AV Ride

Today’s ride was the 'AV Ride' to The Cat and Canary in Henfield. There was some doubt that the pub may have been closed so The Plough was a backup.

It was a dual start so Pete,  Al, Denis, Bob and I set off from HPP and headed for Pease Pottage. It was here that we were joined by Gordon,  Jacqui and Malcolm. Anton was also there but was not cycling. Off we went to Handcross where we met up with Ros.

The route took us through Handcross, along the new cycle path to Warninglid, over the A272, Wineham and on to the lunch stop where we met Adrian Veiler (AV), Michael and Christine. The beer was good but the food took a long time to come. I negotiated an extension to our usual lunch hour.

So it was home time. We headed north to Partridge Green and Maplehurst where the Crawley members headed off.

The rest of us headed back to Horsham via Kerves Lane. 35 miles.

Turf and Surf

A lovely day out riding the flatlands of the coastal plain around Chichester Harbour. 

Bacon Butty Ride

Today’s ride was a beginners ride to Copsale Village Hall for bacon butties. 
After waiting for no shows we headed off towards Broadbridge Heath utilising the new bridge over the A24. Once over this we headed south on the newly refurbished bridleway through Wickhurst Green, rejoining the road to Christs Hospital. Here we joined the Downs Link to Copsale. 

I had texted the hall to say we were coming but it went unread. Luckily they were prepared for an influx of 16 cyclists. 

After refreshments we headed for Sedgwick and Doomsday Green. Some Crawley members left us here so we said our goodbyes and the rest of us headed back to the Pavilions. Some of us went to the French Market in the Carfax. 
We only did 15 miles but everyone said it was a success so plans are afoot for a revisit. 

Our next ride is an "awayday" ride.  We will meet up at Chichester Station at 10:00 hrs for a "Surf and Turf" ride of about 30 miles. It should be fairly easy as it is all coastal plain down there and quite flat.

East Sussex Mystery Ride

A quick thrash along The Worth Way to East Grinstead for Ken, Malcolm and Bob before meeting up with Ros, Pete, Rachel, Paul, Annie and Denis.

Ros led us on a very nice ride through Forest Row and up onto Ashdown Forest and Nuthurst for lunch at Fletching. Great views, great weather, great company.

The Arun Crossings - DA Event

I enjoy this ride: we criss-cross the river Arun multiple times between Pulborough and Rudgwick on highways and byways. It's a great excuse to fit the knobblies and let my Kona do its thang!

The crowd was slow getting together at Pulborough Station but in the end there were seven of us (just Michael and myself from H&C).

Turning right out of the station, we first used the old bridge at Stopham followed immediately by the new one then up through the woods and a sandy track with great views of the Downs to the south and east. Next we headed north towards Toat before taking a bridleway west for another crossing.  The bridleway took us through a landscape that probably looks pretty much the same as it did a century ago before climbing up to Bedham Lane. This took us north before we turned right onto a bridleway at Horsebridge Hill. A single track trail took us through some woodland then out onto a grassy ride before crossing a small lane and running along the edge of a small valley. Then we went down and across a grassy plain before another river crossing at Pallingham Quays (I think). We next followed a couple of farm tracks before turning left Blackgate lane and then left again to go past Scrase House and then down the hill behind it on a stony-surfaced bridleway. As we reached the bridge over the river we caught up with a couple of horses and being kind and generous folk, we opened the next couple of gates for them. We flew on up the slight gradient before getting on tarmac again for the last mile into Wisborough Green where we stopped at the Old Mill cafe for elevenses.

A good cup of coffee and a selection of delicious pastries later, we were back on the road. We went north and east, past Fishers Farm and dived onto another bridleway. The nest two crossings took us east then west, past Malham Farm then north, out onto Drungewick Lane. 

Next we took the canal path alongside a restored section of the Wey and Arun Canal and pulled up for lunch at the Onslow Arms in Loxwood.

The afternoon saw us head back along the canal before turning north and going through Tismans Common to Rudgwick and then south along the Downs Link. A bridleway then took us west to run round The Haven and into a wood on another bridleway. Back out on Okehurst Road we headed south before going through a farmyard onto another bridleway west and over the river and canal again. Stopping to change my video battery I enjoyed a sprint through a wood to catch up with everyone else as we emerged onto a drive leading to the B2133 at Newpound. Now it was just a case of popping back to Wisborough Green.

I Had a family birthday party to get to so I didn't stop at the cafe and pressed on south - back over the river and canal up the hill and out onto Black Gate Lane then onto Pickhurst Lane and two small climbs before arriving back at Pulborough station to drive back home.

I'd had a really enjoyable day - the weather was warm and sunny, the riding was excellent, the countryside beautiful and the company entertaining.

Cutty Sark Ride 2015

I thought I'd organize this ride for a Bank Holiday Weekend so that it would only take up 1/3rd of peoples weekend freetime - that should guarantee a good attendance!

I met up with Michael at Three Bridges station and we caught the train to Blackfriars station. We had fun fitting ourselves and two bikes into the lift but we managed it and as we emerged onto the Southbank we were met by Eric. That was it - I'd had a few messages from people saying they couldn't make it but nonetheless we stopped at the start point outside London Bridge Station until the specified start time.

We rode over to Greenwich and took a couple of photos whilst waiting for the second start time to arrive, then we were off.

We've become very familiar with the route now and in many ways it makes the riding easier. We were chatting away and even the couple of minor route detours didn't faze us. With so few riders we weren't wasting much time stopping for regroups and we got to the lunch pub, the White Bear at Fickleshole, before 12:30.

The rain was holding off and it was warm enough to sit outside and share our lunch with a few lazy wasps.

As usual the afternoon started off  with an offroad blast downhill with soggy mud and nettles to avoid, followed by a lungbusting drag up the hill and onwards to Chelsham. My favourite part of the day was next with a nice rapid descent through the trees to Woldingham Golf Course - made a bit more exciting by the gully that has developed in the lower parts of the track! We were back in the pedalling groove as we made our way up the quiet valley past Woldingham school and then along Quarry Road - this bit is always annoying as it takes you down part of the scarp slope before forcing you to climb back up it on a rough track. It does mean however that the crossing of the A22 is safely via a bridge. The road climb just beyond required the use of granny gear but shortly after we had the usual breather at the top of Gravelly Hill. The view wasn't as good as on previous occasions - the weather was muggy and reduced the view to a vague expanse of slightly misty green hills.

Remounting, we had the fast descent through the woods and under the M25 to emerge by the sand quarries. The path zig zags between the pits and was quite peaceful - until Eric swallowed a fly and proceeded to emit the loudest coughs I have ever heard! We carried on, past a cricket match and across Nutley Marsh. Passing a gent walking his dog the damned thing jumped at me but fortunately was prevented from making contact by the owners strong grip on the lead - I  suspect his Rottweiler often tries to play with unsuspecting body parts within range!

