Not Winchester - Ride Report 'A' Group Wednesday 27 May 2026

 

I say 'A' group but actually, there were two 'A' groups today, although it is still true that neither went to Winchester!    As with previous Wayfarer's rides from New Haw at about this time of year, I tried to make my life as complicated as possible by offering a route to a lunch stop in deepest Hampshire, then two options, a 'turnback' route to Ripley, and an alternative continuing further west (previously to Winchester, but this year, just for a change, to the distinctly un-medieval Basingstoke) for a train-assisted return!

Steve D very gamely offered to lead the turnback option this year, and did so very ably (many thanks to him).   Of his group's experiences he writes as follows.   I knew it would be a hot day and packed a thermos which fits in one of my bottle holders and a normal water bottle. Setting off from New Haw day centre with Gill, Neil W, Janice, Guy and Peter S, we rode the route which more or less followed the railway line from West Byfleet to Hook. Sometimes we were south of it and sometimes north. One of the peculiar features of a Dave W route is that you cannot really pinpoint where you are. At times you know you are near Woking or Fleet or Farnborough, but are never really sure. Guy sustained a rear puncture which he fixed deftly and by plugging a hole in his tyre with a piece of toothpaste tubing, at Hook Heath during which we were passed by the first group. I have to say it wasn't too hot at this point, but as the sun rose we quickly drank our water bottles dry.

Our first foot crossing of the railway was at Frimley Green through the Pit Lakes Fisheries. The next railway crossing was at Farnborough North station where we tried out the new lifts, because the level crossing was closed. From here we took the road on the edge of Queen Elizabeth Park to bypass north of Farnborough. Finally tracking north of Fleet we rode through Odiham Common and Odiham itself to arrive at The Fox and Goose pub, where we ate in the outside shade of the garden. We were able to refill our bottles from an outside water tap.

It had taken 2 hours and 20 minutes to cycle the 28 miles from New Haw and we left the pub at 1.50 pm so we knew stopping for tea after another 27 miles would be pushing it. The heat was more oppressive now and combined with a headwind made for tired legs.The route started the way we had come back through Odiham and then dropped down through Church Crookham and north of Aldershot, Fox Corner and then Old Woking. Here, as it was 3.50 pm and we needed a break, we stopped at Claud's Coffee House Westfield. After a swift cola and coffee Peter, Neil and Janice set off at a faster pace for home. Gill, Guy and myself made slower progress for the 4 miles back to Ripley. I was very tired, but happy for riding with the others in good company. I appreciated Peter watching over at the back and thanks go to Dave W for organising a splendid country route and pub stop.

I reckon I had a much easier time of it!   My group showed exemplary conduct, sticking together like limpets all day, and studiously avoiding punctures and 'mechanicals'!   Dave B's excellent back-marking must have a played a part here!

We caught and passed Steve's group while they were having a quiet nap at Hook Heath (mending a puncture, they said), and just pipped them to the post at Greywell, where we enjoyed a shady lunch, efficiently served, and reasonably priced.   Much liquid was consumed.  The big climb of the day, over the Hampshire Downs, loomed soon after lunch, but it was mostly well-shaded, and my group made light work of it.

After that it should have been a long and gradual descent into Basingstoke, but we did turn more into the wind, and it had been a long day!   My group had behaved so well that I thought they deserved an ice cream stop, and the  shop in the picturesque village of Oakley duly delivered!

From there it was just 30 minutes to our final destination, and we arrived at Basingstoke station just before 4.00 pm.   Train travel home was not entirely without problems, but at least the trains were air-conditioned!   Many thanks to Dave F, Dave E, Fiona B, Mike R, Patrick W and Brian G for their company, and for putting up with it all in my group!

Minutes of the 2026 AGM

 The minutes of the 2026 AGM are now posted and available via the CTC SWL Information Hub or by clicking this LINK

Invitation to ride with B Group from New Haw on 27th May

Having led from New Haw in March I wanted to come up with something quite different for this Summer ride. So this time we'll start out along the canal again and after about 10 miles we'll climb up Trodds Lane to Newlands Corner for an off-road section along the Drove Road (North Downs Way).

Brenda, Mick and I are looking forward to leading you on this ride.

Elevenses will be at the Woodham and New Haw Day Centre and for anyone not wishing to ride to this distant Elevenses outpost there are good train services to West Byfleet.

Lunch will be at The Barley Mow in West Horsley, popular with many of us for its delicious Thai food. This is the lunch menu, with the more conventional pub fare listed on the second page. 

