From Beddington Park to face the music; Beddington Beginners on Midsummers Day

The daytime temperatures had been oscillating around the 30 degree mark for a week and the weatherperson promised the hottest day of the year.  Sure enough it was so sultry in the morning that Maggie's walk was called off but for the few ready to try a ride in the heat it began to cloud over by two-o-clock.  

I had other worries; at Beddington Park I could not dismount, my left foot permanently affixed to my pedal as the cleat would not disengage.  Was I to be stuck on my bike forever?  We planned to visit the Wallington Music Festival after the ride; I supposed I could watch from my bike.  But even damnation is poisoned with rainbows; I would not have to go to see the Bridget Jones film that evening.  But sleep?  And going to church tomorrow?  Well, I would be able to get there alright, but we're a bit traditional for me to go riding in to my stall in the choir.  While the Beddington Parkers chatted on I bent down and undid the lace on my shoe, dismounting with a stockinged foot.  Still could not budge the shoe until with one final wrench, off it came.  Phew!  Put it on again, re-mount, stuck again.  

So with old timers Anna, Roger, Sharon and newcomer Dominika all expecting a ride, Maggie had to take on the leadership of the ride while I cycled up to Wallington Cycles and, literally, into the shop and up to the counter.  They told me I just had some screws loose, but Maggie has been telling me that for years.

Meanwhile the astraphobics had overcome their decidophobia (if not their hippopotomonstros-esquipodaliophobia) and opted for an old favourite, not visited since last week.  But this was a different starting point and, best of all, they were going to ride the official route back to front, which is difficult on a bicycle.

So off they set up the Wandle Trail and off I set back to Wallington.  Problem diagnosed, screws adjusted, I chased them as the warm rain began to fall but only caught up at M.E.D itself, to be met by Anna with a cheery smile and a "We sat out here but it was too wet, so we went inside but it was too hot so now we're sitting out the back where some bloke is wailing into a microphone so you can't hear yourself speak".  A good time was being had by all, then.

She proved right, on all counts, so I supped my iced coffee and half a ginger and pumpkin cake and mounted the steed to lead the group back along the way we usually come.  It is strange riding a familiar route in reverse; hills you did not know were hills, one way streets to be circumnavigated, but we all got back to Beddington Park from where Anna and Roger led Dominika back to Sutton and Maggie and Sharon and I went to the music festival, which was a lot better than the lad in M.E.D had been.

We forgot to take a photo on the ride, but here we are at Wallington Music Festival.

Eat your heart out, Glastonbury.

And we went home and I dismounted without incident.  O Joy, O Rapture.  But for every downhill there's a climb; I had to go and watch Bridget Jones.

All in all we ended up having a nice easy ride in each other's easy company.  We certainly look forward to welcoming Dominika again. 

Cycle Maintenance course

Cycle Maintenance Course We are organising a cycle maintenance course, covering brakes and chains on Monday 21st July in Bushy Park, meeting at 10.30hrs at the Pheasantry Cafe. If you would like to register for attendance please email me at d.jackson49@aol.co.uk Jennie

All Day ride to Greenwich on 12 July

I am looking for group leaders, please, for the All Day ride to Greenwich.  I will be riding my first recce on Monday 23 June, and at least one further recce nearer the date.  Is anyone able to help?  Please contact me on Paulandrewjames1949@yahoo.co.uk.

 

Lazin' on a Sunny Afternoon; Nonsuch shorter ride to Merton Abbey Mills 14 June

Some Saturday riders had left at 9.30 for an All Day adventure to Worthing, and a couple of them were about to experience an all-evening return ride.  We therefore expected numbers to be down at 2-o-clock but a fair old few gathered at the Mansion, including some old friends and some new; John B, Tony H, Pip and Maggie came to the meet even though they were not going out for the ride.  It was a first time for Isabel.  Malcolm and Pip were visiting from New Zealand and Malcolm was trying to get some miles in his legs to prepare him for the Tri-Vets for which he has signed up next Wednesday; he had already been out last Wednesday and on Friday. 

Photo by Malcom's sister Pip.

I was standing in for Tony to lead the short ride, scheduled for Oaks Park but instead destined for MED at Merton Abbey Mills, and Steve W turned up to lead a longer ride to Eight on the River at Molesey; impressive, as he had ridden a ton on Wednesday to Shoreham and back.

Steve took his group off first and we let them clear the park before the eight of us followed; Helen T, Sharon, Mike, Philip, Malcolm, Anna and Roger joining me through Worcester Park, Green Lane, Morden Cemetery and past Cannon Hill Common.  It was a glorious day, improved by a strong breeze that required more energy to ride into but provided a welcome draught to keep us cool.  It was tempting to stop and watch the cricket in the Joseph Hood recreation ground, and it's a pretty ride past John Innes Park through Church Lane in Merton Park and then through South Wimbledon.  All at a leisurely pace appropriate for those of us with a relaxing Saturday afternoon on our agenda. 

There were surprisingly few people about on the roads and we nearly had the MED cafe to ourselves.  There, after a naughty but scrummy pumpkin and ginger cake, we split up.  I went back along the Wandle Trail with the Sutton/Purley residents and Helen was up for leading the occidentals Cheamwards and went with Philip in that direction.  Mick went straight home.

Photo by Paul

Thanks to everyone for the splendid company, and to Helen for back-marking and taking Philip homewards (or was it Philip showing her his scenic route?).

   

Invitation to All Day Ride to Worthing on 14 June

 

From Alan C

 

You are invited to join the All-Day Beginners Ride on Saturday 14th June.

 

The ride will go from Nonsuch Park to Worthing - taking a quiet route via Epsom Downs, Walton-on-the Hill, Bookham, Newdigate, Horsham, Partridge Green, Shoreham-by-Sea and Worthing.

 The return journey will be by train from Worthing to East Croydon. We will ride from East Croydon to Nonsuch Park along the Wandle Trail to finish the day.

