I think I frightened Anton off producing a blog entry for this ride by suggesting he write it as a poem!
I understand he led Norman, John H, John V, Richard and Pete S from Three Bridges station out to the North and East of Crawley as far as Redhill Aerodrome only to find that the Cafe wasn't open. Doh!
They returned via Horley and NCN 21 through Gatwick.
Monday, 28 December 2009
Monday, 21 December 2009
Oh no! Not another poem!
Snow and Ice
Is all very nice
And picture skew
But would you
Ride a bike in it?
Evidently not,
For when I got
To the start
No-one apart
From Mick was there!
And he’d walked.
So we just talked
About the snow
And where we will go
On the Anniversary Ride.
Tenterden’s chosen
(Though currently frozen)
And details will be
Provided by me
By e-mail and on our web-pages.
Back to the ride
And I couldn’t hide
The joy of not needing
To go ride a-leading
I’d just cycle back to my warm house.
On leaving the town
Midst trees weighted down
With bright white snow
I cycled quite slow
And enjoyed my place on this planet.
Pease Pottage was gained
And for once I refrained
From riding that slope
On a wish and a hope
Cos I’d never have stopped at the bottom!
Just for some fun
The next bit of the run
Was through Tilgate Forest
With snow up to my chest
(Well actually that’s poetic license!)
You just cannot beat
Being perched on the seat
Of a bike, you know
In rain, sun or snow
And so with a broad smile I arrived home (to end this poem).
Is all very nice
And picture skew
But would you
Ride a bike in it?
Evidently not,
For when I got
To the start
No-one apart
From Mick was there!
And he’d walked.
So we just talked
About the snow
And where we will go
On the Anniversary Ride.
Tenterden’s chosen
(Though currently frozen)
And details will be
Provided by me
By e-mail and on our web-pages.
Back to the ride
And I couldn’t hide
The joy of not needing
To go ride a-leading
I’d just cycle back to my warm house.
On leaving the town
Midst trees weighted down
With bright white snow
I cycled quite slow
And enjoyed my place on this planet.
Pease Pottage was gained
And for once I refrained
From riding that slope
On a wish and a hope
Cos I’d never have stopped at the bottom!
Just for some fun
The next bit of the run
Was through Tilgate Forest
With snow up to my chest
(Well actually that’s poetic license!)
You just cannot beat
Being perched on the seat
Of a bike, you know
In rain, sun or snow
And so with a broad smile I arrived home (to end this poem).
Monday, 14 December 2009
Ride It Off
Fresh(?) from the excesses of Saturdays Club Christmas Dinner, a ten o’clock start from Three Bridges Station for a twenty-two mile offroad jaunt along the Worth Way/Forest Way didn’t seem too onerous. I’d already swapped my slicks for knobblies and the weather was cold but dry so I dressed up warm and left my waterproofs at home. After all, I could always sprint back home if any rain came along.
John C was the leader and the other attendees were Pete S, Mick, John H, John V, Norman and me, Bob.
Being honest law-abiding citizens we walked our bikes along the footpath under the railway bridge before remounting to ride up Billinton Drive. The first part of Worth Way had a thin film of soggy mud which was spraying up from our tyres but was good and firm underneath. Just after crossing the M23 (on a bridge!) we met one of our club members, Pat. We didn’t recognise her at first – she was in “civvies” as she was out for a walk. Frank wasn’t with her as he was laid low with flu – get well soon Frank. I stopped for a chat and then had to sprint a bit to catch up with the others. It was great fun zipping along the track and I was full of the joys of spring (or should we call it “fat-tyre frenzy”?) as I carved some lines and nearly wiped out three other cyclists as I nailed a blind bend! As ever, on the stretch alongside (the former) Rowfant Station I was bemoaning the fact that the track has been 'improved'. It used to be a superb bit of singletrack: fast and flowing with loads of tree roots, mud and a narrow bridge with no railings, great for improving your bike handling skills. Just afterwards the track does a right and left as it cuts across the line of the railway but as usual I took the ‘fun’ route which climbs through the bushes and across the end of the embankment to cut off the double bend (it’s only 10 metres long but involves a muddy climb and descent on a narrow track). The next stretch is dead straight and is where I usually take the opportunity for a drink. The embankment gets higher and higher and crosses Rowfant Lane about 50 feet above the road surface. Shortly after, the path goes into a cutting but just beforehand there’s a sloping path on the left which leads up to the Turners Hill Road. Mick left us at this point as he’d ridden all the way from Horsham and wanted to ensure he returned before it got too dark (also, being on a handbuilt touring bike with road tyres he was having to concentrate to stay upright, whereas I was just chucking my mountain bike around with gay abandon). Only two weeks into the competition for next years Mick Horley trophy, Mick has built up a good lead with double the points of his nearest competitor. The rest of us will have to pull our collective fingers out!!
As we went up the slope to Crawley Down, I realised that John H on his recumbent must be having a fairly hard time of it. With his small wheels and relatively grip free tyres he found it quite hard manoeuvering through the fence at the top. The mile of tarmac through the houses let the mud flick off our tyres and drop off our frames before hitting the next stretch of track. As we passed the pond I was surprised to see a number off dayglo jacketed people doing some maintenance work. John V infomed me that they were doing their Community Service but they looked more like volunteers to me. Before long we arrived on the outskirts of East Grinstead and the viaduct now owned by the Bluebell Railway was visible to the right. It’ll be great seeing steam engines going over it again soon. Way up in the air above all those houses.
We took the fast route though East Grinstead and used Beeching Way – named after the man appointed by the pro-roads Transport Minister (well he did own the road construction company that got the contracts for most of Britains early motorways). The path continues as the Forest Way and is downhill for a good couple of miles – I was zipping along there at speeds of 25 to 30 mph (in the bits where there were no other users) but pulled up at Brambletye Lane to take a quick diversion down to the ruins of the Manor house with Norman and John C.
Meeting back up with the others at the road crossing, we entered Forest Row through the back door only to find that the café by the tip was closed. So, we headed to the High Street but both those cafes were closed as well! There was one last café we knew of, on the Hartfield Road, and fortunately it was open. As we pulled up it started to rain but no matter, we were in the warm and our bikes could do with a wash.
After we’d finished our refreshments (bacon buttie and a mug of tea for me) it had stopped raining but was noticeably colder and darker. We left Forest Row the way we’d arrived and were soon nice and warm as we got a good spinning rhythm going on the long climb back to East Grinstead. This time we eschewed Beeching Way and used the High Street which meant I could practice climbing the steps up and over the railway by the station. The rest of the journey back was uneventful with John H leaving us at Keepers Cottage and Pete, John C and John V leaving us in Worth. Norman and I carried on until I turned off for Furnace Green leaving Norman to ride back to Horsham by himself – my navigational instructions to him were: “You see that bright bit of sky over there? Well keep heading in that direction!” Hopefully that got him through Crawley and onwards successfully…..
The ride for Sunday 20th December will be a Morning Ride starting from Horsham Park Pavilion at 10:00hrs and led by me (Bob). It’ll be a fairly short (2 hours/20 miles ish) loop to the south of Horsham which I may make even shorter depending on the weather. I suspect a warm pub may be calling afterwards – although my original intention of a finish at the Dragon in Colgate has been thwarted due to its closure!
John C was the leader and the other attendees were Pete S, Mick, John H, John V, Norman and me, Bob.
Being honest law-abiding citizens we walked our bikes along the footpath under the railway bridge before remounting to ride up Billinton Drive. The first part of Worth Way had a thin film of soggy mud which was spraying up from our tyres but was good and firm underneath. Just after crossing the M23 (on a bridge!) we met one of our club members, Pat. We didn’t recognise her at first – she was in “civvies” as she was out for a walk. Frank wasn’t with her as he was laid low with flu – get well soon Frank. I stopped for a chat and then had to sprint a bit to catch up with the others. It was great fun zipping along the track and I was full of the joys of spring (or should we call it “fat-tyre frenzy”?) as I carved some lines and nearly wiped out three other cyclists as I nailed a blind bend! As ever, on the stretch alongside (the former) Rowfant Station I was bemoaning the fact that the track has been 'improved'. It used to be a superb bit of singletrack: fast and flowing with loads of tree roots, mud and a narrow bridge with no railings, great for improving your bike handling skills. Just afterwards the track does a right and left as it cuts across the line of the railway but as usual I took the ‘fun’ route which climbs through the bushes and across the end of the embankment to cut off the double bend (it’s only 10 metres long but involves a muddy climb and descent on a narrow track). The next stretch is dead straight and is where I usually take the opportunity for a drink. The embankment gets higher and higher and crosses Rowfant Lane about 50 feet above the road surface. Shortly after, the path goes into a cutting but just beforehand there’s a sloping path on the left which leads up to the Turners Hill Road. Mick left us at this point as he’d ridden all the way from Horsham and wanted to ensure he returned before it got too dark (also, being on a handbuilt touring bike with road tyres he was having to concentrate to stay upright, whereas I was just chucking my mountain bike around with gay abandon). Only two weeks into the competition for next years Mick Horley trophy, Mick has built up a good lead with double the points of his nearest competitor. The rest of us will have to pull our collective fingers out!!
As we went up the slope to Crawley Down, I realised that John H on his recumbent must be having a fairly hard time of it. With his small wheels and relatively grip free tyres he found it quite hard manoeuvering through the fence at the top. The mile of tarmac through the houses let the mud flick off our tyres and drop off our frames before hitting the next stretch of track. As we passed the pond I was surprised to see a number off dayglo jacketed people doing some maintenance work. John V infomed me that they were doing their Community Service but they looked more like volunteers to me. Before long we arrived on the outskirts of East Grinstead and the viaduct now owned by the Bluebell Railway was visible to the right. It’ll be great seeing steam engines going over it again soon. Way up in the air above all those houses.
We took the fast route though East Grinstead and used Beeching Way – named after the man appointed by the pro-roads Transport Minister (well he did own the road construction company that got the contracts for most of Britains early motorways). The path continues as the Forest Way and is downhill for a good couple of miles – I was zipping along there at speeds of 25 to 30 mph (in the bits where there were no other users) but pulled up at Brambletye Lane to take a quick diversion down to the ruins of the Manor house with Norman and John C.
Meeting back up with the others at the road crossing, we entered Forest Row through the back door only to find that the café by the tip was closed. So, we headed to the High Street but both those cafes were closed as well! There was one last café we knew of, on the Hartfield Road, and fortunately it was open. As we pulled up it started to rain but no matter, we were in the warm and our bikes could do with a wash.
