Sunday February 2 2020

The first ride of my 76th year turned out to be unusually warm, overcast and far better than the forecast as the heavy rain ceased just after six. It left plenty of surface water on Ford Bridge Road but traffic was light.

When I arrived at Bourne Valley Garden Centre we were four but eventually ten turned up including three A riders. Terry rang to request a rendezvous: I said Rodboro 1230, Pam said 1245. Anyone familiar with my rides will recognize the route so this map should suffice.

We arrived at the Rodboro at 1231 to find it full (the weekend only Brexit discount?). Later Bob rejoined.

Over a leisurely lunch I suggested we investigate a 1907 murder (google William Whiteley). We headed up the cobbles and along the A3. Pam, Terry and Vic split off as we turned after The Jovial Sailor. An oncoming MTB'er forewarned of floods along Plough Lane so we rode via Downside into Cobham. After Notre Dame and Seven Hills a right into Whiteley Village brought us to the "new" Harvest Cafe which lies in the NE quadrant of the octagon. We trebled the number of visitors at the start of our hour plus stay but when full it probably seats 40/50 in comfort. I can't comment on the cakes as few if any were on view.

About 50 miles door to door.

Two points: Graham, Bob, Brian, Dave W, Ged, Pam, Ray, Steve, Vic,
One point: Terry

Author: RaasayWarden

1 Comment:

Jeff 03 February 2020 at 17:05 GMT

Many thanks , Graham, for your punctilious record keeping and congrats on your untroubled progress through the serene seventies. The outrageous eighties have taken an unwelcome piranha bite out of both my knees, against which I am determined to bite back.
Jeff