The ride will start at 9.00 and return around 6.00pm. The route is around 100 kilometres (62 miles) in length which includes the ride from East Croydon to Nonsuch Park. The mileage between Nonsuch Park and Worthing is 84 kilometres (52 miles).

It is a beautiful, undulating route with two hills. There is also a short gravel section with loose stones between Steyning and Shoreham-by-Sea. We will take the cycle path along the coast from Shoreham to Worthing.

Our morning break will be at the Tanhurst Farm Café, Newdigate (17 miles) and we will have lunch at the Partridge Pub, Partridge Green (35 miles). We will stop for tea beside the sea at Worthing at the end of the ride before getting the train back to East Croydon.

If you would like to join the ride please let me know by Thursday 12th June at 12 noon at the very latest. This will enable me to organise any sub-leaders that may be necessary and inform the pub how many people will be coming.

 

Please message Alan DIRECTLY on WHATSAPP on 07768 941897. I will send the groups and start times on Friday. Please note that numbers may be limited.

The scenic route to Stoke; Nonsuch Moderates 31 May

Saturday was a beautiful sunny day and there was a good attendance at Nonsuch Mansion, so it seemed ideal that we were able to run three rides.  Karen had stepped in for Diane to take the shorter ride along the Wandle Trail and eleven of us went to Stoke D'Abernon, four in Steve W's fast group and seven in my more moderately paced one.

We were not to know but Karen's ride came to a very premature end when she suffered a spill and had to be escorted home once the crew of a passing ambulance crew had checked her over.

We, meanwhile, were taking the scenic route to Stoke.  Unless you take a huge diversion there is no avoiding Rushett Lane through Malden Rushett but we got there past the old hospitals through Manor Park and we left Rushett Lane to go North and then West through the Crown Estate grounds on Stokesheath Road and Sandy Lane and ultimately South West on Leigh Hill Road.

The route has much to recommend it; almost traffic free, attractive countryside; but it is longer than the usual route through the Birds Hill Estate and along Blundel Lane and those who regard it as less hilly (always a consideration on Saturday) are mistaken; there are no tough hills as such but it includes quite a distance of upward undulation.  

Six of the Secret Seven on the bridge over the railway on Stokenchurch Lane

Part of the reason for going to Stoke and not the advertised destination (Cobham) was to test out the new owners at Cafe Barbera's.  The verdict?  Less welcoming and slower service but the same standard of cake and sunshine.

We came home past the Chelsea FC training area and Leatherhead Cemetery and over Ashtead Common.  A pleasant ride out and door-to-door 52Km a decent length ride for a Saturday afternoon.  Thanks to Maggie for back marking and to everyone else for your company. 

Minutes of the 2025 AGM

 The minutes of the 2025 AGM held on Wednesday 14 May at Long Ditton Village Hall are now available via the club Information Hub and the hyperlinks below.

Minutes of the 2025 AGM

Minutes of the 2025 AGM Appendix A (Annual and Treasurers Reports)

Thank you to all attendees, not only for attending but also for generous help in setting up and clearing away afterwards.

Following a brief poll via the club WhatsApp groups, the consensus was to rebook the same venue for Wednesday 13 May 2026. Hopefully this booking will not get lost or cancelled between now and then.

Gathering recuits in a mishmash of metaphors. Nonsuch short ride to Ashtead, 24 May.

 

Monday, May 26, 2025

Gathering recruits in a mishmash of metaphors. Nonsuch short ride to Ashtead, 24 May.

By Paul

Garson's Farm was the scheduled ride today.  As usual, Steve W and "the lads" (they wish!) would want to power off chasing the sun, so our plan was to turn up at Nonsuch and offer a ride more aptly paced for those not in the mood for PBs.  I had it all in my mind but when we arrived there was a fair gathering, a newcomer (Chris), a first-time returner (Phil) and a few who were hoping for a more modest ride than Steve would offer and there was no-one to lead a short ride, so I agreed with Steve that he would adventure to Esher and the mythical lands beyond and Maggie and I would take a shorter ride within the safety of the Shire, just.  Venturing just as far as the Old Forest at Ashtead, in fact.

Sue B decided she was going to be one of the lads this week and thus eight of us set forth, politely picking our way betwixt the children and the dogs in a none-too-warm Nonsuch Park.  The usual route, risk assessed many moons ago by Shirley and Colin as ideal for Beginners, is through Ewell Village, skirting south of Epsom and up past the hospital to Pleasure Pit Lane.  There were some in our group who felt a bit breathless after Wilmerhatch Lane but they had all climbed it in pretty decent time so when they sought the leader's assurance that there were no more hills, he changed the subject.

Coffee in Ashtead High Street was pleasant but try as we might we could not embarrass existing customers into moving so we could sit together.  And then who should turn up but Sue B, a deserter from Steve's marauders.  Tired of chasing distant shadows, despite that they all waited for her, she had switched allegiances before crossing the Rubicon (ie descending into Claygate) and come to join a more leisurely group.

So we were ten in number for our homeward run through Ashtead Common (where I took the picture with Sue holding my bike), Epsom and Ewell; Colin, Ken, Kristen, Roger, Maggie, Anna, Chris, Phil and Sue B. 

Just as forecast, the weather warmed up a bit in the afternoon and then went cool again after some of us had shed a layer, but that was about the sum total of our problems, so it was, I think, a reasonably happy band who returned to Nonsuch, all the better for a couple of hills.  40 kilometres for me, door to door.  

Getting fit and Branching Out; Beddington Beginners 17 May

Saturday was a beautiful day for cycling and we arrived at Beddington Park delighted to find a newcomer, Robin, waiting to join us.  Between us we were recovering from a hand injury, pnuemonia and heart problems so we had planned something fairly easy and Robin, who used to ride with Addiscombe but had not been on a bike since Covid Lockdown, was happy to go along with that, so Elmers End it was.  Anna, the one fit one among us, approves of the coffee at Branching Out, the excellent cafe on Eden Park Avenue, so it suited us all.