Yummy Thai dishes

Regular Pub Fare

After Lunch we'll head for Cobham and then some delightfully undulating off-road trails through the woodland in Esher and Arbrook Commons. We will visit Parade and Albany in Claygate for afternoon tea.

This will be our route:

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54633379

NB For anyone who would prefer to avoid the scenic climb up to Newlands Corner, the North Downs Way track, and the undulations which follow I have an alternative route which turns after Jacobs Well from Clay Lane onto the A3 Cycle Path at mile 9.2 and runs to The Barley Mow via Ripley. If you would like to do the ride this way, on a self-led basis, please ask me for the route; you can ride with one of our groups as far as the A3. When you sign up for this ride please tell me that this is what you intend to do; I will need to include you in the numbers I advise to the pub.

Please confirm by email that you wish to join us and note the 'Plan B' option if that is what you think you'd like to do. We don't need to pre-order our food.

We're looking forward to sharing this delightful cycling experience with you.

Tim, Brenda and Mick

A ride from Caterham May 20th

Caterham is always a challenge - both to arrive and often soon after departure. This was no exception. With other commitments ahead of the ride I decided to rerun one I led in 2023. The day was cool and breezy and although sunshine was limited we were fortunate that the threatened afternoon rain didn't materialise. 

Eleven of us met at Caterham and I let the first group away of Dave E, Dave F, Karl, Neil W and Andy C. Our ride up through Woldingham School was in the best sunshine of the day and the valley looked glorious. Gangers Hill provided the usual challenge but fortunately little traffic. We collected Dave W at the end of Beddlestead Lane to complete the group. After leaving Clarks lane we had a lovely and very lightly trafficked route to lunch at Lingfield via Trevereux Hill. 

We arrived at The Star shortly after Steve and Fiona's group. Lunch was promptly served and very good. Highlight of the day was meeting Geoffrey S at lunch who joined us for the return run to Brockham.  Even better he took the lead along Smallfield Road to give me a break from the wind. It was great to see him again in such good form.

 

My thanks to Geoffrey, to Steve and Fiona for subleading and to Andy C for back marking.

 

Steve's report...

Any ride from Caterham involves climbing to get to the coffee start (in my case from Bookham 1239 ft) and then going down to start climbing back up again. So I decided to leave early and go slowly on the way to Caterham to save my legs. I left with my fellow leader Fiona, Mike R, Richard B and Frances. Our gradual climb through Warlingham school I kept slow, as I knew what was to come after the recce. We all selected a low gear fro the hairpin left turn up Gangers Hill which was now a steeper gradient. The next hazard was a right turn into Rectory Lane, which bypassed Wesrterham. Here we spotted Brian's group ahead.  We passed them on the bridge over the M25 at Clacket Lane. Then a lovely section of single track south to Lingfield. This was subject to a strong South Westerly headwind. On the recce it was coming from the West and proved very tiring.

After arriving at The Star we met Geoffrey S who had cycled there for lunch. He joined us for tea at Brockham too. Our food was served promptly and was good. Fiona led us to tea at Brockham and in places we had a bit of help from the wind. It was about 1500 ft of climbing over the whole route, but generally gentle climbing, apart from Gangers Hill.

 

 

 Thanks to Brian for a very lovely route and for organising the pub. I appreciated the company of my fellow riders and particularly Fiona who did a turn as back marker and then led us faultlessly to Tea.

Do Join the 'A' Group Rides from New Haw on 27 May

Invitations will be sent out to the usual suspects via 'Spond, but please contact me (cycledave23@gmail.com) if you're not on 'A' group 'Spond but would like to join either of the 'A' group rides on offer.

There are two separate rides presented as separate events on 'Spond - please see my previous post https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8196660132091707769/5352538944410772474 if you're in any doubt which to choose (don't sign up to both)!

Whichever option you choose, when accepting the invitation on 'Spond you also need to let me know your menu choice (or 'no food') by submitting a 'Spond 'Comment'.  Here are the menus:

Apologies - not very clear photos (not my work), but for enlargeable versions of the menu, please see https://photos.app.goo.gl/7ZYMoanf7CT1o6uU8 and https://photos.app.goo.gl/VqSBKtGnMihx4WVS6 .

The Alternative New Haw/Greywell/finish at Ripley option still needs a ride leader - please let me know if you can help.    Otherwise, Andy C has very kindly proposed an alternative within an alternative (!) - a different return route from Greywell to Ripley for those not continuing to Basingstoke.   But note that it's rather longer than the official version and has some off-road sections, and a tea stop at the Watts Gallery, Compton, before continuing to Ripley.  If you're want to join Andy, sign up for the Alternative ride on 'Spond (Ripley Return) and we'll sub-divide the group on the day.   