We passed through Redhill and then past the East Surrey Hospital. I took a short cut through the housing estate and we stopped at the newsagents for a chocolate bar and drink before having a quick blast along the track and down through the woodland.. We met up with a couple of cyclists riding from the London Eye to Burgess Hill and guided them through the badlands of Horley as far as the station. Eric had a puncture so decided to catch the train down to Three Bridges leaving Michael and I to carry on, past Gatwick Airport. As we went into the industrial estate we met a German cyclist and guided him as far as Northgate Avenue where we pointed him in the direction of the town centre. We then rode on to Three Bridges Station where Michael would meet up with Eric to drive back home and I carried on up and over the final hill to get home having clocked up just over 50 miles. The actual distance from the Cutty Saek to Crawley was about 45 miles and I reckon we should rate the ride as medium rather than hard.

Next weeks ride is the last DA Event of the year - the Arun Crossings. It starts from Pulborough Station at 09:30. It involves crossing the river on tracks and bridleways so is easier on a mountain bike or strong hybrid. 

Downs Link Part II

The intention was to ride to Guildford and back along the Downs link today but the weather conspired against it - although it wasn't yet wet, there was no doubt that it was going to rain. Consequently there were only two of us at Horsham Pavilions in the Park - myself and Daniel. We were both on mountain bikes, so I was quite happy that we would manage the track. Then Pete E arrived - dressed in civvies (no helmet, no cycling appareil) he'd just popped over on his bike to have a chat. However, we persuaded him (it didn't take much effort) to accompany us for a short while.


Pete took the lead out through the mean backstreets of Horsham, through a new development and over the A24 on the bridge to Tesco's. From here he led us down Wickhams Lane and along the bridleway to just short of Itchingfield where we picked up the Downs Link. Pete turned back at this point leaving Daniel and I to race of along the track. It was getting noticeably darker and sure enough it started raining. At this point I found out that Daniels rucksack didn't contain any waterproofs - so I felt guilty about using mine and left them attached to my belt. As we rode along we started getting wetter and muddier. As we rode into Rudgwick we spotted Michael ahead, sheltering under a tree. After a quick chat we decided to alter the ride and pop into Michaels for a coffee.


We had a nice break drinking Coffee and eating cake with Michael and Christine. Daniel and Michael realized that they both worked for the same company and were reminiscing about the various offices/countries they'd worked in. All he time the rain was just getting steadier and everything outside was getting wetter.


We decided against riding on northwards and, saying goodbye to Michael and Christine, Daniel and I headed back to Horsham. I routed us through Broadbridge Heath and over the golf course just for variety. Daniel appeared to enjoy the ride and it would be nice to see him on another one in the future.


For my ride back I cut through Tilgate Forest just to get some extra mud splatters over my bike and clothes before turning up back home having clocked up just over 34 miles.

Downs Link part I

I'm on time for a change - a nice bright morning and I was out and about and bang on schedule. I pulled up at HPP and sat waiting to see who would turn up.

Half past nine came round and I was starting to think about doing the ride all by myself, then Nat and David rolled up. As we were doing the introductions Ken arrived so we had a nice compact group as we headed out through Horsham and onto the Pedlars Way. Surprisingly we found Pedlars Way to be quite wet - the river even looked like it had broken its banks at some point overnight. The climb up through the woods was as hard as usual but Nat and David managed it well. Then we had the comfort of the lanes down to Copsale before gaining the Downs Link.

The surface was good and we were averaging about 10mph so it wasn't long before we reached Partridge Green and stopped for refreshments at Stans Shack. Glancing at my phone I realised I'd missed a call and voicemail from John C. He and John V were somewhere behind us on the track, so I let them know that we would wait at Stans for them. After finishing my coffee and cake I looked up just in time to see the two Johns arrive. Now there were six of us and we carried on at a fairly good pace, chatting as we rode along. We soon passed Henfield and it wasn't long before we had to leave the rail bed and head up that tough climb along the edge of the field - it's not steep but it's always hard work.

We had a breather at the top of the field before enjoying the brisk descent along the stony track. Passing the sewage plant we were now in Bramber and just past the roundabout we came across a new bit of routing for the Downs Link. Rather than using that awkward crossing over the A road, the new route carries on south to the river, goes under the A road before heading north and west to rejoin the original route. The remaining few miles alongside the river always take longer than you think they should. But as I was riding along I had a very good view of a parachute display team - I'm hoping I've got some of their display on my bikecam.

Reaching our lunch stop, the Red Lion, just opposite the old Shoreham footbridge. We queued up for our drinks and queued up for our burgers whilst Nat and David managed to blag a table for us to sit at. The air display restarted after its lunch break with an aerobatic display featuring a propellor driven stunt plane and what looked like a radio controlled model version of the same plane. I found it well choreographed but really wanted to see (and hear) a jet plane. Next up was a Hawker Hunter - immaculately painted in camouflage colours it sped past us, turned, came back, climbed up and into a loop. As it came out I commented that it looked like it wouldn't make it - I hoped I was wrong but it disappeared behind some trees and failed to reappear. Moments later two big clouds of black smoke told what had happened

I don't remember hearing the impact, but I did notice how quiet everyone was as they realised that the plane had come down. Someone said that it had come down in an empty car park but, not having heard or seen the ejector seat go off, I feared the pilot had been lost.

We decided that it was time to start for home and split into two groups - the two Johns headed back up the Downs Link to Christs Hospital where they'd parked their car, the rest of us headed for Brighton.

As we rode along it was noticeable that traffic was backed up for about a mile into Shoreham. We crossed the harbour lock gates just in front of a large ship that only had a foot or so of space on each side in the lock and pressed on into the headwind.


Reaching Hove Lawns, Nat and David said goodbye as they were going to enjoy some time at the seaside before catching the train home. this left Ken and I to cycle onwards as far as Madeira Drive where we stopped for an ice cream.


Refreshed, we rode up the A23 and then gained the NCN20 at Patcham. It's not a bad route but the constant noise from the traffic is very wearying. I was tiring and the hill at Bolney was really hard work so I insisted on a stop at the Bolney Stage. We found a table in the shade of a tree and knocked back a pint or so of water each.


Ken had suggested that we use the Slaugham Bridleway rather than a frontal ascent of Handcross Hill and I reckon this was a good idea - it was shaded from the blazing sun and although rougher than the new tarmac I'm sure it took less of a physical toll. From there on the route was either level or down and it wasn't too long before I was home having clocked up some 60 odd miles.


Sitting at home I felt overwhelmed with sadness as I realised that the plane crash was far worse than I had initially imagined. There was also the worry that apart from my fellow riders, several people I knew - family and friends - had been in the vicinity, thankfully all safe.


Now, several days later, I want to express my sympathy for all the people directly and indirectly affected by the accident but just cannot find any form of words that seem worth putting down in writing.

