perturbation at finding yourself unavailable for the Midweek Wayfarer's sporting Freewheel Competition on 29 October 2008. I quite appreciate your sense of grief at missing such a highlight of the cycling calendar. For the March '08 event I too was 'hors de combat' and experienced just those same pangs of grief that you are suffering - inconsolable as at that first lost love. Indeed, I read on these very pages of your undaunted enthusiasm and repeated efforts, alas in vain, to be crowned with laurel and designated the undisputed king of the effortless downhill. How you were so cruelly denied, at first by an agricultural engine of nemesis - and then by a fateful lack of length and distance, outstripped by the unconquerable Terry.

Your only recourse now, I feel, is a Letter to the Editor of the Sou'Wester.

Your sight, however, how can I put this gently, may be suffering the early,rheumy symptoms of those youthful (and maybe later), excesses. For if you pull out your eyeglass, there on the centrefold of the Sept/Oct 2008 edition of the Sou'Wester, is the proclamation on 29 October of a modestly bracketed (FWC) at Dorking, with an invitation to the Easy Riders to participate and show that the hare does not always win. This information was also transferred to the Current Runs List flaunted on the Home Page of the Group.

As for the reason for a bonus freewheel competition in 2008, I have heard it darkly murmured that the regulatory oversight of the FSA was not everything that it should have been - these bonus rides have been getting really out of hand! However, I am reliably informed that a ruthless new Rides Secretary has been brought in from the Private Sector who will tolerate no such laxity. Rules are there to be obeyed. No more bonus rides, no gravy train, no second chances! The days of austerity have come and they are here to stay!

I am sure that you will welcome a firm hand on the tiller.

I hope that these words have enlightened and reassured you. Think of us from down under on 29 October 2008 and wish us well.

Happy Birthday

Jeff

Free Wheel Contest 29 Oct 2008

I protest. No one is allowed to fix a competition like this on my Birthday without informing me first! Its not printed in the Sou'Wester or flagged up anywhere that I can see. I happened to notice by chance as I look at the MWW Blog that the ride to Dorking 11's on 29/10/2008 incorporates the said event or am I seeing things. As we have already had an event this year what precedent is there for having a second one or does it usually happen in October and last year did not take place? If thats the case and we missed last year then we should wait untill October 2009 for the next one. Its not fair as I see it that Terry should keep the trophy for only a few months (unless of course he wins it again). The main reason for my concern is that as I shall be in OZ I don't get a chance to compete and maybe even win? After all this is not like the Olympics, its the taking part that counts, this is serious stuff and is all about winning!!

Well I guess I have to treat myself to cakes then, have a good speedy free wheel.

For those that did not see the KPRC Blog Jackie and I had a good 2-up Gentlemans ride on Sunday 19 Oct.

http://www.kingstonphoenix.blogspot.co.uk/2008/10/redmon-gentlemans-2-up.html
http://www.kingstonphoenix.blogspot.co.uk/2008/10/more-redmon-2-up.html

Memory of Jura 2008

To John Scott. Thanks for the memory. Just to let you know after our chat on Wednesday at Edenbridge, I had not realised that after all my efforts to write your R-RW CD, that it did not work. I have now written a new non rewritable CD which I will get to you somehow before going to OZ. Its a compilation of Pam/Ian/MJM photo's. Will try and get Frank and Francois 2u later. Meanwhile a collage 4u. Best wishes for happy cycling in 2009.

Easy Riders Oct 15th

C group met at Claygate day centre. Apparently, Albert has had his eye operation - get well soon. Beryl, has made a good recovery after having her knee operation. Out cycling last week; but due to a bad cold not yesterday.
18 riders left the centre and headed towards Oxshott, a little off-road, then coming out by The Tilt. Charles, got a puncture, seems it was a piece of wire; but didn't have a correct new innertube . So, Liz offered to go into Cobham and get an appropriate tube from the cycling shop there. Eddie waited with Charles, and the rest of the group made their way to Bookham, through the Common and then onto lunch at The Anchor. We made our way back to Leatherhead, and went to the Day centre at Longmead. Four of us had tea, the remainder made their way home.
Lynda.

Cycle Parking at the Brunton Centre - Caterham - and Elsewhere

At our visit to the Douglas Brunton Centre at Caterham yesterday, the Centre Manager pointed out that some of our cycle parking was creating a bit of an obstacle for some of the visitors to the Centre. She was concerned in particular about the railed off pathway leading to the main entrance. She has therefore asked, in the kindest of ways, that we try to avoid parking our bikes in this area, where they might be a possible hazard for visitors with balance or vision difficulties, or possibly in a wheelchair. This seems very reasonable and sensible and I said that I would bring her concern to our riders' attention. On our next visit she will designate an area for us. I took one or two photos to illustrate her concerns.