Report for B Group ride from Caterham on 20th May

After the rugged undulations of Mt Banstead and Farthing Down we were pleased to arrive at the Westway Centre and sit in their small but cosy recovery room for our Tea and Pastries.

Traversing Farthing Down

Twelve had signed up but Martin and Julie were unable to join us on the day. So we ran with two teams rather than three; John led the first group of five and another Tim led our second group for which I was happy to be the back marker; I know my place.

The morning ride was unchanged from our previous runs down to Horley in recent years although we did have some discussion about whether we should opt for the safety of using the network of footpaths to get from one side of the Ann Summers roundabout to the other. But though it is notionally safer we decided that we would just be careful and ride around to the third exit into Woldingham Road as we usually do.

But the real delight of this ride comes after we peel off to the right under the railway bridge into the road leading down to the Woldingham School. The school’s mission is to develop “courageous, confident and compassionate” young women and, unusually for this ride, we came across a number of these young women, all exuding these worthy virtues. The road through this beautiful Woldingham Valley and part of Marden Park is always a joy to ride for its exquisite scenery and lack of traffic, if not for the quality of the road surface. The cows always look as if they are posing for John Constable although Steph stopped earlier to take some photos of a now rare breed (traditional English Longhorns) that the artist may never have encountered.

An English Longhorn studies his visitors 

Beyond the school and down the Quarry Road we passed up our opportunity for the challenge of Gangers Hill as that experience had been earmarked for the pleasure of A Group. We enjoyed our long and fast descent of Flower Lane and were soon enjoying the next highlight of the day, Church Lane and the splendid architecture of Church Town. Our leader Tim G gave us a brief history lesson, describing the 12th century origin of St Nicholas Church, verified by Paul who recognised the Norman style of the arch over the door. The church had endured several reconstruction projects through the centuries but was notably restored in a 13th century style by Sir (George) Gilbert Scott around 1872. We also noted briefly St Mary’s almshouses and chapel which Gilbert Scott designed in a Victorian Tudor/gothic style. The famous architect lived in the village for a time.

But we were all eager to tackle The Enterdent, high on our list of fun climbing experiences in Surrey so we zoomed down past the Old Packhouse (painted pink) which dates from the 15th century, and then got on with our climb.

On The Enterdent I was able to ramp up my power level to get ahead of the bunch and take a few action photos as Tim and the others chuckled their way up the incline. Fun indeed!

 

We joined the Old Tilburstow Road for a fast descent to the A22 junction and in Blindley Heath turned into Byers Lane to cruise through the countryside all the way to The Farmhouse Pub in Horley. John’s group were well into their lunches when we arrived, and we didn’t have to wait very long for ours. This is a nice venue for us; the alternative would have been the Spoons in town, but the Farmhouse pitches us on to quiet roads for the afternoon ride without having to negotiate downtown Horley.

John's speedy team

Tim G is hiding behind the umbrella

 

For the sake of varying the afternoon route, rather than taking the Avenue Verte (NCN 21) up to Whitebushes, we crossed the A23 south of Salfords and headed along the wide cycle path into Meath Green, a route pioneered by Steph several years ago. Once beyond this housing development it was very agreeable cycling along Lonesome Lane up to Doversgreen. We rode west then practised our descending techniques for the Freewheel Competition, riding down Root Hill, then turned into Tilehurst Lane for our usual route to Tea at Lucio’s in Leatherhead.

Action on the Col de Tilehurst

We sat outside with our tea, coffee and cakey things, marvelling that we had cheated the forecast of rain. However, on the home leg I got caught in a shower and I suspect others did two.

Thank you to Tim G and John for leading their teams. Thank you to everyone who joined us and enjoyed the day.

~Tim C

Basic Bike Maintenance Course Notes

 Following the recent Basic Bike Maintenance I've updated the notes and linked below.  I've added Steve D's DIY lube, Clik valve details and corrected a few links.  Let me know if I've missed anything.  Mick A

Basic Bike Maintenance Notes PDF

Bike maintenance session - a success!

 Monday saw a good turn out in Bushy Park for the maintenance session on brakes and wheels - despite the threat of showers.

Mick and Steve took us through our paces, and we are now more knowledgable about disc and rim brakes!

