B's Christmas lunch

Tony..

For SALE Ridgeback Electron S2 Ebike

Purchased in January 2025 around 1000 ridden, lovely condition, one very careful owner. £900 BLACK FRIDAY SALE Now £600 or OVNO Please Contact Pam Jones by WhatsApp

(That is a real bargin!!)

Tony..

Specifications :Building on the tried and tested specification of the S1, the Electron S2 is a model that's ticked a few more boxes.
Features
Based around the same unisex frame design, the S2 uses Shimano's high powered E6100 drive unit, providing 60Nm of torque. This is especially useful when cycling in hillier areas or carrying extra luggage.
Not stopping there, the S2 comes with a larger capacity 500Wh battery, meaning you can achieve a range up to 150km depending on conditions.
Specifications
Frame and Forks
Frame: Alloy, Open Frame
Fork: Steel
Drivetrain
Cassette: Shimano 18 Tooth Nexus sprocket
Chain Set: Shimano STEPS FC-E6100 170mm 38T
Chain: KMC Z1EHX
Braking/Shifting
Brakes: Alhonga AHJ-OD7
Brake Levers: Alhonga AHJ-OD7
Shifters: Shimano Nexus SL-C3000-7 RevoShift
Wheels
Front Hub: KT TC6F 36 Hole
Rear Hub: Shimano SG-C3001-7 36 Hole
Rims: J19ZK 36 Hole
Spokes: Steel 14g
Tyres: CST Ampero 700x40c
Finishing Kit
Headset: FSA TH-805ST 1-1/8"
Handlebar: Alloy with 21mm rise 38 degree backsweep 620mm wide
Stem: Adjustable quill 90mm
Seat Post: Alloy 30.9 x 300mm
Battery Power
Motor: Shimano STEPS DU-E6100 60Nm 250W
Battery: Shimano BT-E6001 504wh
Charger: Shimano STEPS 2AH

These are a few of my favourite things - do join my 'A' group ride on Wednesday 3 December

Do join me at Cobham on Weds 3 December for a meander around just some of my favourite bits of route in the area, just possibly including some you may not know!   

This should eventually lead us to lunch at The Seven Stars at Pyrford, old 'A' group favourite.   The pub is under new ownership and has recently been refurbished.  Precise food orders aren't needed in advance, but you will need to indicate your likely general area of choice when booking (see https://thesevenstarsripley.co.uk/dining-pub-in-ripley/, just to make sure the pub has enough of the right things available!

It's 20 miles from elevenses to lunch, but the route can be shortened in the event of delay or bad weather.   Bearing in mind that we'll be within five minutes of the earliest sunset of the year, it's then just 10 miles back to tea at Squires, Hersham, or, for those with a pioneering spirit, nearby Whiteley Village Community Cafe (recently reopened).  The route is not entirely flat, but there are no big climbs and height gain is much less than for a typical 'A' ride.   We will use several paths, but all are surfaced (in one case, a concrete surface broken in a few places with gravel underneath), and no mud is expected.

Hopefully, it will be a ride of many surprises, and here's the first one - to book, you must fill in the online form at  https://forms.gle/y3DiG3RrSEbPX9MK7.    The booking form is mandatory and I will not be accepting bookings by e-mail at any stage, so please do not send me any e-mail booking requests.  The booking form will close at 6.00 pm on Monday 1 December, and no requests will be accepted after that time.

Remember, no group leaders, no ride, so, if you are willing to volunteer to lead a group from .gpx, please indicate this on the booking form.   All offers will be gratefully received!

The plan is that, if all goes well with this online booking experiment, I won't be sending out any confirmation e-mails.   Instead, on Tues 2 December,  I'll post a link to the list of groups and start times on the 'A 'group WhatsApp, and at the same time give  a separate link to a document with the .gpx route itself and route information.

'A' ride Wednesday 26th November 2025

 Sixteen had signed up, two dropped out due to illness (hope you're better Karl & Steve) before the off & when I arrived at Hawker YMCA Kingston, I saw Simon L attending a (slow) puncture.

After asking him if he needed any help &/or a hot drink (it was about 1°) I went inside to warm up, grab a coffee myself & greet my attendees for the day.

Dave V had very kindly offered to lead my other group & here is his report:

My group of seven, including Peter S as very visible back-marker (thanks Peter) Brian, Simon W, Richard, Guy and Dave W set off at 11am on a cold but windless day. The initial couple of miles along the Thames path to Richmond were a delight with riverside views in sparkling sunshine.