I'm sure that we will be very happy to cooperate. As so many of our 11's stops are at day centres for the elderly, we will no doubt show the same consideration for elderly users at the other centres that we visit.

I should perhaps say that not only the Douglas Brunton Centre but all those that we vist have said how pleased and delighted they are to have us visit and share facilities with their regular users!

Jeff

Edenbridge Lunch

Thanks to Pete for leading the ride and to Ed for puncturing and to Toni de I for waiting for him. A few of the "A" group at the Queens Head where the food was very good and the wait excruciating. The "B" group also joined for lunch and Bernard's looked the most amazing and very tempting. I wish I was rich! Jeff's Liver and Bacon was also excellent as was my soup, John B's chips and the non descript Chili con (non) Carne that I finished off. You poor tight man Mike M you're Barmy! (where have I heard that B4).

P.S. On enquiring from John Scott, if we were to be treated to another Jura ride next year, he replied that he will be very busy in 2009!

A Group October 15th

Mild & Dampish was the weather at Caterham as we moved off in a southerly direction down White Hill & Brewer Street where todays puncture victim was Ed Sharp, Mike M & Tony D' stopped to admire Ed's repair technique allowing the rest to move on via damp lanes to lunch at The King & Queen Edenbridge. We arrived in good time at 12.45 but due to the altra slow service the last person to receive his meal was John B! at 14.30! During this lengthy lunch break new comer Graham Holder held up well enduring an indepth personal enquirery session from John S, Ian A, Tony D', scoring especially well in the box marked early retirement! Welcome Graham come again.
A devious lane route mystified most including the leader found us at Marden Park & Tea at Woldingham Garden Centre in time for tea and scones etc. at 4.15 (they close at 4.30) the afternoon had brightened considerably and a pleasant tailwind ride home finished the day.
56 Miles, 1 Puncture, Nobody dropped or lost.
From Pete Mitchell

Thorn Bike for Sale

Thorn Raven Tour with 14 speed Rohloff speed hub. Large frame (587L) V brakes Flat bars with micro bar ends Satin Black Dyno front hub and many other extras Datatracked equipped (transferable) Purchased Feb’07 £1800 less than 1000 miles – will accept £1300 Contact Neil 07768991624

Punctures in the last year

http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=psD27vgjyjekK1FSycDY6Hg

Wayfarers puncture chart

The Mark Roy Trophy

Arthur Jessop Trophy

The Arthur Jessop Trophy awarded by a majority vote at the AGM
to Stephen Cox in appreciation to his help over the last two years

B Group Oct 8th

B Group set off from Hersham with a total of 15 riders - Judy, Liz, Stephanie, Francoise, Frank, John S., Norman, Cliff, Nev, Harry, David, two Scots Colin and Andy, John G. as back-marker (Thank-you) and me, Gill, as leader. We headed off towards Esher, turning at the top of the hill to take the road at the back of Sandown Park - a lovely downhill run - across to Weston Green (where we lost Nev - too close to home), then down to Summer Road, Thames Ditton. Here we turned left to cross the Hampton Court Way at the level crossing. At this point there was a slight wait while Norman picked up a book he was carrying which had fallen on to the railway lines - luckily no trains were in sight! Still on Summer Road we crossed the Mole and Ember Rivers before turning into Walton Road at Molesey to reach The Bell (Circa 1460) in Bell Road. Terry joined us here, having been held up due to secretarial duties. Lunch was rather a protracted affair - our numbers had increased to 20 due to the addition of a small contingent from C Group and being such a fine day the pub was busy with other customers. However, it was all very pleasant sitting in the sun in the garden and when it came, the food was good. (The menu is extensive and reasonably priced. Also there were special deals of 2 main meals for £8 or pie and chips with a pint of beer for £4.99.) After lunch we headed to the towpath on the R. Thames for the afternoon's ride to Teddington and thence into Richmond Park at Ham Gate - a lovely ride on such a perfect autumn day. Our numbers dwindled as we went and by the time we reached the cafe at Roehampton Gate there were just 9 of us to enjoy another break in the sunshine before heading our various ways home. (Gill Finlay)

AGM at Hersham 8 October 08

1. Wayfarers at the AGM at Hersham under the steadying hand of Chairman Pete and Secretary Terry.

2. A bracing cup of tea before the event.

3. Toni receiving his just reward (and an unpublished kiss) for going the extra mile.

4. The 'A' Group being regally entertained to tea by Beryl and Ray.

'A' Ride

Beryl is saying " Hope you can all find your right shoes".

