This G2 split group ended up with 11 evenly matched and highly efficient riders heading to Chiddingstone for scones... or so we thought.

The initial group split a little on the way out but regrouped at the Windmill at Outwood - that had lost a sail in the week's winds - to be joined by Ali S who jumped ship from the G3s. We had the experience and perfect etiquette of Dave G, Dave B, Alan H - with thanks to Dave for showing the route once past Lingfield. 

We quickly settled into a neat 2 x 2 bunch that rolled along with great efficiency and style down Hornecourt Hill, Hare Lane, Lingfield then up to Marsh Green, left to Edenbridge and right to Hever. A climb up to Chiddingstone and then fail No.1. We got to the teastop too early. 20 mins before opening. 

About turn and along to Four Elms. Phew... until Uh Oh. Already 2 x massive groups already there. Including about 30 from Bigfoot CC (never seen them there before). So we decided third time lucky and headed for Mocha Bean in Edenbridge. Open. Empty and nice food. Only problem was piling up the bikes and making 3 small locks secure 11 bikes!

The departure was delayed slightly by yours truly who happened to be featuring on Radio 4 at noon. The bunch were fair critics and we set off back via St Piers Lane and Lingfield, Newchapel and Bones Lane.

Sorry and well done to Alan who was on his first ride out for ages. After staying with a quick bunch for 4/5s of the way (we were averaging 15.7mph at the teastop) he flagged a touch on the return and last seen at Smallfield. Trust you were OK with the last leg.

Overall, a super morning - nice to see Revell and son out and Mike O always good for natter en route... sorry we didn't wait for your puncture at the very end.

The biggest shock on of today is that there were 100s of cyclists out on 7th January. 100s! This is an indication perhaps of New Year resolutions in action but I think it's an indication of what's going to happen to cycling in 2012. Amazing but a bit scary!

Adrian