Thereafter we were on a mix of roads and traffic free paths. Andy’s route was intricate and although I hadn’t been able to recce, I had studied with Streetview or satellite image, and Andy’s notes of possible hazards.

In the morning mostly the roads were quiet, though the new (to me) cycle route across Kew Bridge appeared more hazardous than the road.

The A 40 crossing bridge at Perivale gave some nice views, where we could have paused for a photo, but I was anxious to press on. Horsenden Hill was climbed for the first time, and we arrived at the Ballot Box just after 12. 

The welcome was friendly and an ample lunch served promptly. Someone suggested visiting the Horsenden viewpoint, so we climbed again, eventually on foot, to discover that the trees had grown in the years since our last visit. Just time for a photo, and we were on the road around 1.30.

Image by Dave V

The return was a mixture of canal towpath, very nice too, and urban jungle where the Streetview recce proved invaluable. Safely across the A40 this time at street level, there was only the partially closed section of the Chiswick cycleway to negotiate.

Crossing Hammersmith Bridge by the new (to me) cycleway was a pleasure. Only two trains stopped us at the Vine Road level crossings, and we arrived at Roehampton Gate just before 3pm, in time for some to press on home in the light. The café welcomed four of my group where we met up with Andy’s group arriving shortly after.

 

My group (Sue C, Neil W, Patrick W, Clive J, Dave F) set off sans Simon L who using the close proximty of his home, set off to swap bikes.

It was easy riding along the Thames Path, initially under tree cover then opening out with the Star & Garter on the summit of Richmond Hill.

Originally a home for servicemen, it was sold in 2013 for £50 million to a property company.

We past Kew Gardens & rode across the bridge to join the C9 cycleway.

Going north on cycleway C40, it was pleasant riding, made easier these days with modern gps technology & route planning sites such as cycle.travel

Under the elevated M4 at Brentford & through South Ealing cemetery to cross the Piccadilly (Heathrow branch) Line just east of Northfields tube depot.

Remarkably, it was just after this, Simon L appeared from a side road to rejoin the ride on a nice blue machine.

Soon we were climbing Horsenden Hill to our lunch destination, The Ballot Box PH.

Image by Neil W

The budget arm of Greene King it certainly qualifies for a visit, £8 curry & soft drink, subs & chips £7-8 & indeed we were able to take advantage of an offer including £6 for a decent sized fish & chips!

'A few rungs lower than a Beefeater & with less character than a Wetherspoons' as described by https://diamondgeezer.blogspot.com/2024/07/the-ballot-box.html

Back over the hill but not before a picture in an area I recognised when walking the Capital Ring a few years ago.

I like canal riding in this part of London, the wildlife (was that a cormorant or a shag?), the nostalgic smells from the canal boats - diesel/oil & the warm buttery aroma from the McVities site where they produce 2,500 tons of biscuits a week!

Works on the towpath sent us onto a couple of floating pontoons on this stretch, a bit like the moving floor in the Haunted House, memories from the original Chessington Zoo!

 

Across the A40 Western Avenue's neverending traffic & noise at Gypsy Corner to the quiet side roads heading to Chiswick.

Here bumper to bumper traffic but we have our own cyclepath (C9) & we sped up to Hammersmith Bridge's cycle/pedestrian only Thames crossing.

Tea was at Colicci, Roehampton Gate, Richmond Park but understandably, some set off for home soon after arriving.

Thanks to Clive for backmarking & everyone else for their company in my group also to Dave V for leading my other group.

93% flat, 4% downhill, 3% uphill

 

B Group Xmas Lunch Ride - Wednesday 3rd December '25

Our morning ride from RBL Cobham will take us via Oxshott, Esher and Claygate to Long Ditton for our annual Xmas lunch at 'The Angel' pub. There is no planned afternoon so everyone is free to make their own way home after lunch.

Please reply by Monday evening to be included on the ride list.

Email - timgibbons1@virginmedia.com

WhatsApp - 07756961505

Look forward to seeing you all on Wednesday.

TimG.

The Pied Piper and the Post Counter. A woodland fairytale.

Wednesday morning at 8.15 the temperature was enough to freeze the kneecaps off a brass monkey daft enough to wear shorts, though it was not the ageing pins that suffered by the time we reached the river, so much as the thrice-clad extremities.  Yet there, where the River Thames flows deep and wide, washing its banks on the southern side, someone was taking a dip.

