Wednesday 17th Deccember. After 1 late cancellation & 2 no shows, 19 Cyclists split into 2 groups, with group 1 led by the new ‘Joyful Cycling’ winner, (see separate post), making sure everyone had a smile before the start, into a rather chillly Headwind, via Portsmouth Rd Giggshill Green, -joined by 1 more for group 1 (20)-, Weston Green, Esher, Walton, Walton Bridge, Shepperton, Chertsey Bridge- where an impatient Van driver, in a queue of slow moving traffic, decided he needed to squeeze past, even though there was no room, causing 1 of group 1 to take a tumble, thankfully no serious harm or injury, but a displaced Mudguard needed some adjustment, and the Handlebar slightly askew-, so group 2 managed to sneak in front, after taking a Photo-, Free Prae Meadow, Thorpe village, Pooley green, Egham Hythe, Staines Bridge, for lunch at the George (Wetherspoons), Staines- with group 2 taking a turn slightly early, Group 1 almost snatching the lead back, but not quite, so time for a Photo instead-, Knowle Greeen, Ashford, Sunbury, Hanworth, Hampton, to Bushy Park for Tea & refreshments at the Pheasantry, now just 1 group, Hampton Wick, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Total 28 Miles, special thanks to Mags for leading group 2, thanks to Celia & Steve D for back marking each group.

Map www.plotaroute.com/route/2348333

Sunday 7th December. A warmer than average December day, but with Rain in the Forecast, not too much of a surprise, many had elected to go straight to the Pub, with 1 no show, 22 Cyclists split into 2 groups, leave via Kingston Bridge, Bushy Park, Hampton, Hanworth, Sunbury, Lower Sunbury, Walton Bridge, Walton on Thames, to Hersham for our pre ordered lunch at the Royal George (Morgan Collective), ( a new venue for us), – joined by the 1 no show from the start, plus another 6 (29)-, after my speech about Highs, a number of new rides & lows, the loss of our really good friend Bai, also the shared support riders this year, Andrea C & Celia both took up the mantle, left from Bai, helping to lead a group when needed, Steve D then replied with thanks to me for leading so many rides, then announcing that to cel;ebrate my 25 years leading an estimated 1000 plus rides, a collection had been organised, then l recieved a bulging envelope & a card signed by many, many faces, thank-you all – a heavy shower fortuitously occuring during lunch-, but no appetite for a Tea stop, a bit more Hersham, Esher, Weston Green, Giggshill green, Portsmouth Rd, to finish back in Kingston. Total 19 Miles. Special thanks to Steve F for leading group 2, 2 new faces, thanks to John E & Ellie for back marking each group.

Map:- http://www.plotaroute.com/route/3138106

November 23, Part 1. A mostly Sunny morning, after 3 late cancellations, a small group of 6 left via Lower Marsh, Berrylands, New Malden, Motspur park, North cheam, – with a rubbing Mudguard soon adjusted-, Cheam Park, Nonsuch Park (Photo), Stoneleigh, West Ewell, to Chessington, for lunch at the William Bourne (Stonegate pubs), Bonesgate path, Tolworth, – with time in hand, I had thought we might try part of the newly installed Cycle path on Ewell Rd, but 1 of the group said not worth it yet-, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Sub total 16 Miles thanks to Mike F for back marking.

Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2806965.

Part 2. Slightly warmer, still sunny, farewell to 1 , welcome 2 fresh faces with 1 no show, 7 Cyclists left a very congested Market place via Union St, Skerne Rd, Aerospace estate, Ham, Ham gate Richmond Park, Petersham gate, Richmond, Richmond Bridge, Isleworth, -a rather busy Cole park area with people walking to Twickenham Rugby ground for the match against Argentina-, St Margarets, to Marble hill Park cafe- just in time as they were about to close-, for Tea & refreshments, Twickenham Riverside- but not the Embankment, now closed for muchy needed improvement works-,Twickenham, Fulwell, Bushy Park, Hampton Wick, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Sub total 14 Miles, Total 30 Miles, Thanks to Jon W for back marking, no afternoon Photo. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2031066

Wednesday 19th November. A cold damp start, not too surprising that 6 late cancellations, including 1 who got the wrong train! Just 12 Cyclists in 1 group, left via Portsmouth Rd, -alas a coming together of 2 Bikes, with 1 having a jammed front Brake, about to abandon the ride when Ta-da somehow Magician John managed to free it-, Long Ditton, Hinchley wood, Esher, Fairmille, Cobham, Downside, Bookham Common, Fetcham, Leatherhead,- now with a cold Headwind, Brrr-, to Ashtead for lunch at the Woodman (Ember Inns), more Ashtead, Woodcote, Rosebery Park (Photo), Epsom, – with the prospect of an Al-fresco Tea stop, not too inviting, a small splinter group still wanting to use the original route, via Nonsuch Park-, the main party continued via Ewell village, West Ewell, to Tolworth Court Garden centre Cafe, Tolworth, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 28 Miles, special thanks to Mags for leading the Splinter group, thanks to Toni & John E for sharing the back marking duties. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1306141