I had hoped tht Croydon would be deserted for the Cup Final, but Beddington Park was crowded and the access roads jammed with too many cars for the space available.  Why don't people walk to the park anymore?  Although there was plenty of football noise coming from Boxpark as we passed, the streets were quite busy with traffic.  But apart from a couple of places where we have to cross busy roads it's a route through parks and cycleways and quiet sideroads with a few cobbles thrown in, and only a few hundred yards of main road; we had no incidents and a splendid cup of coffee in perfect conditions; al fresco under a tree for shade from a strong sun but with a gently cooling breeze.

You're always glum in photographs, REMEMBER TO SMILE

So we all had a pleasant day out and some of us were more tired than we thought we would be after a modest (and not totally flat) 27 Km.

We hope Robin comes again; it was good to have him along.  

Ripley all day ride 10 May

From Helen

 Fifteen rolled up to the Mansion House, mostly early on this bright sunny morning, and we were able to depart almost on time at 9.50 am on Saturday 10 May. There were fewer runners than usual, so negotiating our way across Nonsuch Park to Sparrow Farm gate was not  difficult, and we divided into 2 groups for the journey to coffee at Walton-on-Thames. Bernard kindly agreed to sub lead the second group and Karen and Lilian were backmarkers.

From Sparrow Farm Road, we rode downhill through Cuddington Park and under the cattle grid railbridge at Lynwood Drive. Through to Salisbury Road, then Manor Drive through Malden Manor and Tolworth, turning left at Sainsburys on the corner. A couple of backroads, short ride along a main road then right up a short incline and then the joyful swoop down Ditton Hill. Our route was then mainly flat via Weston Green, through the waterworks (nicely tarmacked path before the timber depot these days) and then Walton Park, and the last couple of miles to Walton bridge. Here we were at coffee by about 11.15, all on schedule and gladly met with Pam, who joined us for the ride to lunch. 

Our route to Ripley took us along the Wey Navigation, always leafy and pretty at this time of year. The towpath is single file most of the way; it can be a little rugged at times, with lots of tree roots. In this dry spring there are sandy patches too, and of course other people, mainly dogwalkers and mostly cheerful and tolerant. There are occasional watercraft too! The benefits of mainly peaceful cycling along by the sunlit water, observing little families of geese, ducks and moorhens, and sweet birdsong in the woodlands alongside, made for a very pleasant ride to lunch at the Seven Stars. 

We crossed watermeadows brilliant with buttercups along the last couple of miles, stopping briefly to see damselflies and mayflies dancing along the bank, and for a photo near the ruined priory.

Wey Navigation near Ripley

Lunch was good, some delays before all our orders were taken, but food all arrived in reasonable time and we ate and drank well.

We left around 3.15 pm, relaxed, refreshed and ready for a fairly easy ride home via Effingham and Bookham commons. However, our leader (me) passed the Guilshill turnoff, so we found ourselves in West Horsley, took a left turn, then a right to East Horsley, and then followed the busy Guildford road about a mile, from the Duke of Wellington to Dirtstead Road. The exhilarating ride down the quiet lane to the Plough at Effingham, followed by another enjoyable swoop all the way down Lower Road, was reasonable reward for our unplanned detour, I feel!

We gathered at the railway bridge by Leatherhead's Conservation area at 4.40 pm.  Some needed to get back, and tea places would be closing shortly, so it was agreed we would press on home. We followed the railway through lower Ashtead and across Ashtead and Epsom commons, Stamford Green, Manor Park Road and Longmead through to Ewell and Stoneleigh, just a few back to Nonsuch with final farewells shortly after 6 pm. Thanks to everyone for a most enjoyable day, and especially to Bernard, Lilian, Karen and Pam for your support. We were so lucky with the weather, and it was great to share the pleasures of local cycleways and countryside with you.

Looking forward to Diane's ride to Worthing on 14 June and I hope to see you again.

Tri-Vets event 18th June

 

Tri-Vets 2025 event

The Tri-Vets event will be held on the 18th of June. 

There are details of how to book your place, including a link to an online registration form, on our website.

Click here for full details

This event is generally very popular with our CTC SWL members and for our guest riders from other clubs. Places are limited so please sign up soon 🙂.

~ Mick Arber

 

2025 AGM: Wednesday 14th May 2025 - Your Votes, Your Choices:

 2025  AGM: Wednesday 14th May 2025

Further to the Notice of the South West London AGM posted on the MWW Blog on Thursday 1st May, and with reference to Agenda items 6.1 and 6.2, I now attach the papers setting out the respective backgrounds, and the two options for each motion that you are being invited to vote on at the AGM.

Notice

Proposals for the future on Engraving Trophies

Proposals for the future of the printed Sou'Wester

Please click the relevant google drive links above to read these proposals before attending the AGM. Printed copies of these will not be available at the AGM.

All Day Ride to Ripley May 10th

 Message from Helen

Change of destination for next Saturday's all day ride. We will be going to Ripley along the Wey Navigation. Depart from Mansion House 9.45 am. Coffee stop Walton-on Thames Cowey Sale 11.15. Lunch Seven Stars Ripley 1.30. Tea stop Leatherhead 3.45 pm

Return to Nonsuch by 5.45 pm. About 40 miles total.

Please contact me by Wednesday 7th latest to book.

All day ride to Woking on May 10th

 Helen Tovey is leading the all day ride on May 10 to Woking from Nonsuch park. please put your names down on The Nonsuch Saturday What’s app .

Helen can be contacted on WhatsApp or by text on 07429 398023

All day ride to Charlwood, 12 April 2025

We were praying that the good weather at the end of March would hold for our first ride as leaders on 12th April from Nonsuch Park to Charlwood – and we weren’t disappointed!  Sunscreen, shades and shorts were liberated from winter hibernation for the 45 mile round trip through some beautiful Surrey countryside.  