Neither did the cold and frosty morning do anything to deter a good number of keen and eager cyclists to turn out, including newcomer Chris McC; MA, the official club Bonce-Counter General, announced it was the biggest B Group turnout for a long while, though there were included some complex arrangements about folk joining in, or turning up at lunch, or opting for a trip out West instead.  A fair few of us, however, did enjoy the full morning ride in crisp and bright autumn weather through the suburbs of Greater London and a little beyond, including a four mile off-road section.  Each of the four groups set out on time to follow the prescribed route via Kingston, Surbiton, Long Ditton and Claygate, to the enchanted forest.

PJ's group in the enchanted forest, 

and the shadowy figure of the Pied Piper himself

The first group was led by PJ, the Pied Piper, dressed inappropriately as is the tradition with such fellows.  His back-marker, unaware of the pick-up arrangements, watched in wonder as it seemed damsels on bicycles had only to glance at us to be irresistibly drawn to follow, swelling our numbers as we went along.  Behind, in TG's group, our journey through the forest, known as Prince's Coverts apparently prompted a few questions.  Teacher had the answers.  Prince’s Coverts is named after Prince (later King) Leopold of Belgium who once lived at Claremont Park, Esher. The Claremont Estate was purchased for him in 1816. He later acquired nearby common land which became a shooting estate. The area became known as Prince’s Coverts (covert meaning a thicket or shelter for game birds). Following his death the estate was re-purchased by the Crown and has since been managed by the Crown Estate.

 

TG's group in the enchanted forest

Moving on towards the blindingly low winter's sun, switching on and off as we went through the trees, the leader was reminded that all the recces had taken place through drizzle, and how lucky we were this day.  We circumscribed Ashtead Common on the hard core paths because all attempts at recceing more direct routes had led to re-enactments of no-man's land in the first war.  Behind TG, JA's group was neither interested in the winter sunshine, nor in entrancing passing cyclists to join in, but felt the route had been designed for their teacher's interest in London Coal Duty Posts.  Apparently we passed within touching distance of at least six with several others within sight. And to add to that the cognoscenti were able to view and admire a very rare Edward VIII pillar box by Ashtead station before following on and up Chalk Lane, across Epsom Downs to Woodmansterne. 

JB's group in the enchanted forest.

Service at ‘The Woodman’ was prompt and efficient, especially as news of the considerable increase in numbers from fifteen to twenty five had not been passed on to the landlady.  Everyone was fed and watered without delay, tasty grub at a reasonable price.  PJ's group helped out by vacating their table as JB's group arrived.  All the groups diminished in size as we descended mostly downhill, via Belmont, Cheam, Worcester Park and on to Kingston and folk made their own ways home through the rapidly chilling afternoon.  Team PJ ended with two for tea; the Borough Council had paid the Pied Piper and got their damsels back.  Teams TG and JA merged in the afternoon and then diminished until TG was the only one left.  How did we miss each other in Kingston Parish Church?  Fortunately TG was joined there by JB and three of her group.

JA's group in the enchanted forest.  

We all know of JA's enthusiasm for the group photograph!

Overall an enjoyable day’s cycling, considerably enhanced by the ride leader's choice of cold and fine over dank and drizzly.  Thank you to all leaders and back markers, to everyone who worked to make it so enjoyable, and to Tim and John and Julie for their contributions to this report.

Invitation to B Group Ride on 26 November

You are invited to join my B Group ride on Wednesday 26 November.

We will depart from Kingston YMCA, cruise through Claygate, Ashtead, Woodcote and Tattenham Corner, lunch at the Woodman at Woodmansterne, and return to Kingston Market for tea well before 4pm.

Not too hilly (though you will know that Woodmansterne is on a hill, so there are a couple of morning climbs).  19 and a bit miles to lunch including four miles or so off road on hard surface.  I rode it last week after the heavy rain to ensure it was OK.  No pre-ordering for lunch.  A pretty easy 12 mile afternoon almost all gently downhill, through Cheam and Worcester Park, territory from which many of you will be able to peel off home.

There are two kissing gates on the off-road segment I have never ridden before; a bit of a nuisance but both of them offered (just) enough room for me not to have to tip my bike up on its rear wheel, and I thought it was a decent price to pay for an unridden and scenic ride through woodland.

E-mail me please if you want to come, by Monday evening.

Paulandrewjames1949@yahoo.co.uk

Route below

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53240637

                                      🚴 SW London CTC membership 2026 🚴‍♀️

It’s time again for renewal of our subscriptions to SW London CTC. The cost this year is £3.

