Feb 15th

What a day - my first run as a leader and what a wonderful start with 20 people at Sainsbury's, Cobham which became 16 at lunch! We welcomed three new riders to the group, Jessica (surname unknown - sorry) and Jane and Dave Jarvis. My thanks go to Irene who graciously took on the duty of 'back marker'.We made our way through Cobham taking the lanes to Ripley. Fortunately most of the water that was rushing over the lanes, plus ice last Wednesday, had all but disappeared! From Ripley we continued along (up) Newark Lane, past the ruins of Newark Priory on our right, to skirt around Woking via Mayhurst to the six cross road roundabout - not too tricky to-day! Then along Woodham Lane to do a left and a quick right up Horsell Rise and so to The Plough where we were made very welcome.After lunch we made our way to the Basingstoke Canal via South Road, through Horsell village, into Arthurs Bridge Road where we joined the tow path with it's beautiful sand/gravel surface! The good surface finishes at Monument Bridge and it was here that we split into two groups, Irene led the tow path 'bikies' and I led the 'roadies' ! We met in West Byfleet (as planned!) then into Pyrford Road, Lock Lane, over the A3 at Wisley for tea at Ockham Bites! The ride took it's usual course, some staying for tea and others continuing on their way! Thanks to the weatherman for keeping the rain off until after tea and my thanks to everybody who made my day such a pleasure - Pam :)