Sunday 9th November. A Bright if slightly chilly Morning, more overcast & a slight headwind afternoon. With 1 no show (possibly lost somewhere in the town, we did speak a little later, but couldn’t quite meet up), with 1 unexpected guest, 22 Cyclists, split into 2 groups, leave via Kingston Bridge, Teddington, Strawberry hill, Twickenham, Kneller Gardens, Whitton- 1 more for group 1-, also pausing for the 2 minutes Silence, then 2 readings from Andrea E, firstly 3 verses from ‘in Flanders Fields’, (John McRae), then 1 verse from ‘for the Fallen’ (Laurence Binyon), Hounslow, Isleworth, Osterley, Osterley Park (Photo Group 2), Norwood Green, Southall, Northala Fields, to Northolt for lunch at ‘the Crown’ (Sizzling Pubs), – a small slip approaching the Bridge over the Canal, soon remounted-, a short bit of Grand union Canal path (Photo group 1), Greenford, Perivale, Pitshanger Park, North Ealing, Ealing Common, South Acton, Chiswick Green, Grove park, Chiswick Bridge, Mortlake, to Palewell Common, – with perfect timing, Ranjeet had just closed, but very kindly agreed to serve some Tea, Hot Chocolate & other refreshments-. Sheen gate Richmond Park, -sadly we observed the Ambulance service attending to a fallen Cyclist, (not 1 of us)-, Ham gate, Latchmere, to finish back in Kingston. 30 Miles, special thanks to Andrea C for leading group 2, thanks to Chris F & Andrea E for back marking each group.Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/3153734

Sunday 26th November. A Bright but Chilly day, with some light drizzle as we finished, after 1 cancellation, 1 un-cancellatiion, 1 no show, 19 Cyclists split into 2 groups, via Portsmouth Rd, Thames Ditton- 1 more for group 1 (20)-, East Molesey, West Molesey, Walton, Weybridge, Brooklands Park, Byfleet village, Wisley to Pyrford Lock for lunch at the Anchor (Hall & Woodhouse), a bit more Wisley, Wisley Bridge, Ockham, Hatchford, Cobham, (Photo Group 2), Fairmile, to Claremont Lakes for Tea & refreshments, Esher, Littleworth Common (Photo group 1), Hinchley wood, Long Ditton, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 29 Miles, 2 new faces, special thanks to Celia for leading group 2, thanks to Steve F & Andrea C for back marking each group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2006267

Wednesday 15th October. After 2 late cancellations, 14 Cyclists left via London Rd- alas the tail end got detached, another person almost got lost looking for the tail, soon all back together-, Norbiton, Kingston gate Richmond Park, Sheen gate, Mortlake, Chiswick Bridge, Strand on the Green, Brentford- a navigational mix up, hence a detour via Carville Hall Park-, Gunnersbury Park, to make up a bit of time another detour, South Ealing, past Ealing Studios, West Ealing, Churchfields Park (Photo), to Hanwell for lunch at the always splendid Fox, -more woe, the ‘P fairy’ had paid a visit during lunch, but soon repaired-, Grand Union Canal Towpath, -pausing briefly to see IK Brunel’s last project, the Three Bridges, (Railway at the bottom, Canal, with a Road Bridge on top)-, Norwood Green, Osterley Park, Osterley, Isleworth, Cole park, Twickenham, the Railway roughs path, to Kneller Gardens for Tea & refreshments, Fulwell, Bushy Park, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Total 28 Miles, thanks to Toni for back marking, thanks to Mags for being ready to lead a 2nd group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2240956

Sunday 12th October, A mostly overcast Morning, with More Sunlight in the afternoon, after 3 late cancellations, & 2 no shows, we settled on just 1 group, instead of the 2 planned, 12 Cyclists left New Malden, via the Beeline, Raynes park, Wimbledon Chase, Merton park, Morden Hall Park, Mitcham- joined by 1 more-, Norbury, Thornton heath- 1 more-, Heavers Meadow, South Norwood, Norwood Country Park, Beckenham, Beckenham Place Park, Downham, Plaistow, Elmstead, to Chislehurst for lunch at the Queens Head (Ember Inns)- joined by 1 of the no shows (15)-, a bit more Chislehurst, Jubilee Country Park (Photo), -a few loose Acorns, led to a tumble, swiftly re-mounted-, Petts wood, Southborough, Norman Park, Pickhurst, West Wickham, Shirley, Addiscombe, to Lloyd Park Cafe for Tea & refreshments & a rendition of Happy Birthday for Nigel, South Croydon, Waddon, Beddington, Beddington Park, Hackbridge, the Wrythe, Benhilton, Pyl Brook path, North Cheam, Motspur park, to finish back in New Malden. Total 43 Miles, Special thanks to Nigel for being ready to lead group 2, thanks to Chris F for back marking, 1 new face. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/3123458