If you haven’t already paid with your Christmas lunch booking you may pay online and bank details will be available on the various WhatsApp groups, or emailed by request. You can also pay by cash to your group rep.  These are: A group - Patrick, B group - Christina, Easy Riders - Helen, Beginners - tbc.

I would remind you that renewal of subs also acts as your continued consent to the use of your personal data under our Data Protection Policy, which can be viewed on our website under Information Hub.

Please also advise me (Gill H, Membership Sec) of any updates to your existing contact and ICE details. 

Thanks for your prompt renewal and happy cycling! 

A Group ride to Leigh 19th November

This was intended to be a suitable ride for the time of year - short and easily adjustable if conditions required and no pre-ordering at the pub. At the weekend all looked good and the Met Office forecast sun at one point, even if they changed their minds barely 12 hours later. So 16 signed up with the potential for two more, possibly believing like me that the rain would arrive before dawn and be gone by 8.30. A sudden change in the forecast on Tuesday afternoon deferred the rain by a couple of hours and included sleet.

So it was that we woke to rain and by 9am the first reports of snow arrived followed by many more as it spread south. Several cancellations ensued but the silence from the rest was deafening. Were they planning to brave the elements on the basis that it would be a fine, but very cold, day by the time we left Leatherhead? 

For me it was a short 10 minute trip and having left it late until the worst was over I barely got damp. About half a dozen were already there and others trickled in right up to our start time and a bit beyond giving us a remarkable total of eleven riders. We agreed to go up Critten Lane rather than Hogden in case conditions were tricky.

Janice left first - here is her report:

The forecast hadn't looked too good the night before but the reality on Wednesday morning was worse. It was cold with a wind from the North taking the 'feels like' temperature down even further to -5. More to the point, the expected reasonably heavy rain was falling as snow and reports came in from Twickenham to Tadworth confirming this.

The forecast rain/snow was due to be on its way out after 11 so I decided to leave as late as possible for my reasonably local start in Leatherhead. Lack of recent practice meant that I had underestimated the time it would take to force overshoes over my winter boots and so I arrived a few minutes late. Fortunately, my cheery group of Patrick, Guy, Clive, Dave V and Richard were taking in a last few moments of warmth indoors but were soon ready to set off on the amended route which cut out the pretty Hogden Lane in view of the weather.

Maybe it was the cold or maybe it was the hills but it felt like we were riding into a headwind even when dropping South. We managed the first big climb out of Effingham and were approaching Box Hill when my Garmin lost its ability to place me on the map or navigate. Oddly, that had happened on my recce too in exactly the same place. The Garmin behaved again once I'd pressed power off and then restarted it at the top of Box. Has anyone else experienced this? All other Garmins in the group had behaved.

As we started climbing Box Hill about 20 seconds in front of us there was a loud crack and then crash sound and we saw that a large branch had fallen across the width of the road. A car driver helped some of us clearing the road. We were very glad not to have been 20 seconds faster up the hill!

After Box Hill it was down Pebble Hill and through pleasant country lanes to arrive at the Plough In Leigh. Service was super efficient and my jacket potato with chilli and cheese was certainly worth cycling through cold, wind and rain for.

Reluctantly we turned down offers of coffee and dessert and got back on the bikes to head for Leatherhead. This time it didn't just feel like it, it really was straight into the headwind. We all decided to press on for home rather than stop at Leatherhead.

Despite the weather it was an enjoyable day out due to the good company of my group, so thank you. Particular thanks to Dave V for back marking and Brian for the route. We'll have to try the full route another time, in better weather.

My report:

My group of Dave F, Dave W, Simon and Karl were a bit late away. Beech Avenue tested those recovering from recent ailments but even so we overtook a few B group stragglers before decending to a flood in the dip before St Teresa's. 

                                                        Thanks to Sabina for the photo.

Just approaching Ranmore crossroads an approaching car slowed - only for the lady driver to lower her window and express her admiration for us being out on such a day. That was a first!

Steady progress over Box Hill and beyond was brought to a halt at Betchworth. Simon had suspected a problem with his front wheel descending Pebble Hill and found that it was soft. We continued after he pumped it up but at the end of Flanchford Road it was clear that he wasn't going to make it to lunch without changing the tube. He sent us on while he tackled it which proved to be more complex than expected and we were beginning to get a little concerned by the time he arrived. Dave W meanwhile had headed off to Dorking station.

The pub had been expecting a cancellation based on the weather so were rather pleased to see us. It was almost 2.30 by the time we left for an uneventful ride back to Leatherhead though punching into the wind beyond Denbies was hard work. We didn't stop for tea.