After we’d finished our refreshments (bacon buttie and a mug of tea for me) it had stopped raining but was noticeably colder and darker. We left Forest Row the way we’d arrived and were soon nice and warm as we got a good spinning rhythm going on the long climb back to East Grinstead. This time we eschewed Beeching Way and used the High Street which meant I could practice climbing the steps up and over the railway by the station. The rest of the journey back was uneventful with John H leaving us at Keepers Cottage and Pete, John C and John V leaving us in Worth. Norman and I carried on until I turned off for Furnace Green leaving Norman to ride back to Horsham by himself – my navigational instructions to him were: “You see that bright bit of sky over there? Well keep heading in that direction!” Hopefully that got him through Crawley and onwards successfully…..
The ride for Sunday 20th December will be a Morning Ride starting from Horsham Park Pavilion at 10:00hrs and led by me (Bob). It’ll be a fairly short (2 hours/20 miles ish) loop to the south of Horsham which I may make even shorter depending on the weather. I suspect a warm pub may be calling afterwards – although my original intention of a finish at the Dragon in Colgate has been thwarted due to its closure!
Sunday, 13 December 2009
The Club Christmas Dinner
Horsham and Crawley CTC
Starting to feel all Christmassy
Decided to luncheon at The Gate
With turkey or lamb upon the plate
Salmon or veggie available too.
Anton had some work to do:
Collating requirements,
Collecting the payments,
Leading us to the rendezvous.
There at Parkgate, by The Surrey Oaks
We met Barbara and two Horsham blokes
Norman and Mick – they’d ridden too quick
And been waiting at the cold roadside
For the Crawley contingent to finally arrive
Then heading south we took Partridge Lane
And Orltons and Langhurst – both lanes again
Last turn on the ride and glide to the pub
For Pickled Partridge and luvverly grub
Barbara made a speech and gave out a prize
Anton, Mick or Bob – one of those guys
Won it for riding on most club rides
And leading several others besides
Turning out in weather pleasant or grim
The Mick Horley trophy was awarded to him
With daylight fast fading, time to head home
And struggle to write this blog as a poem!
Starting to feel all Christmassy
Decided to luncheon at The Gate
With turkey or lamb upon the plate
Salmon or veggie available too.
Anton had some work to do:
Collating requirements,
Collecting the payments,
Leading us to the rendezvous.
There at Parkgate, by The Surrey Oaks
We met Barbara and two Horsham blokes
Norman and Mick – they’d ridden too quick
And been waiting at the cold roadside
For the Crawley contingent to finally arrive
Then heading south we took Partridge Lane
And Orltons and Langhurst – both lanes again
Last turn on the ride and glide to the pub
For Pickled Partridge and luvverly grub
Barbara made a speech and gave out a prize
Anton, Mick or Bob – one of those guys
Won it for riding on most club rides
And leading several others besides
Turning out in weather pleasant or grim
The Mick Horley trophy was awarded to him
With daylight fast fading, time to head home
And struggle to write this blog as a poem!
Tuesday, 8 December 2009
Punch & Judy
The day had started very wet but the rain had eased off by our scheduled start time of 10:00. At the start were Barbara, Norman, Bob, John H and myself, Mick. Anton also turned up but could not find a parking space so, as he had other commitments he headed home. There was a swimming event on and the centre car park was full. I had gone in for a cup of tea and was served it in paper cup rather than the usual china cup. I enquired about this and was told it was because of the swimming event. "Health and safety?" I said. "No," came the reply, "most of the china cups went missing at the last event."
After some minor adjustments to Barbara’s brakes we set off. We headed through north Horsham on Pondtail Road, over the bypass onto Langhurstwood Road, then straight into and through a flood! It was only a few inches deep but all the way across the road. We headed up the hill and past the tip before taking a right turn and then a left up to Rusper. Norman left us here and returned home via Friday Street. Meanwhile we headed further north to Newdigate where we turned left towards Capel. As we cycled along Misbrooks Green Road we spotted an old railway signal in someones back garden. It's a single signal post with both a Home and a Distant upper quadrant signal mounted on it. Reaching Capel we turned left and then right over the A24, past Ockley station and onto Weare Street, one of the prettiest lanes in the area;
At the end of Weare Street we crossed over the A29 and passed a sleeping policeman - no, really, he was parked up at the side of the road and having a snooze!
We were not very far from the lunch stop so pressed on. We pulled up at the Punchbowl to find that John V was already there. Also there was another cycle club (from Croydon) for their Christmas Lunch, so we were concerned about getting a table. Fortunately they were eating in a separate room so we found a table in the restaurant. The food, beer and company were all good and we managed to put the world to rights before once more heading back outside.
Returning to the A29 we headed south and into the breeze before taking the first left into Marches Road and then right into Mayes Lane. After a short distance we passed a farm with some old buses in a barn. A Routemaster was the only one I recognized. There are usually more old vehicles here including a fire engine but not today unfortunately.
It was then on to Warnham where we took Bell Lane, crossed the A24 and continued along Station Road to use the underpass at Warnham Station. At the end of Mercer Lane the Horsham members turned right to travel the mile or so back home, whilst the Crawley members turned left and reclimbed the hill past the tip. We continued retracing our earlier route as far as Rusper. Here we turned right to enjoy the downhill run which seemed to take us all the way to Ifield (I think the wind was behind us). Splitting up in the Town Centre, John H & John V headed on home to Pound Hill whilst Bob made for Furnace Green, arriving home at 15:00hrs with 41 miles on his speedo.
Don't forget, this coming weekend sees the Christmas Dinner on Saturday (have you given Anton your menu choices?) and then a nice easy ride out and back along the Worth Way on Sunday (10:00 hrs start at Three Bridges).
After some minor adjustments to Barbara’s brakes we set off. We headed through north Horsham on Pondtail Road, over the bypass onto Langhurstwood Road, then straight into and through a flood! It was only a few inches deep but all the way across the road. We headed up the hill and past the tip before taking a right turn and then a left up to Rusper. Norman left us here and returned home via Friday Street. Meanwhile we headed further north to Newdigate where we turned left towards Capel. As we cycled along Misbrooks Green Road we spotted an old railway signal in someones back garden. It's a single signal post with both a Home and a Distant upper quadrant signal mounted on it. Reaching Capel we turned left and then right over the A24, past Ockley station and onto Weare Street, one of the prettiest lanes in the area;
At the end of Weare Street we crossed over the A29 and passed a sleeping policeman - no, really, he was parked up at the side of the road and having a snooze!
We were not very far from the lunch stop so pressed on. We pulled up at the Punchbowl to find that John V was already there. Also there was another cycle club (from Croydon) for their Christmas Lunch, so we were concerned about getting a table. Fortunately they were eating in a separate room so we found a table in the restaurant. The food, beer and company were all good and we managed to put the world to rights before once more heading back outside.
Returning to the A29 we headed south and into the breeze before taking the first left into Marches Road and then right into Mayes Lane. After a short distance we passed a farm with some old buses in a barn. A Routemaster was the only one I recognized. There are usually more old vehicles here including a fire engine but not today unfortunately.
It was then on to Warnham where we took Bell Lane, crossed the A24 and continued along Station Road to use the underpass at Warnham Station. At the end of Mercer Lane the Horsham members turned right to travel the mile or so back home, whilst the Crawley members turned left and reclimbed the hill past the tip. We continued retracing our earlier route as far as Rusper. Here we turned right to enjoy the downhill run which seemed to take us all the way to Ifield (I think the wind was behind us). Splitting up in the Town Centre, John H & John V headed on home to Pound Hill whilst Bob made for Furnace Green, arriving home at 15:00hrs with 41 miles on his speedo.
Don't forget, this coming weekend sees the Christmas Dinner on Saturday (have you given Anton your menu choices?) and then a nice easy ride out and back along the Worth Way on Sunday (10:00 hrs start at Three Bridges).
Sunday, 29 November 2009
For Fox Sake!
Sunday. Bike ride. The wind and rain of last night seems to have exhausted itself. Great! Hmmm – the road’s still wet though, better put my waterproof trousers on. Pack the waterproof jacket into my pannier, add an extra layer under my fleece and I’m ready. For once I arrive at the start on time (it is only a mile away from home mind you). At Three Bridges station Pete S, John H and Barbara are already waiting by the phone box and Anton arrives as I pull up. Pete is meant to be today’s leader but his croaky voice reveals he’s suffering from a bad cold, so I take over the reins and borrow his map so he can get back home to a warm house. As we wait in case anyone else turns up, the wind returns and brings rain with it – on with the waterproof jackets.
No-one else arrived so off we went through the traffic lights and then through Three Bridges on Hazelwick Road and North Road. Crossing Northgate Avenue then Woodfield Road we used the underpass for a traffic free route into the Industrial Estate. As usual on a Sunday, the roads here were pretty quiet and just as I was pointing out that lots of Crawley’s residents had learnt to drive on the estate, we passed a young lady having a driving lesson.
Turning left onto Gatwick Road we then crossed a roundabout and turned right towards the Beehive – the original (we’re talking 1920’s) Gatwick Airport terminal building. It’s a shame the environs have been filled with empty modern office blocks with a naff ‘avenue’ style road layout reminiscent of central Milton Keynes (only naffer). We were hoping that John on his recumbent would go under the barrier onto the next part of the route but he went round the side of it just like us.
Crossing the Gatwick Stream we noticed how full and rapid flowing it was, then, further along the path a couple of blokes in fluorescent yellow jackets were just standing having a fag. I wondered whether they’d walked the quarter mile from the terminal building just for a smoke or whether they were looking after the security of that particular part of the airport. We didn’t stop to ask! Splashing through a slight flood in the underpass the route (it’s NCN 21) emerges into a green oasis of trees and lakes on the outskirts of Horley. We continued following NCN 21 as it passed through the centre of Horley and under the railway but then we stayed on the Smallfield Road and continued east.
Just before the bridge over the M23 we turned left onto Hathersham Lane and after a few hundred yards I realised that I’d lost half of the group! I turned round and got back to the junction just in time to see Barbara and Anton heading over the bridge. I shouted but I don’t think they heard even me over the noise of the motorway traffic. Fortunately Anton stopped to ask a horse rider if she’d seen two cyclists and as she hadn’t he reasoned that we must have taken that turning before the bridge. As soon as he turned round he could see me so we regrouped and continued up the lane. We took the first right onto New House Lane and climbed the small hill before turning left onto Axes Lane then right onto Mason’s Bridge Road. This has a small climb as well before we took the right onto Kings Mill Lane to go past Redhill Aerodrome. We decided not to stop here but press on towards the lunch stop. Passing through South Nutfield we headed along Crab Hill Lane to recross the M23.
