It has been a great idea to meet at differing locations this autumn rather than at the aesthetically challenged North Cheam junction of the A24.
This Sunday I met Steve and Andy at the Oaks Park café.
We decided to have a coffee before setting off.
Although not in keeping with the spirit of the discussions at the AGM there was on this occasion good reason – as the temperature had dipped below zero during the night this would leave a little more time for the ice to melt.
With our caffeine boost we pedalled up to Woodmansterne thence to Coulsdon, across Farthing Downs to Chaldon. By and large any ice that had formed had melted but there were a few frosty patches around Spring Bottom Lane to keep us, so to speak, on our toes – we want to keep our collar bones intact for the festive period. No such concerns along the A25 and by the time we reached the Oxted turn-off the rising temperature ensured a frost-free pedal to meet up with Ian and Terry for elevenses at Morrisons.
Setting off through Oxted old town we joined Tandridge Lane. Then along Croydonbarn Lane turning off to Horne and the only hillette on this leg to take us to the windmill at Outwood and on to our lunch stop at Wasp Green.
By now the temperature was falling and the sun paling and there was some discussion as to whether to stop for tea. Generally the feeling was to go straight home. Pedalling up Markedge Lane we saw a rainbow. But this was not good news. Pausing at Fanny’s Farm for a breather we decided not to stay for tea. This was a good decision. The sky soon darkened, at first drizzle and then a short sharp hailstorm as we cycled down Hazelwood Lane.
All in all a good December ride for probably the first Sunday with an average seasonal temperature compared with the hitherto mild autumn this year. For me, from Balham, the mileage recorded was 62.
From Mike.
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