 

My thanks to all those who braved the conditions to turn out on such a challenging morning - especially Janice for sub-leading. 

 

B ride report 19th Nov: L'Head - West Horsley - The Old Moat at Horton

Francis starts with…

Like all riders that left home for Elevenses, a surprise lay in store as we rode through cold rain that later turned into sleet and then snow, the first of the season and looking rather Christmassy I thought.

The Leatherhead Fairfield Centre was as usual kind and hospitable and served us hot drinks and cakes while we thawed out (and our gloves too on radiators). A number of riders called it a day and wisely headed back home to keep warm, whilst the depleted groups headed out to lunch, via Bookham and Effingham. As luck would have it, it gradually warmed up nicely and we were bathed in sun as we arrived at The Barley Mow in West Horsley.

After a warm satisfying Thai lunch, we rode in double quick time the short journey to tea at The Old Moat.

My thanks to Tim G and Mick for leading so well and adapting to changes in their groups and to all the back-markers for their sterling work too.

Mick’s continues with …

Our original team of six collapsed into four as Steph and Robert mutinied to Tim’s last group, preferring tea and warmth a little longer. So Mick led Julie and Sabina with Bernard back marking into the rain and cold. Three of us toiled up Critten Lane to Ranmore Common as Sabina coasted past on her new more powerful electric bike. As we pushed on, the earlier snow melted away and the rain subsided and so by the time we had reached Ryde Farm the sun was peeking through the grey clouds.

 At the Barley Mow pub,we entered through a blanket of warm air and smoke. The smoke coming from a the recently lit log fire (which could do with a chimney sweep) that was in danger of turning pub guests into kippers! The food was good and quickly served.

After lunch it was a pleasant ride through improved weather to the Old Moat for tea and chat with the other groups.

Tim G ends with…..

A wet ride to 11’s is never a welcome prospect but today we had the added bonus of snow. Nevertheless a fair number of hardy souls braved the elements to enjoy the warmth and hospitality provided by the Leatherhead Fairfield Centre.

Some thought twice about a day’s ride against the cold arctic north wind and opted instead for a morning’s refuge of tea and cakes. Nevertheless, after a brief group re-shuffle, six of us bravely set out for today’s adventure. 

We cycled via Fetcham, Bookham and Effingham to make our first accent up Critten Lane amongst snow covered fields and countryside. All very quiet and scenic. We then descended down to East Horsley and meandered around Ockham then off-road to West Horsley to our lunchtime stop at the ‘Barley Mow’.

The two previous groups were already installed, gradually thawing out around an open fire. We were ushered into the restaurant area where a fine selection of Thai fare was eagerly consumed. John A was a little cautious about his choice of chicken noodle soup and eventually passed it on to Madeleine. Perhaps this is the first time he has ever allowed someone else to ‘nibble his noodles’.

Suitably re-energized we headed off up The Drift and back via Downside, Oxshott and Malden Rushett towards our final destination at ‘The Old Moat’ garden centre. Everyone in my group, except me, headed home before sunset so I alone joined the remnants of the other two groups for a welcome hot drink and de-brief of today’s proceedings.

Many thanks to everyone who made today’s ride a success and who persevered to complete the well-planned ride. Challenging temperatures - but then again there’s no gain without pain!

Invitation: A Group ride 19th November

 Elevenses are at the Fairfield Centre, Leatherhead.

 After all the mild weather the forecast suggests that by Wednesday you may need your thermals. 5C max is the current forecast. Never mind, there are a couple of hills before lunch to warm us up. It will be a short ride because sunset is only a few minutes after 4pm and most of you have a much longer ride home than I do from Leatherhead. 

We'll head out to Effingham and then up High Barn/Hogden Lanes to Ranmore before dropping down to Westhumble and up Box Hill.  After descending Pebble Hill a few more lanes will take us the The Plough at Leigh. 21 miles. No pre-order required. 

From there it  is only 11 miles back to Leatherhead. All on road. 

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/417821197 

Please email me by 6pm on Monday to join. Janice has kindly volunteered to lead a faster group and I will lead a moderately paced one. If numbers get too large I may need another volunteer. 

B Ride Invitation: 19th November

Elevenses will be at Leatherhead Fairfield Community Centre, entrance in Leret Way.

The morning ride of 17.5 miles to the Barley Mow pub in West Horsley is relatively flat with just one climb up Beech Ave/Critten Lane to Ranmore Common road. The afternoon ride is short at 10.9 miles and for those wishing to have tea, it will be at The Old Moat, Horton Lane.