From here we headed south along Prince of Wales Road before heading east again towards Outwood on Brickfield Road. Arriving at the windmill we had a quick chat and decided to cut the ride short as it was now ten minutes to midday and we all felt peckish. I suggested we try a pub I knew of nearby, the Jolly Farmers, so off we went down Gayhouse Lane and east along Whitewood Lane.
What a revelation! We received a friendly welcome at the pub, there was an empty table in front of the log fire, the Sussex Ale was really good and they had a good variety of food on the menu at reasonable prices (and the servings were of a very hearty size). This pub is definitely going on our list of places to stop.
Our lunchtime discussion mainly centred around Dave Galle and hopefully Barbara or Bob will be able to visit Dave sometime this week.
Eventually it dawned on us that sooner or later we’d have to venture back outside so we bit the bullet and got going again. I offered the choice of either riding directly back to Crawley or going a – “Straight back please” they all interrupted – so I didn’t need to look at the map. Back along Whitewood Lane, turn right onto Smallfield Road then left onto Dowlands Lane. As we turned right onto Cross Lane, Anton made his goodbyes as he was continuing south to get home via Turners Hill.
It was hard work riding up Copthorne Bank as the wind was quite strongly in our faces and carrying a lot of rain. In fact we sheltered at the side of the road for a minute whilst a particularly heavy squall passed over. However, by the time we’d travelled along Copthorne Road and reached the M23 overbridge, the sun had emerged and there was a rainbow behind us. Now it was time to say bye-bye to John as he headed back home into Pound Hill and Barbara and I pedalled on to the station.
We were discussing the need to have a committee meeting as I saw a car pull up outside the station that I recognised. It was one of our section members, George, and we had a quick chat with him – he spotted the fact that I’ve barely got any mudguards on my bike (but I did do John O’Groats to Lands End on it). We were getting cold now so Barbara headed for her car (the station car park is free on Sundays) and I headed home.
As I washed my bike down and sprayed oil on it I noticed that we’d covered a mere 26 miles today but with all the wind and rain it felt like we’d gone a lot further.
Next weeks ride will be to the west and north of Horsham. Leaving Horsham Park Pavilion at 10:00hrs, Mick will lead us on a medium rated 30 mile loop with a stop for lunch at a nice country pub – the Punchbowl at Okewoodhill. After all the rain of recent weeks, I’m hoping it will be drier (though that will probably make it colder!).
No-one else arrived so off we went through the traffic lights and then through Three Bridges on Hazelwick Road and North Road. Crossing Northgate Avenue then Woodfield Road we used the underpass for a traffic free route into the Industrial Estate. As usual on a Sunday, the roads here were pretty quiet and just as I was pointing out that lots of Crawley’s residents had learnt to drive on the estate, we passed a young lady having a driving lesson.
Turning left onto Gatwick Road we then crossed a roundabout and turned right towards the Beehive – the original (we’re talking 1920’s) Gatwick Airport terminal building. It’s a shame the environs have been filled with empty modern office blocks with a naff ‘avenue’ style road layout reminiscent of central Milton Keynes (only naffer). We were hoping that John on his recumbent would go under the barrier onto the next part of the route but he went round the side of it just like us.
Crossing the Gatwick Stream we noticed how full and rapid flowing it was, then, further along the path a couple of blokes in fluorescent yellow jackets were just standing having a fag. I wondered whether they’d walked the quarter mile from the terminal building just for a smoke or whether they were looking after the security of that particular part of the airport. We didn’t stop to ask! Splashing through a slight flood in the underpass the route (it’s NCN 21) emerges into a green oasis of trees and lakes on the outskirts of Horley. We continued following NCN 21 as it passed through the centre of Horley and under the railway but then we stayed on the Smallfield Road and continued east.
Just before the bridge over the M23 we turned left onto Hathersham Lane and after a few hundred yards I realised that I’d lost half of the group! I turned round and got back to the junction just in time to see Barbara and Anton heading over the bridge. I shouted but I don’t think they heard even me over the noise of the motorway traffic. Fortunately Anton stopped to ask a horse rider if she’d seen two cyclists and as she hadn’t he reasoned that we must have taken that turning before the bridge. As soon as he turned round he could see me so we regrouped and continued up the lane. We took the first right onto New House Lane and climbed the small hill before turning left onto Axes Lane then right onto Mason’s Bridge Road. This has a small climb as well before we took the right onto Kings Mill Lane to go past Redhill Aerodrome. We decided not to stop here but press on towards the lunch stop. Passing through South Nutfield we headed along Crab Hill Lane to recross the M23.
From here we headed south along Prince of Wales Road before heading east again towards Outwood on Brickfield Road. Arriving at the windmill we had a quick chat and decided to cut the ride short as it was now ten minutes to midday and we all felt peckish. I suggested we try a pub I knew of nearby, the Jolly Farmers, so off we went down Gayhouse Lane and east along Whitewood Lane.
What a revelation! We received a friendly welcome at the pub, there was an empty table in front of the log fire, the Sussex Ale was really good and they had a good variety of food on the menu at reasonable prices (and the servings were of a very hearty size). This pub is definitely going on our list of places to stop.
Our lunchtime discussion mainly centred around Dave Galle and hopefully Barbara or Bob will be able to visit Dave sometime this week.
Eventually it dawned on us that sooner or later we’d have to venture back outside so we bit the bullet and got going again. I offered the choice of either riding directly back to Crawley or going a – “Straight back please” they all interrupted – so I didn’t need to look at the map. Back along Whitewood Lane, turn right onto Smallfield Road then left onto Dowlands Lane. As we turned right onto Cross Lane, Anton made his goodbyes as he was continuing south to get home via Turners Hill.
It was hard work riding up Copthorne Bank as the wind was quite strongly in our faces and carrying a lot of rain. In fact we sheltered at the side of the road for a minute whilst a particularly heavy squall passed over. However, by the time we’d travelled along Copthorne Road and reached the M23 overbridge, the sun had emerged and there was a rainbow behind us. Now it was time to say bye-bye to John as he headed back home into Pound Hill and Barbara and I pedalled on to the station.
We were discussing the need to have a committee meeting as I saw a car pull up outside the station that I recognised. It was one of our section members, George, and we had a quick chat with him – he spotted the fact that I’ve barely got any mudguards on my bike (but I did do John O’Groats to Lands End on it). We were getting cold now so Barbara headed for her car (the station car park is free on Sundays) and I headed home.
As I washed my bike down and sprayed oil on it I noticed that we’d covered a mere 26 miles today but with all the wind and rain it felt like we’d gone a lot further.
Next weeks ride will be to the west and north of Horsham. Leaving Horsham Park Pavilion at 10:00hrs, Mick will lead us on a medium rated 30 mile loop with a stop for lunch at a nice country pub – the Punchbowl at Okewoodhill. After all the rain of recent weeks, I’m hoping it will be drier (though that will probably make it colder!).
Monday, 23 November 2009
Green Fingers
Maybe it was the rating of easy, for we had a good turnout of eight riders on this weeks ride. Anton, Pete S, Marian, John H, Norman, Mick, Martin and Bob.
The overnight rain had stopped but the wind hadn't - though it wasn't cold. We left Horsham using the golf course/Robin Hood Lane route and then headed over to climb Rowhook Hill. Norman departed just before the hill as he was only out for a short time today. Carrying on, we approached Ellens Green from one direction as the rain approached from the other. We quickly donned our waterproofs and continued westwards. The rain eased off a little as we went along Cox Green Road but as we turned onto Baynards Road it came back with a vengeance. Heading along Knowle Lane the wind and rain became much worse - so much so that water was just streaming down my head and into my eyes and ears! We ploughed on or should I say splashed on and soon arrived at Cranleigh. We parted the waves along the high street under the curious gaze of several people sheltering in shop doorways and bus shelters before hitting the Guildford Road to finally pull up at the lunch stop - Notcutts Garden Centre. At this point Martin left us and headed for home.
On locking our bikes up the rain stopped and as we ate our lunch the sun actually came out to play! We didn’t rush our lunch but were soon back on the road. Collectively we’d decided to keep the route back fairly short and not visit Capel for tea and cakes! Firstly we headed for Ewhurst Green then used the quiet lanes to Walliswood and Okewoodhill. The rain was holding off although, on turning right onto Stane Street (the A29), there was still a fair bit of spray being thrown up by the traffic. The second left took us onto another couple of quiet lanes to the west of Warnham before we traced our steps along Robin Hood lane and across the golf course.
The group spilt up at this point – Mick turning left to his house, Anton to the right to his car, Pete and Marion to the station for the train home. This left John H and myself to ride back to Crawley. We decided to use the main road, and with the wind behind us we were soon back home with just over 40 miles under our belts.
Our next Sunday ride is lead by Pete S and starts from Three Bridges Station at 10:00hrs. It will head North East for a 35 mile medium rated loop with lunch at the Fox and Hounds at Tilburstow. Dress up warm, the weathermen reckon the temperature will only be a few degrees above freezing!
p.s. I visited Dave Galle in hospital on Monday. He seemed quite bright and cheerful although he’s still barely able to move his arms and legs. He told me that the driver of the silver Astra van that hit him is unlikely to get prosecuted due to a lack of witnesses. Surely the road can act as a witness? After all, Dave was travelling North on the B2139 Coolham Road and had right of way over traffic turning onto the B2133. He was struck whilst he was on his own side of the road. The damage to his bike will testify that he was struck from the side and that he didn’t ride into the van. I believe the van driver has said that the low sun made it difficult for him to see – so, on the strength of what he couldn’t see, he put a ton of metal in the same place as a human being! Dave remembers lying in the road, unable to move, tingling all over and the van driver saying “Sorry mate I didn’t see you”! Ironically, CTC are running an awareness campaign called SMIDSY at the moment (SMIDSY stands for Sorry Mate I Didn’t See You).
If you would like to visit Dave it’s very easy by public transport:
From Central London take the Jubilee Line north to the end of the line – Stanmore.
From the station forecourt, catch the blue hospital shuttle bus to the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (Stanmore). It’s free and runs every half hour or so (weekdays only). Here’s a timetable: http://www.rnoh.nhs.uk/patients-families/patient-transport/shuttle-bus-timetable
Get off at the second stop (out-patients) and head uphill to the Spinal injuries Unit (if unsure, ask a member of staff, they’re very helpful).
