Well, I've said it before and I'll no doubt say it again (it saves my little grey cells from the undue wear and tear original thought might risk), but a North Cheam elevenses meet always brings Cheam and Morden members out of the woodwork from all directions! This occasion was no exception but had also the feel of a reunion as it was very pleasing to have both Richard and Ed join us, along with a few other faces we haven't seen recently, but which were most welcome!
If I have it correctly, I was joined for the rest of the ride to lunch by no less than Niall (many happy returns to him), Simon L, Brenda, Christina, Geoff, Neil C, Diane, Gina, Andy C, Keith, Maddie and Steph (I think I'm one name short there - apologies if I've overlooked anyone)!
(NB - Route shown above includes section from Walton-on-Thames to North Cheam which was not part of the official route)
I must admit I was taken a little by surprise by the size of the group joining the onward ride to Ockham Bites, and parts of the route weren't ideal for such a large number. Nevertheless, with the help of Simon, Neil, Geoff and Andy, any difficulties were overcome!
It was a day of three inaugurations for the C & M, the first being a traverse of the newly-resurfaced (well, partly, anyway) bridleway, New Road. This proved itself to be just about tolerable for riding in what has been quite a wet autumn and early winter, but it is a pity some attention was not given to the rather gloopy turn-out onto Fairoak Lane!
(Photo courtesy of Andy)
The main event of the day, the C & M's first official traverse of the new Wisley Bridge, had to wait until after lunch, where Terry joined us. Ockham Bites was busy but everyone that needed refreshments managed to get what they wanted and it was fortunately a mild and bright day, ideal for sitting outside!
Some headed their own ways home from lunch, but a hardcore group led by me headed the short distance to the bridge and took it by storm! It made for a much shorter and easier ride back to Walton, even more so because we inaugurated use of a mysterious path (well, I've always wondered where it went, anyway) leading along the base of the old banking at Brooklands for where turned out to be quite a short length, but cunningly avoiding the busy shopping centre area. With the brisk wind behind us we soon reached our destination.
Many thanks to all for you company, and for putting up with it all (!), and particular thanks to the helpers named above. See you all again soon!
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