Pelted by hailstones on my assent of Reigate Hill to the start point suggested that this could be a cold ride. On reaching the car park there was a light covering of snow confirming my suspicions.
As we set off to Colley Hill, Sandra and Marcus arrived taking the group from 10 to 12. The snow was also arriving making visibility particularly difficult as we battled across the ridge. Peter at this point was getting too cold so wisely turned back, closely followed by James (Roadie! J). When we regrouped at the end of Tye Lane we realised that Dave Ricketts had found us, taking our number up to 11. It was good to see some new faces and I hope the bitter weather hasn’t put them off any future rides.
During a quick break, we realised how cold our faces, fingers and toes were, that was of course if we were lucky enough to have any feelings in those areas. The ground was rock hard in places, but quite soggy in some sheltered parts. The thin film of snow added an element of unpredictability to the hidden terrain below it.
From the top of Tye Lane we skirted across to find the bridleway taking us under the M25 and up to the top of the track going down to No Home Farm. Some riders descended directly to No Home Farm, whilst the others ventured down the icy road to Hust Farm to pick up Sheep Walk taking us to the foot of the Epsom Downs. Here we waited for the others and used the opportunity to take a couple of photos.
The others had made their own way to Epsom racecourse where unfortunately the hut for the tea stop was closed (it was open on the same day last year). Not wanting to stand around for too long, we headed back over the racecourse to climb up the decent to No Home Farm. A track I had ridden down many times, but never ridden up.
Once at Walton on the Hill, we returned over Banstead Heath where the snow had settled on the grass. Surprisingly, there were not many golfers to be seen but we did have our fair share of walkers.
The bridleway taking us to Margery Wood car park exposed us to the icy North wind. This tore though our damp sweaty clothing, chilling our muscles making pedalling extremely difficult. We returned to Reigate Hill at our own pace and I’m glad to say all in one piece.
A cold but exciting ride. The snow added an extra dimension requiring more vigilance and power in the legs, both helping to reduce the effect of that extra portion of Christmas pudding.