Coming back, catch the shuttle bus and get off at either Edgware (Northern Line) or Stanmore (Jubilee Line) tube station to travel back to Central London. Each tube journey takes just over 40 minutes and costs about £3.00 each way (off-peak)
The overnight rain had stopped but the wind hadn't - though it wasn't cold. We left Horsham using the golf course/Robin Hood Lane route and then headed over to climb Rowhook Hill. Norman departed just before the hill as he was only out for a short time today. Carrying on, we approached Ellens Green from one direction as the rain approached from the other. We quickly donned our waterproofs and continued westwards. The rain eased off a little as we went along Cox Green Road but as we turned onto Baynards Road it came back with a vengeance. Heading along Knowle Lane the wind and rain became much worse - so much so that water was just streaming down my head and into my eyes and ears! We ploughed on or should I say splashed on and soon arrived at Cranleigh. We parted the waves along the high street under the curious gaze of several people sheltering in shop doorways and bus shelters before hitting the Guildford Road to finally pull up at the lunch stop - Notcutts Garden Centre. At this point Martin left us and headed for home.
On locking our bikes up the rain stopped and as we ate our lunch the sun actually came out to play! We didn’t rush our lunch but were soon back on the road. Collectively we’d decided to keep the route back fairly short and not visit Capel for tea and cakes! Firstly we headed for Ewhurst Green then used the quiet lanes to Walliswood and Okewoodhill. The rain was holding off although, on turning right onto Stane Street (the A29), there was still a fair bit of spray being thrown up by the traffic. The second left took us onto another couple of quiet lanes to the west of Warnham before we traced our steps along Robin Hood lane and across the golf course.
The group spilt up at this point – Mick turning left to his house, Anton to the right to his car, Pete and Marion to the station for the train home. This left John H and myself to ride back to Crawley. We decided to use the main road, and with the wind behind us we were soon back home with just over 40 miles under our belts.
Our next Sunday ride is lead by Pete S and starts from Three Bridges Station at 10:00hrs. It will head North East for a 35 mile medium rated loop with lunch at the Fox and Hounds at Tilburstow. Dress up warm, the weathermen reckon the temperature will only be a few degrees above freezing!
p.s. I visited Dave Galle in hospital on Monday. He seemed quite bright and cheerful although he’s still barely able to move his arms and legs. He told me that the driver of the silver Astra van that hit him is unlikely to get prosecuted due to a lack of witnesses. Surely the road can act as a witness? After all, Dave was travelling North on the B2139 Coolham Road and had right of way over traffic turning onto the B2133. He was struck whilst he was on his own side of the road. The damage to his bike will testify that he was struck from the side and that he didn’t ride into the van. I believe the van driver has said that the low sun made it difficult for him to see – so, on the strength of what he couldn’t see, he put a ton of metal in the same place as a human being! Dave remembers lying in the road, unable to move, tingling all over and the van driver saying “Sorry mate I didn’t see you”! Ironically, CTC are running an awareness campaign called SMIDSY at the moment (SMIDSY stands for Sorry Mate I Didn’t See You).
If you would like to visit Dave it’s very easy by public transport:
From Central London take the Jubilee Line north to the end of the line – Stanmore.
From the station forecourt, catch the blue hospital shuttle bus to the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (Stanmore). It’s free and runs every half hour or so (weekdays only). Here’s a timetable: http://www.rnoh.nhs.uk/patients-families/patient-transport/shuttle-bus-timetable
Get off at the second stop (out-patients) and head uphill to the Spinal injuries Unit (if unsure, ask a member of staff, they’re very helpful).
Coming back, catch the shuttle bus and get off at either Edgware (Northern Line) or Stanmore (Jubilee Line) tube station to travel back to Central London. Each tube journey takes just over 40 minutes and costs about £3.00 each way (off-peak)
Thursday, 19 November 2009
Dave Galle
Dave Galle had a serious accident on Sunday. His neck was broken as well as some ribs and he is in a spinal unit with loss of feeling in much of his body.
He is in the Royal National Orthopaedic hospital at Stanmore. A specialist spinal unit. He has improved slightly and is able to move his legs a little and there is slight movement in his arms. He cannot move his hands. There is no feeling from the neck down.
There are no structural breakages although there are some breakages of the nodules on the neck. There is excessive pressure on the spinal cord. An operation is not required.
His time is spent looking at the ceiling, and he is likely to be in the hospital for several months. He is not depressed.
His cycling helmet is completely split and saved his life.
He would like emails and would like to hear any news. Louise will keep his email contacts informed of his progress.
The accident occurred on the B2139 (Storrington to Coolham) at the intersection with the B2133 (Ashington to Adversane). Dave was riding towards Coolham; he saw a white van coming from the right, which appeared to be slowing to stop for Dave. Hepressed on; the van accelerated and hit Dave full force from the side. Dave went over the top of the van and landed on his back and head. The van driver said "I didn't see you mate" but called the paramedics. He went to Worthing Hospital but was immediately transferred to Stanmore.
He is quite positive and is planning on getting a new Titanium bike as soon as he has recovered. Let's hope so.
He is in the Royal National Orthopaedic hospital at Stanmore. A specialist spinal unit. He has improved slightly and is able to move his legs a little and there is slight movement in his arms. He cannot move his hands. There is no feeling from the neck down.
There are no structural breakages although there are some breakages of the nodules on the neck. There is excessive pressure on the spinal cord. An operation is not required.
His time is spent looking at the ceiling, and he is likely to be in the hospital for several months. He is not depressed.
His cycling helmet is completely split and saved his life.
He would like emails and would like to hear any news. Louise will keep his email contacts informed of his progress.
The accident occurred on the B2139 (Storrington to Coolham) at the intersection with the B2133 (Ashington to Adversane). Dave was riding towards Coolham; he saw a white van coming from the right, which appeared to be slowing to stop for Dave. Hepressed on; the van accelerated and hit Dave full force from the side. Dave went over the top of the van and landed on his back and head. The van driver said "I didn't see you mate" but called the paramedics. He went to Worthing Hospital but was immediately transferred to Stanmore.
He is quite positive and is planning on getting a new Titanium bike as soon as he has recovered. Let's hope so.
Monday, 16 November 2009
Wiggonholt AGM
The truly terrible weather of Saturday had all but disappeared by the time I set off on Sunday – the wind had died down and there were only a few spots of rain in the air. However, the road surface was littered with debris and there was plenty of evidence of how much rain had fallen in the previous 24 hours: big puddles everywhere and strandlines of leaves and other materials across roads and paths alike.
I used my usual Forest Road route to Horsham and arrived late (again) so we didn’t hang around and the six of us got going immediately. I set Anton as tailgunner with Martin, John H, Barbara, Norman and me (Bob) making up the rest of the group. As leader I decided to use the easy route away from Horsham – over the golf course, along Robin Hood Lane and down through Broadbridge heath. As I led the way over the roundabout and onto the A264, I felt my bike squirm a bit and realised I’d picked up a rear puncture! I blamed the bad weather – all that wind and rain had moved the bits of flint and glass normally found at the edge of the road into the middle of the road and there hadn’t been enough vehicles around to sweep it back again. As we were tight on time, half our party carried on (they knew the route) and I replaced my tube having removed the offending piece of glass from my tyre. It only took a few minutes and one pair of very dirty hands before we were going again.
Eschewing the road through Barns Green, we took the following road and climbed the short hill that ensured the next few miles would be mainly downward. The climb made us hot and coupled with the now sunny sky meant that we stopped at the top to remove our jackets. Both Anton and I regretted wearing our warm, waterproof winter gloves but kept them on as neither of us had any lighter gloves. We were making good progress now but didn’t catch the rest of our party until we reached Woods Hill. There was no time to catch our breath as we only had 10 minutes to get to the RSPB centre at Wigginholt which was still about 4 miles away.
In an effort to make the start of the AGM, Norman and I rode on ahead but this proved to be a technical error as the middle portion of our now fragmented group rode straight past the RSPB entrance. Fortunately Anton spotted this and managed to round them up.
The AGM had started as we entered the hall but we’d only missed the election of the meeting chairman and the minutes secretary. There were some 30 odd members present and in a break with tradition, Barbara wasn’t the only one from Horsham and Crawley! In fact, John V. had also turned up. The AGM content will be reported separately on the West Sussex CTC website.
The meeting finished at about midday and so we headed off for lunch. We headed back the way we came – past the Panda hideaway, along a drier than expected Stream Lane and back to West Chiltington where we lunched at the Queens Head. We all had a nice pint of Harveys Sussex Ale and our sandwiches came with chips and a ramikin of nice fresh salad.
I suggested using a different route back to Horsham but the consensus was to mainly retrace our steps before going through Barns Green and Two Mile Ash up to Tower Hill. On reaching the town centre we went our separate ways with John V. and I heading back to Crawley. As ever, I found the first part of Forest Road a struggle but it didn’t take long to get to Pease Pottage and then back home. This week I clocked up 48 miles.
Next weeks ride is led by Anton and is an Easy ride from Horsham Park Pavilion at 10:00 hrs with a lunch break at Notcutts Garden centre, Cranleigh and with the option of tea and cakes at Capel. It should only entail about 4 hours in the saddle.
I used my usual Forest Road route to Horsham and arrived late (again) so we didn’t hang around and the six of us got going immediately. I set Anton as tailgunner with Martin, John H, Barbara, Norman and me (Bob) making up the rest of the group. As leader I decided to use the easy route away from Horsham – over the golf course, along Robin Hood Lane and down through Broadbridge heath. As I led the way over the roundabout and onto the A264, I felt my bike squirm a bit and realised I’d picked up a rear puncture! I blamed the bad weather – all that wind and rain had moved the bits of flint and glass normally found at the edge of the road into the middle of the road and there hadn’t been enough vehicles around to sweep it back again. As we were tight on time, half our party carried on (they knew the route) and I replaced my tube having removed the offending piece of glass from my tyre. It only took a few minutes and one pair of very dirty hands before we were going again.
Eschewing the road through Barns Green, we took the following road and climbed the short hill that ensured the next few miles would be mainly downward. The climb made us hot and coupled with the now sunny sky meant that we stopped at the top to remove our jackets. Both Anton and I regretted wearing our warm, waterproof winter gloves but kept them on as neither of us had any lighter gloves. We were making good progress now but didn’t catch the rest of our party until we reached Woods Hill. There was no time to catch our breath as we only had 10 minutes to get to the RSPB centre at Wigginholt which was still about 4 miles away.