Christina's bike was a good test for learning how to replace rim brakes. The session was good fun and was attended by Jennie, Francis, Steven, Christina, Paula and Julie. Thanks for the excellent tuition by Mick and Steve and for Jennie for organising.

Invitation to A Group ride 20th May

The invitation to our ride from Caterham is now on Spond. Please reply using the app.

We will be riding 21 miles from Caterham to The Star at Lingfield. Then 18 miles to tea at Brockham. All the significant hills are in the first 13 miles, then quite gentle.

This is a repeat of my 2023 ride via Clacket and Trevereux Lanes on the outward route. 

https://connect.garmin.com/app/course/456268658


Lunch order required - you can view pdf of Food Menu from this link.

https://www.thestarlingfield.co.uk/our-menu-the-star-inn-lingfield

 

B group ride 13th May

 It was with trepidation that we set out from the YMCA Hawkers Centre in Kingston to The Ashley Park pub in Walton on Thames. The weather was not too promising. The first group set off in a heavy rain shower at 10:40 led by Mick A who had kindly volunteered to lead a sub group comprising Tony H (who left us in Bushy Park), Fixie Dave, Tim G, Jane  F  and Paul J.

After a littlle debate about the weather, my group was reduced to 3 riders, Gill F, John A and myself, we followed Tony's sinuous route via Bushy Park, Thames Ditton, Claygate and Esher to our destination. In Claygate during another heavyish shower John decided to call it a day. I also was having second thoughts, and Gill decided to carry on to the pub alone. After showing John a way back to Ewell, I had a change of heart and decided I should carry on a more direct route to the Ashley Park, where I met up with the rest of the group. 

 

We had a good lunch at the pub and five remaining riders set off to The Old Moat for tea. Unfortunately I punctured in Hersham, this was soon repaired with the help of Paul with his electric pump. I then discovered that the replacement tube was also deflating slowly, but was able to continue with a few stops to pump and dash.

Overall the weather was kind to us, with quite a few moments of bright sunshine. Thanks to Tony for the route out and too all for your company on a somewhat trying day, especially Mick who stepped in to sub-lead at short notice.

Following is Micks report: 

Keith had kindly agreed to take over lead of the ride as Tony could not do so.  He lead the 10:50 group with Mick sub-leading the 10:40 group.

 

The 10:40 left on time in freezing rain.  Myself, Tony, Fixie Dave, Jane, Paul J with Tim G backmarking.  As we looped round into Bushy park the rain subsided and the sun came out, the rain was back later.  As usual Tony had devised an interesting route on quiet roads and paths.  Although he was not able to do the full ride he communicated the route through RwGPS/gpx which Mick was able to follow with the help of the group. 

 

Six of us reached the pub where the remainers of the other group Keith, Gill F and Don E joined us. After lunch Gill and Don and Jane headed for home so Mick, Fixit Dave, Paul, Tim G and Keith set off towards the Old Moat.  Keith punctured but Fixie Dave was at hand to hold a pump so it was partially fixed.  Keith still had a slow puncture so he, flanked by Dave setoff for home.  Mick, Paul and Tim were the only three to make the Old Moat.

Invitation to ride with B group - 20th May

You are cordially invited to ride with John, Tim G and myself from Caterham on 20th May.

Due to its popularity our morning route will be very similar to one we've done before, joining NCN 21 for the delightful route which passes through the Woldingham School grounds, followed by Church Lane through the architecturally interesting Church Town, then the much loved Enterdent hilly challenge and beyond.

Lunch will be at The Farmhouse Pub on the ourskirts of Horley. We don't need to pre-order our food but see their online menu if you'd like to check out what they have to offer. Many of us will remember previous visits.

The afternoon route will be a little different from previous rides but a pleasure to ride all the same we hope, aiming for Tea in Leatherhead.

This is the route, 16 + 17.8 miles:

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54694635

Please ask if you'd like it in another format.

Please reply to this invitation by Monday evening so that I can advise the folk at the pub how many to expect.

We are looking forward to seeing you

~ Tim C

MWW A ride to Dorney

A picture tells a story of a thousand words!

Hence my ride to Dorney will be short and sweet - great to see the 2 groups head out in the hail and wind, with my group first off.

It was day when I was glad the route was flat, allowed for a fast pace in sections despite the headwind and we got to The Pineapple around 12.50am for a lunch delivered promptly.  Dave's group followed soon after and the pub said afterwards that they were surprised to see such a happy bunch on cyclists in view of the downpours that day.

