Sunny Sunday the 28th

What a glorious day. 11's at Magna Carta tea rooms, Runnymede. I arrived early to find Simon already sitting in the Sun, The rest of the troops arrived in dribs and drabs., Dave was the next to arrive and soon there was a good group chatting and sunning themselves.

Tony, Simon, Dave, Pam, Carolyn, Paula, Ann, Geoff, Niall (CEO EFR), Dave and Jennie, 11 in total. Virtually dead on 11 we left, and only got around just over a mile when the dreaded puncture Fairy struck Paula's bike. Experience shone through and we were soon on the move again and battling a headwind some of the time. We were soon at Bray and heading to White Waltham on lovely quiet roads. At Waltham st Lawerence added in an extra loop down to Baileys Lane, then back into West End Lane.

We were soon at Hurst and passing another C&M favourite Pub, The Green Man.  It would be right not to stop at the Castle Inn and a group photo as the pub has a lovely original Winged Wheel plaque. another mile and a bit and we were entering Dinton Pastures Country Park, our timing was impeccable as the dinner time queue at the cafe had abated, meaning virtually instant service.Dave decided to make his own way home after lunch.

It was lovely to sit outside, some under trees and some in the Summer Sun. Most had a light lunch, we did linger, but away we must. On quiet back lanes out of Hurst and the Straight Mile to Shurlock Row, Beanhams Heath, Paley Street, Touchen End, and the road past Fifield to Windsor, Old Windsor and onto Egham for afternoon tea at Libertos, cafe bar. Again sitting in glorious sunshine and not wanting to get back on the bikes. At this point dispersal sort of started, Simon led from here and we soon met up with half of the group that went a different way.

 

Staines and Ashford were soon far behind us, on the edge of Feltham and were soon in Hampton and minutes from my abode, at this point farewells to Simon and Paula, the last 2. A great days ride, with fun friends and fantastic weather, many thanks to Simon, Geoff, Dave and Jennie for shepherding the throng when required.

Tony..