In an effort to make the start of the AGM, Norman and I rode on ahead but this proved to be a technical error as the middle portion of our now fragmented group rode straight past the RSPB entrance. Fortunately Anton spotted this and managed to round them up.
The AGM had started as we entered the hall but we’d only missed the election of the meeting chairman and the minutes secretary. There were some 30 odd members present and in a break with tradition, Barbara wasn’t the only one from Horsham and Crawley! In fact, John V. had also turned up. The AGM content will be reported separately on the West Sussex CTC website.
The meeting finished at about midday and so we headed off for lunch. We headed back the way we came – past the Panda hideaway, along a drier than expected Stream Lane and back to West Chiltington where we lunched at the Queens Head. We all had a nice pint of Harveys Sussex Ale and our sandwiches came with chips and a ramikin of nice fresh salad.
I suggested using a different route back to Horsham but the consensus was to mainly retrace our steps before going through Barns Green and Two Mile Ash up to Tower Hill. On reaching the town centre we went our separate ways with John V. and I heading back to Crawley. As ever, I found the first part of Forest Road a struggle but it didn’t take long to get to Pease Pottage and then back home. This week I clocked up 48 miles.
Next weeks ride is led by Anton and is an Easy ride from Horsham Park Pavilion at 10:00 hrs with a lunch break at Notcutts Garden centre, Cranleigh and with the option of tea and cakes at Capel. It should only entail about 4 hours in the saddle.
Thursday, 12 November 2009
The Woodsman
A Ten O’Clock start from Horsham – I should easily be able to make that!
I’d been up since seven thirty and was now pottering about doing this and that. The weather was annoying me – last night the BBC had said that the heavy rain of yesterday would clear for the morning. They were right, the heavy rain had cleared but there was still light rain in the air! I dragged on my waterproofs and remembered to put my full waterbottle onto my bike. A quick adjustment of my saddle height was in order – it’s not been quite right since I fitted the new seatpost a couple of weeks back – and I was off.
As ever on a Sunday morning there was hardly anyone about as I cycled through Tilgate. Splashing through puddles and avoiding small branches and other tree parts littering the roads, I cut through past K2 – only a few swimmers visible through the windows, but a full car park!
The rain had more or less stopped and I was feeling quite cheery riding up Pease Pottage Hill although I could tell that my seatpost was still too low - my left knee in particular was not comfortable. Travelling on along the Forest Road towards Colgate I was enjoying the autumn colours and keeping an eye open for deer. Just before the village, an area of forest (I think it was mainly Rhodendron) has been cleared and I'm wondering what is going to happen to it. It's just possible it's been cleared for pasture but in these modern times it's more likely it's been cleared for some kind of housing development though I suspect (given the location) it won't be "low-cost" for "essential workers".
Racing through Roffey, I looked at my clock to realise that I was going to be late as usual. It seems that no matter what time I get up I never get my timing right, but hey, we're a relaxed group and it wasn't a problem. Pulling up at Horsham Park Pavilions I could see only two familiar bikes and a couple of minutes later their owners came out from the cafe - Anton (leading the ride) and Norman.
This weeks ride would be another easy (and short) ride - roughly twenty miles out to Kirdford and then back. We used the golf course route to exit Horsham and then Robin Hood Lane. Some of the deer in Warnham Park are sporting pretty impressive headgear - it might be worth a photographic sortie sometime this winter.
Anton was full of apologies for taking us up Rowhook Hill but to be honest I didn't find it as much of an effort as usual (I was still blowing a fair bit when I crested though). From here we headed west across to Ellen's Green then Cox's Green and on towards Baynards thereby avoiding Rudgwick and giving us the fun of the fast descent of Cook's Hill. Straight across a quiet A281 we headed on past the Mucky Duck before turning left onto Drungewick Lane. I'm sure someone once told me a rock star lives in a big house off this lane. We stopped at the canal bridge for a few minutes - Anton took a photo - and then carried on to Roundstreet Common. This brings back memories of Edwins accident last year, thankfully his recovery seems to be continuing apace.
Anton had offered me a lift back to Crawley as he was heading to Evans for some bits and pieces and I was too lazy to turn him down, so I was back home by about 15:30 with a mere 45 miles on my speedo - to be honest it felt like I'd done a lot less than that!
Next week is the West Sussex CTC Member Group AGM at Wiggonholt RSPB. The ride will start from Horsham Park Pavilion at 09:00 and use a direct route to get to Wiggonholt for the start of the AGM at 10:30 where refreshments will be available. After the AGM we will stop for lunch at the Queens Head in West Chiltington before heading back. Total mileage should be in the region of an easy 30 miles. Please come along to the AGM to meet other Sussex CTC members and influence the direction we take in the coming years.
I’d been up since seven thirty and was now pottering about doing this and that. The weather was annoying me – last night the BBC had said that the heavy rain of yesterday would clear for the morning. They were right, the heavy rain had cleared but there was still light rain in the air! I dragged on my waterproofs and remembered to put my full waterbottle onto my bike. A quick adjustment of my saddle height was in order – it’s not been quite right since I fitted the new seatpost a couple of weeks back – and I was off.
As ever on a Sunday morning there was hardly anyone about as I cycled through Tilgate. Splashing through puddles and avoiding small branches and other tree parts littering the roads, I cut through past K2 – only a few swimmers visible through the windows, but a full car park!
The rain had more or less stopped and I was feeling quite cheery riding up Pease Pottage Hill although I could tell that my seatpost was still too low - my left knee in particular was not comfortable. Travelling on along the Forest Road towards Colgate I was enjoying the autumn colours and keeping an eye open for deer. Just before the village, an area of forest (I think it was mainly Rhodendron) has been cleared and I'm wondering what is going to happen to it. It's just possible it's been cleared for pasture but in these modern times it's more likely it's been cleared for some kind of housing development though I suspect (given the location) it won't be "low-cost" for "essential workers".
Racing through Roffey, I looked at my clock to realise that I was going to be late as usual. It seems that no matter what time I get up I never get my timing right, but hey, we're a relaxed group and it wasn't a problem. Pulling up at Horsham Park Pavilions I could see only two familiar bikes and a couple of minutes later their owners came out from the cafe - Anton (leading the ride) and Norman.
This weeks ride would be another easy (and short) ride - roughly twenty miles out to Kirdford and then back. We used the golf course route to exit Horsham and then Robin Hood Lane. Some of the deer in Warnham Park are sporting pretty impressive headgear - it might be worth a photographic sortie sometime this winter.
Anton was full of apologies for taking us up Rowhook Hill but to be honest I didn't find it as much of an effort as usual (I was still blowing a fair bit when I crested though). From here we headed west across to Ellen's Green then Cox's Green and on towards Baynards thereby avoiding Rudgwick and giving us the fun of the fast descent of Cook's Hill. Straight across a quiet A281 we headed on past the Mucky Duck before turning left onto Drungewick Lane. I'm sure someone once told me a rock star lives in a big house off this lane. We stopped at the canal bridge for a few minutes - Anton took a photo - and then carried on to Roundstreet Common. This brings back memories of Edwins accident last year, thankfully his recovery seems to be continuing apace.
Forking right we soon arrived at Wisborough Green and turned right onto the Kirdford Road - nearly there. As we entered Kirdford I noticed that the "Drunkenness" sign we pictured a few weeks back has had all the ivy cleared away from it thereby making it much more visible. I would have taken a photo but couldn't as I'd forgotten to bring a camera! A minute later we pulled up at the Foresters Arms.
On entering the pub we found that almost all the tables were reserved - a motorclub has a regular run to this pub on the second sunday of every month - but the landlady found us a table nice and close to the open fire and we were soon enjoying our pints of Pickled Partridge as our clothes silently steamed dry! I had the vegetable soup for lunch and it was just right, Anton and Norman went for sandwiches which they both enjoyed although the garnish looked a little tired. We felt that the prices were a little high but we're not complaining because pubs are becoming thin on the ground, especially those doing sandwiches on a Sunday.
For the journey back, Anton tried to keep to the "Easy" definition of the ride by avoiding as many hills as he could. He led us back to Wisborough Green, then Newpound Common and across to Rowner Road but rather than use the usual route via Barns Green, carried on up Okehurst Road to The Haven. From here, we hit the A29 for a short stint and then freewheeled down into Slinfold to take Lyons Road across to the A264 before passing through Broadbridge Heath. After this we retraced our steps along Robin Hood Lane (I tried to bellow like a deer and reckon I confused one impressively antlered specimen) and then across the golf course back into Horsham.Anton had offered me a lift back to Crawley as he was heading to Evans for some bits and pieces and I was too lazy to turn him down, so I was back home by about 15:30 with a mere 45 miles on my speedo - to be honest it felt like I'd done a lot less than that!
Next week is the West Sussex CTC Member Group AGM at Wiggonholt RSPB. The ride will start from Horsham Park Pavilion at 09:00 and use a direct route to get to Wiggonholt for the start of the AGM at 10:30 where refreshments will be available. After the AGM we will stop for lunch at the Queens Head in West Chiltington before heading back. Total mileage should be in the region of an easy 30 miles. Please come along to the AGM to meet other Sussex CTC members and influence the direction we take in the coming years.
Monday, 2 November 2009
Veteran Car Run
Today’s run was to witness the annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run and also have the pleasure of overtaking them up Pease Pottage hill. And, despite the rain, we accomplished both.
The ride started from Crawley K2 leisure complex in the pouring rain. Attending, or mad enough to turn out, were Anton, Martin, Bob and myself, Mick. Due to the inclement weather I decided to curtail the ride a little, forgoing the usual bacon buttie in Staplefield. We headed off to Crawley wind assisted but in the knowledge we would have to return against the wind. One advantage of the rain was fewer people in Crawley so we had an excellent view of the cars. Having spent some time watching we headed off towards Pease Pottage. Up the hill we went overtaking several vehicles, much to some drivers surprise. One lady passenger enquired if we were cycling all the way to Brighton. I know we looked mad but even that was too much and I didn’t have the heart to tell her we were heading for a nice warm and dry pub. Anton left us soon after, having done 130 miles the previous day we excused him. We watched the cars go by near the services and decided to see if the pub opened before noon. Fat chance!
Martin left Bob and myself at this point to cycle to Horsham, having cycled from Horsham I advised against this but he went anyway. Bob and I headed back to the services area to watch a few more old crocks to pass the time. Having got more wet we headed to the Black Swan, getting there just in time for the doors to open. After a leisurely lunch we headed back to Crawley, Bob to home and me to catch a train. It had stopped raining but the wind would have been against me all the way home, so I chickened out.
