Sunday the 6th December

Unofficial C&M Alternative Ride

With the shorter days not all like to venture miles from home. And Hookwood for 11's with tea at Redhill is really a Summer ride for the few who live North of the Thames or West of Heathrow.

So an alternative was undertaken. 5 met at Notcutts Laleham for 11's. Pam, Irene, Ed, Alan and myself. Santa was ensconced in the cafe with a queue of Children waiting to sit on his knee, we all declined. We set off into the wind  to Lunch at the Rose & Crown Woodside.  

Chertsey bridge and on through Thorpe to Virginia Water where Alan disappeared off the back of the group with a broken chain. He had the means to repair the chain told us to continue, he wasn't coming to lunch. On Through Englefield Green and into the park via Saville Gardens and past the polo ground, with a brief stop to put on waterproofs, to exit at Blacknest Gate and up Mill lane upto the cut through just before the Peanut roundabout and on to lunch.

The pub was packed but in a short time we were seated and all enjoying hot Tomato and Basil Soup. Tea was changed to Norths of Staines and we took the direct route through the park and down Tite hill through Egham, where Pam left us for home. And on to tea, we were soon enjoying tea and warm mince pies with Ed having custard as well! Leaving the eatery just as it was getting dark Ed (with his brand new ultra bright front light) and myself set of through Laleham, Shepperton, Sunbury to Hampton where we said our farewells. Home in the dark and a pleasant if wet and windy day.