The Horsham 100

Six fifteen on a summers day morning - easy!  Well no, I struggled to get out of the house and didn't actually meet Malcolm until 06:30.  Even then, after we'd been riding just a few minutes I realised I'd forgotten my water bottle. No matter, I'd just have to get some water on the ride.


It was trying to rain but was pleasantly warm as we travelled along the Forest Road and we were quite comfortable spinning along. But as we entered Roffey, the rain got a little heavier and was staying on the road surface so we started to get wet, mainly from the spray.


Four hardy souls were waiting at Horsham Park Pavilions - Pete, Rachel, Ken and Mick. The rain now stopped and we headed off, over the golf-course and down through Broadbridge Heath. Mick pointed us in the direction of Slinfold and we settled in to the first climb of the day. After a mile or two of the A29, we went west to The Haven and then due south opposite the Blue Ship. The roads were pretty dry now and the cycling was very pleasant. We crossed the A272 and headed down past the Limeburners Arms and on to Adversane to go back across the A29. A couple of miles later, at Broadford Bridge we turned right and started the climb of Woods Hill. As we crested, Pete realized that he had a puncture. I stayed with him to help change the tube whilst everyone carried on, down to West Chiltington and a loop to the south which then brought them up Smock Alley to the Garden Centre. Pete and I met them here having taken a short cut once Petes bike was fixed. Now we headed east then North and then east again to The Countryman at Shipley. As we were running a bit late, I chopped out the Shipley loop and we carried on to Dial Post. Here it became apparent that Pete's rear puncture had returned. He and I stopped to reflate the tyre and everyone else carried on, over the A24, past the Old Barn Garden Centre and down to Ashurst before turning north towards Partridge Green and Stans Bike Shack - the breakfast halt.  Pete and I took another short cut in order to catch up and went through the Lock Estate needing only one further stop to reflate the tyre.


At Stans, we settled down to bacon rolls and cups of tea - I took my shoes off in order to try and dry out my shoes/socks and get some warmth into my numb and frozen feet! We took the opportunity to repair Pete's puncture - this time we managed to find the cause - a small flint hiding in a crack in the tyre tread. I was particularly annoyed as I'd failed to spot it earlier despite having a really good look for it! We were joined by Anne at Stans - her plan was to ride with us to Horsham then ride back to Partridge Green to pick up her car.


The next part of the ride took us east, then down the A281 before heading east again then north through Twineham. Crossing the A272 we had a couple more climbs (including that short, sharp killer at Warninglid). Now we were on the home straight and rattled off  Hammerpond Lane quite easily - Malcolm headed home up Grouse Road having clocked up well over 50 miles - leaving the rest of us to negotiate the wilds of East Horsham and pull up at the Conservatory Café  in Horsham Park for lunch.


Well, that's 50 miles done - time to refuel and get psyched up for the second 50........


It was warm and comfortable sitting outside in the shade, chatting and people-watching. but all too soon it was time to get going again. Only three of us volunteered to try the afternoon ride - Mick, Ken and myself. We headed north through Horsham and over the bypass before tackling the climb of Old Holbrook. The hill was hard work but mainly in the shade of trees and it didn't take us long to get up to Green Lane. Heading east, we used Rusper Road and then Wimland Road before heading toward Lambs Green. As we approached the right turn I recognized the cyclist coming in the opposite direction - it was Anton on a 200k Audax ride. We stopped for a chat and found that Anton was suffering from back pain (to the extent that he only rode a few more miles before packing in). After chatting for a short while we carried on, only to stop a few yards later as Ken realised he had a puncture. At this point Mick decided to head for home and tube replaced, Ken and I carried on through Lambs Green and along Rusper Raod into Ifield. We sped through along Bonwycks Lane and then passed the end of Gatwick and into Charlwood. I'd run out of water and was tiring quickly so Ken took the lead as we went through Povey Cross and headed north. As we went up Horse hill my energy completely ran out and at the top I decided to turn for home myself. I gave Ken the route map so that he could carry on and, when we got to Stan Hill I said goodbye and headed downhill to Charlwood. As I rode along I suddenly felt sick and realised I needed to stop and recover - as luck would have it there was a pub nearby, so I popped in and recovered by having a nice cold drink of cider! Honest, it worked. Twenty minutes sitting in the shade, supping a cider worked wonders and I was reinvigorated when I got back on my bike. I rode straight from Charlwood, past Ifield Wood, through the Town Centre and arrived back home with 84 miles on the clock. About an hour or so later I received a text from Ken to say that he was safely home and had completed over 100 miles - nice one Ken. Here's a Strava screenshot he sent me:

Our next ride starts from Three Bridges Station at 09:30 on Sunday. Michael will lead us on an easy 30 mile route with a lunch stop at The Dolphin in Betchworth

Beginners Ride - Tracks and trails

Second Sunday of the month, Beginners Ride, good turnout.


In spite (or because?) of the ride being advertised as "Tracks and Trails" there were eight of us milling around at Three Bridges Station waiting for Gordon to lead us away. Gordon, Jacqui, Corinne, Anne, Christine, Michael, Kevin and myself. Once everyone was happy that they were on the right bike and that their saddle was correctly adjusted, we set off.


Firstly we used the Worth Way, encountering a couple of large horses on the way. Gordon worked us over to Worth Abbey and then we took the bridleway past Whiteways Lodge before crossing the Balcombe Road and blasting down through the woods to the railway bridge and the end of Parish Lane. Here we turned right into Tilgate Forest and enjoyed some lumpy singletrack whilst reminiscing about Gordon's pile-driver crash the other year! Crossing over the M23, we sped down through the golf course before crossing a couple of fairways and reaching the clubhouse. From here we ran up to and along the dam before heading west almost to K2.


Now Gordon lead us into the woods again and we enjoyed some singletrack all the way up to the M23 which we crossed on the second bridge. More singletrack and firetrack fun ensued before we emerged on Parish Lane. We headed east on the tarmac for a short while before heading south then west through a couple of large fields and into some woodland around the back fence of Billy Bridges scrapyard.


Next we crossed the A23 on the bridge and headed into Pease Pottage. From here it was but a short ride to Gordon and Jacqui's for lunch.


Having drunk all their champagne and ate all their food, everyone headed off home.  I led Anne, Corinne and Kevin back into Tilgate Forest to enjoy some more singletrack before stopping at the mansion for a breather. Corinne headed off home from here, leaving the rest of us to head back across the dam and past the clubhouse into Furnace Green.


Back home, I'd only clocked up 15 miles but I'd enjoyed them all.


Our next ride is a big one (if you want it to be). It's the Horsham 100 and starts from Horsham Pavilions in the Park at 07:00hrs. There will be a tea-stop at 09:30 in the Old Barn Garden Centre at Dial Post just off the A24.  Lunch will be 12:30 at The Conservatory Café in Horsham Park.  Afternoon tea will be 16:00hrs at Capel church. with a target finish sometime near 19:00hrs back at Horsham.


