Coming Out of Lockdown; a message from the Beginners’ representative on the CTC South West London Committee.

The Committee has discussed what we as club members can and cannot do in the light of the new government policy.

We are officially allowed to ride in pairs which can include someone other than from our own household (max two riders).  See the Cycling UK advice here.  You must maintain at least 2 metres distance.  There have been reports in the press that 2m is insufficient distance when riding behind someone, but with no clear information on what is safe.  The Committee chairman has asked CUK for their guidance, but until that is received we suggest a minimum of 10m.

CUK guidance on how far from home we should go is unchanged here.  Basically, they are saying that you should consider your plan B if you have a mishap far from home.  How would you cope without calling on others to come out and help, with possible risk to themselves?

All group riding in numbers more than two is presently contrary to Government regulations, as well as CUK advice.  Riding outside their advice almost certainly means that you would not be covered by their insurance, so the club will not be organising any group rides until the rules change. However, the committee are keen to recommence the Rides Programme as soon as conditions allow and have been anticipating how the rules might be relaxed and brainstorming a way forward.

The main thrust of the discussions concerned the Wayfarers, who ride on Wednesdays, but the principles will have to apply to all club rides.  Maintaining social distance of 2m when stationary and at least 10m on the road will be fundamental to the Wayfarers’ plans.  Groups will be limited to 4-7 max; should more than 7 want to ride, the leader will be asked to nominate a second leader who will be provided with the route to be ridden with a 20-minute gap.  An alternative for Beginners would be for the second leader to pick his or her own route.

Initially we should stick to familiar routes, away from busy places such as Box Hill (or Morden Hall Park).  Anyone who does not want to ride in a group can follow the ride in their own time.  Leaders will also be asked to look out for suitable toilet facilities on their routes, since nearly all public toilet facilities and pubs etc, are closed at the moment.  Even if cafes are open by the time we can ride in groups they (or other customers) may not welcome groups of cyclists so the Wayfarers plan initially to take packed lunches.  The problem will be different for Beginners; we generally do not ride all day or need lunch, but we may need to be prepared to take our own snack.

These are the plans for the future.  Nothing can happen at the moment but as soon as we are allowed, the Committee will issue advice which meets the requirements of government and the advice of CUK.  Meanwhile please tell anyone you are in contact with who doesn't read the blog about this advice, especially that in the first three paragraphs above.

If you have any comments or concerns let me or any other committee member know.

Paulandrewjames1949@yahoo.co.uk