A group agm ride 8th Oct

A casual ride on a very nice bright day for fourteen of us leaving the AGM from Hersham. It was the great distance of 5 miles to the Foley Arms at Claygate via West End and Blackhills at which point Graham deserted us (bad lad! after all the entreaties at the AGM) to reappear approx 1 ml before the Foley arms. After a leisurely lunch a very concerned host enquired whether we had been adequately served, we in full chorus assured her that we had, in fact we had also been given a great welcome.

We now made our way in warm sunshine to our residence for 3's that my wife Beryl had planned ( this was by mobile to me whilst at 11's ). So off to Fetcham another great distance approx 9 miles using a mixture of offroad and tarmac some private via Oxshott and Bookham common.

The use again of the 'mobile' assured us of well prepared refresments by Beryl for 11 of us on arrival. There was a pleasant sojourn with entertainment supplied by Graham's CD of Pam's party. With thanks to Beryl and even to myself I having done little, each went their own way.

My total miles 22.34, which I enjoyed and hope likewise by all others.

News from Gerry Hulbert

This a first,I always enjoy the newsletters, helps keep me updatedwith one part of my life in the U K.Just thought i would run this past you, somthing different what, let me know what you think,regards to all, (that might remember me) Gerry Hulbert. Dingo. Well, here we go again, another shot at the Thailand newsletter. For 2008 (sep)Firstly, Baby Poppy Ella Moore entered our world on 19th sep 08 at around 4am weighing in at 8 pounds 3 ounces, mother an baby doing well. So exited when I saw her first Grandchild. Onward, Arrived on 20 sep after a comfortable flight, still take xanex to sleep the flight, works every time, breeze through costoms, dispite the unrest in the civil servis, in Bangkok, Bus from the Airport to central Pattaya, 110 BT, properly my best value in Thailand, motorbike Taxi to hotel Holiday mansions, 60 BT, Pan has booked us a room, so a quiet night visiting a few old haunts then early to bed,. Pay 700bt for the room. Mam, Johns wife picks us up in the morning around 10 am, and it so of to our rented house 7km out of town, I pick up our scooter and computer from johns house, so we are set up in our home in Pattaya, do a quick shop and its round the pool for drinks and nibbles, the roads are becoming busy in town but its lov,l and quiet out here, as this is the 2nd year we have had use of the house, things are familier,Its hot and sunny here at the moment around 100 degrees, and its monsoon season so some serious rain at times most welcome, Sunday went to Mick’s bar to watch the soccer Chelsea and man u then golf Ryder cup a bit disappointing, so home by 4am, borrow old Johns car and drive up to our house in the village, TY Parrier, about 5 hours to get there, the house is nearly finished, and Pan and the children are living there when I am away in London, and Pan has had the wall built around the estate in my absence, to keep the hens and the dogs out, but me need a sliding gate to finish it off, also some curtains and more furniture, so looking to that next. No air con in the village as yet pick up our rice, and slow cookers ect plus my golf clubs stay one night make a list of the next part of the project, and who is available for work, we have spent a month or so there painting and plastering, last trip, Plus all the floors and walls are tiled, as required, Over the 12 years or so I have been coming here, I have made up a wide circle of friends, some of which come and go like me and some who stay permanently, and of course they are from all over the world, so its great fun to touch base and catch up on what’s been happening, I always play Bridge once or twice a week, its held at the bowling club in the afternoons a nice air conditioned room, and a good mix of both sexes. Well that’s all for now, will write again soon. Dingo.

A Group 1 October 08

After a dry but blustery day, the Windswept Wayfarers take tea at the Denbies Tropicarium