If you don't want to do 100 miles, why not just do the morning or afternoon loop?  Alternatively, why not ride a direct route to/from one of the tea stops. I believe a couple of folk are planning on driving to the Old Barn, riding back to Horsham (then driving back to the Old Barn to pick up the first car).


Who knows, the weather might actually be good on Sunday!!

Two Weald Ride (DA Event)

Whilst I compose some words, here's a film:

https://youtu.be/s31cS3yPU_Y


A slightly damp start to the day probably reduced the numbers slightly but didn't stop a trio of hardcore riders making early starts to tick off the loops.


Anton and Robert both (individually) started at about 6am I believe and Ray started at about 8am.


Barbara, Pete and I set up the control point at about 09:30 and other riders started arriving.

Cat and Canary, Henfield

Tracks and trails. On with the knobblies - yes, I know it's dry enough for slicks but knobblies are more relaxing and can face anything.

I met up with Malcolm by the shops and we headed over to Horsham via Pease Pottage, our tyres humming along on the Tarmac. Waiting at HPP were ride leader Gordon, Michael, Adam and Frank. 

The route took us through Horsham and out onto the Pedlars Way. It was fun climbing up through the woods and I found it slightly easier than usual. After this we headed down to Copsale and the Downs Link. We made fast and easy progress and were soon at Partridge Green. Here we turned into the Lock Estate and made our way through on the tracks and bridleways before emerging on the lane by the Old Barn Garden Centre. 

We headed south and then, where the lane does a sharp left turn, we took the bridleway - I'd used this right of way many years ago and it was appalling then, now however it is in good nick with a minimal amount of horse related damage. 

On reaching the lane at the other end, we turned left and headed east, crossing over the B road and taking a bridleway down past the farm before turning right and  using a new (to me) bridleway that took us up onto the levee and along the river until we reached the Downs Link. Now it was just a case of heading north to Henfield and then pulling up at the Cat and Canary for lunch.

Shortly after, we were joined by Mick, Pete E and John V followed a few minutes later by Adrian, so we had quite a lively lunch with plenty of discussion about cycling and other things.

For the ride home we broke into two groups - one going by road and the other continuing up the Downs Link. I enjoyed the Downs Link (I'm looking forward to our Downs Link in a weekend rides in late August). At Copsale we were back on Tarmac and made our way north to Sedgwick Lane and up to the A281. Here the Horsham crew turned left and the rest of us (the Crawley crew) headed on through Doomsday Green before hitting the bridleway into St. Leonard's Forest at Roost Hole car park. We didn't see Mick Mills or his opponent as we headed up Mick Mills Race - nor did we see any deer like we often do here. on reaching the Forest Road we headed right, through Colgate (the Dragon is open again) and carried on to Pase Pottage. here we said goodbye to Gordon and plunged into the top corner of Tilgate Forest. The route I use is one I've been riding for many years now and although it's character is essentially unchanged the trees are all noticeably larger than they were.

We stopped off in the middle of the park and enjoyed an ice cream before having a quick blast across the park and along the dam. From here we sped down past the Golf-driving range and emerged bu the Cheese houses in Furnace Green. What a lovely ride - thanks Gordon.

Rendezvous Ride

I'd cheekily set this club ride up as a rendezvous ride so that I could take part even though I was doing the London to Brighton Bike Ride for the BHF!


The idea was that we could all work out our own routes and just meet at the Ardingly Inn for lunch. In the end, only Ros and myself turned up, but the food was good and I was surrounded by my family (celebrating fathers day) and some friends, one of whom, Kevin was riding the L to B with me.

Crawley Family Bike Ride

As ride leader I was pretty nervous about this event - an unknown number of riders with an unknown range of cycling abilities and an unknown number of helpers to marshal it. I'd tried to think of the potential problems and how I was going to deal with them but in spite of the preparation, I was still worried as we gathered outside Oriel School. However, the weather conspired against a large turnout by raining at just the right time to discourage potential riders. One thing I hadn't planned for was that one of the cyclists was on a very low-slung hand-cycle, but after a few minutes thought and discussion with him, we'd identified the potential hazard points and had a plan to deal with them.

The numbers slowly built up to 21 until it was time to go. I gave a quick introduction and description of the route, Gordon kindly did the safety briefing and then it was time for a group photo before we headed off through Maidenbower and up to The Worth Way. With the best part of fifty years age difference in the group, I took it nice and steady with frequent stops to regroup and point out things of interest. I had plenty of experienced riders to help marshal us and keep us safe - we even tried a little bit of bicycle maintenance at times as we tried to cure a squeaky disc brake on one of the bikes.


The rain had given up before we set off and the route was really quite dry, so we made steady progress with the marshals doing a good job at the few road crossings we had to negotiate. On the roads of Crawley Down we kept together fairly well and after a breather by the pond, we all carried on towards East Grinstead.


I was hoping we would arrive in time to see a steam engine run in over the viaduct but we just missed it and only the first few riders managed to see the loco whilst it was in the station. We parked the bikes in the car park where the old High-level railway station was and then walked down, past the modern station and on to the Bluebell Railway Station. Here most of the riders enjoyed refreshments in the café located in an old railway carriage. There was plenty of happy conversation and enthusiasm amongst the riders. Thanks must go to Malcolm and Anton for staying with the bikes and ensuring they would be safely there for our return trip.


Heading back from East Grinstead meant that the route was slightly downhill and everyone was enjoying themselves and travelling at a pretty good pace. We were in several small groups, each of which was chatting as they rode along and all was right with the world.


Then we had the only incident of the day as an experienced rider (no names) managed a slowmotion fall. A quick check revealed no injury  - not even a scratch or bruise and it certainly amused the rest of us!


Arriving back at Oriel School I accounted for everybody and wished them all a safe journey home before heading home myself to a nice relaxing cup of tea and slice of cake.

Jack and Jill, Clayton

Mid-June: should be nice and warm, just right for riding in shirtsleeves. Well, er, no!     Malcolm and I met up at the local shops and rode over to Horsham Pavilions in the Park where we were joined by seven others: Anne, Anton, Corinne, Ken, Michael, Norman and Pete. The cloud cover was pretty thick and even looked like it wanted to rain as we headed out past the Salvation Army HQ to Depot Road. The joy that is Hammerpond Lane then unfolded beneath our wheels. Highlights being the climbs at Roosthole and the two either side of Grouse Road (not). Regrouping/catching our breath at the Wheatsheaf crossroads, we watched a chap setting up some route indicators for the 'Etape de Sussex' which was due to pass through in a couple of hours. 

We carried on, turning South at Slaugham Pond, climbing to Warninglid where we turned left and then took the next lane heading south once more. As we ground up the hill someone queried whether the ride was actually "medium" as I had rated it. I defended my corner by pointing out that, although, yes, this was the fifth hill (who counts these things?), the mileage was actually quite short at about 18 miles with in excess of two hours to complete it. Other than the climbing aspect, the lane was very pleasant as was the next one, Jeremy's Lane, where Norman nearly fell off his bike trying to warn us that the entire width of the road was covered in potholes.