Sunday 28th September. A mostly overcast day, with occasional light drizzle, after 2 late cancellations, & 1 unexpected guest, 22 Cyclists split into 2 groups, leave via Skerne Rd, North Kingston, Norbiton, New Malden, Malden Manor, Cuddington, Auriol Park- busy with many youngsters coming & going from Football games-, Stoneleigh, Nonsuch Park, East Ewell, Higher Green, Epsom Downs, Tatttenham Corner, to Tadworth, for lunch at the Blue Anchor (M & B),- 5 more joined (27)-, Walton on the Hill, Walton Heath, Lower Kingswood, to Chipstead for a very special extended Tea stop at our good friend Andrea’s home & Woodland Garden- also joined by a few non Cycling friends-, after a few speech’s in tribute to Bai, more Chipstead, Banstead, East Ewell, Ewell village, West Ewell, Tolworth, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 32 Miles, special thanks to Andrea E for hosting the delightful Tea stop, special thanks to Andrea C for leading group 2, thanks to Chris F & Celia for back marking each group. The Photo montage page is still open, if you have any memories to share; https://photos.app.goo.gl/oZCgUjcP3UeWnQva6

Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/3075810

Wednesday 17th September. With just a few drops of drizzle, after 1 late cancellation, & 1 unexpected guest, – including 1 person who forgot the starting point,- 16 Cyclists leave on the Beeline, Raynes park, Wimbledon Chase, South Wimbledon, Wandle Trail- with a minor Gear change issue, soon fixed-, Earlsfield, Wandsworth Common, Clapham Common, Stockwell, Vauxhall, to Pimlico for lunch at the White Swan (McMullens), Westminster- thankfully before the ‘anti Trump protest march’-, Victoria Embankment (C3), Southwark Bridge (C7), also C14 & C10, Burgess Park (Photo), Loughborough, Brixton, Brockwell Park, Tulse Hill, Streatham Hill, to Tooting Bec Common for Tea & refreshments, Tooting, Colliers wood, Morden Hall Park, Merton park, Wimbledon Chase, Raynes park, to finish back in New Malden. Total 30 Miles, 2 new faces, special thanks to Ellie for back marking at short notice. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/3104112

Wednesday 10th September, with some light Drizzle, after 1 late cancellation & 1 unexpected guest, 7 Cyclists left via Skerne Rd, Latchmere, Ham gate Richmond Park, Petersham gate, Richmond, Richmond Bridge, St Margarets, Isleworth, Whitton, to Twickenham for refreshments at the Sussex Arms, also meeting a few other old friends, then Strawberry hill, Teddington, Hampton Wick, Kingston Bridge to finish back in Kingston. Total 12 Miles. Map:-www.plotaroute.com/route/837624

Sunday 7th September, Part 1 A mostly Sunny Morning with 1 late cancellation & 1 late booking, 10 Cyclists left via Kingston Bridge, Bushy Park, to stop briefly near the site of SHAEF, (Photo), Hampton, & Nurserylands estate, Hanworth, Hanworth Air Park, Leitrim Park, River Crane path, Kneller Gardens, to Twickenham for lunch at the Prince Blucher (Fullers), Strawberry hill, Teddington, Hampton Wick, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Sub total 14 Miles, thanks to Lindsay for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/3097236

Part 2 An absolutely packed Market place with the Kingston Carnival taking place, saying farewell to 4, welcome to 3 fresh faces- 1 no show, possibly unable to find the group-, 9 Cyclists left via Lower Marsh, Berrylands, New Malden, Motspur park, Joseph Hood Park, Morden Park, Morden, to Morden Hall Park for refreshments at the ‘Potters Shed Cafe’, Merton park, Wimbledon Chase, Raynes park, Beeline, New Malden, Norbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Sub total 14 Miles, Total 28 Miles, 1 new face, special thanks to Andrea C for leading, thanks to Wendy T for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/3089822

Wednesday 20th August. A rather cloudy Morning, gradually brighter in the afternoon, with a late surge in bookings & finding that the Co-leader had decided to do a Recce ride without support, alas 3 late cancellations, & 1 late booking, 17 cyclists split into 2 groups, leave via Portsmouth Rd, Long Ditton,- 1 more for group 1, (18)-, Hinchley wood, Esher, Fairmile, Cobham, Hatchford, Ockham (Photo group 1), to West Horsley for lunch at the Barley Mow, East Horsley, Orestan Common, Effingham, Bookham, Fetcham, (Photo group 2), Leatherhead, Ashtead, Ashtead Park, Woodcote, Epsom, to Alexandra park for Tea & refreshments at Park view Cafe,- now just 1 group-, Ewell village, West Ewell, Tolworth, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Special thanks to Celia for superb leading of group 2, without a ‘shadow leader’, as had been planned, thanks to Steve D & Toni for back marking each group. 2 new faces. Total 33 Miles. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1508730

Sunday 17th August. A glorious sunny day saw 21Cyclists- hang on, there’s 1 extra who hadn’t booked (22)-, split into 2 groups, leave via Portsmouth Rd, Giggshill Green, Weston Green, Esher, Walton, Weybridge, Brooklands Park, – Oh look my Limo, no wait, they’ve sent 2 identical, no there’s even more, turns out they were celebrating 60 Years since the Rolls Royce Silver Shadow first appeared-, Byfleet, New Haw, Rowtown, to Addllestone for lunch at the Pelican, -next to the Wey Navigation-, Victory Park, Chertsey Mead, (Photo group 1), Chertsey Bridge, Shepperton, Halliford, to Lower Sunbury for Tea & refreshments at the walled Garden, Hampton, Bushy Park, Hampton Wick, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Total 29 Miles, 1 new face, special thanks to Mags for leading group 2, thanks to Ellie & Will for back marking each group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1868983