We held off leaving the pub to let the rain pass and made our way back to tea at Walton just before 3pm. Hans and Mike said their goodbyes at the bridge, whilst Steve, Patrick and I decided to grab a brew, missing another shower.

Overall we saw the sunshine, dodged the majority of the showers and importantly our group did not avoid the Crimp Hill climb - say no more😅

Thanks to my group, Steve for backmarking and for all their good spirits on the day. 

Dave W writes  

It didn't bode well - my phone app was telling me to expect wet weather at 2.00 pm, but I had already got heavily hailed upon by the time I reached elevenses.  In the event, although there were plenty of heavy showers all day, they didn't last long and there was plenty of time to dry off in between.  It was also pleasantly sunny for much of the time, and less cold than I had expected.   Dave F, Sue C, Andy C, and Brian G joined me, along with Jennie J who very kindly back-marked for us all day.

Frances's rides are always impeccably well organised, and it is always a pleasure to help with them.   The route was varied, but with plenty of opportunity for some fast riding (relatively speaking), which was just as well since we were convinced the weather would worsen as the day went on, and aimed to get to the finish as early as possible.   The Pineapple provided our excellent lunches very efficiently, and we did dodge a long shower while we were eating.    Then we had it dry almost as far as Shepperton.   I did take a strategic decision to bypass Windsor, Crimp Hill, and the Egham roadworks, which was cheating, I know, but may have helped keep us a bit drier!

Anyway, thanks to my group for putting up with it all, and the weather!

Advance Information - Wednesday 27 May 2026

The plan is for two separate groups to depart from New Haw on 27 May.   Both will take the same outbound route to the Fox and Goose at Greywell for lunch (about 26 miles).   

After lunch, one group will ride back from Greywell to tea at Ripley (about 27  further miles from Greywell), subject to someone volunteering to lead.

My group will initially head off from Greywell on part of the previously used route towards Winchester, but eventually loop back on a completely new route (interminable thatched cottages, village ponds, quaint bits, fields etc etc) ending up at Basingstoke station (about 20 further miles from Greywell), completely avoiding the busier parts of Basingstoke.   

For those wishing to book advance train tickets, expected arrival at Basingstoke is 16.00 to 16.30.   From there, there are normally four accessible trains per hour back towards Waterloo (two stopping at Surbiton), and two towards Reading (change for the Elizabeth Line).    As well as advance fares, group tickets giving a third off are also available for more than three people booking together to the same destination, but check the details first.

I'll post fuller details, routes, menu choices etc  late next week.  Booking will be by Spond.

Simon's Coastal Adventure - the final episode?

As some of you know, I've been riding round the coast of Britain, in stages, a little bit each year.   This year I have a good chance of completing it.   I'll be setting off tomorrow (Sunday) to Hove and riding east around Kent, to reach the starting point back at London.

If you're interested to follow my progress, you can have a look at my blog for the trip, Simon's Coastal Adventure.  I'll post some photos and give you a daily update on there.

Invitation B Goup ride from Kingston YMCA 13th May

 You are invited to ride to the Ashley Park pub at Walton Station, about 16 miles mostly flat.The route to the pub planned by Tony includes several off road sections.

Tea at The Old Moat near Horton Park.

If you would like to join me please contact me by email kr@keithrook.plus.com by 6pm on Monday 

A Ride 13th May Kingston YMCA to The Pineapple Dorney

Invite on Spond,  attendees please use the APP.

To Dorney 26 miles

Lunch at The Pineapple,  pre order required , see link 

Tea at The Wilde Bunch, Walton Bridge

Total mileage 43

Flat, all on road except 2 bridges at Teddington lock and Dorney

Watch rough speed bumps at Monkey  Island

there was a closed road but passable, dismount at Pooley Green Road

I have 1 sub leader Dave W so if numbers are large, someone for a third group will need to volunteer on the day.

https://www.thepineappledorney.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Pineapple-Menu-Rv-sept25.pdf

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/451531735

B Ride Report 6th May Cobham

Similar to previous Wednesdays, chilly at the start of the day, leading to sunny and warm weather all day and so we had 18 B riders gather for their usual cuppa and chat with fellow riders. The warm and courteous welcome at the RBL is always something to look forward to before a ride.

The first group (Alan C, Brenda B, Dave C, Martin C, and Mick A, back-marker), left promptly at 10.30am followed by Tim G’s group (Alan I, Sabina, Bernard, Margaret M, Jane F and Peter Bt back-marking) at 10.45am and lastly John A’s group (Martina, Julie B, Grant and Terry L, back-marker), 15 mins later.