Arriving at Nonsuch Mansion Café half an hour before departure we found several keen early-bird riders ready and raring to go!  Anne’s group with Lilian, Alice, Paul, Peter and Rob, with Sandy as back-marker set off at 09:50.  John’s group with Bernard, Sabina, Sue, Frank, Ken and Karl, with Karen as back-marker followed 10 minutes later.  Both groups took the same route through the Nonsuch estate, past Nescot, through Alexandra Rec and up to Epsom Downs.  From there we climbed steadily to Tadworth and on to Walton-on-the-Hill for coffee where Anne’s group was joined by Jane and James.  The Village Café was unusually quiet – a real bonus as we got quick service and were able to bag all the outside seats for refreshment in the sunshine.  

Our route from Walton took us down Pebble Hill Road, a thoroughly enjoyable run, made all the more satisfying as we knew we wouldn’t have to climb back up on the return leg!  On to Brockham looking particularly splendid in the Spring sunshine, and then along the Wheelers Lane route to Leigh.  Smalls Hill Road followed – lived up to its billing – to take us into Deanoak Lane where the sound of gunfire from the Surrey Shooting School started to feel a little too close for comfort.  Upward along Irons Bottom Lane led eventually to a nice downhill spin along Norwood Hill with clear views of aircraft landing at Gatwick before finally reaching the pretty village of Charlwood and lunch at the Half Moon.  We were warmly welcomed and had an enjoyable outside lunch – mainly uneventful but for a wayward parasol attempting to crush an unsuspecting Rob, who coped manfully with the challenge!

A number of cyclists visited the beautiful church of St. Nicholas with its spectacular murals dating from around 1300 – a real find in this quiet (aircraft noise excepted) part of Surrey.  Charlwood may not always have been quite so peaceful, and John’s group were reminded of the area’s more turbulent past when visiting the village gaol at the start of the return leg.  Dating from 1792, a heritage plaque informed us that village ‘wrongdoers’ were once held here awaiting trial.  The return route took us past the impressive Lowfield Heath Windmill which presented a photo opportunity taken by both groups.  On we climbed to Partridge Lane, again through very pleasant Surrey countryside with the North Downs now more clearly in view.  Returning through Brockham, we followed the A24 cycle path to Leatherhead for tea at Lucio’s.  This was the first parting of the ways as some riders headed directly home, a small group returning via Ashtead and Epsom to Nonsuch Park.

The Lowfield Heath Windmill

As well as having wonderful weather for our ride, the company and camaraderie in both groups was brilliant, making for a superb day out for all involved.  We’d like to thank Maureen for great guidance, support and encouragement in planning this ride.  Special thanks go to Sandy and Karen for back-marking so efficiently, and to Bernard for excellent corner-marking.  

Anne and John

Short ride to Teddington April 5th

From Karen

Short Ride to Teddington - A Road Less Travelled.........

The list indicated a leader-less ride to Oaks Park but, following a scrum down with Sue B, we agreed that Teddington Lock might be a more appealing option and, more importantly, we both had some familiarity with the route.  Our relatively small group gathered in the shade next to the mansion house, soon to be joined by John B.  There was a cast of thousands clamouring to join Steve's ride to Box Hill (or so I thought), but in fact several were soaking up the sun in excited anticipation of the short ride - so we were now 14!  In the meantime,  John B had offered to lead a quieter route to Kingston, avoiding WP traffic lights.

Once we'd cleared the Kingston market and riverside sections, it was a relatively clear and pleasant ride via Lower Ham Road and the path leading to the Teddington Lock footbridge.  All present and correct, we crossed over to the Flying Cloud Cafe where, especially considering our numbers, we were served relatively quickly.  There were no flying clouds in evidence but the sail canopy above us flapped loudly in the wind and the cake and coffee cups were ready for take-off at any given moment - I wondered why Anna asked for porcelain cups?!

Did Anna get a porcelain cup?

After a slight delay due to some mislaid bike-lock keys, we were ready for the off, John B again offering to lead - this time a variation on the route to and through Bushy Park and thence towards Hampton Court.  Thereafter it was somewhat of a magical mystery tour of roads less travelled around Thames Ditton, ultimately heading through Surbiton and towards home ground (for some). Thanks to the stalwart back marker and corner-markers we managed to keep the large group together and it was a lovely day for a more extended short ride.

~ Karen

Election of the three CUK specified roles of Chair, Treasurer and Hon Sec.

 This post responds to the following motion agreed at the 2023-24 AGM.

" 7.4) Motion to revise the process for electing Chair, Treasurer and Hon Sec at the AGM

Regarding the current process for the formal election of the CUK specified roles of Chair, Treasurer and Hon Sec at the AGM, at present any club member can seek nomination and seconding at the AGM without any advanced notice to other members. It is hereby proposed that in future, these roles should be advertised in advance of the AGM (including where existing officers are prepared to stand for re-election) with a suitable deadline for applications before the AGM.

Any new applicant will be required to be nominated and seconded by two unrelated (to the applicant or each other) club members. Existing officers advertised to be standing for re-election will be deemed to be nominated and seconded if there are no further applicants for that role by the deadline, but must still be subject to a re-election vote at the AGM.

This change in process will ensure all Members have a more inclusive opportunity to apply for or influence the Committee composition. This process was followed this year (2024) in relation to the appointment of the new Chair.

Proposed: Dave Cullen

Seconded: Pam Jones

Approved unanimously."

Therefore, on behalf of your committee, we confirm that all the current holders of the three CUK specified roles of Chair, Treasurer and Hon Sec have agreed to stand for re-election at the 2024-25 AGM. However, applications are hereby formally invited from any other Members wishing to stand for any of those roles. 

Please apply in writing including the names of your proposer and seconder to the club chair Sue Foster. The deadline for applications is 18: 00 on Wednesday 16 April 2025.

Last 1pm ride is this Saturday March 29th

 From Saturday April 5th all the beginners rides will be at 2pm from Nonsuch and Beddington Parks.

Wandering down the Wandle; Nonsuch short ride 22 March

By Roger

 Wandering down the Wandle

It had been a short ride, about fifteen miles in good company and good weather, but I was tired now as we slowed down to turn out of Upper Mulgrave Road heading for the lights at the mouth of the tunnel under the railway line at Cheam. Only Anna, Roger, Kristen and Paul (B) were left from the nine of us who had set out to ride the Wandle trail.

