New Year's Day 2015

In contrast to recent years, the warm but dull weather produced a bumper crowd at the Colicci Cafe Roehampton - at least 25 souls (C&M out all day : GH, TL, ES, DA, DS, LC; 11s only: PD, TH, AA, CB, etc). As usual I grilled Ed on his route; as usual I failed. Carters Tested Seeds (demolished 1970) got a mention so A3 then up into Coombe and Richmond Park via Ladderstile Gate will have to do.

Naturally I'm on firmer ground for the return. Eighteen rode across the park to Ham Gate then turned left into Church Road. After a brief dive into the bushes we arrived at the Grade 2 listed Parkleys Estate (1954-6, 'the most refreshing new housing in Surrey' though I sensed some didn't share Pevsner's enthusiasm). We reached the river via Hawkers (demolished early 90s) and continue alongside before turning north past the gasworks (remains being demolished).

After that it was pure suburbia: Norbiton Station, Elm Road, South Lane, Riverview Road and Pam's Way. At Ed's three Mitchells balanced those who had departed en route. Many thanks to Ed, Maureen and the Mitchells for a copious supply of food and drink. Around 25 miles door-to-door.

Author: RaasayWarden