We crossed over the A23 just north of the Bolney Stage and were now onto some delightful lanes in what I shall call "Anton Country". With the glowering cloud and thick overhead vegetation, it was hard work seeing where the road went on some of these lames - I almost took my sunglasses off 😎

We crossed the A272 without any bother and soon after crossed the Burgess Hill link road just as easily. I understand some plant watering occurred at this point, but I'm too much of a gent to mention names.

At Goddards Green, Anton pointed out that this was the area where he'd had his icy road induced memory loss incident a few years back - I determined that we'd visit the actual scene on the return journey. After misreading my route instructions but fortunately being corrected by Anton, we arrived at Hurstpierpoint College - amazingly enough this was the first time I'd ever seen it! It's big and it's flintnapped, how could I miss it? Not far to go now and with a right then left we headed down past The Danny (a big house that I believe hosted some important meeting either during or after the Second World War. This lane looks like it's about to head straight up the scarp of the South Downs, but no, it turns east and takes us to the pub!


We were a little bit early so I used the time up by showing everyone the castellated Clayton railway tunnel entrance. We waited there, watching for a train to come out of the tunnel, but none came - well not until we'd got fed up and had turned our backs on it!! I suggested we could pop over the road and have a quick look at Clayton Church but everyone had headed off along the wrong road before I could cross the road to join them and I had to chase them down over the next mile - that was the fastest any of them had ridden all morning! Anyway, we had a quick look at the church but as a service was in full swing we decided not to go in for some sightseeing - besides which, the pub was now open.


All the tables inside the pub seemed to be reserved so we sat outside and enjoyed some fine ale and food. We were then joined by the Bognor Chichester riders who had been sat inside.


Edwin and co. joined us for the first few miles of the return journey as we headed back past Hurstpierpoint College and down the lane where Anton had his icy accident a few years back. The lanes were very nice and, having crossed over the A23 we soon arrived at Wineham where the Bognor/Chichester crew headed south and we headed north.


We had a couple of climbs as we passed Bolney went through Warninglid and carried on to Slaugham Pond. Here Ken took the short route back to Crawley to get home to see his son who'd fallen of his bike earlier. The rest of us retraced the morning route as far as Grouse Road where the Crawley trio turned right and the Horsham quintet carried on west.


I still reckon todays ride was "Medium" - it had quite a few hills but was only a mere 36 miles or so.....


Our next ride is on Saturday 20th June and is the Family Bike Ride starting from Oriel School in Maidenbower. I would appreciate as many members turning up as possible so that you can help marshal this ride along the Worth Way to East Grinstead. If you don't want to marshal, take part anyway, just to impart your experience into the body of riders.

Balcombe Cafe

Excellent ride, led by Gordon, hilly in places but enjoyable mix of roads and tracks.

DA Event - the I-Spy Ride

After all the preparation Pete had put in to create this event, it was a little disappointing that with the wet weather and lack of entrants we decided to just have a short ride rather than run the Treasure Hunt.


The ride was enjoyable and the rain mainly held off as we made our way to Smock Alley for lunch at the Five Bells.  This was my first visit to the Five Bells and I found it to be a lovely pub.


The return ride was very pleasant and Pete will keep all his route and questions to use in next years I-Spy.

Chiddingstone Castle

Worth way to East Grinstead.


Coffee at Ros's.


A very enjoyable route on some lovely lanes.


A smashing lunch at Chiddingstone.


A pleasant return ride.

Let me take you down (copyright The Fab Four)

Today’s ride started at HPP at 9:00. It was a dual start so Pete,  Norman,  Mike and l headed off to Pease Pottage to meet Pete and Marian, Frank Tinsley,  John Veitch, John Clark, Corinne and Ann.
We headed off south towards Handcross and used the new cycle route alongside the A23. At the Staplefield turning Mike decided to cut the ride short as he had just recovered from illness. 
The rest of us headed further south with several hills (the ride was defined as hard), over the A272 and on to Hickstead. It was then a nice level ride towards Twineham. It was here we started to meet a Sportif.
Heading north we re-crossed the A272. More hills!
The Sportif riders started to come thick and fast here.  Their road sense left a lot to be desired. Overtaking with traffic approaching!
The route then headed towards Hammerponds and Grouse Road.
John Clark and the Smiths headed for home here so only seven made it to lunch. Mike meet us there. 
There were no takers for the afternoon ride so l headed along (up) Wimlands to allow Crawley members an easier way home. 
I clocked 46 miles and 2500' of climbing.

Beginners Ride

This month I decided to use the Beginners Ride as a run-through for the Family Bike Ride along the Worth Way that we are running as part of National Bike Week in June. Seventeen riders turned up at the start although one was on foot and just wishing us well, two were on close tolerance road bikes and didn't want to risk the Worth Way, and two others popped home and came back on their offroad bikes.

Firstly I took us to Oriel School to determine how best to negotiate the roads/roundabout there and then we made our way up through the woods to join the Worth Way at the Bower. It was all working well and we'd soon negotiated Church Road, passed Worth Church and crossed over the M23. A quick regroup at the farm and we carried on through the woods, heavy with the scent of bluebells, until we came to the road crossing by Keepers Cottage. Here a couple of members marshalled us safely across and then it was on past Rowfant and along the long straight to Crawley Down. This is the next potentially awkward bit but once again my fellow club members kept us together and on the right route.

We stopped by the pond for a breather and to check out it's suitability as a rest point, before carrying on and engaging the slight climb that the rest of the rout does up to East Grinstead. Here we all walked over the footbridge and down to the Bluebell Railway cafe. It's only a small light refreshments operation but coped very well with our numbers and we think will be able to cope (when combined with the Costa Cafe over the road) with the family bike ride - especially as we intend getting everyone to leave their bikes in the top carpark and we will provide a couple of bods to look after them there.

After enjoying our refreshments, a chat and the sights, sounds and smell of a steam engine arriving and departing, we headed back whence we came. The journey back was enjoyable (and slightly easier because it's slightly downhill) although Javier had a puncture just after the farm. Pete and Marian helped sort it out and, having all regrouped by Worth Church, we started to head off home in our various directions.

The group I was with headed back past Oriel School and then up through Tilgate Park over the golf course and along a great woodland track to the top of Pease Pottage Hill. From here it was just a short ride to Gordon and Jacqui's for lunch and the Runslist Meeting.

The draft Q3 runslist has just been emailed to members. Once I've dealt with the responses and finalised it, it will republished on our website.

Next weeks ride is a Horsham Park Pavilions start at 09:00 hrs.  Mick has prepared a lovely ride called The Three Counties Ride. It's only 35 miles and I believe is rated as Medium (although Mick tells me that he can add a 22 mile Hard option for the afternoon if you really want!!  Lunch will be at the Strawberry Fields Cafe on the Old Horsham Road near Roffey.