We rolled to a halt just as the lights changed and a millisecond memory flashed into my mind, of a young widow running into the tunnel, toddler in arms, as a V1 gasped its last overhead, before detonated in what is now Cheam Park.

 Switching to the present, it was “green” for us now as we slipped into the tunnel and up the other side into the High Street then left round the back of the shops to Anne Boleyn’s Walk and the crossing opposite Cheam Park. We said our “goodbyes” and made our way back to Sutton.

We had met Maggie and Paul (J), Jacqui, Sharon, Kristen, and Paul B (of the electric bike) as well as newcomer Philip at the Mansion.  It was a lovely day for a ride as we left the park and crossed Cheam high street and then the A217 before zooming down Quarry Park Road. At James Road we turned left and sailed down the hill, until we heard the roar from the Sutton United ground and realised, we had overshot our turning and had to retrace our steps to Robin Hood Lane. Then through to Collingwood and the right turn into Bushey Road and the rear of the bus garage.

We made our way onto The Green, crossing Stayton Road before taking a path that led us to a turning opposite All Saints Church and over the lights onto All Saints Road before turning down Woodend and climbing up Aultone way and onto Rosehill Park.

It was an easy ride down Robertsbridge and ultimately to Poulter Park and the track onto the Wandle trail.

Roger told us it was the Wandle Trail!

The Wandle flowed like silk with no visible sign of the diesel spillage that had polluted it a few weeks previously. There was an absence of wildlife though and thank goodness, the hunting packs of midges were absent too.

We continued on the trail to Hackbridge emerging at River Gardens and passing Wilderness Island and on up to the cycle path that leads into Carshalton Park.

The staff at “Spilt Milk” reorganised tables to seat us all and we were glad of a coffee and a sugar fix from their cake election.

Sharon and Philip left us there, as Anna now led us up through to Wales Avenue, where Jacqui left us and Maggie and Paul split off at Kings Lane to deliver a Get Well card to Nigel.  We continued through the roadworks infecting most of the surrounding roads ending up on Grange Road and onto Cornwall Road and the gentle rise up and along Mulgrave Road, to turn right at the end, under the railway line to the High Street. finishing at Anne Bolyn’s Walk.

The ride over, I relaxed, and I replayed in my head, a conversation with a stranger in our street, many years ago. He said he was born lucky, as in 1940 he had been left in the front garden of the house opposite ours when the bomb hit the house behind theirs and he was recovered unhurt from the remains of his pram.  The bomb had destroyed three houses and badly damaged the one I was to buy sixty years later.  It was the same child who eighteen months later was swept up by his mum as she ran to shelter under the railway line in Cheam. They say that walls have ears – I wonder if they can tell stories too.

All Day ride 12th April to Charlwood

 All Day Ride to Charlwood

Saturday 12th April

The first All Day Ride of 2025 is a 45 mile route to Charlwood and back.

After an uphill climb to coffee at Walton-on-the-Hill, the ride is pleasant and varied with some hills to keep us on our toes.

We will meet by Nonsuch Park Mansion cafe from 9.30 for a prompt 10 o’clock start, as it’s a long day.  

Lunch will be at the Half Moon Pub in Charlwood.

Expected return time of 6pm to Nonsuch.

Text us on 07919086769 or email at anne.connaughton@outlook.com if you would like to come on the ride.

Anne and John

Hot and Cold; Beddington Park 1-o-clockers to Elmers End 15 March

It was a beautiful sunny Spring day, but by heck that North wind cut through you.  I was not going to repeat Wednesday's mistake of going out with fingerless gloves!

Roger has a terrible cold and everyone else thought the cold was terrible so it was just Anna, Ken, Maggie and me and we went to Elmers End, Branching Out there one of the very few places on the planet where Anna recommends the coffee, and a reasonable ride of a bit more than 25km.

For such a small group we had a bit of trouble getting through the lights in Croydon but the trip through the parks and along long-disused railway lines was pleasant except that by the time we had reached Elmers End we were in need of Elmo's Fire.  So much so I had a hot sausage roll instead of cake and Anna had a bowl of chicken soup.

Ice cold in Addiscombe

It was tempting not to leave the warmth of the cafe and we were initially pleased and interested when a bunch of cyclists turned up, all young and lean and other annoying adjectives.  It soon became clear, however, that they were far too lithe and cool to talk to the likes of us.  Maggie, 95Km on the London Ride recce and 105Km on Wednesday, but a bit upset at their arrogance, missed the opportunity to say "is that all?" when, in the only straight answer they gave us they said they had cycled to Shoreham and done 90Km.  They sat and gawped in silence as if we were aliens as we put on our unfashionable but warm layers and set off home. 

So we left without goodbyes and had a pretty decent ride home to the central heating.

Except we passed the place where my grandmother used to live.  A dark, old fashioned bungalow with thousands of books and a plum orchard out the back.  It's gone.  I don't mean somebody else lives there, that would be normal.  I don't mean they knocked down the house and built a posher, eco house.  That would be OK.  Even a block of flats.  I mean all trace of the neighbourhood, the street, everything, is obliterated.  A whole set of lives and stories gone, vanished.

Today's thought for the day.

Beginners AGM postponed

 The Beginners AGM planned for March 22nd has been postponed until Colin and Nigel are fit.

Roger and Anna will lead the short ride at 2pm on March 22nd along the Wandle trail. 

Colin Quemby

 Unfortunately Colin had an accident on his bike on Sunday and is an inpatient in the Royal Surrey hospital in Guildford.  He had a partial hip replacement on Monday and is now rehabilitating under the care of the physios and occupational therapists.  He is in good spirits and looking forward to going home as soon as possible. 

This Saturday,  March 15th, Tony Hooker will be at Nonsuch Park to lead the 2pm ride.

Sundae Split; Nonsuch 1-o-clockers 8 March

It was a day like we thought had gone forever, mild Spring sunshine and a decent number turned up at Nonsuch such that we agreed to ride to Richmond Park, the scheduled destination, in two groups.

