Sunday 20th October - C&M vs Storm Ashley

The first named storm of the year coincided with our ride from Dorking to Leigh.   The weather forecast was dire: heavy rain and strong winds.   It was hard enough just getting to Dorking against the wind and in lashing rain, but six hardy adventurers either forgot to look at the forecast or else decided to brave the odds anyway.   We dripped and shivered in the air-conditioned cafe at Waitrose, drinking lashings of coffee and watching lashings of rain through the picture windows.   Repeated checking of the weather forecast didn't seem to improve things, but they did seem to predict a slight lessening of the torrent around 11.30.   David W left us to do his own thing while more coffees were called for, as we delayed our start time.  There were debates about whether Ranmore Common was becoming slightly visible through the rain.  Eventually we just had to go out and brave it.   After all, we were already wet - how much worse could it get?

Look cheerful!

Brian on the phone to the Met Office;
Ranmore Common in the background? 

In fact, it wasn't quite as bad as it looked - more steady rain than monsoon.   We had voted to shorten the route from my gorgeous 19 mile route via Partridge Lane and The Mount by as much as possible.   After about six miles we were a bit surprised to arrive in Leigh, and the rain had nearly stopped.   The Plough was warm and welcoming, and we spent an enjoyable hour discussing all and sundry, including many happy memories of our good friend Ian Appleton.  But alas, the rain had returned with a vengeance.   Weather apps were consulted and once again we decided to delay our departure with another coffee.   More chat, and eventually we left.   Hurray - the rain had stopped again, more or less, and we enjoyed a wind-assisted ride back to Leatherhead for tea.

Long lunch at The Plough

Thanks to all the hardy heroes who turned out today, for your company and stoicism in facing the elements, and thanks to Diane for back marking.   The ride was only about 17 miles from 11s to tea, but each mile was hard-earned.  Brian informed me that his average speed for the whole ride, including stops, was 4 mph, which may be a record of sorts.  Ten bonus house points (but no extra attendance points) for all!

Heroes  (photo: Andy)