January 24 2106

Just on nine, Ed phoned with a p-fairy tale so four delayed for 15+ minutes allowing Neil also to join. The fairy must have been busy as we soon passed faster looking but stationary riders. We stayed north of the Thames to Walton Bridge then took NCN4 to Weybridge. As is often the case the Addlestone level crossing was closed. The leader was crossing the bridge when it reopened (much to his chagrin) after only a minute or so. Via Common Lane we inspected the New Haw viaduct (underside thereof) before continuing parallel to the canal to Scotland Bridge. Now south of the canal West Byfleet and Sheerwater led on to Maybury. From here we climbed through a more salubrious Woking before dropping down through Woking Park to the Kingfield stadium. And so after 20 miles and two hours the Mayford garden centre hoved into view.

Half a hour later Alan went one way and a dozen went t'other - over Pyle Hill, through Sutton Green and down to Jacob's Well. Just after passing Sutton Place on the A3, the p-fairy struck again. This  victim was Lillian so Ed's skills were called upon for a second time. After turning east at Burnt Common,  the farm road between Sussex and Jury farms meant just 100 feet of climbing separated us from lunch at the King William IV. Here Bob joined us. Most settled for starters but Neil's roast  appeared before he'd even taken his seat! An almost unaminous vote was for tea at Sainsburys Cobham which was reached via Ockham and Martyr's Green. Nine then spent a good hour setting the world to rights before heading home

After the recent cold snap, it was back to dull but very mild though we were treated to bright sunshine on the farm road. 50 miles door to door.

1 point  : Alan, Bob
2 points : Graham, Ed, Lillian, Neil, Paul, Tony, Irene, Pam, Vic, Terry, Dave, Ray