Fun and frolics at Deers Leap

May bank holiday weekend - three days off work, let's have a couple of days out on our bikes.  I thought a bit of off-road fun at Dears Leap would appeal to a few people. In the end there were just four of us - Corinne, Carol, Narinder and myself, Bob.

Deers Leap is basically an area of fields and woodland with farm tracks around the fields and single track through the woodland. The single track isn't difficult as it winds through the various patches of woodland but it does help improve ones bike handling skills. There are rooty sections, ups and downs and rickety wooden bridges to negotiate.

Facial expressions ranged from worried frowns, through tongue out concentration to big broad smiles as we twisted and turned through the woodland trails. 

Having explored the southern section of the park, we headed back to the cafe for some refreshments and a chat about what we'd been doing and what we were learning. Then it was back out and climbing through the woods to tackle the northern section of the park.

Here there were some new sections of track and a couple of nice swoopy descents before we headed through the woods again, redid the first couple of southern tracks and finally did the first one in reverse before we called it a day and headed back to the cafe. Carol and Narinder went off to visit Standen whilst Corinne and I decided another snack at the cafe was in order.

Getting back home from Deers Leap is quite easy - I just road north, over the crossroads into Imberhorne Lane and then picked up the Worth Way all the way back to Crawley.

We may schedule another Deers Leap visit sometime soon - keep you eyes peeled, or better still let me know date(s) that suit you.

HPP to Maplehurst

Pete E writes:

I woke up this morning to persistent light rain and hoped it wouldn't deter people from coming out on today's ride. Fortunately it had cleared up by 10.00 am and six riders assembled at HPP - Norman, Malcolm, Rachel, Adam, myself and Val who was attempting her first club ride for some time. Just as we were leaving Ann arrived but couldn't find anywhere to park due to an event being held in the sports centre. Norman offered to wait behind for her so I gave him the route and the rest of us set  off at  a gentle pace to allow Norman and Ann to catch us up.

We set off along via Doomsday Green and Sedgwick before getting warmed up on the short but sharp climb on Colstaple Lane. No sign of Norman and Ann so we carried on towards Southwater stopping to watch a buzzard and look at some horses. Not having Norman with us to guide us through Southwater we took the main road turning into Church Lane and enjoyed the descent of Bonfire hill. At the bottom Ann and Norman caught up with us but Val decided to return back to Horsham.
Admiring the bluebells which seem to have appeared this week, we carried on via Dragons Green and Shipley to Dial Post. After crossing the A24 surprisingly easily, at Norman's request we departed from the planned route and took the bridleways through the Knepp estate. We then cycled through Partridge Green and Littleworth up a few more climbs and reached Maplehurst by 12.15 - earlier than I expected after the slow start and numerous hills.

After a pleasant lunch, a few pub games and discussion of the first single we had bought we set off along Park Lane and Newells Lane before taking the A281 and B2110 to Lower Beeding before turning off along Hammerpond Road and a few more hills with Malcolm leaving us to take Grouse Road back to Crawley and the rest of us returning to Horsham.

In all the ride was 31 miles and we ascended 2677 feet - 40 more than last week's ride to Leith Hill!

This coming Bank Holiday weekend sees the club having two rides planned - on Saturday, go to Deers Leap for some offroad fun - meet there at 11:00, then on Sunday we have an HPP start at 09:30 for a medium rated ride led by Michael. This will take us down to Amberley for lunch at The Sportsman Inn.

Leith Hill (the highest point in the southeast)

Ten lovely people turned up for today's ride and enjoyed a leisurely ride through Crawley, Ifield, Rusper and Ockley before gritting their teeth and climbing up to Leith Hill. The weather was sunny and clear but with a chilly northeasterly wind, so the hot drinks and cake on sale at the Tower were most welcome. 

Corinne and Norman enjoyed some of the trails through the woods on their mountain bikes as we headed east along the ridge before regrouping at Coldharbour. Then we all enjoyed the downhill blast down Anstie Lane - my parting instruction before launching myself down the hill was "Don't over cook the corners!".  Judging by the loud shout and throb of rubber on Tarmac, it would seem that Norman tackled one of the corners with the gas regulator turned up a bit high!!

Regrouping at the bottom of the hill, I was very pleased to see the monster smiles on everyone's faces - they'd all enjoyed that bit (it made up for the hard work of the climb earlier).

The Beare Green roundabout wasn't too busy and was easily negotiated, allowing us to arrive at the Six Bells in Newdigate shortly after.

We lunched indoors and, to be honest, it was quite a noisy affair with us all trying to do various finger exercises, talking about tattoos and trying to come up with a slogan for the club - I believe someone suggested Lion or Littlehampton!

Once we were back on the road, talk was mainly about having another teastop and in spite of a couple of stops to reflate a slow puncture, we were soon back in Crawley and going our separate ways.

Everyone enjoyed the ride and let's hope the same will be true of next weeks ride.  It will start from Horsham Pavilions in the Park at 10:00 hrs and Pete E will lead us all on a fairly easy loop south of Horsham to lunch at The White Horse in Maplehurst.

Freewheel DA Event

A Horsham start and a roundabout route to Barns Green. We used Granny's Lane, Rowhook Hill, Rudgwick, The Haven, New Road and then pulled up at Summers Ponds just before midday. The Bognor and Chichester riders were already there. We sat in the sun and enjoyed our food and drink but we had to hang around for an hour and a half before the Arun and Adur bods were ready to roll.

We all went back to New Road, climbed to the top and started the Freewheel challenge. We each took it in turn to roll down the hill and see who could get the furthest. John C has been best at this in previous years but this year Sam from BogChi was the high roller. We did however get best lady  - well done Anne. 

Charlwood

'Keen to put a bit of variety into our list of rides, I'd decided to do a fairly short loop to the west and north of Crawley. It seems like this appealed to people as we had nine riders out today - Michael, Christine, Pete E, Norman, Frank, Ann, Adam, Paul and me, Bob.

The first part of the route took us along the Old Three Bridges Road. Next we used The Boulevard and then headed into West Green before using the tunnel into Ifield. 

The Rusper Road took us past the scene of the recent "body in the boot" murder and then we headed into Ifield Green and up Hillybarn Lane. At the top we stopped for a breather and to allow Bob to adjust his new Spd pedals - he was struggling to release his shoes from the too tight clips. Adjustments done, we headed along the Mount and then North to Newdigate.

Reaching Parkgate, Bobs plan was to head north and east but the group consensus was to head straight for Charlwood down Stanhill. So we pulled up at The Greyhound in Charlwood at only half past eleven. The pub wasn't busy and we were soon sat outside eating and drinking. Everyone was surprised at the low price but good quality the food and drink was. As we were so close to the airport, conversation naturally centred on the (potential) expansion of Gatwick.

Our homeward route took us past the western end of the runway and we witnessed several planes taking off as well as a few landings before we headed towards Ifield along Bonnetts Lane. Crossing the River Mole into Ifield, I took us along a quiet lane to Ifield Green and St Margaret's Church. Here several of our riders went to look around the churchyard whilst I looked after the bikes and chatted with a Churchwarden.