So Steve W led off first with the group who fancied themselves as the quickies.  We had Tony H and Roger P recuperating from medical treatment and a couple of riders who had been up Swains Lane on Thursday but we caught them up anyway, twice, until we took our separate routes.

Roger, Anna, Tony, Ken, Maggie and I went at a modest pace through Worcester Park and New Malden to enter the park at Ladderstile Gate.

We managed to further split at the top of Warren Road when, after being delayed, the back marker took a slightly different route to that taken by the leader but we all met up again in time for the park.  The delay allowed the "fast" group to get to an overpopulated Colicci's at Roehampton Gate ten minutes ahead of us but the queues to be served were so long and the available space so circumscribed that we ended up mixing the two groups, which was really pleasant in the sunshine; our contribution to inclusivity.

Ken, Rob, Roger, Paul, Anna, Nav and Stuart integrating at Richmond Park.  Photo by Maggie.

Home down the A3 and through Raynes Park to Lower Morden.

A pleasant day out; thank you everybody. 

A short long one to L'assaggino and Balfe's; Nonsuch 1-o-clockers 1 March

With Nigel unwell (good luck with the treatment, Nigel) there was a need for cover at Nonsuch, but I had done nearly 100 Km on Friday including Swaine's Lane and was relieved when I saw Steve among the cyclists eager for a decent workout.  I guessed the scheduled Wimbledon Park ride would not be quite enough for him and sure enough he proposed Stoke d'Abernon, giving me the excuse to offer a shorter, gentler option for those who wanted it.

Most of the crowd went with Steve so Anna, Roger, Sue B, Maggie and I were free to choose our own route and we fancied a nice coffee, a shortish ride and we had not visited L'assaggino for a while so we settled on a run to Richmond Park.  Roger is getting fitter after his lay-off and did well on the climb up Traps Lane.  We used the Golf Club Drive and Warren Cutting for a pleasant change of route, the tea was good and the cakes delicious and everything was going tickety-boo until Anna announced that she had a puncture.  She rides a heavy electric bike and I was unsure how we might take off a rear wheel but modern electronics came to our aid, and google Maps and Bee Line guided us the shortest possible route to Balfe's in Kingston, who could not have been more helpful.

So we got home a bit later than we were planning, but it all ended alright.  And thanks especially to Sue, who fancied a longer ride and no cake but came along with us and then went on her own solo tour, enjoying the parks while we were twiddling our thumbs in a bike shop.

1st March - Short Ride to Malden Church (again!)

One would think my repertoire of short routes is very limited, as I think this was my 3rd consecutive time of leading to Malden Church - a route title which confuses people no end, as actually we have tea at Costa in World of Golf and only pass by the Church if someone in the group hasn't seen it yet.....surprisingly, there's always at least one!     

Anyway, on a cold but beautifully sunny March day, 7 riders gathered for the shorter ride, the longer ride having left already as they do in winter time. We followed the route at a steady pace, with just one deviation around St Joseph playing field to avoid any muddy puddles. It was such a nice day that we were able to sit outside for drinks and cakes. 

 

Once away from the traffic coming off the A3, the return home through the quiet backstreets of Old Malden and Stoneleigh was equally uneventful, with riders beginning to peel off as we neared Nonsuch Park. The spring flowers and early blossom were wonderful to see. Thanks all for coming out and making it a lovely social afternoon.

Annual Lunch - final check

Dear everyone,

If you're coming to the Annual Lunch please visit the Wayfarers blog to check your order.

Many thanks

Tim C

Annual Lunch - the Order Book is closed

Please note that we can't take any more orders. We will have a full house on 5th March.

Thank you

Tim

Get me to the church on time; Beddington 1-o-clockers around the Webb Estate, 15 February

We had a cunning plan.  One of our number wanted to see the Cillian Murphy film at the Methodist Church in Carshalton, which started at three.  So we devised a route up to and around the Webb Estate, past John Fisher and west to the Telegraph Track, meandering around Carshalton a bit and delivering our cinephile to the church at Carshalton.  The ride was calculated to take ninety minutes and the plan was to have a coffee at Spilt Milk and ride for another hour, to Brighton or somewhere.

Ken, Jackie and Maggie on the Webb Estate with three new riders.  

They didn't say much and insisted on vegan cakes.

It was, as usual, cold, and the turnout was below par; Jackie, Ken, Maggie and me.  But the ride worked a treat and the timing was well nigh perfect.  But Jackie dropped out and went home after she got her hill practice (she had been reading Simon's article in Sou'Wester).  And Ken had somewhere to go that evening so he went home from Carshalton.  Which left me to my own devices and, not feeling too good, I went home too.  We can do Brighton later in the year, in the warm.

Annual Lunch and competitions deadlines

Annual Lunch

Bookings for the Annual Lunch are going very well and we almost have a full house for 5th March. So please get in touch with me as soon as possible if you are intending to come but have yet to pay and advise me of your choices from the menu.

See this invitation for full details.

Last Orders will be taken up to 6 p.m. on Tuesday 18th Feb.

Mileage Competition

Mileages submitted for 2024 will no longer count in the competition but if you wish to send us your mileage for 2024 (and any preceding years) please do so. Your scores will be added to the League Table.

Thank you

~ Tim C

The Wombles aren't so daft; Nonsuch 1-o-clockers, 8 February 2025

The BBC weather report was pellucid, and I have recorded it for legal purposes.  Mainly dry on Saturday morning, maybe the occasional light shower, and sunshine and roses after midday.  Instead, it rained.  It was raining when we got up, it was raining harder as we tried to get the bikes ready and it was still raining when we set off for Nonsuch Park.  With the rain came that damp coldness that gets through to your bones much more than it should at these temperatures.  I drew up a new route for getting to Wimbledon and then seriously considered not even leaving the house.

It wasn't particularly heavy, the rain at lunchtime, but it felt as if it was here to stay.  Had nobody turned up at Nonsuch I should not have been surprised and we would simply have cycled home.

