Sunday 29th September - Ride Report

Café Barbera in Stoke D'Abernon is always a popular elevenses venue and today was no different, with twenty cyclists arriving for the ride or just for coffee and perhaps a little something. There was quite some confusion over the availability of the one toilet which led us to leave later than planned, but eventually we were on our way with fifteen riders - good to have David W back with us post holidays and to see Helen and Paul, Geoff and Carolyn.

Out-of-date out-of-service notice! 

The route took us over Bookham Common (where Audrey and David B and Tony left us), through Effingham and up to Ranmore Common via Hogden Lane. We were soon pausing on the downhill through Denbies Vineyard for a photo with dramatic skies and a sweeping vista below us. I count ten in the photo plus myself and Andy. 

Note to self: You have to travel by land train if you want bubbles with your view

The next challenge was Little Switzerland and Slough Lane, which all took in their stride but by the time we arrived at the top it was getting late. Graham, Keith and Brian peeled off at different points leaving nine to sail down into Epsom for lunch at The Assembly Rooms, where Tony was waiting with Ed and Colin Q - lovely to see them both. 

We ate outside as it was so busy, and so got to see some of the cars arriving for the Horse Power event (marking the end of the racing season in Epsom) in the market place today. 

Holy cyclists Batman! 

Maddie, Julie (on her first C&M ride), Linda and Andy being so close to their respective homes could not be tempted on to afternoon tea, and as such avoided the off-road and muddy sections through Prince's Coverts and beyond, but the rest of us - Sabina and Bernard, Martina, Simon and Tony (who sensibly went around) landed up in Claygate for tea at Laz Cafe. 

Simon looking remarkably clean despite
what he'd just cycled through

Thanks everyone for your company, good humour and sense of adventure! To Simon for back-marking all day and to everyone who helped to make it a lovely day of cycling. 

About 19miles to lunch and 7 miles to tea.  

Photo credits to Simon and Linda.