There was a great a mixture of new(ish) and familiar faces as we gathered in a chilly Walking Bottom car park. Fran looked relaxed with no hint that she had just ridden from Reigate and it was particularly nice to see Terry after a long absence.
There was a hint of optimism as the sun was out and it looked like we were in for a lovely ride. fifteen of use were just about to set off when a mechanical meant our numbers dropped by one. The rest of use snaked our way up via single track to Pitch Hill. The heavy rain of the last few days meant that that in places mud made the ride a little interesting of those of us who had recently changed to summer tyres.
Yogurt pots was as flowing well and we were all impressed with Michelle who was being introduced to more technical riding and the joy of The Hurtwood. She sailed through YP and the rocking descent down to the road.
After climbing up to Leith Hill and we headed straight for Summer Lightening (new and old). By the time everyone had mastered all the sections and patches of mud we decided to loop back up to the Tower for tea. Whilst enjoying the sun at the tea stop we bumped into Steve who was just about to try the just opened top section of SL.
After suitably refuelling we headed back via the quick flowing Greensands Way and the old faithful BKB arriving back with perfect timing. A few of us had a quick lunch at the village stores before either going home or doing another hours riding over Winterfold.
Helen