A Windy Ride Westward

Sunday the 23rd.

Having moved to Hampton the cycle ride to Squire's at Upper Haliford for 11's was short and,  considering the wind, welcome. About half mile from Squire's Carolin joined me.

As usual Dave was already there with his cooked breakfast chatting to Vic.   We were soon joined by Graham, Pam, Simon, Gemma, Ed,  Brian Bent, Steve Duffin and Paul Day.

Paul, Carolin, Graham and Ed had decided not to venture further and headed home.

We left 11's around 11.15 into a headwind which at times was gusty. We headed North through Ashford and onto Poyle, Colnbrook and across the M4 and the outskirts of Slough where the rain started and caused a brief stop to don waterproofs. Only another half mile and we reached our lunch stop at the red lion. By now the rain had stopped.

The food was soon delivered to our table ranging from a packet of crisps for some to full blown Sunday roasts along with dessert for others. Brian and Dave left lunch early to head home. Vic Pam and Gemma headed due South while Simon and Steve followed me eastwards.

Now with a tailwind progress was more rapid. At Cranford I turned South and crossed Hounslow Heath then onto the Crane river path. As we got to the Shot Tower it was a surprise to see it open, and so a brief stop to look inside. We were met by a very enthusiastic volunteer who explained the history of the Shot Tower, which in fact is not actually NOT a ShotTower as it is not tall enough for that purpose. We did however climb the spiral staircase to the top, see photo courtesy of Simon.

Just over another miles saw us reach tea at Squire's, Fulwell. Even after a full Sunday roast some still managed cake! After some enjoyable chat we all headed our separate ways home. Only 32 miles for me but very enjoyable and nice to be back cycling after time off the bike through injury and moving house.

Tony..