The ride was supposed to be 15 miles but we only managed 10. This must be the shortest section ride ever.
The ride started from Crawley K2 leisure complex in the pouring rain. Attending, or mad enough to turn out, were Anton, Martin, Bob and myself, Mick. Due to the inclement weather I decided to curtail the ride a little, forgoing the usual bacon buttie in Staplefield. We headed off to Crawley wind assisted but in the knowledge we would have to return against the wind. One advantage of the rain was fewer people in Crawley so we had an excellent view of the cars. Having spent some time watching we headed off towards Pease Pottage. Up the hill we went overtaking several vehicles, much to some drivers surprise. One lady passenger enquired if we were cycling all the way to Brighton. I know we looked mad but even that was too much and I didn’t have the heart to tell her we were heading for a nice warm and dry pub. Anton left us soon after, having done 130 miles the previous day we excused him. We watched the cars go by near the services and decided to see if the pub opened before noon. Fat chance!
Martin left Bob and myself at this point to cycle to Horsham, having cycled from Horsham I advised against this but he went anyway. Bob and I headed back to the services area to watch a few more old crocks to pass the time. Having got more wet we headed to the Black Swan, getting there just in time for the doors to open. After a leisurely lunch we headed back to Crawley, Bob to home and me to catch a train. It had stopped raining but the wind would have been against me all the way home, so I chickened out.
The ride was supposed to be 15 miles but we only managed 10. This must be the shortest section ride ever.
Monday, 26 October 2009
The Churchillian
I was last to arrive at Three Bridges Station for this ride and was met by an octet of experienced riders (and friends). Anton was today’s leader and had been joined by John C, John H, John V, Frank, Pat, Pete, Marian and myself, Bob.
As usual, John H wasn’t on an ordinary bike. However, instead of his recumbent he’d turned up on a 6-speed Brompton in anticipation of there being some climbing to be done (his recumbent is very hard work on the climbs). Pete and Marian were astride their nice red Thorn tandem, John C was using one of his old bikes – I think it’s the old, old bike. Frank was giving his lightweight steel Orbit another outing.
We used the familiar easterly exit from Crawley – Worth Drive, Turners Hill Road and Old Hollow – and soon found Anton was leading the ride from the back in an effort to try and keep the pace down. At our recent AGM an observation had been made that the average speed of our club rides was getting higher and higher and moving well away from our stated “10 mph” pace. Anton was trying to act as a drag anchor – it sort of worked, though would have been more effective if not for the fact that a lot of the group knew exactly what todays route would be!
Copthorne Bank, Cross Lane/Dowlands Lane, Smallfield Road were soon behind us and then we wiggled south then east again onto Hare Lane. A half mile of the A22 took us north and then we were back onto the quieter roads across to Haxted Mill. Here there was a short but steep little climb before it eased off and we continued to Edenbridge. The road North is dead straight and slightly up but we soon turned right for Four Elms.
At Four Elms we took the charmingly named Pootings Road which began an uphill gradient which continued onto Mapleton Road and got steeper and steeper the further we progressed. Eventually John H couldn’t keep the pedals turning on his Brommie and had to dismount for the last 50 yards to the top. Everyone else made it and we were all grateful that our destination, Chartwell, was here at the top of the hill.
In spite of Antons efforts at slowing us down, we’d covered the 20 miles in less than the intended 2 hours and although the café was open their hot food was not yet available. No matter, tea and cakes would do and we sat and ate them whilst observing the large number of people visiting Winston Churchills old gaff.
The ride home started with an exhilarating descent back the way we came. Although, as back marker I’d miscounted how many of our group had gone past me and was more than slightly relieved to find nobody missing when we regrouped at the next junction. We travelled west then south into Edenbridge and got hooted at by a couple of cars objecting to Frank riding two abreast, but once we were back on the smaller roads things quietened down again. We retraced our morning route as far as Haxted Mill and then turned left onto Water lane. I’d never used this road until the other week, nor the next road, St. Piers Lane. As we passed through the National Centre for Epileptic Children, John H seemed to express a desire to live in such a sheltered community – I think it was just the neatness of the houses and the pleasant location.
We now reached Lingfield and unlike last time we headed out on the B2028. As the road twisted and turned away from the village several cars were held up behind us but they all seemed fairly relaxed about it. Crossing the A22 at the roundabout near the Mormon “temple”, we then forked right onto Bones Lane which took us on to Croydon Barn Lane and thence Smallfield Road. Arriving in Smallfield we did a left then a right onto Wheelers Lane. The surface of this road is no bumpier than any other road but all of a sudden I found my saddle trying to escape from under me – the seatpost had snapped! I haven’t had a mechanical problem for some time so I suppose I was due one. I managed to stop without injury and dismounted to see that the post had snapped at the clamp point and there was just a small amount of post sticking out of the frame. I couldn’t get a grip on it to get it out so as there was still a fair bit of post attached to the saddle I pushed that down into the seat tube and tightened it up. The rest of the ride home felt a bit weird with a low seat height and my knees feeling more strain than usual. As we all headed into Crawley along the Balcombe Road, riders started peeling off until I too said goodbye as the Maidenbower riders continued south and I headed past Three Bridges station and home with 43 miles on the clock..
Three hours and a visit to Evans Cycles at Gatwick later, I’d fitted a nice new seatpost – this time a 27.2 mm one as I suspect the 27.0 mm one I’d just broken wasn’t quite the right size. Mind you, it had lasted several years.
As usual, John H wasn’t on an ordinary bike. However, instead of his recumbent he’d turned up on a 6-speed Brompton in anticipation of there being some climbing to be done (his recumbent is very hard work on the climbs). Pete and Marian were astride their nice red Thorn tandem, John C was using one of his old bikes – I think it’s the old, old bike. Frank was giving his lightweight steel Orbit another outing.
We used the familiar easterly exit from Crawley – Worth Drive, Turners Hill Road and Old Hollow – and soon found Anton was leading the ride from the back in an effort to try and keep the pace down. At our recent AGM an observation had been made that the average speed of our club rides was getting higher and higher and moving well away from our stated “10 mph” pace. Anton was trying to act as a drag anchor – it sort of worked, though would have been more effective if not for the fact that a lot of the group knew exactly what todays route would be!
Copthorne Bank, Cross Lane/Dowlands Lane, Smallfield Road were soon behind us and then we wiggled south then east again onto Hare Lane. A half mile of the A22 took us north and then we were back onto the quieter roads across to Haxted Mill. Here there was a short but steep little climb before it eased off and we continued to Edenbridge. The road North is dead straight and slightly up but we soon turned right for Four Elms.
At Four Elms we took the charmingly named Pootings Road which began an uphill gradient which continued onto Mapleton Road and got steeper and steeper the further we progressed. Eventually John H couldn’t keep the pedals turning on his Brommie and had to dismount for the last 50 yards to the top. Everyone else made it and we were all grateful that our destination, Chartwell, was here at the top of the hill.
In spite of Antons efforts at slowing us down, we’d covered the 20 miles in less than the intended 2 hours and although the café was open their hot food was not yet available. No matter, tea and cakes would do and we sat and ate them whilst observing the large number of people visiting Winston Churchills old gaff.
The ride home started with an exhilarating descent back the way we came. Although, as back marker I’d miscounted how many of our group had gone past me and was more than slightly relieved to find nobody missing when we regrouped at the next junction. We travelled west then south into Edenbridge and got hooted at by a couple of cars objecting to Frank riding two abreast, but once we were back on the smaller roads things quietened down again. We retraced our morning route as far as Haxted Mill and then turned left onto Water lane. I’d never used this road until the other week, nor the next road, St. Piers Lane. As we passed through the National Centre for Epileptic Children, John H seemed to express a desire to live in such a sheltered community – I think it was just the neatness of the houses and the pleasant location.
We now reached Lingfield and unlike last time we headed out on the B2028. As the road twisted and turned away from the village several cars were held up behind us but they all seemed fairly relaxed about it. Crossing the A22 at the roundabout near the Mormon “temple”, we then forked right onto Bones Lane which took us on to Croydon Barn Lane and thence Smallfield Road. Arriving in Smallfield we did a left then a right onto Wheelers Lane. The surface of this road is no bumpier than any other road but all of a sudden I found my saddle trying to escape from under me – the seatpost had snapped! I haven’t had a mechanical problem for some time so I suppose I was due one. I managed to stop without injury and dismounted to see that the post had snapped at the clamp point and there was just a small amount of post sticking out of the frame. I couldn’t get a grip on it to get it out so as there was still a fair bit of post attached to the saddle I pushed that down into the seat tube and tightened it up. The rest of the ride home felt a bit weird with a low seat height and my knees feeling more strain than usual. As we all headed into Crawley along the Balcombe Road, riders started peeling off until I too said goodbye as the Maidenbower riders continued south and I headed past Three Bridges station and home with 43 miles on the clock..
Three hours and a visit to Evans Cycles at Gatwick later, I’d fitted a nice new seatpost – this time a 27.2 mm one as I suspect the 27.0 mm one I’d just broken wasn’t quite the right size. Mind you, it had lasted several years.
Monday, 19 October 2009
You Beauty!
Clear skies this morning and the temperature was low – there was a slight frost on my shed roof when I opened my curtains – consequently it took me a while to get enthusiastic and ready. Leggings today for the first time in several months, and long-fingered gloves.
I only left myself 35 minutes to get to Horsham but thought that having to push the pace would warm me up. Mind you, after the first mile I was regretting not wearing a bandana to keep my head warm – my brain was cold and I noticed my decision-making was decidedly sluggish! A quick cut through K2 and I started up Pease Pottage Hill. By the time I reached the top I was nice and warm and mentally firing on all cylinders. I’d like to say that I really ‘put the hammer down’ as I travelled through Pease Pottage and Colgate but the truth is that I just couldn’t step up the pace. It seems like I’ve been running on empty for a few weeks now although I don’t feel unfit or ill – perhaps I need a break from cycling?
Anyway, I arrived at Horsham Park Pavilions bang on 09:30 to find Barbara, John, Norman and Richard waiting for me. After chatting for a few minutes we headed off along Hurst Road, down North Parade and Springfield Road before heading up Worthing Road to turn right by the Boars Head. I always find this right turn as we go up a hill really awkward but usually speaking the cars give us plenty of leeway. After Tower Hill it’s generally downhill all the way to the Bax Castle where the road crosses the route of The Downs Link. Two Mile Ash road continues this downward trend onwards to Barns Green and apart from a slight up gradient on Valewood Lane and another on West Chiltington Lane, there wasn’t much to tax us.