The morning ride, in terms of time, was probably one of the longest we’ve had for some time, at 2 ¾ hours. Though a reasonable 21 miles to lunch, the long climbs up High Barn Lane and Green Dene and the off-roads through Bookham Common and Drovers road, added to the time. But the rewards I’m sure outweighed the slog up the hills. The vista at Newlands Corner over the South Downs, takes some beating as does the wonderful 100m long wattle fencing at the top of High Barn Lane. Combined with empty sun dappled lanes, fresh air and jovial company, it was a beautiful day to be cycling.

Team GB at Newlands Corner

... and in action up High Barn Lane

Team Francis (minus Mick A, our official photographer)

A deserved rest and a hearty thai lunch at The Barley Mow pub, managed to revive the legs and spirits.

Just 8 riders headed to tea on the short 12 miles route to Garsons Farm while the rest all dissipated homewards for a long soak in the bath, no doubt.

Well done to everyone on the ride and a special thank you to my subbies Tim G and John A for their diligent leadership and their back-markers for keeping everyone safe on the route.

~ Francis

Report for 6th May A group ride to Rudgwick

 I have to say the planning of this ride was a challenge. I was planning to ride to The Fox Bucks Green via Baynards Estate, Cranleigh, across country, which we had done four years ago. However In October last year the Fox was sold and the new owners have gone 'gastro'. No sandwiches on the menu and a row of single stars on Trip Advisor. So the only viable option was The Milk Churn. Then on the recce I found Ripley Road closed, even to cyclists and Baynards farm have put a huge steel gate across the private road we had travelled easily before, cutting access to the A281. The good news was that my new route shaved 2 miles off the route and I found Bar Hatch Lane and the B2128 out of Cranleigh had new tarmac. So from Cobham, West Horsley, up Sheepleas, through Shere and up Hound House Road, then down to Cranleigh.

So fourteen riders signed up on Spond which made two neat groups of seven. Fiona kindly led the first group away with Janice, Jacky B, Hans, Frances, Dave B and the, now professional, back marker Peter S. I was concerned by the amount of climbing on the route, but they made rapid progress. They were tucking into their food as we in the second group arrived.

I set off after Fiona with Neil W, Dave F, Dave E, Gina, Sue C and the equally professional Simon L back marking us. We were slower mainly because of the climbing and so it was a relief to find ourselves at Bar Hatch Lane ready for a fast descent into Cranleigh.

We were served quickly by the efficient staff at The Milk Churn where we ogled the magnificent Buick Lesabre 6 litre V8. What a beautiful car.

After lunch we rode on the lovely Horsham Road, through Walliswood to Forest Green and then up Tanhurst Lane, Coldharbour and down to The Old Clunker Cafe. We were just in time to see Fiona and her group leave. Dave B seemed to have sorted out his slow puncture.

Many thanks to Fiona for leading her group so successfully (look at the smiles) and to Simon and Peter for back marking. We were lucky with the weather and a bit of sun which always helps, but it is the company of everyone that made the riding special.

Steve D.

Report from A Group Ride on Wednesday 29th April

 Report from Karl (slower group)

Following a very a short and efficient AGM chaired by Sue F and Dave F, and leaving enough time between the first and second group, I led out the last group of A riders: five of us in total: me, Gill, Dave E, Dave F and Brian. The first and second groups being led by Dave V and Steve D respectively.

Wow, was it windy !  The pictures of the day are deceptive in that the weather looks beautiful, and yes the sun did shine, but the wind would almost knock us of our bikes. This was my first ride as leader, and on the outward leg I found myself riding into a strong headwind out in front of the group.

Due to the AGM taking up the majority of the morning, time allowed only a short ride to our lunch stop at ‘spoons in Epsom, where our small group had some respite from the wind and lunched more than adequately. (I always find it tempting at these times simply to break off the ride and enjoy a couple of more pints of ale with a sticky toffee pudding, but no, as leader one must show example! )

Maybe it  was because we were comfortably fortified, but more likely I think because we were riding along more sheltered routes between houses and trees, the wind was not so noticeable in the afternoon. Leaving Epsom, we cycled firstly alongside the railway line and then through Ashtead common, taking a slight detour to allow Dave F drop of his backpack with his notes from the AGM. Somewhere between Ashtead and Leatherhead, Dave E and Gill peeled off to go their separate ways home, leaving only three of us to continue. A short time later, just as we joined the cycle path alongside the A24 outside Leatherhead, we caught up with the second group led by Steve, and our groups melded into one. Up to Headley, under the M25 and then an undulating descent down to Epsom followed. We avoided the centre of the town by skirting around it passing close by, in turn,  the hospital, Lidl and then into Kiln Lane behind Sainsbury’s and Glynn to arrive at the Flying Saucer Café stop and end of ride in Ewell village Bourne Hall where a cup of tea and some cake was enjoyed by many.