A Group Oct 1st

After the squall we had earlier on, the day turned out bright and sunny, without rain. Before setting out, we had a roll call of walking wounded, Ray had knee trouble, Ian had a dodgy ankle, and Grant was under the weather with a cold. Also present and relatively able bodied were Brian, Will, Frank C, Mike, Vic, John G, John S, Pete M, Pete B, Jeff, Toni, Graham, John B, Simon and Ed.
We were hardly out of the starting blocks before we lost Ian, though despite sore ankle he turned up later at lunch. We also lost Brian to the first puncture of the day. Other early finishers were Pete B, Ray, Grant and Frank C, who left at lunch for a date at Hyde Park Corner as timekeeper for the tandem trike 12 hour/ Lands End – London record attempt. Our route took us due South to Effingham, then it was a steady climb from there up Critten Lane before emerging at the top of White Down. Conditions had dried out by then, so the descent of White Down was trouble free. Then we went along Raikes Lane, past the Volunteer pub, and up into Holmbury St Mary. After that it was downhill into Forest Green, through Walliswood before arriving at Rowhook and the Chequers Inn for lunch (decent food but a tad pricey according to some). Just short of lunch, John s had our second puncture, but at least it was close to the pub.
After lunch, our return led through Okewoodhill and up Weare Street, through Capel and into Newdigate. From there it was the usual thrash back into Dorking, though John G and John S missed the turn into Punchbowl Lane, but found their way along the A24 to tea at Denbies, where Jen joined us for a cuppa. I covered 59 miles in all. Rob

B Group Oct 1st

Pictures from Bernard

Group B - 1.10.2008 Consisting of- Bernard, Liz, Roger, Norman, Andrew, Adam, Harry, David, Godfry, Alan, Robin, and Welcome to a new member Marion Putland. Set off southwards to Horsley Road , then left straight through Effingham, and up Beach Avenue, Left along Ranmore Common. Past the church right onto a track, left to stop for the fine view and photos. Down through Denbies vineyard to cross the A24, then along Pixham Lane A25 and Coach Road to Brockham Common for lunch at The Dukes Head, when there was a light shower, and Deanna arrived having mislaid us at the start. There was no great enthusiasm to ride over Box Hill, so we reversed tracks to the A24, then to Leatherhead. Six pressed on to Epsom for tea at the Tasty Pasty Café, and five back to North Cheam . Our thanks to Bernard for the blogg photos, and Norman guiding us through the back streets and parks of Ashtead and Epsom. Cheers Robin.

Pams Party Pictures

Happy Birthday Pam from all your Fans

Easy Riders Oct 1st

Easy Riders There were nine of us to start Lynda, Roger, Harold, Mark, John, Dennis, Bill , Fuzz and myself, and we gained a couple more at lunch time. Fuzz set off to make his own way, seeking a flatter route than the one I had planned. We were making our way to West Horsley through the lanes, via Martyrs Green (home of The Black Swan), Hatchford, Guileshill Lane, Hungry Hill and the Jury Farm Estate. We arrived at the King William IV West Horsley where we were joined here by Fuzz who had found a "lost" Stephnie on the way, and Brian. We enjoyed a good lunch and were very well looked after in spite of the fact that the staff were dealing with a very large luncheon party. It rained while we were lunching, but the sun was shining again by the time we were ready to set out again. After lunch we made our way to East Horsley following the track alongside the railway. After that we took the fairly recently opened cycle track through the Great Ridings Woods to Effingham, and then to Leatherhead where some looked for tea while others simply went home. Mike W

Sunday at Brooklands

A selection from Brooklands on Sunday

A&B Groups Sept 24th

This week's ride was scheduled to be a combined A & B one. However, despite the light rain weather forecast, there were in the region of 30 enjoying the tea and cakes at Redhill instead of the normally sparse group we get heading south. Too many to safely take on the road as one group, so, after a quick conference, it was agreed that Pete B should set off first with a predominately A group of 16 whilst Norman kindly volunteered to follow up with a predominately B group a discrete distance behind. Taking the cycle path out past the hospital and then lanes to Wasp Green and Outwood windmill, Toni gave us a demonstration of his bike handling skills by going in and out of a tramlinelike crack in the middle of the road without falling off. Across to touch the A22 and a climb up the foothills of Tilburstow before dropping down to Crowhurst and taking Gibbs Brook Lane and Hall Hill to reach Oxted. Unfortunately new man John (of the Belle Vue) touched wheels and came down. However, as this was right outside the Wetherspoons, he was soon able to lubricate his wounds. Lunch was served quickly (apart from the bar staff having to send out a search party to find the leader's ciabata) and we had just started eating when Norman and the B's arrived having followed a similar if not identical route. The afternoon started with the climb up Tandridge Hill Lane (or walk as some of us preferred) and then along to Botley Hill and the glorious drop down Beddlestead and Featherbed Lanes (provided you forget about the leg breaking 1 in 6 Hesiers Hill in between of course). The rain was returning as we climbed Gravel Hill before stopping for a welcome cup of tea at the cafe in the park just over the top. Fortunately the rain had stopped by the restart and so in was into the traffic of Croydon and Mitcham Common with riders peeling off at their preferred points.
62 miles for the leader and a stirling 78 for Frank C.

