Ride to Greenwich, Saturday 11th May

  Last year we rode via Dulwich and returned via Crystal Palace in cold rain, so I determined to ride the other way via Croydon and avoid any hills. The weather, unfortunately, was beyond control and we had showers from midday onwards with warm sunshine in the intervals. Light wind from the north.

  We proceeded via Beddington Park where we picked up Paul James. Through Croydon to South Norwood country park, unknown territory to most, and stopped at Kent House station for a break in warm sunshine. When we left through the station underpass we managed to leave Tony, John and Margaret behind and being instantly out of sight they promptly headed off in the wrong direction. Fortunately, due to modern technology carried by two of the remainder (but not the leader)and a wait under Catford Railway bridge by the S.Circular road out of a prolonged rain shower, we were reunited and by popular vote headed through Blackheath and onto the famous view in Greenwich Park.

  Lunch was taken by the statue in a sunny interval at picnic tables and the Observatory cafe, and we left in a heavy rain shower and marked drop in temperature. We briefly stopped by the statue of Peter the Great and a monstrous cruise ship before heading to Deptford.

  Return was via Nunhead, Peckham Rye and a tea stop in Dulwich Park with another heavy rain shower to the end in Morden Hall Park in bright sunshine.

  10 riders turned out and the distance was 34 miles. No punctures or mechanicals. Thanks to Tony for back marking.

Harry Cole