Heading towards Ifield station, Norman left us to pick up NCN228 back to Horsham, whilst the rest of us used the new cycle track and old subway back into West Green. Next we used Springfield Road and the back streets of old Southgate to get to the Hawth Avenue traffic lights before taking a quick sortie through Furnace Green to pick up the Black Path which led us to Haslett Avenue and thence Three Bridges Station.

Not a long ride today - a mere twenty odd miles - but everyone seemed to have enjoyed it.

Our next ride on Sunday 12th April will have a 10:00 hrs start at HPP. We will head south then west to have lunch at Sumners Ponds with the other West Sussex CTC groups before popping round to New Road to take part in the Freewheel DA Competion - it's dead easy: all you do is roll down the road and see who can roll the furthest - John C is usually our best competitor, why not see if you can give him a run for the money?

Tanfield Farm Shop

Four of us out today - me, Norman, Malcolm and Michael. Forecast was light rain and windy but rain wasn't much more than drizzle and we didn't really notice the wind until we were on the way back when it was against us.

Route was Broadbridge Heath, Warnham, A29, Weare St, Capel, Newdigate and then back via Rusper.

We tried the new footbridge across to Tescos and contrary to the criticism posted on Facebook recently didn't have any problems with it. The barriers they have installed on the slope on the Tesco side are easily negotiable by any competent cyclist and probably necessary to deter skateboarders, reckless cyclists etc. as it is a long straight downhill with a sharp U turn at the end. It's a big improvement on the old bridge and my only comment would be that they perhaps should have separate lanes for cyclists and pedestrians. It wasn't an issue for us but could be at busy times.

Pete E

The Green Man at Horsted Keynes

I didn't beat about the bush with my description of this ride - I rated it medium because it was fairly low mileage (less than 30) but with several hills in it.  Seven hardy souls joined me at the start and we were kept entertained by the usual displays of inept driving on and around the station forecourt as we waited for Norman to finish his breakfast snack.

Todays attendees were Michael, Malcolm, Frank, Pat, Norman, Frank, Gordon and myself.

The first part of todays route went up through Pound Hill and out over the motorway on the Turners Hill Road. Stopping to regroup at Keepers Cottage revealed that Michael had had to turn back because of a puncture, so we were now down to seven - no matter, once we reached Turners Hill we were joined by Anton and John V.

I didn't hang about there because I knew a steam train was due to cross our route shortly, so sped off down the road to meet it.

We all gathered at the side of the road and had a good view of the train, high up on the embankment. It was the 'wrong' way round unfortunately (travelling tender first). Here's a quick video:
https://youtu.be/waVDc1nfUbU

We carried on, up to the crossroads where we turned right towards Saint Hill Green. Next we passed Deers Leap Park where we'll be having some fun on Saturday May 2nd. Then it was down the twisty-turny hill to the tail of Weirwood Reservoir - no matter how hard I try, I always have to use my brakes to get around the second bend (otherwise I'd end up in the bushes).

We regrouped at the bottom and then carried on along Legsheath Lane. This lane starts off all nice and level but then turns away from the water and climbs up to the heights of Ashdown Forest. The climb is worth it as the scenery becomes more open and there are good vistas to the north. A quick breather at the crossroads then straight on for half a mile before turning right onto Twyford Lane.  Here's a video showing what a delight this downhill portion of the route is:
https://youtu.be/gaZbLOG-qS0

From here we just had a short sharp climb up onto a ridge and then travelled along the road into Horsted Keynes for lunch at The Green man. I was really pleased to see that Michael had joined us and even more pleased with the welcome from the pub staff and the quality of their food and drinks.

Consequently we must have spent about an hour and a half in the pub before venturing out to tackle the hills on the route home. I gave people a choice of routes and was hoping they'd opt for the Sharpthorne route back but no, they all wanted Ardingly. Once we got to Ardingly we split into two groups, pretty much on the basis of bike type - the road bike riders carried on up past Wakehurst Place and on to Turners Hill whilst the mtb'ers took the reservoir route and on to Worth Abbey.

As far as I'm aware, everyone made it home safely - if anyone knows any different, let me know!

The next ride is a 10:00hrs start from Horsham Pavilions in the Park with Pete E leading an easy ride which will have a lunch stop at Tanhouse Farm Shop.  Don't forget, the clocks Spring forward one hour on Saturday night.

Anniversary Ride

Half past eight on a Sunday morning - I wanted to be in bed snuggled up to a warm woman, but no, I was out on my bike on a crisp morning and riding into a chilly wind. The nice blue sky and fluffy clouds wouldn't have been out of place in summertime but the temperature shouted that it was still winter. I plodded along the Forest Road with the wind testing the seams of my top and trying to sneak up my sleeves. I knew I was going to be late and as I passed the Rusper Road so my phone lit up with a "Where are you?" text from Anton.  I didn't bother stopping to answer as I was only a couple of minutes away. Anton was waiting with Norman and Malcolm - everyone else had dropped out. We waited a few minutes in case of stragglers then Anton led us away - across the golf course where we encountered a large group of dog walkers (I think they had been taking part in a protest about some potential development in the area).

Byfleets Lane and Strood Lane were both resurfaced last year but are breaking up terribly now - an indictment of the West Sussex road maintenance programme if ever there was one. Anton next took us up Rowhook Hill, then across to Cox Green and into Rudgwick. We stopped every now and again so that Anton could phone the pub to let them know there weren't as many of us as he'd provisionally booked for. However, he was unable to get through in spite of trying on at least half a dozen occasions. We crossed the A281 and headed towards The Haven before turning south opposite the Blue Ship. We followed Rowner Road all of its length, enjoying it's generally downhill disposition, then followed the A272 into Billinghurst. Anton was getting into his stride now and led us South, over the railway and down to the B2133. We whistled along in a compact line until we eventually turned North up Spear Hill and on to Broomers Corner. Now it was but a short ride to the lunch stop at The Countryman. 

The landlord seemed a bit grumpy that there were only four of us but we settled down and enjoyed some good food and drink. The pub was not busy and put a lie to the landlords claim that he'd had to turn away business to accommodate us. I suspect that we won't be visiting The Countryman again for quite a while.

Anton gave us choice of routes back to Horsham and we plumped for the shortest. From Shipley we crossed over the A272, through Dragons Green and on up to the Bax Castle. Not long after we arrived back in Horsham and dispersed back to our homes.

Our next ride is a Beginners Ride, starting from Three Bridges at 10:00hrs. Pete E will lead us along the Crawley Horsham cycle route and then across to the Strawberry Fields cafe for refreshments before returning to Three Bridges.

Reigate

Nice ride today - Ros led eight of us through Northgate and Gatwick to Horley. Then up Horse Hill to Leigh and across to Reigate where we had lunch at Morrisons. We used some lanes we've used before but also a couple of new ones. As we headed back the weather looked to be breaking and so most of us headed straight back to Crawley.