The Barley Mow pub does not require pre-ordering but does insist groups arrive at least 15 mins apart which I and my dependable co-leaders (Tim G and Mick A) will endeavour to comply with.

If you would like to join the ride, please email me directly fdsilva82@gmail.com before 6pm Monday evening please.

Look forward to seeing you on Wednesday. 

Francis

Wayfarer’s B Group Ride to Harlington

Twenty-four riders signed up for this ride from 11’s at Molesey Boat Club, so three groups were needed. Julie kindly volunteered to lead one group, and a late recruit, Bernard, stepped in to lead the third.

Groups were:

• Group 1: Bernard, Sabina, Stephen, Tim G, Mick A, Tim C, Nigel A, Keith, Ian, and Dawn

• Group 2: Tony, Liz, Diane, Pete B, Gill F, Sue F, Geoff, and Steph

• Group 3: Julie, John C, Robert T, Dave F, John A, and Arwyn

Group sizes shifted a little due to last-minute dropouts and latecomers.

We left 11’s heading toward Hampton Court Bridge, then into Bushy Park and along Cobbler’s Walk, making our way to Fulwell and the A316 before turning onto the off-road River Crane path. We emerged at Hanworth Road and continued off-road toward Feltham.

A brief stop at 22 Gladstone Avenue—the former home of Freddie Mercury, complete with a blue plaque—was a highlight for many.

We continued through various side roads and bike paths to Hatton Cross, into Heathrow briefly, and then joined another section of the River Crane path to Cranford. Crossing the Bath Road, we followed Cranford Lane into Harlington and the White Hart pub for lunch. Although we’d started at ten-minute intervals, all three groups arrived almost simultaneously!

With 24 hungry cyclists, I expected a long wait for food, but the service was impressively quick. Meals arrived promptly and were very good—yes, Fixie Dave had his fish and chips! The pub had set aside the entire dining room for us, so we could all sit together and enjoy plenty of banter and good conversation. Time passed quickly, and soon it was time to roll again.

We set off in intervals once more but often caught sight of the group ahead. At Harmondsworth, we paused to view the Sir Barnes Wallis memorial—he did much of the development work on the bouncing bomb here and was instrumental in the design of the Wellington Bomber.

From there, we continued toward Longford, then re-entered Heathrow to follow the cycle path along the western edge of the airport, exiting at Stanwell and heading south. Due to traffic, all three groups briefly came together near Ashford before reforming. Soon after, we reached Charlton, and then it was just a short cycle to tea at Squires, Halliford. My group arrived first—oops! We were meant to be the middle group.

Not everyone stopped for tea as dusk was drawing in, but for me, it was an easy five miles home from there.

All in all, a great day out: slightly chilly but with some sunshine and, best of all, no rain.

Thank you all for joining the ride—special thanks to Julie and Bernard for sub-leading, and to Geoff for back-marking my group and looking after Diane.

Tony.

A Group ride to Harefield

Seven of us left Molesey Boat House on Wednesday heading north over Walton Bridge towards Heathrow and beyond. Although we travelled on fairly busy roads there were no incidents and we made good progress towards Uxbridge where Ged left us by Brunel University. Sadly his accident when he rode along the canal towpath resulted in a broken collarbone. Here’s hoping that he is back on his bike soon.

The one climb of the day brought us to  Harefield and the excellent Kings Arms. A good lunch quickly served was the right fuel for the rest of the day. The roads and off road sections proved no obstacle to the group, despite some tricky mud patches.

The track through Elthorne Park was a new route for all and brought us to the canal and our pathway back to Richmond in good time and with good weather.

My thanks to all who braved ‘the north.’ Thanks to Steve for back marking and our thoughts and best wishes once again to Ged.

Dieppe Raid - change of date

 This news from the Dieppe Raid Facebook page:

Greetings cyclists,

Here is an important announcement.

The organisers of Tour des Trois Vallees, Club de Cyclotourisme Dieppoise (CDCD), have decided to move next year’s event to Sunday, 20 September, no longer on the last weekend of June when it has traditionally been held. They have made this decision due to conflicts with other cycling events in the region. They have also decided to reduce the number of routes from 4 to 3, eliminating the 140 km route. This is due to their club’s limited resources to be able to mark out and manage this route.

This will no doubt be unwelcome news to those of you who have been longtime participants in TTV as a mid-summer fixture. However, it is the reality that organising these events requires a very significant effort which a small club like CDCD can no longer handle.