The A272 was deserted as we crossed it at Coneyhurst and the B2133 was just as deserted at Broadford Bridge. All signs of the frost had long since disappeared – indeed there had been none on any of the roads – and the sun was now blindingly bright. Woods Hill was as steep as ever and for the second consecutive time we met a big (milk?) tanker at the top of the hill.
Heading on through West Chiltington the sweeping bends of The Hollow were spoilt for me by the slow-coach cars impeding my progress. Sunday Drivers!! Stream Lane was deathly quiet as was Nutbourne Road. As we headed towards the A283 I cast my usual glance at the bamboo thicket on the right in the hope of spotting a panda. I’ll probably fall off my bike if I ever spot one!
We resisted the temptation to stop for elevenses at Wiggonholt and carried on to skirt the north and west of the Parham estate down towards Rackham before turning right to Amberley. Here Barbara spotted a selection of knobbly squashes for sale and bought four to load into her panniers. I was trying to get a photo looking north over Amberley Wildbrooks but although it looked good with the naked eye, the photo was rubbish.
We stopped at The Black Horse for lunch and partook of good quality food and an excellent pint or two of Harveys Sussex Bitter. To be honest, I could have stayed in the pub all afternoon – but that wouldn’t have got me home for dinner. So it was back outside to the bikes.
In spite of the sunshine, it wasn’t warm and we didn’t hang around. Barbara had decided to ride on to Amberley Station and get a train back to Horsham, the rest of us headed back the way we’d come. Then at West Chiltington we carried on east to the B2139 Coolham Road. Heading north we then took Sincox Lane across to Broomers Corner and then passed The Countryman before heading into Southwater on the Shipley Road. It always seems like a long drag up through Southwater on the Worthing Road and I’m always glad when we turn off onto Southwater Street to cross over the A24. The first part of Kerves Lane is nicely downhill but then it’s slightly uphill for the last half mile to the A281. Skirting through eastern Horsham, we said goodbye to John as he headed down Depot Road to go to Horsham Station. Then it was goodbye to Norman at the Harwood Road roundabout and just Richard and me to carry on back to Crawley. As usual I found the Forest Road hard work for the first couple of miles but once past Colgate I got my second wind and on reaching Pease Pottage knew that it was downhill all the way home from there. 55 miles came up on my speedo as I said goodbye to Richard and pulled up at home six and a half hours after setting off.
Here's the ride profile from Horsham and back to Horsham:
Don't forget our AGM is this Thursday (22nd October) from 19:30 hrs at the Broadbridge Heath Village Centre. Please come along and influence the types of rides and destinations for the coming year.
The next ride is on Sunday 25th October and is a two hour ride to Chartwell from Three Bridges Railway Station starting at 09:30 hrs. Expected return will be about 15:00 hrs.
I only left myself 35 minutes to get to Horsham but thought that having to push the pace would warm me up. Mind you, after the first mile I was regretting not wearing a bandana to keep my head warm – my brain was cold and I noticed my decision-making was decidedly sluggish! A quick cut through K2 and I started up Pease Pottage Hill. By the time I reached the top I was nice and warm and mentally firing on all cylinders. I’d like to say that I really ‘put the hammer down’ as I travelled through Pease Pottage and Colgate but the truth is that I just couldn’t step up the pace. It seems like I’ve been running on empty for a few weeks now although I don’t feel unfit or ill – perhaps I need a break from cycling?
Anyway, I arrived at Horsham Park Pavilions bang on 09:30 to find Barbara, John, Norman and Richard waiting for me. After chatting for a few minutes we headed off along Hurst Road, down North Parade and Springfield Road before heading up Worthing Road to turn right by the Boars Head. I always find this right turn as we go up a hill really awkward but usually speaking the cars give us plenty of leeway. After Tower Hill it’s generally downhill all the way to the Bax Castle where the road crosses the route of The Downs Link. Two Mile Ash road continues this downward trend onwards to Barns Green and apart from a slight up gradient on Valewood Lane and another on West Chiltington Lane, there wasn’t much to tax us.
The A272 was deserted as we crossed it at Coneyhurst and the B2133 was just as deserted at Broadford Bridge. All signs of the frost had long since disappeared – indeed there had been none on any of the roads – and the sun was now blindingly bright. Woods Hill was as steep as ever and for the second consecutive time we met a big (milk?) tanker at the top of the hill.
Heading on through West Chiltington the sweeping bends of The Hollow were spoilt for me by the slow-coach cars impeding my progress. Sunday Drivers!! Stream Lane was deathly quiet as was Nutbourne Road. As we headed towards the A283 I cast my usual glance at the bamboo thicket on the right in the hope of spotting a panda. I’ll probably fall off my bike if I ever spot one!
We resisted the temptation to stop for elevenses at Wiggonholt and carried on to skirt the north and west of the Parham estate down towards Rackham before turning right to Amberley. Here Barbara spotted a selection of knobbly squashes for sale and bought four to load into her panniers. I was trying to get a photo looking north over Amberley Wildbrooks but although it looked good with the naked eye, the photo was rubbish.
We stopped at The Black Horse for lunch and partook of good quality food and an excellent pint or two of Harveys Sussex Bitter. To be honest, I could have stayed in the pub all afternoon – but that wouldn’t have got me home for dinner. So it was back outside to the bikes.
In spite of the sunshine, it wasn’t warm and we didn’t hang around. Barbara had decided to ride on to Amberley Station and get a train back to Horsham, the rest of us headed back the way we’d come. Then at West Chiltington we carried on east to the B2139 Coolham Road. Heading north we then took Sincox Lane across to Broomers Corner and then passed The Countryman before heading into Southwater on the Shipley Road. It always seems like a long drag up through Southwater on the Worthing Road and I’m always glad when we turn off onto Southwater Street to cross over the A24. The first part of Kerves Lane is nicely downhill but then it’s slightly uphill for the last half mile to the A281. Skirting through eastern Horsham, we said goodbye to John as he headed down Depot Road to go to Horsham Station. Then it was goodbye to Norman at the Harwood Road roundabout and just Richard and me to carry on back to Crawley. As usual I found the Forest Road hard work for the first couple of miles but once past Colgate I got my second wind and on reaching Pease Pottage knew that it was downhill all the way home from there. 55 miles came up on my speedo as I said goodbye to Richard and pulled up at home six and a half hours after setting off.
Here's the ride profile from Horsham and back to Horsham:
Don't forget our AGM is this Thursday (22nd October) from 19:30 hrs at the Broadbridge Heath Village Centre. Please come along and influence the types of rides and destinations for the coming year.
The next ride is on Sunday 25th October and is a two hour ride to Chartwell from Three Bridges Railway Station starting at 09:30 hrs. Expected return will be about 15:00 hrs.
Monday, 12 October 2009
Railway Crossings Ride
Ride: Blacksmith's Arms, Adversane
Distance: 40 miles - medium
Leader: Mick
Today’s ride was named the ‘Railway Crossings’ ride. The attendees, John H, John C, Bob and Anton were advised to pay attention to the route as there would be a quiz at the lunch stop.
Duly warned we turned left out of Three Bridges station towards Crawley. I had decided to shout woo-woo when we crossed the railway. We turned left just before the Squareabout onto a cycle track and over (woo-woo) the railway. After the cycle path we headed towards the Hawth theatre and over the railway (woo-woo) near the old leisure centre. We then passed the new library to go under the railway (woo-woo) before turning right into the hotel car park to come out behind Crawley Station. Turning right we went over the level-crossing (woo-woo) and, utilizing the cycle path round Asda, headed past the Swan, over another level-crossing (woo-woo) and right onto the cycle path along the bottom of Goffs park. Crossing over the A23 into Gossops Green we turned right onto Overdene Drive (woo-woo) to pass Ifield station.
We now headed out on the Rusper Road, past The Gate, The Lamb and The Frog and Nightgown public houses before crossing the railway (woo-woo) near the A264. We went straight over the A264 and used the old Crawley road before turning right and then onto the Horsham bypass (woo-woo). Left into Horsham took us past Littlehaven Station (woo-woo) and Novartis (woo-woo). Passing through Horsham we headed towards the Boar’s Head and crossed over the railway once more (woo-woo). Right at the pub then through Christ’s Hospital (woo-woo) before arriving in Barns Green. Left in the village (woo-woo) before taking two right turns to get onto Back Lane and over the level crossing (woo-woo). From there we headed south to Coneyhurst and another overbridge (woo-woo).
It was then over the A272 and eventually turned right at Broadford Bridge to take the B2133 owards Adversane, our lunch venue and also the last of the railway crossings (woo-woo). Arriving at the pub at 12:04 we found John V waiting for us.
Having warned the pub of our visit previously it was a bit of a surprise to find a new landlord. They had a restricted menu but did sandwiches so that suited us. It was now quiz time. The quiz was one question ‘How many times did we cross the Three Bridges to Bognor railway line?’ John H guessed 5, John C guessed 13, Anton guessed 17 and Bob guessed 16. The correct answer was 16, see above and count the woo-woos, so well done to Bob.
After lunch John V made his own way home and the rest of us set off in the rain. The route was Billingshurst, Barns Green and Southwater. Anton left us in Southwater so now there was only four. Right into Southwater Street took us through Sedgewick and over the A281. This led us to Hammerponds where I turned left to Horsham and the others turned right towards Crawley.
The distance was a bit over the scheduled 40 - in fact John H, who provided this profile of the ride, covered nearly 50!
Our next ride is entitled "You Beauty" and starts from Horsham Park Pavilion at 09:30 hrs on Sunday 18th October. It will be about 40 miles (4 hours of cycling) with a stop for lunch at the Black Horse in Amberley. It's rated as medium but as my legs are tired I'll be looking to make it easier ;-) The weather forecast is looking good with clear skies predicted to last all day Sunday.
Distance: 40 miles - medium
Leader: Mick
Today’s ride was named the ‘Railway Crossings’ ride. The attendees, John H, John C, Bob and Anton were advised to pay attention to the route as there would be a quiz at the lunch stop.