A Group September 24

The A Group, damp but not dispirited, after tea at the Pond Tea Rooms near Addington Hills. Leader Pete for some reason sporting the colours of Romania and Rob still waiting for the sun to come out. After some of the foot-hills that our leader teased us with, I think we should call him Sherpa Pete. No doubt more graphic details to follow.

Easy Riders Sept 24th

Albert is waiting a date for his eye operation so will not be out for a few weeks. So here is an account of today's ride.

Phil, our leader, started off from Teddington Day Centre, followed by 14 riders. Mike & Mary, Eddie; 1st time out ( Saturday rider), Dave, Roger, Bill H. Fuzz, Les J., Mark, Charles, Dennis, Harold and myself (Lynda). We did a few left and right turns, on cycle paths, waterways, over bridges, canals, heading for Brent. After a few miles we lost the back 3 en (a very complex) route. It turns out Harold had got a puncture. Nevertheless, onwards we went, a very interesting, picturesque route passed Syon Park to Hanwell Lock. Phil told us there were 9 locks that way. By the time we got to lunch, 11 of us enjoyed a very satisfying, cheap lunch at Brent Valley golf club. Mine, totalled £3.80! - and that was a fresh bacon and egg sandwich and half a guinness. We came back towards Otterley and stopped for afternoon tea at Tesco's. I clocked 45mls. (More details of the route from Phil).

Lynda.

Pams Progress & Eds Goodwood Delight

First 2 pics show Pam on way to recovery at WS Stains on Tue 16sept.(sorry 4 delay due computer failure)

Above 2 pics are u know who and Ed at Goodwood Revival. Lots of old bikes and VCC types their too. Ed was in his element not with the Jag but and F50 Ferrarrie. He looked so smart in his blue suit and brown suade shoes

Woking on Monday Sept 22nd

Here are some pictures I took in Woking yesterday------------Albert

A Selection from Charles

C Group having fun from Charles Barraball

Note from Albert

Sorry Pete and all eager readers of the blog; I can just about manage this keyboard so for the next two or three weeks I will have to hang up my bicycle clips as i have a couple of appointments to take the cataracts out of my eyes. According to friends in the same boat, it works OK so watch this space and please keep your fingers crossed!===============Albert

Brooklands

VETERAN CYCLE RACEDAY
Sunday 28th September
A fantastic morning of veteran and other pedal power
at the Museum and on the MBWorld circuits. Including
races for PENNY-FARTHINGS, SOLID-TYRE BICYCLES,
SINCLAIR C-5s;
PLUS: see your local Postie race his mates on their
famous red-and-white machines
Displays and Action from 9am to 12 Noon
PLUS: stay on and see the Benjafields Racing Club
who will be arriving at lunchtime with a
mouth-watering collection of VINTAGE BENTLEYS

Pam's Do

The pub in Egham where my celebration is on the 27th Sept. Once known as 'The Railway' but now renamed 'al ma ma ta'. I believe this means secret garden. Full address being 40 Station Road, Egham, TW20 9LF. Information that could be helpful is that the trains from Egham go to Waterloo via Clapham Junction. From Pam

Easy Riders Sept 17th

Picture from Albert

Eight of us started out from Weybridge in mild weather but rather overcast until the sun showed itself in the afternoon. Ron was leading with Bill H., Mike and Mary on tandem, Mark, Roger, Dennis, Harold and me. Lunch was to be at The Bells,Staines. At The Quadrant we turned right to cross the old bridge and on to Poets Corner. At the railway crossing gates in Addlestone we turned right and at the roundabout near St. George`s College we went via the cyclepath up Woburn Hill then down into Chertsey Meads with a right turn over Chertsey bridge, Laleham Thamesside, then the towpath all the way to Staines. It is a good pub with quick service in a quiet backwater. Afterwards we followed the same route as far as Chertsey Bridge where we turned left to Shepperton for tea. No hills or mud (great). Thanks Ron also Lynda for stepping in last week when I was away----------------Albert

