New faces! Beddington Beginners to Merton Abbey and Morden Hall on 21 May

By Paul 

Saturday was perfect weather for cycling, mostly though not entirely sunny, not too hot and with little wind.  And we were really pleased that of the twelve riders converging upon the Pavilion Cafe in Beddington Park, three were first-timers with the club.

With 25% newcomers we decided to keep it reasonably short and as gently off road as possible, and established Morden Hall Park as our target, though the slightly long way round.  In two groups for easier management, Colin in the lead and Paul with the follow-up group, we went North on a peaceful Beddington Lane (closed to traffic but the blockage penetrable on a bike), across Mitcham Common, past Mitcham Eastfields and across Figges Marsh.  We rode along the waterside path to Merton Abbey, each group independently weighing up whether to have coffee there but each deciding that we had agreed to do so at Morden Hall.

Where have they got to?  A leader impatient for his tea and cake in Morden Hall Park

It was a decision we mildly regretted because of the painfully slow service at Morden Hall, and one we might revise next time.....

Tardy tea at Morden Hall

Eventually refreshed, we made our way back to Beddington along the Wandle Trail.

                                                        Paul's group on the Wandle Trail

A pleasant, easy-paced afternoon which the newcomers seemed to enjoy.

What's all this stopping and starting when there's a playground to get to?  

Two year old Thomas sets the pace in Beddington Park

So, welcome Sarah, Howard and Suzanna, thank you for your company, and we would love to see you again.