Today there was yet another very welcome large turnout of loyal members at elevenses at Staines! Despite the dismal weather, no less than Martina, Niall, Simon, Tony, Pam, Madeleine, Andy, Ray, Graham, Diane, Ruth and Gemma (apologies if I have omitted anyone) joined me at Wetherspoons. Gemma and Ray were both, I think making welcome returns to the fold after several months' away (but we're always pleased to see them) and Pam was on her first ride after being grounded for four weeks through injury!
Anyway, the general plan was to re-enact our rather eventful ride of 7th January. We all duly set off (in the opposite direction from our destination, Windsor, obviously)! Disappointingly (or perhaps not), wild horses did not this time block our passage across Shortwood Common, but the difficulties of getting all of us through the two kissing gates there convinced me that this time we wouldn't be attempting to traverse the causeway across the Staines reservoirs, and, in particular, the stile at the far end!
The rest of the ride was pretty tame compared with 7th January - not a single flooded road to negotiate, and no diversions due to closures! We made it to the Cinnamon Cafe without incident, and the only 'event' on the way back to tea was the onset of drizzle!
Thanks to all for your company, and thanks to Diane for tirelessly back-marking throughout the ride! Photo credits to Andy for the best picture!
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