But Nigel met us in Cheam, on the way, and Ribble Rob was already at the Mansion and then Stuart turned up.

We had convinced ourselves that if the weather got silly, then my new route, past the crematorium and the old village parts of Morden and then Merton Abbey Mills and up the Wandle Trail to Earlsfield, offered places for possible decisions about cutting for home.

But we didn't.  We made Earlsfield by 2.15, when one of our gang of five wanted to have our coffee and turn around.  But the others thought we could easily make it to Wimbledon Windmill and home in the light, so on we all soldiered.

Haydons Road, Wimbledon Park and up the steep bit to Inner Park Road, we emerged on Wimbledon Parkside and decided to risk a path we had not ridden before through the woods in the vague direction of the windmill.  There were no Wombles to be seen; I couldn't remember if they hibernate or not but if they don't then they would not have been as stupid as cyclists by venturing out and about in this sticky mud and insidious drizzle.  I hope their underground home has efficient damp proofing and heating.

The path at ground level, though, was muddy only in bits and soon the buildings around the windmill could be discerned ahead; we homed in on the Windmill Cafe where we sat indoors.  I have never seen it so empty; there was no difficulty finding a table!

Four fellas soaking up the sun on the top of Wimbledon Common.  Note the handily placed bench!

Maggie took the photo.

Back home we crossed the waterlogged common in a southerly direction, stopping only for a photo on our way to West Side, down Wright's Alley to The Downs and from our vantage point on the brow of the hill there from where you can see over Sutton and Croydon to the North Downs, you could look at the vanishing point on the dismal South West horizon and (if you then closed your eyes) imagine that there might be just a chink of a break in the cloud signalling the BBC's sunny weather, five hours too late.

Lower Morden, Morden Park, Rose Hill, Carshalton Green.  The rain had nearly stopped when we got in and, d'you know what?  It had been a really enjoyable ride, five companions trying out a new way round, keeping up a steady pace, no moaning on the hills, nice chat over coffee.  What on earth possessed me even to consider wimping out and slinking home for a wet day on the computer assembling Sou'Wester Shorts?  Forget the admin, the bike and the friends is what it is about.

National Leave-your-car-in-the-middle-of-the-road Day; Nonsuch 1-o-clockers to Leatherhead 1 February

Dull, grey, cold; anybody would think it was early February as we gathered at the Mansion on Saturday.  The schedule had us riding to Box Hill and Walton but with Roger still not match fit after the installation of his pacemaker I felt that we might end up with a fatality on Box Hill.  Other options were to go up the back way, over Epsom Racecourse and Tadworth, or to take everyone to Rykas and give people the option of continuing or returning via Leatherhead.

There were eight of us, and initially we agreed the Rykas option.  Off we set through the traffic jam to Ewell.  But we all felt cold waiting for Roger to catch us up at the top of Wilmerhatch Lane, above Epsom Hospital.  It was no colder than it has been, on and off, for weeks, but it just felt colder and. frankly, the thought of sitting on the wooden tables outside Rykas was deeply unappealing.

So, once Roger and Anna had joined us, and Roger had got back his breath, I put it to the rest that we might just look for a coffee somewhere warm in Leatherhead and come back over the common.  It was good of them to agree, because this is their weekly chance of a decent group ride.

So we went only as far as Leatherhead, where we split into two for coffee preferences, some to Charlie and Ginger's, some to Lucio's.  At C&G's, Rob discovered he had mislaid his credit card, so he and Stuart shot off home leaving Nigel, Maggie, Roger, Anna, Ken and me to complete the return leg together.

Roger adjusting his pacemaker

Our group on Ashtead Common, headed by "Two Bikes" Ken.

both photos by Maggie

And I don't know if anybody else was aware, but apparently 1 February has been declared National I'll-Leave-your-car-in-the middle-of-the road-and-block-everyone-else Day.  We came across five such instances.

Thanks to everyone for your co-operation and your company.   

The 2024 Photo Competition has closed

Please note that the photo competition is now closed to new entries. Thank you to numerous people who have sent in their photos.

~ Tim

Invitation to our 2025 Annual Lunch

CTC SWL Annual Lunch and Prizegiving

5th March 2025 at 12:30 for lunch at 1 p.m.

We are delighted to tell you that Jennie has booked the Ristorante Sorrento (379 Ewell Road, Tolworth, KT6 7DE) for our annual lunch.

This has proved to be a most popular venue for the occasion since our first visit in 2018 and we are pleased to be able to hold the event there again.

The set price for our three-course lunch will be £23.45. This includes a 10% service charge, but does not include any drinks, coffee or tea. This is our menu:

click on the menu to enlarge

Please book by placing your order, and pay in advance by Sunday 16th February.

We expect the occasion will be attended by over 60 members, as it has been in recent years.

Please send an email message to Tim Court with your order for (i) a starter and (ii) a main meal. The waiters will take your orders for dessert after the main course on the day.

The preferred method of payment (£23.45) is a direct transfer via your online banking facility, but we can also accept cash or a cheque. For online payment please ask Tim C for our bank details if you don’t already have them. For a cash or cheque payment please check with Tim or your section representative. For anyone who has yet to pay their 2025 club subscription please consider adding your £2 when you pay for your lunch.

Any food allergies, dietary disorders or Vegan requirements must be notified to Tim when you advise your order so that these details can be noted and passed to the restaurant staff.

All ride leaders please note that your teams should be delivered to the restaurant by 12.30 p.m. so that everyone will have time to buy drinks, chat, and browse the photography exhibition, and settle down ready to confirm orders with the waiting staff.

Thank you

Tim C

Subs due, please, a message from the membership secretary.....

 SUBS RENEWAL

A quick reminder to all those who have not yet renewed that subs for 2025 are now due. Your prompt payment would be much appreciated so that we can update our financial records ready for the coming year. 

The amount is £2 and if you need our bank details please email me, or pay cash to your group rep.

A reminder that renewal of subs is taken as your continued consent to use of your personal data, as per the club’s data protection policy. 