September is a long way off but it would be useful to have your feedback on this change and whether you would be interested in taking part on the new date.

If you have any comments, please post them directly on the Dieppe Raid Facebook page. 

The link from Elm Lane to Wisley Lane

Some of you will know that the new bridleway link from Elm Lane to Wisley Lane which was opened about a year ago as part of the A3 improvements has been closed for a couple of months. I went to check it out from the Elm Lane end on Sunday. 

The path has been widened and moved slightly to that the Elm Lane end is slightly further towards Wisley airfield than it was. There is a sprinkling gravel on the surface and even pedestrian signs so it looks more finished than previously. So far, so good but it's still closed with a wire mesh fence blocking the connection to Wisley Lane. The connection to Elm Lane has a bit of a drainage issue after recent rain. 

I know that there has been a lot of ongoing work on Wisley Lane over the last week or two but maybe reopening is about to happen. Further reports would be welcome. 
 

Report for B Group ride on 5th November

Cobham RBL to The Parrot in Forest Green, Leatherhead for Tea

Major thanks to Alan and Bernard for leading our two teams, and to everyone for being willing to come out on such a challenging ride to enjoy the countryside and the Autumn scenery. Thankyou to Steph and Carolyn who buttonholed me at lunch to request that we do a similar ride again in the Spring. Perhaps that will be an opportunity to include the off-road excursion over Blackheath.

~ Tim

Alan writes:

A total of six riders joined “Team 1” for a challenging and enjoyable ride between Cobham and Leatherhead stopping in Forest Green for lunch. 

On a beautiful route passing through quiet country lanes, peaceful wooded areas, and picturesque Surrey villages, the ride also offered spectacular views of the Surrey countryside with some exhilarating descents - and a few hills. A great opportunity to enjoy the changing autumn colours. The perfect route for a cool and bright autumn day. 

The early (and flatter) part of our ride took us to West Horsley via Martyr’s Green and Ockham; and we rode at a steady and enjoyable pace in a group before the hillier sections of the route. After crossing the busy Epsom Road, we rode upwards on the hilly and undulating Shere Road before turning right and completing the steady climb up among the trees to the top of Coombe Lane. We then rode the steep descent towards Shere and on to Albury. 

Our original route had planned to ride from Albury to Farley Green via Blackheath Lane. This was a beautiful ride along a quiet, narrow lane with superb views of the open countryside leading to track and tree-lined clearing. Unfortunately, the previous weeks weather had ruled this out. 

Instead, we rode up to Farley Green via Brook Hill, taking a break at the village pond - and display of Halloween pumpkins - before riding on towards Row Lane and along Winterfold Heath Road. This was arguably the most picturesque part of the ride through quiet woodland with an impressive and beautiful range of autumn colours along the tree-lined roads. Occasionally, the trees formed canopies or tunnels across the road which added to the experience.  

We rode on to Jelley’s Hollow, where we unexpectedly met one of the A-Group of riders who were coming the other way. After a brief chat, and a quick breather we took a photograph of the group and then rode through Winterfold Wood and Ewhurst to the Parrot Pub at Forest Green for Lunch.

Team 1 at the top of Jelleys Hollow

The Parrot Pub was a great venue for lunch. It was a well organised pub with a good atmosphere and good food. Staff had reserved a large table for both groups of riders which provided a welcome chance to relax and discuss the morning ride over lunch and a drink. The fish and chips looked good!  

After lunch, we rode the most challenging part of the route - a steep climb up Leith Hill Lane and Abinger Road towards the beautiful village of Coldharbour. We then rode along Logmore Lane to Westcott, stopping at White Cottage (built in 1640) on the way to enjoy the view towards Wotton and Ranmore Common.

Scenery in Logmore Lane

White Cottage (1640) in Logmore Lane

We then rode to Dorking and along the cycle path past Denbies to Leatherhead for Tea at the Charlie and Ginger Coffee Shop. After a tea and a chat we all went our separate ways. 

Many thanks to Carolyn, Steph, John, Bob and Terry for making the ride such a great day out, and to Bob for being back-marker. Thanks also to Tim for planning and organising a great route. A strenuous but satisfying ride for us all. Worth repeating!

~ Alan


Bernard writes:

The Route 

The ‘Commission’ for ‘The Route’ comes cold, devoid of any form or substance.  It’s a request to produce something, a route along which some people can cycle and hopefully gain some enjoyment.  The request is taken up by a spirited soul with an artist’s vision.  You can imagine in renaissance times a young Michelangelo studying a block of marble, contemplating how to produce a thing of eternal beauty for the pleasure of others.  Similarly, our route creators survey with a very sharp eye and severe sensitivity their block of material, a block of empty air upon a plinth of country.  On this occasion that block of air was over the Surrey Hills.

