A bridge too far.... Beginners ride 27 June

Maggie and I did not much enjoy the crowds at Nonsuch, and the pretty thoughtless driving there, so with Nigel's blessing we set up an alternative Beginners ride.  As luck would have it, the weather had taken a turn downwards, so Nonsuch may not have been so crowded, but Anna, Roger and Ken turned up as arranged to join Maggie and me at Sutton Library car park; Steve let us know he would not be making it.

Following Wednesday's ride through Walton on Thames, I was inspired to take Beginners to the bridge there, where we knew there would be toilets and sustenance properly organised.  The idea was for a leisurely ride along the north bank of the Thames through Sunbury and a slightly shorter ride back past Sandown Park but Ken had not been out on a bike since the start of Lockdown and it became evident before Thames Ditton that we would have to enjoy a shorter ride and save Walton for another day.

So, Hampton Court it was, and though the coffees were nice, the only toilets were in the BP Garage, which involved queuing.  Who should pass on the cycle path as we waited but John French with another of the day's Beginners groups!

The homeward bit was different than usual.  First we cycled down Ember Lane and Chestnut Avenue to Weston Green.

Socially distanced selfie in Alma Road

Then we started up Weston Green Road but took Tim Court's favourite route home, along the path to Giggs Hill Green, past Long Ditton and Victoria Recreation Grounds, up Maple Road and Surbiton Hill park through Berrylands and home through the tunnel under the A3 to Worcester Park.  For us 47 Km door to door, a little less for the others.

Screw drivers, Birmingham screw drivers, chain's free, Bob's your uncle

A slight hold up for repair to Roger's gears and we had avoided all the rain for a gentle but really enjoyable ride!