 

 

It was a good ride. I certainly enjoyed it. It leaves me to thank my two subleaders: Dave V and Steve D. Their reports on the day are set out below.

Before finishing, I was asked to report briefly on my thoughts regarding the Spond app as used to invite and enrol members on events (rides). Clive asked me if it was something I would want to try out, and he kindly set up the invite for me. The app then provided me with a template to fill in with details such as the response deadline, the start point and time, and a comment section for general information. I was pleased to note that web addresses (such as a link to the route)  were converted to hyperlinks automatically. The great advantage of the app to me is that it avoids the organiser having to collate and respond to individual e-mails. It is clear also to see who and how many are attending. The app can generate a list of attendees, and this can then be edited and pasted back into the comment section with group information and start times etc.  I found the whole process straightforward and the app easy to use.

Two points worth mentioning: firstly, I had instances of members simply messaging me in the app that they wanted to enrol on the ride. Users need to understand that they need to “accept” the invitation to appear on the ride attendee list. Secondly, if a member has a special request in relation to the event (“slow group please”), it is best entered as a comment within the event as opposed to sending a separate message (outside the event).

I think perhaps my biggest concern as my first time leading a ride, was how exactly would I define the ride and communicate it to others. In short, how would I generate a gpx file of the route ? Fortunately, I managed to do this using the free version of RidewithGPS and create a gpx file without ever needing to leave my PC (although I did recce the route). The gpx file and link to the route on RidewithGPS is easily then copied into Spond. I suspect this process could also be a challenge to other prospective ride leaders.

 

 

Report from Steve D (medium group)

After the AGM where Jennie J was rightfully recognised for all her hard work in the club, leading rides, organising events and food. She has a big heart and is always helping others, John B and Ed S spring to mind. So Jennie deservedly was awarded the Arthur Jessop shield.

So I set off with Simon L, Neil W, Sue C and Gina for a slow ride to Weatherspoons in Epsom. Karl's route was good on mostly cycle paths. What a surprise after lunch when the route carried us on roads I have never ridden before, despite living in the area for 25 years. Considering this was Karl's first lead ride I was impressed by the way the route kept us on safe cycle paths. The only real hill was Lodge Lane, but we met up here with Karl's group. Gina and Sue left us for home, so seven of us had tea and very good cake (I know, I had a Strawberry tart at Bachmann's with my coffee earlier) at The Flying Saucer cafe. Thanks Karl for planning a great route for us around the AGM.

Report from Dave V (fast group)

After an impressively brisk AGM (thanks Sue and Dave F) we (Clive, Dave W & Guy) took to the road in brisk conditions, keen to secure access to the rather sketchy cycle parking in front of Epsom ‘spoons.

En route we took time to divert from the main road for a quieter loop through the Horton Country Park roundabouts, designed to discourage motor traffic.

After lunch we took in Ashtead Common’s thankfully dry cycle tracks, and a hitherto unknown railway level-crossing before heading generally southwards, and downwind, ultimately along the less used A24 cycle lane.

Dave W left us at Mickelham looking for a route home, while we climbed up to Headley, by now into a blustery headwind.

Clive left us for home on the outskirts of Epsom, while Guy and I dodged around the back streets eventually leading to Bourne Hall, where the flapjacks were well received not least for their sugar content, and shortly after we were reunited with Steve and Karl’s groups.

 

Invitation to B Group Ride 6th May

You are all most welcome to join the ride from the Royal British Legion, 105 Downside Bridge Rd, Cobham KT11 3DG.

The morning route is 33.8kms / 21 miles, via Effingham, a couple of short inclines High Barn Lane and Green Deene, an off-road on Drover’s Road to Newlands Corner and its scenic view over the Downs. Then it’s all downhill to West Clandon and the pub.

Lunch is at the ever-welcoming Barley Mow pub in West Horsley. No pre-orders are required. 

The afternoon ride is 18.3 kms / 11.5 miles to Garson’s Farm Garden Centre, Esher, via Cobham.

I will be joined by my ever-dependable co-leaders Tim G and John A.

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

Have a great Bank Holiday weekend. Happy Cycling!