Wednesday 13th August, a warm evening, – thankful that the ‘Mini storm’ passed by in the Afternoon, so 16 Cyclists left via Lower marsh, Berrylands- joined by 1 more-, New Malden, Motspur park, Cannon hill Common, Merton park, South Wimbledon to Wimbledon for refreshments at the Sultan (Hop back), more Wimbledon, Wimbledon Chase, Raynes park, New Malden, Norbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 14 Miles, 2 new faces, thanks to Yee-liu for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/3075615

Sunday 10th August, a gorgeous Sunny day, after 1 late cancellation, with 1 late booking, 17 Cyclist’s split into 2 groups- with group 2 leader slightly late due to a cancelled Train-, left the Market via Portsmouth Rd, Long Ditton, Hinchley wood, Esher- joined by 1 more for group 1-, Fairmile, Cobham, Downside, Effingham, Whitedown, Abinger, to Holmbury St Mary for lunch at the delightful Royal Oak, – joined by 2 more (20)-, with a sudden change of leader for group 1 ( the back marker deciding maybe she could ‘dip her Toe in’ to see if she could lead a group), back to Abinger, Friday Street, Wotton, Westcott, Milton Court (Photo group 1), Dorking, Meadowbank Park, A24 Cycle track, Norbury Park Farm (Photo group 2), to Bocketts Farm Cafe for refreshments, – with leadership for gr 1 reverting to yours truly due to Battery running low on the Sat Nav-, Leatherhead, Ashtead, Ashtead Common, Epsom Common, Long Grove Park, West Ewell, Tolworth, Berrylands, to finish back in Kingston. Total 45 Miles, very special thanks to Nigel for leading group 2, special thanks to Chris for leading part of the ride, thanks to Chris F & Andrea E for back marking, with Celia stepping in whilst Chris was at the front. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/653318

Sunday 27th July. A mostly overcast but dry day, a subdued mood & a Minutes silence following the sudden death of our good friend Bai, with 1 no show, 16 Cyclists left via Kingston Bridge, Bushy Park, Hampton, Hanworth, Sunbury, Ashford, Stanwell, Stanwell moor, Poyle, Harmondsworth Moor- with a pile of Garden rubbish seemingly deliberately blocking the exit from the path-, to Harmondsworth for lunch at the Crown (very good value grub), after a quick visit to the Great Barn, Sipson, Harlington- including a special Water feature in the Subway under the M4, was it a message from our friend now in heaven, to remind us all of a similar incident when he found himself in much deeper water a few years ago?-, Hayes, Grand union Canal towpath, Southall, Norwood Green, – sadly the P fairy had payed a visit to 1, but as we were so close to our Tea stop in Osterley Park, others continued, whilst the repair was swiftly performed-, after pausing at the House for a Photo, Osterley, Hounslow, Whitton, Twickenham, Strawberry hill, Teddington, Hampton Wick, Kingstoon Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Total 30 Miles, 1 almost new visitor (6 years or so since last visit), thanks to Chris F for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/840250

Wednesday 23rd July. A bright evening saw 10 Cyclists leave via Lower Marsh, Berrylands- collecting 1 more (11)-, Tolworth, Old Malden, Auriol Park, Stoneleigh, Nonsuch Park,- a brief impasse after a dislodged chain-, East Ewell, to Ewell village for refreshments at the friendly Wheatsheaf, West Ewell, Tolworth, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 13 Miles, thanks to Steve F for back marking.

Map:- http://www.plotaroute.com/route/2318838

Wednesday 16th July. A mostly Sunny day, after 1 late cancellation, 14 Cyclists start from a new venue, Hampton Court Station, via Thames Towpath- a small slip for the back marker, swiftly checked & back on the Bike-, Walton, Engine River path, Weybridge, Addlestone, Ottershaw, to Fairoaks Airport Cafe for lunch & Photo, McLaren Park, a brief bit of Horsell Common, Basingstoke Canal path, Wey Navigation, Weybridge, Walton Bridge, Lower Sunbury, Hampton, Bushy Park, Hampton Court Bridge, to finish back at the Station. Total 29 Miles, 1 new face, Special thanks to Steph for organising & leading this ride, thanks to John E for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2998509

Sunday 13th July. after 5 cancellations, we settled on 1 group, not 2 as planned, 13 Cyclists left via Woking- including diisrupting a Street party preperations

-,St Johns, Basingstoke Canal path, Brookwood, Bisley, West end, to Windlesham for lunch at the Brickmakers, Gracious Pond, Homewood Park (Photo), Addlestone, Weybridge to Walton Bridge for Tea & refreshments at Wilde Brunch,- alas 1 member had a rear wheel issue, so headed for the Train-, Walton- with a bit of chaos & confusion, somehow the rear of the group had overtaken the front, order soon restored-, Esher, Weston Green, Giggshill Green, Portsmouth Rd, to fiinish back in Kingston. Total 32 Miles, thanks to Andrea for back marking, thanks to Bai for being ready to lead group 2. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/608710

