We ended up with Dave, Simon, Heidi, Bryan, Jo, Jamie, Mary Ann, Cynthia, Peter, Francis, Frank and myself - 12 splendid riders for a bimble around the lanes to Lingfield.
The pace was a bit quick for a G1 at the start - probably the sunshine getting people keen - but we settled down into a more comfortable pace, through Outwood and Crowhurst and looked like getting to the tea-stop early. A quick check round the group and it was agreed (i.e. I decided) that we would put an extra loop around to the east of Lingfield.
This added a few miles to the ride, but lovely lanes, including one which went through the grounds of N.C.Y.P.E. (look it up). An extraordinary place that is a sort of villiage that pops up out of nowhere. There is probably a lot of history to it which no doubt someone in the club can tell us.
And so on to Occasionally Yours for a welcome tea and cake after 20 miles. One conversation was about how many of us point out potholes when riding before realising that we are on our own...........(actually, shouting "car" when you are on your own is even worse).
Soon on our way again, and back through my favourite lanes around Horne towards Smallfield. Frank suggested another little loop to the south of Smallfield to add in another couple of miles but no hills, and it was back to the aerodrome via for about 12:15. In all about 32 miles at 13.something average. Lovely day, great company. Big thanks to Frank for backmarking. And I need to find a new G1 teastop because......
NOTE TO RIDE LEADERS - The whole Occasionally Yours site is moving to South Godstone soon, so check before you plan a stop.
Roy