Karen's All Day Ride to Newdigate, 10 September

Karen writes.....

We were blessed with good weather for the all day ride to Newdigate.  Helen led the first group, comprising Anna, Roger, Ken, Diane, Steve and Tony. Paul and Maggie caught up with the group en route to elevenses, having been delayed by a puncture.

The second group, led by Karen, comprised Dawn, Ed, Alice, Margaret, Matthew, Thomas, Maureen and Sue (official photographer).

The traffic in the Epsom Downs area was heavier than when we conducted the recce.  Nonetheless, we enjoyed a smooth journey to Walton on the Hill, mainly thanks to efficient corner-marking.

Rob and Ruth joined Karen’s group at elevenses, bringing the total number to 20.  Thomas was joined by a friend called Rex.  However, he was somewhat “green about the gills” for the duration of the ride, so it’s unlikely he’ll be signing up again anytime soon.

Karen's group in need of help after hill climbing?

Karen’s group, ably back marked by Maureen, maintained a steady pace towards Leigh.  We paused briefly to attend to what was considered to be a slow puncture on Maureen’s bike.  However, within a few miles it was apparent that a more permanent remedy was necessary.  We weren’t far from the lunch venue so it was agreed that the group should split whilst Maureen’s inner tube was changed.  (I understand it was a joint effort involving Rob, Matthew and Ed!)

Helen’s group were already tucking in to their lunch when we arrived at the Surrey Oaks.  Our staggered arrival had some benefit – lunch orders were taken and served with military efficiency.

Following lunch, we made good headway towards Leatherhead, no doubt already wondering whether to have carrot cake or a scone at Amici’s.  However, we were hindered by another puncture on the approach to Brockham.  Matthew, ably assisted by Thomas, came to Maureen’s rescue again.  When we reached Amici’s, Helen’s group was preparing to leave; not before informing us of a broken chain which Steve had the capability (and tools?!) to repair.  

Some went their separate ways at Leatherhead and the remaining few managed to return to Cheam without further incident (unless someone knows otherwise!)

Thanks to all for a lovely day, with particular thanks to those who assisted with the cycle repairs.

Helen writes.....

Early in our ride we nearly went astray, when I led us into  Beech Walk cul de sac at the bottom of Reigate Road, instead of Ewell Downs Road and the Green.

Epsom Down was soon overcome, then my phone dropped from my unzipped bag, at the very bottom of Kingswood Road, delaying the upward climb to Tadworth! No damage or losses except the Strava recording of the first half of our route... At this point, Paul and Maggie caught us up, departure from home having been delayed by a basement flood (blocked drain) and a flat tyre (could not get the wheel off, rushed to Wallington Cycles).

The rest of the morning ride went smoothly.

We enjoyed our coffee at Walton, and Pebble Hill was fun. The views towards Box Hill from Kiln Lane are always beautiful, and we enjoyed the peaceful and pretty lanes from Brockham to lunch. Service and food were good at the Surrey Oaks, and we set off for home soon after 2 pm.

Repairing a puncture?  Child's play compared with...........

.....mending a broken chain!

Just after Henfold, as we turned into Red Lane, my chain broke! Praise be to Tony, who had a spare chain link, and Steve, with his multi-tool, which included a chainbreak kit. Thanks to their skills we were all back on the road in 15 minutes or so, and enjoying the lovely afternoon route to Amici in Leatherhead for tea.

All of us thoroughly enjoyed our day. Many thanks Karen for planning it, Tony for back marking and to all for a relaxed and fun social ride.

What CTC South West London does best!