Sunday 29th June. A largely Sunny day, with a hot humid afternoon, after 4 late cancellations, 11 Cyclists left via Kingston Bridge, Bushy Park, Teddington, Fulwell, River Crane path, Whitton- joined by 1 more (12)-, Hounslow Heath, West Hounslow, Cranford, Harlington, Sipson, West Drayton, Thorney, to Iver for lunch at the Red Lion (Chef & Brewer), Langley Park (Photo), Langley, Dittton Park, Colnbrook, Poyle, Stanwell Moor, Stanwell, Bedfont, Feltham, Hanworth, Hampton, Bushy Park to the Pheasantry for mostly cooling refreshments, Hampton Wick, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Total 36 Miles, thanks to Steve D for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2773

Wednesday 25th June. A bright sunny evening, after 1 cancellation, 11 Cyclists left via Kingston Bridge, Bushy Park, Teddington, Twickenham, Crane River path, Cole park, Isleworth, St Margarets, Ducks walk, Richmond Bridge, to Richmond Hill for refreshments at the Roebuck- not as packed as might have been the previous week, but still busy with other Cycle groups-, Richmond Park, Kingston gate, to finish back in Kingston. Total 12 Miles, thanks to John E for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1588396

Wednesday 11th June, A rather chilly overcast Morning, with a sunnier & warmer afternoon. After 2 late cancellations & 1 late booking, 13 Cyclists left New Malden via the Beeline, Raynes park, Wimbledon Chase, South Wimblledon, Colliers wood, Tooting- joined by 1 more (14), Tooting Bec Common, Streatham Hill, Tulse Hill, Brockwell Park, Loughborough, Burgess Park, Bermondsey, Folkstone Gardens, to Deptford- with a slight navigational hiccup, (see Red dotted line on Map)-, for lunch at the Dog & Bell, a delightful bit of route through the old Surrey Docks area, Rotherhithe, Thames path (Photo), more Bermondsey- suddenly a cry of Oh no, a broken Saddle rail, after some debate the victim, bravely decided to continue riding-,, Walworth, Kennington, Stockwell, Clapham Common, to Wandsworth Common for Tea & refreshments at the Skylark Cafe, Earlsfield, Wandle trail, Wimbledon, Raynes park, to finish back in New Malden. Total 32 Miles, thanks to Ellie for back marking & others for marking corners. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2532828

Sunday 8th June. Part 1, A mostly sunny morning, sometimes with a Chilly breeze, or a mini heatwave, if the wind dropped. 19 Cyclists split into 2 groups, via Portsmouth Rd, Surbiton, Tolworth- where a loose bag, led to a delay for group 1, enabling group 2 to catch & pass-, Sunray, Malden Manor, Worcester park, Lower Morden, Morden Park, Ravensbury Park, Morden Hall Park (Photo group 1), Merton park, Wimbledon chase, Raynes park, to New Malden (Photo group 2), for lunch at a new venue, the Royal Oak (Mosaic Pubs), Norbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Sub-total 16 Miles, thanks to Bai for leading group 1, thanks to Toni & Neil for back marking each group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2893390

Part 2 Still mostly sunny, saying farewell to 10, & hello to 4 fresh faces, 13 Cyclists left via Lower Marsh, Berrylands, New Malden, Malden Manor (again), Auriol Park, Stoneleigh, West Ewell, Epsom to Old Moat Garden centre Cafe for Tea & refreshments, more West Ewell, Tolworth, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Sub-Total 15 Miles, total 31 Miles, thanks to John E for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1684604

Wednesday 28th May. A largely bright evening, after 2 late cancellations, -a slight delay, whilst a Chain was reattached-, 11 Cyclists left via Kingston Bridge, Thames Towpath, Hampton Court, East Molesey, Esher, Littleworth Common, Claygate, to Chessington for refreshments at the North Star- where not that surprisingly, we found a local resident (John D), just happened to be enjoying a drink-, Tolworth, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 13 Miles, thanks to Ellie for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2991489

Wednesday 21st May, A somewhat cloudy morning, brief glimpse of Sun later, but also a couple of heavy showers afternoon, with 1 no show, 11 Cyclists left via Portsmouth Rd, Surbiton, Long Ditton, Hinchley wood, Esher, Fairmile, Cobham, Hatchford, Effinghham Junction to Effingham for lunch at the Queen stage (a term used by commentators for multi stage Cycle races, to pin point the hardest stage), Bookham, Fetcham, Leatherhead, Ashtead Park (Photo), Woodcote- 1 heavy shower-, Epsom to Alexandra Park for refreshments at the Park view Cafe, Ewell village- 2nd heavy shower-, West Ewell, Tolworth, Berrylands tio finish back in Kingston. Total 30 Miles, thanks to Dave P for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2983182