Woking on Monday Sept 22nd

Woking celebrates Cycling Town status

Residents and businesses in Woking will be encouraged to start thinking about using pedal power instead of petrol from next Monday (22 September) when a new initiative called `Cycle Woking' is formally launched at The Lightbox.
A special programme of events has been organised by Woking Borough Council and Surrey County Council following their joint success in securing £1.82 million from Cycling England to be spent on improving cycling facilities in the area.
The competition for this funding was fierce, with 74 towns and cities bidding for the £47 million available under the Cycling City, Cycling Towns programme. Woking was one of only ten towns, plus one city, to have successfully achieved the funding and the title of Cycling Town for the next three years.
To celebrate this achievement and to tell people more about the councils' plans for the future, The Lightbox will be hosting a free bicycle-themed exhibition on Monday (when the gallery is usually closed).
The formal completion of the first phase of improvement works to the Basingstoke Canal towpath will take place in the presence of a group of local cyclists who are keen to take advantage of the improved facility.
From 2.30pm onwards, members of the public will have the chance to look around the exhibition, complete with bicycles from across the ages and accompanying riders in period costume.
Displays showing what improvements the councils hope to make to the cycle network in the future will be also be available for people to view.

B Group Sept 17th

Lunch at The Fox and Hounds

I was the sub for Gill, she is terribly conscientious and rides her routes before the event. I just use the map which means some hesitations from time to time. Owing to one of these hesitations John M and I nearly collided head on! We were a large group - 18 - viz Cliff, Francoise, Frank, Harold, John B, John G, John M, Judy, Les, Liz, Nev, Norman, Phil, Robin, Roger, Stephanie, Terry and yours truly. It meant it was hard for us to stay together through a set of lights etc. After a 30 minute wait for Liz to do her eye make-up we set off through Chertsey, immaculately kept Wentworth Golf Course (British Ladies Championship today), past the Roman Temple and into Virginia Water by the Blacknest Gate. Then 2 or 3 lovely miles through Windsor Great Park past the Guards Polo fields to a nice pub by the Bishopsgate entrance called The Fox and Hounds. The food was really quite good and it even had crisply laundered linen napkins. Les had the swordfish as the nearest approximation to gammon! After lunch to Egham including a grotty bit along the A30. Over Staines Bridge and another lovely stretch, this time by the river. At Laleham on to the Shepperton Road to The Bakery at Shepperton. Frank and Francoise competed to see who could choose the more calorific cake (Frank won). We then went various ways. I caught the train at Walton and met up with an Easy Rider whose name I've forgotten. We enjoyed our shared journey to Waterloo from where I met Luisa after work and we cycled home together. So my stats were 64.14 miles,11.19 mph average speed, 29.36 mph max. I would guess it was 45-50 miles from North Cheam Regards Bernard

A Group Sept 17th

After last weeks mystery ride this weeks mystery seemed to be who would lead as Graham is in Scotland & Pam nominated to stand in is indisposed! So I volunteered on the sure belief that this week i wouldn't be lost by the leader. Around fourteen left Weybridge including three new names to me, so welcome to Paul, Colin & Andy. A pleasant tail wind assisted us through Chertsey, Thorpe, Egham resisting the urge to call in Pam's across the path at Runneymeade to Old Windsor, Datchet to lunch at "The Pineapple" Dorney. huge sandwiches found several struggling to clear their plates. The cycle path along the Jubilee River back to Eton under the constant flow of landing planes for Heathrow picking up Bob emerging from Wetherspoons in Staines on to "Watsons" at Shepperton in time to witness the departure of B Group having just finished tea and cakes. Home via various alleys and back roads From Pete Mitchell

News from Pam

To-day I received an envelope addressed to Lady Pamela Jones!!!
Mystified - I opened it to find a get well card signed by many of my club friends. It gave me a huge lump in my throat and I really don't know how to thank you all. I am truly touched by your kindness - THANK YOU,THANK YOU - I shall be back on my bike a.s.a.p!!
My next appointment at the fracture clinic is 8th October for another X-ray, and in the meantime ?? Maybe more days like to-day when Bob, Will and Mike came to Egham and we all had a very merry lunch time in Staines Weatherspoons!
Happy cycling all, Pam :) :)

Easy Riders 10 September 08

A Wealth of Experience Ready to set off from the Fairfield Centre, Leatherhead

Facing the Camera with a Smile with Leader Lynda!

