Norwesters – 23rd September

 Eleven’s was at Walton Marina, where 18 merry cyclists gathered for coffee, including Fixie Dave, who was sensible enough to head home after coffee. Originally, 20 had signed up, but there were a few dropouts, as usual. It was very social, enjoying coffee overlooking the Marina.

Ray and Julie stepped in as sub-leaders, for which I was very grateful. Ray’s group was first away at 10:40, followed at 10:50 by Julie’s group, and finally my group at 11:00.

The route took us roughly through Addlestone and Ottershaw, then down Stonehill Road and Accommodation Road, before joining Chobham Road and passing the Netflix studios. We continued to the roundabout and turned right towards Sunningdale.

We made a brief stop outside Brilliant Bikes shop, famed for Hannah’s Brompton videos on YouTube.

Crossing the A30, we were soon passing the Blacknest Gate of Windsor Great Park (WGP), continuing to the Ascot Gate entrance. We followed Duke’s Lane to the crossroads, then turned left towards the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Statue, where we stopped for a few photos.

 We then headed back down towards the edge of the polo fields, past Savill Garden and the Totem Pole, before arriving at the Wheatsheaf for lunch.

  The first two groups were already settled outside, and we had an adjacent table. The service was good, as was the food, and, as usual, there was plenty of banter.

But soon it was time to depart. Groups 1 and 2 headed off, and eventually so did we. Tea was back at the Marina, where we soon joined the remains of the first two groups for an alfresco cuppa. Eventually, though, dispersal happened.

A lovely day on the bikes and a great crowd.

Many thanks to Ray and Julie for sub-leading, to the three back markers, and to everyone for the many photos.

Thank you all for making it such an enjoyable day!

Tony..