Southend

Tuesday 14th October A cool ride on a very cool day. I decided at the last minute to put on a jacket and I’m glad I did. It was pretty chilly all day.
Eleven of us at the Turnpike.
Our ride to Olivers Garden Centre was without incident and into a gentle Northerly wind.
Only three others at Oliver’s and generally the cafe was quiet.
Our route to lunch went through Little Braxted where, although the road was closed, we were able to get through the block by walking.
We also went through Tiptree where we couldn’t smell any jam being made unless the wind took the smell away.
The service at The Swan wasn’t too bad. We’ve had longer waits and the food was good.
Our ride home was with a following wind so we made good time.
The only scare was when a cat dashed out in front of me.
Thanks to Stewart for leading a second group. Just over 53 miles for me. Trev

Thursday 16th October The Southend group had a good turnout at the Turnpike with 14 riders, although only 5 had booked in for lunch.
The weather was brighter and warmer than Tuesday.
The ride to Blackmore inevitable involves some climbing and there were some comments about that. 
Blackmore was busy with the main group, Easy riders and Lone Rangers. We were late getting away from tea due to the long queue for the single toilet.
Just out of High Ongar we spied a herd of deer but we didn’t spook them into a stampede.
Despite the late getaway from Blackmore we reached the Alma Arms on time, and Stewart joined us to make 6 for lunch. The pub was not busy again.
The journey home was uneventful without a great deal of traffic.
50 miles exactly for me. Trev

2025 Puncture Competition