From Graham Hill

No nights off and nearly full last and next weekends means G and G have been busy. The weather has been unsettled; normally the local river, the Bowmont, is 150 yards away but by last Saturday evening it was but 25 yards from, but no risk to the hostel. And G's night was disturbed as the chopper lifted five walkers off from the top of the valley. Today things were almost back to normal so it was time for a ride through puddles past lakes that weren't there last week. The bridge at Clifton a mile down the road was still being repaired as we past on the way to Morebattle. After crossing the Teviot on a suspension bridge, we turned left to Nisbet and up the hill past the Waterloo Monument to Maxton. A back road signposted Benrig Cemetery was our St Bothwells bypass. First left after the Tweed crossing led us steeply uphill to Sir Walter Scott's favourite view of the Tweed meandering beneath the Eildon Hills. From there it was flat to Smailholm and then a gentle descent into Kelso where the hostel's takings were banked, and refreshments savoured in The Square. A ride along the riverbank beside the swollen Tweed led to the new Kelso bridge and thence backroads to the hostel on a route well signposted by the local council - about 44 miles
The Warden (Graham)
Kirk Yetholm SYHA Hostel,

Easy Riders Sept 10th

Due to Albert being away in Belgium for a holiday; here is the write-up on 'Ding ding day'.

Well, it was fun participating in 'Ding day', even if nobody else knew about it!

There were quite a few at 11's in Leatherhead; but on the ride were Lynda, Liz, Sonia, Roger, Fuzz, Bill H, Mike W, Mark, Harold and back marker, Charles. Jeff and Allan came part way but left before our lunch stop.

From the day centre we made our way over the footbridge towards Ashtead, down Skinners Lane across the green to Ashtead station and into Ashtead Common. We took the left fork and made our way round to Stew Ponds car park. Out of the Common we turned left to Malden Rushett. Every time we passed a cyclist we did a very tuneful 'ding ding' and occasionally we got one back.

We made our way past Chessington World of Adventures to Bridge Rd roundabout, where we turned left towards Claygate. Over the A3 bridge we turned right into Long Ditton and Thames Ditton. We had lunch at Ye Olde Swan in Thames Ditton. A good selection of main meals for £5. We sat outside by the river.

After lunch we continued into Hampton Court, over the bridge and down to the towpath to Kingston - more response of 'dings' along the towpath. Liz counted at least 3! After Liz, Fuzz and Harold left, the rest of us made our way to Teddington still along the towpath. We went through Teddington town and round into Bushy Park. Back to Hampton Court, where 5 of us remaining enjoyed afternoon tea and cake at my favourite cafe '5 at the bridge'.

We had a very interesting conversation of Mark's stories on homeopathic medicine. Roger and Bill left after tea and Sonia, Charles and myself made our way towards Chessington and Epsom/Cheam/Worcester Park. Just as we were passing Squires at Long Ditton two fellers passed by on bikes - and as we did our 'ding ding', one of them said, 'Ding day'! At last, someone knew about it!

Maybe it will catch on next year. Did anyone play the game in London?
Lynda.

Mystery Ride Sept 10th

22 Riders assembled at North Cheam for Bob Starey’s mystery ride. A common talking point was what was the £2 we were asked to bring for? No 11s was stated a very interesting route had most people mistified . The river Wandle was identified , Tooting Bec Common, Clapham Common, The Oval Cricket Ground, and finally stopping at The London Fire Brigade Museum for a visit and the £2 now became obvious. A very interesting guided tour took nearly two hours leaving quite a few tummys gentle rumbling at the lack of 11s! On to a latish lunch at Tower Bridge Wetherspoons “Pommelers Arms”. After the Mystery intensified as we lost the leader within minutes of leaving but with the help of Harry & Frank we managed to pass The London Eye, Lambeth Bridge, Battersea Power Station, Chelsea Bridge, Battersea Park, Wandsworth Prison, Wandsworth Common, A Memorial to The Clapham Rail Disaster, Wmbledon Stadium, and on to tea at Abbey Mills Merton
From Pete M
One Slow Puncture to Judy was attended to by her travelling mechanic when neccessary

B Group Sept 3rd

B Group Ride 3 September 08
Cliff led a group of seventeen from Cobham on a fresh morning including, Godfrey Terry Harry John G Liz Beattie Bernard Gill Judy Les Colin Reg Robin DavidPhil and another John, heading for Okewood Hill,the Punchbowl, or the Gatton Manor Golf Club or the Scarlet Arms at Walliswood, so much for good intentions!!

All went wellout through Stoke D'Abernon and Leatherhead also up and over the hill in Punchbowl Lane Dorking and into Henfold Lane. At the nasty Henfold Hill a bang indicated that Bernard had snapped his chain. Just as we had decided or agreed to abandon him to his own devices Terry produced a plastic coated package which after a struggle he opened to reveal some spare links which fortunately were the right size. In the circumstances Cliff made a management decision and sent the majority of the party on to the pub in Capel to get ahead with food orders, the rest of us staying "to help". Okewood Hill was abandoned!