 

The first great hammer blow was belted hard straight down just above the roof of the British Legion in Cobham.  That was then followed with frenetic chiselling of a line to Ockham and beyond.  There was sweat on the brow but ‘The Route’ was taking shape, of upward and downward curves.  We the riders of course were the chisels and (like Henry Moore’s iron tools) our limbs cut through the air and heated and burned.  The chiselling went on to the point of rebellion, on the cusp of snapping.

I imagined that our sculptor was pleased with the morning’s work.  The swooning undulations of the Surrey Hills had been captured and given form.  The riders, Michelangelo’s tools, now needed to be rested, allowed to cool, to replenish and to be polished... ready for the afternoon’s work. They were laid out in the Parrot Pub in Forest Green and there inspected and tended by master apprentices.  We filled our bellies, quenched our thirsts and sharpened our edges.  All looked good to our sculptor.

Immediately there was the first cracking thud of the afternoon’s labour.  A massive, penetrating, searing upwards cut following the incline of the hollow up to its highest point.  Another thunderous belt, this time downwards, earthbound.  The contour of the Hills was being carved, captured and set in that empty space where we breathe.  The final blow was made at that point in the atmosphere just above Lucio’s in Leatherhead. 

Tools had been bashed to their limit, some almost splintered... all were chipped, dented and bent out of shape.  Our sculptor was pleased with his work.   The tools would be restored with gentle care and attention... there was a week until they would be needed again and some could be rested for longer if necessary. 

Together, sculptor and riders (riders all) had produced a thing of beauty.  A carved line, forever eternal, faithful to the Hills, invisible to the naked eye but alive to the riding cyclist.  I have no doubt Barbara Hepworth would have loved the work, appreciated the delicacy of the mark.  It is there now as I write this.  You can’t see it? No, you have to ride it! 

The work: 'The Route' 

Artist:          Tim C 
Date:            5th November, 2025 

Artistic school: Esoteric with strong influences of Classicism, Realism, Romanticism, Futurism and Surrealism.

Materials:       Atoms which make up air

Tools:           Limbs which make up riders

Exhibited:       Currently in the Surrey Hills until such time as there is no Earth, thereafter somewhere in Space 

Thank you to Tim C for planning the ride and for back marking, Julie, Linda, Paul, Tim G and to Fixie Dave who led the way home for me after the official ride. 

~ Bernard

Tim writes:

As November 5th drew nearer, the weather forecast improved. With the prospect of not getting drenched this week twelve B riders signed up for our ride into the mountains. Terry and Stephen joined us too, as far as West Horsley before heading off for other commitments. Ken and Grant and numerous Nor'Westers were at Elevenses too.

Two groups were sufficient for our number. Alan and Bernard led, with Bob and myself riding as back-markers. I enjoyed taking a back seat role on this ride!

My original plan to head South from Albury, up Blackheath Lane and through the Forest, was abandoned due to the ride being too long for this time of year, despite the blue sky and sunshine which had enchanted us during the recce. Although Francis had led B Group up Shere Road just three weeks ago I opted again for this steep but scenic route to the top, then Combe Bottom to set us off in the right direction, rejoining Francis' route near Farley Green and following it to Jelleys Hollow and beyond.

Jelleys Hollow

Much can be said, some of it rude, about the rigours of such a hilly route, just slightly less severe than Francis' recent ride, but the highlight of the day was riding through the Autumn colours, feeling relieved that at least half the leaves were still clinging to their trees, despite all the heavy rain since our recce which mostly fell last Wednesday.

For a couple of years I have bypassed the idea of visiting The Parrot again but gave in when I learned on my first solo recce that a group of 20 ramblers had booked into the Bulls Head in Ewhurst for 1pm and that the staff wouldn't be able to serve us until 2pm. So The Parrot is a gastro-pub and fairly pricey but we nearly all felt that the food was of a sufficiently high standard to justify their prices and I hope that we will visit them again from time to time. It's a big pub with a good atmosphere and the buzz of many other customers. They have a huge outdoor seating area to accommodate us in Summer.

View through a clearing, just before Coldharbour

 

Christ Church at the top of Broomehall Road

This map shows the recorded rides, the original route (blue line) from Albury up to Blackheath Forest and also the excursion down Logmore Lane (green line) taken by Alan's team.

~ Tim C