Thank you

Gill Holder

Wayfarers Memb Sec

gillholder9@gmail.com

Just Messin' About on the River; Nonsuch 1-o-clockers to Molesey, 25 January

It was a cold but clear day on Saturday and in all we had eighteen riders leaving from Nonsuch.  Fourteen came to the 1-0-clock meet and since the rides list stipulated no destination this week I decided to offer a ride to Eight on the River at Molesey; we had not been there for a few weeks and it is just about the furthest we can go at Beginners speed while still getting back before dark (ish).

Roger was out for his first proper ride since having his pacemaker installed; the furthest he had done so far was four miles and this would be nearer thirty.  Therefore I picked the route with fewest hills.  We went out through Worcester Park and past Berrylands to Kingston, through Bushy Park and over Hampton Court Bridge.

Karen, Anna, Roger, Ken, Lorraine, Maggie, Sue.  Picture by Paul

Coffee was fine but the cakes cost a bit.  They cost Maggie because she bought them for everyone for her birthday, and they cost the cafe because they served them to the wrong table, who promptly scoffed them, so they had to furnish us with replacements.

Back through Weston Green and the John Bellamy route through Surbiton back to Berrylands.

The ground was wet but we encountered no real flooding.  The wind was cold but not as cold as it has been of late.  And the winter sun smiled upon us most of the way around.

It was a splendid way to spend a winter Saturday.  Thanks everyone.

Ride Leaders Course

 From Sue Foster

Last October  we ran our first Ride Leader course using an external professional coach, Jen Buckley. Many thanks to the brave guinea pigs who volunteered, took part and provided extensive feedback to shape  future courses. I think it is fair to say that it was an interesting learning experience for all of us and 6 of  the participants have now led successful rides, thus increasing the number of members available to lead which is greatly appreciated.

I am hoping to run another course in the next few months and we have 4 places available. The course content has been tweaked slightly following feedback from the first group of participants and I am sure you will find it both useful and enjoyable. The format for the course will remain the same - 1 hour theory delivered via Zoom in the evening and a 2 hour practical session on local roads. As before, the cost will be between £10-14 depending on the number of participants but we do need a minimum of 6 riders.

Please email me to secure a place on the course sue.foster39@gmail.com

Sue F

Fake News; Beddington Beginners 18 January to Merton Abbey Mills

The lady on the BBC said it was three degrees outside but i don't blame her.  The lady on Sky said the same and the Meteorological Office put out the same.  They were all hapless victims of a conspiracy by a foreign power to entice senior cyclists out to death by Hypothermia.

It became evident as soon as you got out on the road; burning cheeks, shriveling fingers.  We wondered if anyone would turn up at Beddington Park and if not, whether we would go on some form of short ride or just go home.  But Ken was there waiting for us and just as we were about to give up and set off I espied Roger and Anna.

I proposed Elmers End; we have not been there for a bit  But Roger wanted to come on his first ride with his new pacemaker and he did not fancy it going wrong in Croydon.  So on a freezing day we ended up cycling towards the Arctic when we could have been going South.

I kept up a steady Beginners pace, which took some self-control because I just wanted to get warm.  I almost envied the Nonsuch riders, who would at least be going fast up a hill or two and getting warmed up.  Eight miles an hour on the flat was no thing to be trying this day.

The spread of broken bottles and bent cans and much other detritus made the Beddington Industrial Estate seem even more desolate than usual and at the Colliers Wood intersection the leader had to explain to the team that they were enjoying themselves.

Happy Campers leaving M.E.D in brave defiance of the North Wind

M.E.D was as warm and welcoming as ever but we had to leave and in Morden Park the Happy Campers needed reminding that this was better than sitting at home on the sofa.  Who makes up this stuff?

Well done Roger, the pacemaker did not freeze.  Neither did your electric bikes, Anna and Ken.  And we all got back in time to have a warming meal before it got dark.

British oldies are more resilient than the enemy realises. 

Invitation to enter the 2024 Photo Competition

Attendance for all groups was high in 2024 and many have been off on other adventures too. So we hope that you have been busy with your cameras and phones and are keen to review your photos and send the best ones in for the competition.

Please submit your photos before the end of January using this method:

Visit this website: '2024 Competition Dropbox' and follow instructions to select and deliver your photos. This is what you should see:

N.B. When using this website to post photos to the Dropbox it is not necessary to sign up to, or log into Dropbox even if you are invited to do so.

Click on 'Add files' to select the source of your photos then select your photos (or folders), or if you already have your file list open just drag and drop photos from the list into the white box.
 
Once you have selected one or several photos fill in your name and email address then click 'Upload'.

Send an email to me, Tim, to provide this important information about each photo:

•           the photo filename (e.g. P1040276.jpg)
•           a caption which we will inscribe on your photo
•           the competition category (see below)

The rules and categories are simple. The full 'Competition Rules' document is available under the 'Information Hub' heading on our website.

Competition Period: Photos taken during the 2024 calendar year.

Your photos must all illustrate a connection to cycling by depicting a bicycle or cyclist for example, or some obvious cycling association.

You may submit two photos in each category:

  6.1. Male      one or more male cyclists
  6.2. Female    one or more female cyclists
  6.3. Action    cyclist(s) in action
  6.4. Scenery   scenery or landscape
  6.5. Building  buildings, architecture
  6.6. Humorous  funny or amusing
  6.7. Group     any mix of male and female cyclists

Note that the award for a winning photograph in each category will be given to the photographer who took the picture, not to the model(s).

This method for submitting photos should work with any device (PC, Apple, iPad, iPhone, Tablet or Android phone) but if it doesn't work for you, please let me know so that we can address the problem. It does depend on you being able to locate the folder in your phone, tablet or PC where you store your photos. It does not require you to install the DropBox software.

This is the best way of sending photos. Please note that some methods of transmitting photos, such as WhatsApp, shrink the photo before sending, diminishing the quality of the original photo as it is in your camera or phone.

We're looking forward to seeing your photos. Note that this year Andy and I will be collaborating to organise the competition.

~ Tim and Andy

January, 2025