Sunday 18th May. A rather chilly overcast morning, with warmer Sunshine later in the day. After 1 cancellation, 16 Cyclists left via Lower Marsh, Berrylands- a slipped chain soon fixed-, New Malden- a log-jam with Cars, led to a small detour-, Motspur park, Cannon Hill, Morden, Morden Hall Park, Mitcham, Tooting- collecting 1 more (17)-, Tooting Bec Common, Streatham Hill, Brockwell Park, Dulwich Village, Greendale, to Cammberwell for lunch at a new venue for us, the Fox on the Hill (Wetherspoons), Ruskin Park (Photo), Loughborough, Brixton, South Clapham, Clapham Common, Wandsworth Common, a brief part of Wandle Trail, Earlsfield, to Wimbledon Park for refreshments at the Cafe, Wimbledon, Wimbledon Chase, Raynes park, New Malden, Norbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 31 Miles, thanks to Toni for back marking & several others for marking corners. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2899320

Sunday 11th May, Another glorious Sunny day, after 2 late cancellations & 2 no shows, but wait is that lady across the Road one of the missing duo…. no, her gears need attention, but sadly no time to help, so 11 Cyclists leave New Malden, via Motspur park, North Cheam, Sutton, Carshalton Beeches, Woodmansterne, Coulsdon, Farthing down, Chaldon, Bletchingley, to Godstone for lunch at the Flower Farm, Woldingham Valley (Photo), Whyteleafe, Kenley, South Croydon, Waddon, Beddington Park, Hackbridge, Wandle Trail, to Morden Hall Park, for Tea & refreshments at ‘the Potting shed Cafe’, Merton park, Wimbledon Chase, Raynes park, to finish back in New Malden. Total 41 Miles, 1 new face, thanks to Andrea C for back marking & others for marking corners. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2959354– Note only the first Camera symbol is correct, but the valley is so scenic, I couldn’t resist adding a few more.

Wednesday 30th April. A warm Sunny evening after 2 late cancellations & 2 no shows, 9 Cyclists left via Lower Marsh, Berrylands, Surbiton, Long Ditton, Hinchl;ey wood, Littleworth Common, Esher, to Molesey for refreshments at the delightful Bell, a bit more Molesey, Thames Ditton, Portsmouth Rd, to finish back in Kingston. Total 12 Miles, thanks to Jon W for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1207451

Sunday 27th April, A mostly Sunny day after 1 late cancellation & 1 very late booking, 23 Cyclists split into 2 groups leave via North Kingston, Kingston gate Richmond Park, Roehampton gate, Barnes Common, Putney, Putney Bridge- to find the exit from the Subway under the Bridge closed, luckily the Road was not too busy-, Fulham, Brompton Cemetery, South Kensington, Kensington Gardens, (Photo group 2), Hyde Park, Marylebone, to Maida Vale for lunch at the usually excellent Carlton Tavern, however this time, a few lunches were somewhat slow in delivery, Kilburn, North Kensington, Shepherds bush, Hammersmith, -with a late change of plan-, the recently opened to Cyclists, Hammersmith Bridge, (Photo group 1), Barnes- to find one of the level crossings blocked-, another small detour via Vine Rd Rec-, (with pre warning for group 2, a different more direct route via Lonsdale Rd), to Palewell Field for Tea & refreshments, Sheen gate Richmond Park, Ham gate, Ham, to finish back in Kingston. Total 30 Miles, special thanks to Bai for leading group 2, thanks to John E & Neil for back marking each group.

www.plotaroute.com/route/2162317

Wednesday 16th April, A mostly bright Sunny day saw 22 Cyclists split into 2 groups, leave towards Skerne Rd, unfortunately faulty Traffic Lights meant they soon joined up again, after splitting a second time via Canbury Gardens, Ham, Ham gate Richmond Park- a Wardrobe adjustment for group 1 meant group 2 almost caught up a second time-, Roehampton gate, Barnes Common, Putney (new improved approach to Putney Bridge), Bishops Park, a very twisty route through part of Fulham & Hammersmith, to lunch at the Plough & Harrow (Wetherspoons), Cycleway 9 to Chiswick, Acton Green (Photo group 1), the delightful architecture of Bedford park, Acton, – now with a slight Headwind-, Gunnersbury Park, Carville Hall Park South, Brentford, to Syon Park for refreshments at the Clocktower Cafe, -after group 2 Photo, we elected to go as 1 group as a few had departed for home-, Isleworth, Whitton, Twickenham, Fulwell, Bushy Park, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Total 28 Miles, 1 new face, special thanks to Mags for leading group 2, thanks to Ellie & Toni for back marking each group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1033328

Sunday 6th April, a glorious sunny day, with a slightly chilly headwind/ breeze, after 1 cancellation & 1 late booking, 19 Cyclists split into 2 groups, leave via Fairfield, Norbiton, New Malden, Raynes park, Merton park, Morden hall Park, Colliers wood, Tooting- group 1 joined by 1 more-, Streatham Vale, Norbury, Thornton heath, Heavers Meadow, Woodside, Ashburton Fields- with a long stretch of Path strewn with broken glass (was it a deliberate ploy to cause flat tyres?)- (photo group 2), Elmers end, Park Langley (Photo group 1), to West Wickham, for lunch at the Raiilway (Ember Inns),- after a small adjustment to 1 saddle-, Shirley, Addiscombe, Lloyd Park, South Croydon, Waddon, Beddington, Beddington Park, to Carshalton for Tea & refreshments at Sassis in the Grove, Benhill, Pyl Brook path, North Cheam, Motspur park, New Malden, Berrylands- to visit ‘Derek’s Bridge’ (an old friend, who used to Cycle regularly with us), Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 38 Miles, special thanks to Bai for leading group 2, thanks to Celia & Chris F for back marking each group.

Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1579827

Sunday 23rd March, Part 1, A largly overcast morning, after 1 cancellation, with 3 unexpected guests, 24 Cyclists split into 2 groups, with the Hampton Court Half Marathon taking place on part of the route, we took a small detour via Surbiton, Long Ditton, Hinchley wood, Littleworth Common (Photo group 1), Esher, Walton, Walton Bridge, Shepperton (Photo group 2), Halliford, to Sunbury for lunch at the Flower pot (Brakspear Pubs), -with some of group 2 having other commitments, it was easy to return as 1 group-, more Sunbury, Hampton, Bushy Park, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston. Sub-total 18 Miles, 1 new face, special thanks to Bai for leading group 2, thanks to Yee-liu & Neil for back marking each group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2551761

Part 2 With slightly darker clouds & just a few drips & drops, not enough to don Waterproofs, saying farewell to 14, welcome to 5 fresh faces, 15 Cyclists left via Fairfield, Norbiton, New Malden, Motspur park, Joseph Hood Park, Mayflower Park (Photo), Worcester park, Auriol Park, West Ewell, to Tolworth for Tea & refreshments at Court Farm Cafe- also a surprise guest ahem just happened to be there (Photo)-, Berrylands, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 13 Miles, 1 new face, thanks to John E for back marking. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2906258

Wednesday 12th March. Yet another day not to pay too much attention to the Forecast, although the Temperature had returned to more wintery settings, aside from a few drops of Rain as we reached lunch, the rest of the day was dry & quite Sunny. After 3 cancellations, 12 Cyclists left via Portsmouth Rd, Giggshill Green, Weston Green, Esher, Walton, Weybridge, Brooklands Park ( now without the Fun fair), Byfleet, New Haw, Row town, to Addlestone for lunch at the very friendly & delightful Pelican, -with a very quick service, we were soon on the Road again-, Chertsey Mead, Chertsey Bridge (Photo), Shepperton, Haliford, to Sunbury for Tea & refreshments at the Walled Garden (the Tapestry is also well worth a visit), more Sunbury, Hampton, Bushy Park, Hampton Wick, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston, -possibly a record for an early finish, by 3.40pm. Total 28 Miles, thanks to Ellie for back marking.

Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1868983

Sunday 9th March. A bright Sunny day, after 2 late cancellations, 28 Cyclists (a post Covid record), had to battle there way through the ‘Fun runners’, split into 2 groups, leave via Surbiton, Long Ditton, Hinchley wood, Esher- Group 2 joined by 1 more (29)-, Fairmile, Cobham, Hatchford,- with increasing numbers of Car traffic, trying to find alternative routes due to the M25 closure-, Ockham, to Ripley for lunch at the Jovial Sailor (Barons Pubs)- joined by 1 more (30)-, Send Marsh (Photo group 1), Newark, Pyrford, (Photo Group 2), a short stretch of Wey navigation path, Byfleet (very congested), Brooklands Park- having to detour around the Fun fair-, Weybridge, Walton, Molesey to Molesey Cricket Club for Tea & refreshments at Miss Polly’s, Thames Ditton, Portsmouth Rd to finish back in Kingston. Total 32 Miles, 1 new face, special thanks to Bai for leading group 2, thanks to Andrea C & Amy for back marking each group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1557141

Sunday 23rd February, Mostly cloudy skies, with 1 late booking, 3 cancellations & 1 unexpected guest, 16 Cyclists, split into 2 groups, thanks to Mags for the reminder that there was a Road closure, just after the start, best avoided, so via Skerne Rd, Kingston gate Richmond Park, Sheen gate, Mortlake- group 2 joined by 1 more-, Chiswick Bridge, Chiswick Green, Acton, North Ealing, Pitshanger, Pitshanger Park, Perivale, Greenford, to Northolt for lunch at the Greenwood Hotel (Wetherspoons), – now with a strong blustery Headwind-, Northolt Village (Photo Group 1), Southall, Norwood Green, Osterley Park, (Photo group 2), Osterley, Hounslow, Whitton, Kneller Gardens (no enthusiasim for a Tea stop, as Rain was threatening), Strawberry hill, Teddington, Hampton Wick, Kingston Bridge, to finish back in Kingston.30 Miles, 1 new face, special thanks to Mags for leading group 2 & the reminder, thanks to Chris F & Andrea E for back marking each group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/909611