Francis

Invitation to A group ride from Cobham 6th May

 

We will be riding 23 miles to lunch at The Milk Churn ,1500 ft of ascent and returning, 13 miles to The Old Clunker cafe with 900 ft of ascent. After the Hilly 50, a piece of cake!

If you would like to lead a group please respond on Spond.

Route files on Whatsapp.

Steve D.

B Group Ride Report - 29th April '26

A bright, fine but windy day set the scene for today’s proceedings. A handful of early birds met for morning refreshment at the portable cafe at the far end of Long Ditton recreation ground while others gathered outside the Village Hall. The AGM meeting ran smoothly and matters covered in record time. Congratulations to all those involved. 

Team John A

Twenty two cyclists spread over three groups left a little earlier than planned to enjoy the fine but bracing and breezy conditions ahead. Mick A kindly took photos of each group just before their departure. 

Team Francis D'S

Our morning ride took us on a meandering route via Claygate, Esher, Walton, Weybridge to Chertsey where we enjoyed lunch at the Bridge Hotel. Service was prompt and efficient in relaxed and comfortable surroundings.  

Team Tim G

Breezy conditions persisted as we later headed alongside the river to Laleham then Shepperton, Sunbury and Hampton to our final destination at Bushy Park. A few off-road sections were included for added interest. Fortunately all went well and there were no issues. Cyclists from each group enjoyed tea at the  Pheasantry Cafe outside in the warm sunshine. 

Thanks to everyone who made today’s ride a success, to my two subbies John A and Francis D’S and to our three back markers. Always a pleasure to plan and enjoy a ride that is appreciated by all involved. A good day had by all !

TimG. 

Arthur Jessop Award 

I was so thrilled to hear about the presentation of the Arthur Jessop Cycling Award. Thank you so much for this recognition. 

Being a part of The Wayfarers has been such a rewarding experience for me, and it means a lot to know that my contributions have made an impact. I truly appreciate joining such a wonderful list of the others that have received it.

Thank you once again for this honour.

Yours 

Jennie J

Ride Report - Hilly 50k Saturday 25th April

This year’s Hilly 50k attracted a bigger bunch of riders than previous years. Was it the dry roads and perfect weather, or the promise of fewer potholes on the newly revised route? Or dare I say it, the absence of Sheephouse and Whitedown?  Or more likely, a mixture of reasons.

As well as the normal support from H50-hardened Wayfarers, we had significantly increased female support, and from B group members. So many riders that the usual “sensibly paced” group ride had to be split into two, led by Andy C and me. In addition there was a group of seasoned Saturday “Beginners” led by Steve W.    

We also had impressive support from Bella Velo (thanks Frances) Teddington Velo and Wimbledon Windmilers.    

   

     

In all 45 riders on the road, with a strong showing from the home team.

                                    

Andy’s group left on time around 10am with my group about 5 minutes later, with Peter S backmarking (thanks Peter). My group soon settled into a pattern of climbing at our preferred pace, then regrouping at the top, with occasional briefing on the next stage. 

All the groups (Andy’s, Steve’s and mine) met up for refreshments at the King’s Head Shop in Holmbury, where the staff coped admirably with our numbers, which well exceeded the estimate I had given them.     

After leaving Holmbury we descended, and rode some beautiful lanes, before the shock of Pitch Hill, which was the first of a quartet of afternoon climbs (Combe Lane, Crocknorth and Box Hill). Despite the climbing there was good evidence that we were beginning to enjoy ourselves.    

And there were some nice descents too, with chances to admire the scenery or, if you prefer, the bluebells.

All the groups arrived atop Box Hill before 3.30 where we were checked in by Terry, and delighted to find Christina had arranged a welcome feast with Sabina’s help.    

  

Special thanks are due to Maggie J who organised signing-in from early morning, and Terry who stayed to the finish, checking riders as they returned.      

Thanks also to Steve W, Paul J, Andy C, Tim C (IT support and team photographer) and Christina (finishers feast).

This year Mike Morley’s son Tim was away and he and his team will be riding  on May 16^th. So far we have collected around £1,170 for St Raphael’s, and the JustGiving site remains open for further donations, which are all much appreciated.

P.S. There's a link to Steve W's excellent Beginners report here.

P.P.S. Click here for a full collection of photos.

P.P.P.S. Thanks to the efforts of Tim Morley and his friends, riding the H50 on May 16th the total amount collected for St Raphael's reached £1,530, whch I believe is a H50 record. Many thanks to all who contributed so generously.