A new experience for us today; it rained! Though I suspect that the four that left the pub first were the only ones to get a thorough soaking
as by the time the remaining three set off it had stopped.
The seven were myself, Andy E, Mia, Paul, Alan, Ronnie and new rider Andrew. It was quite overcast and humid on the outward trip, via Weston, Ardeley, High Cross and Wadesmill, but with no wind to speak of it was quite easy going.
We came across a couple of supposed road closures which fortunately were no obstacle to us, and made the ride from Wadesmill to Tonwell entirely traffic-free which was a bonus.
It was here that it started to rain a little, and it steadily increased until finally forcing us to retreat inside to eat, as the gazebo was distinctly leaky!
By this time only me, Mia and Andy remained, the others only having a brief stop before setting off for the return via Datchworth and Codecote.
On the way back we found the road we wanted to use had been completely torn up for about 100m, and a bit later first Andy and then I suffered punctures, Andy’s caused by a miniature neolithic hand-axe.
I discovered mine as we were leaving Mill End Plants, where we had stopped for a most welcome afternoon cuppa. A somewhat more eventful ride than usual, but good nonetheless.
The ‘official’ club ride distance was 41 miles, at an average of 13mph.
Adrian and Alan
