Four became five shortly after the start when Keith caught us. We went over the top through Headley and down Pebblecombe losing John forever somehow along the way. The sight of cyclists in Betchworth and Leigh gave hint of an audax. More conversation was generated by a semi-gralloched deer and a succession of vintage Jaguars.
After a short (by our standards) stay at Rusper Golf Club, six were keen for more. We bypassed Rusper, passed by The Gate (under new management) and headed into the Crawley sprawl at Whitehall Drive. We now reversed one of Andy's routes; the editor experiencing anxious and sinking moments on the sodden Cottesmore bridleway. After that it was follow NCN 20 south. Travelling this way gave a first; the views on the descent from Handcross to the Victory Inn Staplefield; previously I've only climbed that hill.
With the forecast in mind, we were away early along familar lanes through Slaugham, Ashfold Crossroads and Colgate to Faygate. Paul departed at Wimlands whilst we continued through Friday Street to our first Capel Church tea of the year. Up to now the gods had been kind; warm sun, not quite so warm in any wind. But as we left, the threatened heavy rain fell. Changeable was the word; Burford Bridge was bathed in sunshine, Chessington dull (nothing new) and drizzle in Surbiton. Around 75 miles door to door.
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