Wednesday 19th February. A mostly overcast day, with glimpses of Sun, stll rather chilly, after 2 late cancellations, 18 Cyclists split into 2 groups, via Lower Marsh, Berrylands, Tolworth- having to dismount to pass a crashed Car & cut down traffic lights!- West Ewell, Epsom, Epsom Downs (Photo group 1), Tattenham corner, Burgh Heath (Photo group 2), Banstead, to Woodmansterne for lunch at the Woodman (Stonegate Pubs), a slight delay, with traffic having to go slow past a fallen Tree, Wallington, Beddington,- with Group 1 leader taking an embarrissing tumble-, Beddington Park, Hackbridge, Wandle Trail, Morden, to Morden Hall Park for Tea & refreshments,- now just 1 group-, Merton park, Wimbledon Chase, Raynes park, New Malden, Norbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 29 Miles, Special thanks to Mags for leading group 2, thanks to John E & Toni for back marking each group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/945357

Sunday 9th February. With a rather damp day forecast, not too surprised to have 4 cancellations, but as it turned out, a day to ignore the Forecast, a chilly but otherwise dry day, until very late afternoon, 14 Cyclists left from the Fountain, via Motspur park, Lower Morden, Morden Park, Morden, Mitcham, Pollards hill, Thornton heath, South Norwood, Crystal Palace Park, Penge, Beckenham- joined by 1 more-, Becklenham Place Park, Downham, Chinbrook, Mottingham, to Eltham for lunch at the GPO (aka the old Post Office, Portobello Pubs),- joined by 1 more late arrival (16)-, a bit more Eltham, Kidbrooke, Blackheath, Lewisham, Waterlink way, Brockley, to Peckham Rye Common for Tea & refreshments at the Round Cafe, East Dulwich, Dulwich Park, Brockwell Park (Photo), Tulse Hill, Streatham Hill, Tooting Bec Common, Tooting, Colliers wood, South Wimbledon- now with lighht Drizzle-, Wimbledon Chase, Raynes park, to finish back in New Malden. Total 42 Miles, thanks to Amy & Neil for sharing the Back marker duties, thanks to Bai for being ready to lead a second group. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/1016150

Sunday 26th January, A bright start, with a blustery breeze, forecast to get stronger, with Rain also predicted, not a surprise that 5 had cancelled there spot, thus 11 Cyclists left via the Bittoms, Lower Marsh, New Malden, Motspur park, North Cheam, Cheam Park- a new link to Nonsuch Park-, to collect 2 more attendees (13), East Ewell- with the Rain steadily increasing-, Epsom, Woodcote, Ashtead Park, to Ashtead for lunch at the always reliable Woodman (Ember Inns), with rain not relenting, several decided to go ‘Train spotting’, the remaining 5 were happy to take a shorter route, handily with a mostly tailwind, Ashtead Common, West Ewell, Tolworth, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston, sadly no Tea stop, no Photo this time. Total 23 Miles, special thanks to Andrea C for back marking at short notice. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2860760

Wednesday 15th January. A mostly cloud covered day, much warmer than of late, saw 19 out of 15 who had booked- yes 4 unexpected guests-, leave in 1 group, via Portsmouth Rd, Thames Ditton- joined by 1 more-, Molesey, Walton- joined by yet 1 more (now 21)-, Weybridge, Brooklands Park, Byfleet village, Wisley, to Pyrford Lock for lunch at the Anchor (Hall & Woodhouse/ Badger), back to Wisley & the new Wisley Bridge (Photo), Ockham, Hatchford, Downside, to Stoke D’Abernon for Tea & refreshments at Cafe Barbera, Oxshott, ‘Birds Hill estate’, a freshly resurfaced Bridleway in Claygate, Hinchley wood, Long Ditton, Surbiton, to finish back in Kingston. Total 30 Miles, 1 new face, special thanks to Toni for back marking a larger than expected group & to Celia for being a ‘Super Marshal’. Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2006267

Sunday 12th January. A bitterly cold day, not a surprise, that 6 had cancelled there place, incredibly 19 were still brave enough to meet in New Malden, split into 2 groups, – wiith 1 of group 2, having gone to the wrong meeting point, having to hot foot it from Kingston-, via Motspur park, Cannon Hill, Morden, Morden Hall Park, 1 of group 1 suffering a visit from the ‘P fairy’, -enabling group 2 to take the lead-, Colliers wood, Tooting, Tooting Bec Common, Clapham, Clapham Common (Photo group 2), Stockwell, Caldwell, Burgess Park, Surrey Canal path, to Peckham for lunch at the Kentish Drover (Wetherspoons), -we did try joining up as 1 group, but Traffic lights proved largely unhelpful -, a bit more Peckham, Camberwell Grove, Dulwich village, Brockwell Park, Clapham park, Abbeville vilage, Clapham Common- crossing our outward route-, to Wandsworth Common for Tea & refreshments at the Skylark Cafe- almost ready to leave 1 more face joined us, having been ‘tailing us’ all afternoon-, Earlsfield, Wandle trail, South Wimbledon, Wimbledon Chase, Raynes park, to finish back in New Malden. 2 new faces, Total 29 Miles, special thanks to Bai for leading group 2, thanks to Andrea C & Chris F for back marking each group.

Map:- www.plotaroute.com/route/2830063