On arrival at the pub later the "repair" party was informed by a dejected group that there was no food as the chef had departed.Liz didn't seem too bothered as she was esconced in the garden in the sun with her normal tipple a large glass of Merlot.

Whilst a discussion was held as to where we could go, the landlady arrived and announced that she would cook and in what seemed a remarkably short time we were all enjoying lunch,all except Harry that is as he was last served after ordering what he thought would be the qiickest item on the menu, a sandwich!

Our return took us back up to Denbies where we decided to take tea in leatherhead instead. On our climb up the hill into town another chain went, this time it was Godfreys.He was despatched to the bike shop at the top of the hill where we assume he got it fixed as we didn't see him again. Tea was taken at Fannies by seven or eight of us bfore splitting for home I clocked 50 miles.

Easy Riders Sept 3rd

Another month and still some sunny weather when we met at Cobham. Roger was leading and our lunch was to be at The New Inn at Send. We took a well travelled route up Plough Lane, Martyr`s Green, the Ockham Road with some hilly bits until we reached the Send Road and the short ride past parked lorries before crossing the old Portsmouth Road and entering the lane which terminates with the pub. I just wish we could find a route with less than three maps to cover it! Our group consisted of Mark, Fuzz, Lynda, Sonia, John C., Charles, Dave, Dennis, Harold (who had a puncture but caught up with us), Mike, Bill H., myself and of course Roger in the lead. I am sure there were fifteen all told but the other names escape me. Lynda passed around a `get well` card to send Beryl who is in hospital with a knee job (bless her). She has always been a regular with our group and we look forward to seeing her well again soon. I forgot to bring my camera and my efforts to get a decent shot with my mobile were pretty feeble, so no attachments this time. Tea was to be at Cobham but I peeled off home when we left Papercourt Lane. I`ll be in Belgium next Wednesday so I`ll see you in a couple of weeks---------------------Albert

News of Mick Anderson

Several people have enquired about Mick Anderson
Mick came out of Hospital yesterday and 'phoned me yesterday evening. He thanks us all for the card and kind wishes, he was very grateful. He has been really very ill but hopefully is now on the mend. He will not be dancing or cycling for a while yet, but is already talking about cycling. I said not even to think about it, let alone do it. He says when he feels better he will only do very short rides anyway I thought I would let you know as soon as I could and if you see any of the others before Saturday he is happy about people knowing, I know he would appreciate phone calls (0208 391 0908)

News from Angie

A Group Sept 3rd

Mid Week Report A Group Frank Cubis 3rd Sept I should know by now, not to take the weather forecast as gospel, what should have been a showery day turned out beautiful. There was no rush from the British Legion at Cobham as I had planned a mere 15 mile ride to Sunningdale for lunch due to the forecast. We headed west up Pains Hill and the not very pleasant Byfleet Road. With the Olympics fresh in the memory of myself, we had an 18 man team pursuit along the A245 comprising of Grant, Tony d, Ed, Pete M, Pete B, Pam, David, Julian, Will, Vic, Bob, John B, Neil, John S, Ray and Don, all the way to Chobam, where a little hic-up found us heading for Castle Green, a quick chat with Vic, a u-turn, and on our way again along the Windsor Road, a short detour up Steep Hill and Valley Road brought us to Chobham Road, down to the A30 at Sunningdale, a left and right into Broomhall Lane and the High Street to lunch at The Nags Head, although there were now 17 in number we were warmly welcomed and can recommend the food, Mike Morley met up with us there after having spent a few hours with toilet problems, (not him personally, but the little room) After a leisurely lunch it was back on the bikes, along London Road & Blacknest Road to the A30 at Virginia Lodge, left and right along the B389, then left into Stroude Lane to Thorpe Lea and Staines to the precinct and the Bakers Oven were they serve the best iced buns in Surrey. From there members rode in different directions home, and I, a mere 56 miles.

Pams Party

I (Pam) would love you all to come to THE RAILWAY pub (next to Build Centre with orange coloured sign), in EGHAM, 40 STATION RD. TW20 9LF Saturday 27th September, 6pm onwards for my house warming! Also to celebrate becoming a Great Grandmother! And yes - it's true, I do have a birthday, but PLEASE no gifts, just your selves! Lot's of grub prepared by my niece and music mostly 60's - 80's. NOW, if one feels inclined, PLEASE - dress up!!!!! Dig deep into your wardrobes!
Car parking is large car park opposite the station just a few shops from the pub which has not got a car park but has parking for Bicycles!!
My phone number 01784 436389 mobile 07900335256 See you there :) :) :)