The Fountain at Ashurst

Anton led 10 of us on a delightful ride south of Horsham, down to Ashingon and then up to Ashurst.

Some of you may recognise the pub - The Fountain at Ashurst.

Remember this:    http://youtu.be/V9BZDpni56Y ?

Redhill Aerodrome

The second Sunday of the month is the day we have our Beginners Rides. We don't have an absolutely predefined route laid down because we tailor the ride to whoever turns up (how dynamic is that?).


The weather was still cold but not brutally so and there was no ice or dampness about. The mainly blue sky was encouraging as was the lack of any strong wind, so I wasn't surprised to find that there were ten cyclists waiting at the start when I arrived. A warm welcome to Debbie who turned out to ride with us for the first time and hello everyone else: Gordon, Jacqui, Frank, Eric, Seb, Jenny, Norman, John V and Malcolm.


A quick chat and Gordon decided to lead us out on the Worth Way then head down Old Hollow and into Copthorne. The Worth Way was pretty good and fairly dry but full of horses - well relatively so in that we saw / met up with six of them! Everyone was in good spirits, due no doubt to the mainly clear sky, and we were soon going over the traffic light controlled crossroads. Taking the next left, we were back on quiet lanes again and were riding in groups all having a good chat - we're definitely a sociable group. At Smallfield we headed west, crossed the motorway and then turned north onto Hathersham Lane. The linear "trench" pothole on this lane seems to be getting deeper and I would warn any cyclist using the lane to be very careful.


I'd told the lead riders that we would take the second road on the right but wished I'd opted for the first right instead.  The second right was Picketts Lane - I'd forgotten about the hill it contains!


Having regrouped at the top, we carried on, over Axes Lane, past the famous hidden house ( see http://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/honeycrock-farm-hidden-house-appeal-8056972   ) and then turned right onto Kings Mill Lane which affords views of the Old Crawley Clock which currently languishes in a farmyard not far from East Surrey Hospital as opposed to its rightful place in Crawley town centre:
 


Pulling up at the aerodrome, we piled into the Chef on the Road café and ordered our refreshments. Some of us sat inside to warm up, some of us sat outside to avoid overheating!!


There wasn't much activity going on - probably about 30-40 customers in the café, one light aircraft taking off, one helicopter taking off and a few seagulls lazily flapping around. But it was pleasant enough sitting in the wintry sunshine discussing the pros and cons of an extra runway at Gatwick......


For the route back we just headed back towards Masons Bridge Road where, as we waited to join it, Norman managed to miss his footing and fall on Seb, knocking him into a street sign. A quick check, everyone was OK and off we set once more. At the bottom of Picketts Lane we took the NCN21 route along the badly potholed lane into Horley. We all used the subway, carefully dismounting to do so, and made our way through the town centre and onwards to Gatwick Airport. After negotiating a couple of the backroads in the industrial estate and passing through the tunnel into Northgate, we said goodbye to Debbie as she headed home to Three Bridges and the rest of us headed into Crawley Town Centre. Gordon then lead us up the High Street, up Brighton Road and Halfway up Pease Pottage Hill before crossing over and entering Broadfield through a gap in the fence. A couple of minutes later we pulled up at Gordon and Jacqui's House where we enjoyed some delicious food and hammered out the runslist for Q2.


Our next ride is on Sunday 15th February and starts from Horsham Pavilions in the Park at 10:00hrs. Anton will be leading us on a 31 mile loop to the south of Horsham with a lunch stop at either The fountain in Ashurst or The Partridge at Partridge Green. We expect to arrive back in Horsham some time in mid afternoon - probably 15:00 -15:30.

The Foresters Arms, Kirdford

Well, that worked. When I first looked out of the window there was a thin layer of snow hanging around on the shed roof and part of the lawn but by the time I'd breakfasted and completed my ablutions, all sign of snow, slush or ice had gone. There was a bitter wind from the north but the sun was manfully trying to break through and accentuate the blue bits of sky. With five layers on my upper body, a woolly hat under my helmet and two or three layers everywhere else I was feeling quite toasty as I rode up Pease Pottage Hill and headed out along the Forest Road. A couple of roadies were just in front of me going a bit slower than I wanted but I didn't overtake them as I didn't want a race on my hands. Fortunately they turned right at Colgate so I could then get up to the pace I wanted. As I arrived at Horsham Park Pavilions I spotted Norman and Anton in the car park, then Pate E and Ken in the bike park. We were then joined by Malcolm who must have been riding just behind me along the Forest Road. So six blokes out today, all fairly experienced and as the weather was still bright but cold I decided we would do the full route I'd planned.

We left Horsham via the golf course and headed west via Rowhook Hill, Ellen's Green and Cox Green. After Baynards the lane went up and then we turned right and were overtaken by a car as we were doing the turn!!  The next left took us along a quiet lane which suddenly had parked cars along both sides - Cranleigh Rugby Club would appear to have a lot of members but very few parking places. On reaching the A281 we turned left and followed it down to Alfold Crossways - here we were overtaken on the left by a right-turning Range Rover! Quality driving, not. 

From here we headed over to Dunsfold and then turned south, putting the wind behind our backs. Pete was leading us at a fair old pace now although Norman hit the front as we passed through Plaistow. Just a few miles later we were pulling up at the lunch stop, The Foresters Arms at Kirdford. We were the first people in and picked a couple of tables in the public bar where a large fireplace had a newly lit fire burning in the grate. The pub had a really good range of food on offer and three bitters on tap. Most of the chat today was about the changes we are making to the clubs online presence. Our old website has been the subject to numerous complaints in recent times due to the intrusive advertising it pushes out, so we are in the process of moving it across to be hosted on the main CTC website. In addition we are trying out running a Meetup site as a possible way of attracting more riders. Please use both of them and give us some feedback to help us further improve things.

As we were leaving the pub, so we met Richard Boulton and several other Arun/Adur colleagues. A quick chat and a photocall and we'd swapped place - they were in the warmth of the pub, we were in the cold, riding our bikes.

I wanted to get us home as quick as possible so I decided we would head for Wisborough Green and then use the A272 to and through Billingshurst. Next we headed up to New Road, then through Barns Green to Bax Castle and up to Tower Hill. Exactly as per the Runslist, we'd had a round trip off exactly 35 miles anand we said goodbye to the Horsham crew, Pete and Norman, then Anton in the car park and that just left Ken, Malcom and myself to run a chain gang back to Crawley. I eventually got home at about 15:15 and took a much needed warm shower to thaw myself out.

Next weeks ride is an easy ride aimed at beginners and will start from Three Bridges Station at 10:00hrs for a two hour loop led by Gordon.

At 13:00hrs, members can convene at Gordon's house for the Q2 Runs List Meeting - come along with idea/suggestions/opinions and we can create a set of rides for April, May and June that we all will enjoy.