Great turn-out today, We had 10 set out from the fountain, in 2 groups, with me leading group 1 – Paul Fletcher, John Davey, Mia M and Andrew Street S, and Adrian leading group 2 – Kevin Street, John H, Martin Owen and first timer Keith B.
Group 1 picked up Nigel in Great Wymondley. Unfortunately Nigel got a puncture go up Helena hill outside Preston.
Paul and Andy stayed with Nigel to help and Me, Mia and John pressed on a longer route via, St Pauls Warden, Whitwell, Lilley Bottom and Tea Green to Mangrove Green – the rest of our group 1 joined us on route.
We arrived at the pub within minutes of group 2 who had picked up Mick at Tea Green.
Mick C, Paul W, Geoff Perry and Peter S joined us (cycling) at the pub. Therefore 15 in Total.
Food was served very efficiently, though not everybody ate, but it was all good fare, large portions and well-priced too. An added bonus for Adrian was Timothy Taylor Dark Mild on tap!
The non-eating group (5 – Me, Andy, Paul, Nigel, Keith) set off after a coffee, via Lilley, Hexton, Higham Goban, Pirton and Ickleford.
Group 2 returning to Lilley Bottom – John D and Adrian turned left for Lilley and Shillington, leaving the remainder in the capable hands of John H and Mia.
The weather started off dull but after lunch there was full sun, though with a bit of a headwind for Adrian and John.
Really well supported Thursday ride.Alan B