Duly warned we turned left out of Three Bridges station towards Crawley. I had decided to shout woo-woo when we crossed the railway. We turned left just before the Squareabout onto a cycle track and over (woo-woo) the railway. After the cycle path we headed towards the Hawth theatre and over the railway (woo-woo) near the old leisure centre. We then passed the new library to go under the railway (woo-woo) before turning right into the hotel car park to come out behind Crawley Station. Turning right we went over the level-crossing (woo-woo) and, utilizing the cycle path round Asda, headed past the Swan, over another level-crossing (woo-woo) and right onto the cycle path along the bottom of Goffs park. Crossing over the A23 into Gossops Green we turned right onto Overdene Drive (woo-woo) to pass Ifield station.
We now headed out on the Rusper Road, past The Gate, The Lamb and The Frog and Nightgown public houses before crossing the railway (woo-woo) near the A264. We went straight over the A264 and used the old Crawley road before turning right and then onto the Horsham bypass (woo-woo). Left into Horsham took us past Littlehaven Station (woo-woo) and Novartis (woo-woo). Passing through Horsham we headed towards the Boar’s Head and crossed over the railway once more (woo-woo). Right at the pub then through Christ’s Hospital (woo-woo) before arriving in Barns Green. Left in the village (woo-woo) before taking two right turns to get onto Back Lane and over the level crossing (woo-woo). From there we headed south to Coneyhurst and another overbridge (woo-woo).
It was then over the A272 and eventually turned right at Broadford Bridge to take the B2133 owards Adversane, our lunch venue and also the last of the railway crossings (woo-woo). Arriving at the pub at 12:04 we found John V waiting for us.
Having warned the pub of our visit previously it was a bit of a surprise to find a new landlord. They had a restricted menu but did sandwiches so that suited us. It was now quiz time. The quiz was one question ‘How many times did we cross the Three Bridges to Bognor railway line?’ John H guessed 5, John C guessed 13, Anton guessed 17 and Bob guessed 16. The correct answer was 16, see above and count the woo-woos, so well done to Bob.
After lunch John V made his own way home and the rest of us set off in the rain. The route was Billingshurst, Barns Green and Southwater. Anton left us in Southwater so now there was only four. Right into Southwater Street took us through Sedgewick and over the A281. This led us to Hammerponds where I turned left to Horsham and the others turned right towards Crawley.
The distance was a bit over the scheduled 40 - in fact John H, who provided this profile of the ride, covered nearly 50!
Our next ride is entitled "You Beauty" and starts from Horsham Park Pavilion at 09:30 hrs on Sunday 18th October. It will be about 40 miles (4 hours of cycling) with a stop for lunch at the Black Horse in Amberley. It's rated as medium but as my legs are tired I'll be looking to make it easier ;-) The weather forecast is looking good with clear skies predicted to last all day Sunday.
Monday, 5 October 2009
Kent Caff
A nice sunny morning but with a slight chill in the air saw six of us congregate at Three Bridges Station – John C, Pat, Frank, John H, Norman and me, Bob. John C led us away from the station and up Worth Park Avenue to the roundabout where we headed North along the Balcombe Road. After Pound Hill, to the right of this road is a place called Heathy Ground which has been earmarked as a possible new neighbourhood for the town. However, due to the possible expansion of Gatwick Airport, plans for development there have been put on hold. It will be convenient for the Crematorium though if it ever does get built!
At the next roundabout we turned right and on crossing the Motorway also crossed into Surrey. This road makes for uncomfortable cycling as it’s not all that wide and has a fair amount of fast traffic negotiating its curves. After a mile of its dangers we took a left onto a quiet lane that goes through the backwater that is Burstow. The people living in these parts seem to like greyhounds as you often see a lot of them being walked around. Emerging by Rede Hall we turned left then first right to get back onto the always quiet Cross Lane and Dowlands Lane. Next we turned right onto Smallfield Road and then left up Church Road into Horne. Although short, this was the first of many climbs this week. Turning east once more we headed along Whitewood Lane and then Byers Lane to emerge on the A22. A quick couple of hundred yards and then we were back on a minor road heading towards Tilburstow Hill. This road goes up a couple of hills before the hill bearing its name rears its head but we turned off at the bottom by the Fox and Hounds pub, onto Harts Lane.
Soon this crosses the A22 and generally bearing left we headed north east to Oxted where we encountered another couple of short climbs. Passing the railway station we went under the railway and further through Oxted before using the B269 to cross the M25 as we headed towards Titsey.
Titsey Hill is a full frontal assault on the scarp face of the North Downs, however there’s an escape route to the right just before the hill bites – Pilgrims Lane – so we took it! That road climbs anyway and afforded us good views to the south. Eventually we reached the A233 London Road and swept down it at speed over the M25 to arrive in Westerham for our lunch. In a break with club habit, we lunched at a café rather than a pub. Sat outside, overlooking the village green, we observed hundreds of cyclists climbing the A25 Vicarage Hill which forms the southern edge of the green. Many were wearing Dulwich Cycle Club colours but we never actually found out what the event was.
Here’s a photo of some grumpy old bloke commemorated by a statue on the green:
Next weeks ride starts at 09:30hrs from Three Bridges Station once again. It’s called the Railway Crossings ride and will be led by Mick. There will be a little quiz at the lunch stop (I think it might be railway related) which is at the Blacksmiths Arms, Adversane (TQ074232). It’s rated as a medium ride and should finish by about 16:00 hrs at the latest.
Don’t forget, the AGM is coming up on Thursday 22nd October at Broadbridge Heath Village Centre. It would be nice to see as many members there as possible so you can let us know what you want your club to provide in the way of rides and events. It’s a 7:30 pm start so you should be able to get there after you’ve had your evening meal.
At the next roundabout we turned right and on crossing the Motorway also crossed into Surrey. This road makes for uncomfortable cycling as it’s not all that wide and has a fair amount of fast traffic negotiating its curves. After a mile of its dangers we took a left onto a quiet lane that goes through the backwater that is Burstow. The people living in these parts seem to like greyhounds as you often see a lot of them being walked around. Emerging by Rede Hall we turned left then first right to get back onto the always quiet Cross Lane and Dowlands Lane. Next we turned right onto Smallfield Road and then left up Church Road into Horne. Although short, this was the first of many climbs this week. Turning east once more we headed along Whitewood Lane and then Byers Lane to emerge on the A22. A quick couple of hundred yards and then we were back on a minor road heading towards Tilburstow Hill. This road goes up a couple of hills before the hill bearing its name rears its head but we turned off at the bottom by the Fox and Hounds pub, onto Harts Lane.
Soon this crosses the A22 and generally bearing left we headed north east to Oxted where we encountered another couple of short climbs. Passing the railway station we went under the railway and further through Oxted before using the B269 to cross the M25 as we headed towards Titsey.
Titsey Hill is a full frontal assault on the scarp face of the North Downs, however there’s an escape route to the right just before the hill bites – Pilgrims Lane – so we took it! That road climbs anyway and afforded us good views to the south. Eventually we reached the A233 London Road and swept down it at speed over the M25 to arrive in Westerham for our lunch. In a break with club habit, we lunched at a café rather than a pub. Sat outside, overlooking the village green, we observed hundreds of cyclists climbing the A25 Vicarage Hill which forms the southern edge of the green. Many were wearing Dulwich Cycle Club colours but we never actually found out what the event was.
Here’s a photo of some grumpy old bloke commemorated by a statue on the green:
After lunch we headed west along the A25 before turning south to pass Squerryes Court and start the long climb up Goodley Stock Road. Eventually we reached a T-junction where we turned left to complete the climb before it swiftly took us down Crockham Hill on the B269 before we turned right onto Dairy Lane as the land levelled out. Another slight climb and then a left turn onto Guildables Lane which mainly took us south. By now the sun was hidden by cloud and the wind was more noticeable (and in our faces). We were enjoying the cycling though and there were very few cars around. Monks Lane took us west and then Grants Lane took us south once more. The charmingly named Honeypot Lane lead us to the unusually named Dwelly Lane which took us further south until we reached Haxted Road. Passing Haxted Mill we took the next left down Water Lane. Apparently this is aptly named as John C pointed out that it had been unpassable due to floodwater just a few months ago. From here we took St Piers Lane which goes through what looks like a model village or planned community. It’s St Piers School which is “The National Centre for Young People with Epilepsy” according to t’internet.
Now we were in Lingfield and passing the racecourse before climbing the short Town Hill into the middle of the village (Lingfield’s not a town in my book). Now we had to decide whether to use the Newchapel Road or the Godstone Road. Although the former would be the shortest route, it’s also the one with the most traffic and the road itself is quite unpleasant. So the latter got the vote. It took us north then northeast for a couple of miles, followed by half a mile of A22 before gaining the sanctuary of Hare Lane. From here a quick right then a left and we were on Croydon Barn Lane. Passing the road to Horne that we’d used earlier, we were now retracing our steps and turning left into Dowlands Lane we stopped for a breather. Frank was suffering from a stitch so we decided to have a bit of a break. Only trouble was that I needed to get back home as my wife and I were expecting visitors to help us celebrate our wedding anniversary. I made my goodbyes and thanked John for an enjoyable ride before striking off for home. Norman decided to keep me company and we were soon climbing the gradual slope up Copthorne Bank. Norman bade me farewell as he stopped to get some refreshments from a shop and I ploughed on. Now I was by myself I just used the direct route into Crawley along the old A264 (now the A2220), over the M25 and back down Worth Park Avenue to Three Bridges Station. From here it’s just a mile home and I pulled up at my front door with 44 miles on the speedo and half an hour before our first guests arrived. Timing!
Now we were in Lingfield and passing the racecourse before climbing the short Town Hill into the middle of the village (Lingfield’s not a town in my book). Now we had to decide whether to use the Newchapel Road or the Godstone Road. Although the former would be the shortest route, it’s also the one with the most traffic and the road itself is quite unpleasant. So the latter got the vote. It took us north then northeast for a couple of miles, followed by half a mile of A22 before gaining the sanctuary of Hare Lane. From here a quick right then a left and we were on Croydon Barn Lane. Passing the road to Horne that we’d used earlier, we were now retracing our steps and turning left into Dowlands Lane we stopped for a breather. Frank was suffering from a stitch so we decided to have a bit of a break. Only trouble was that I needed to get back home as my wife and I were expecting visitors to help us celebrate our wedding anniversary. I made my goodbyes and thanked John for an enjoyable ride before striking off for home. Norman decided to keep me company and we were soon climbing the gradual slope up Copthorne Bank. Norman bade me farewell as he stopped to get some refreshments from a shop and I ploughed on. Now I was by myself I just used the direct route into Crawley along the old A264 (now the A2220), over the M25 and back down Worth Park Avenue to Three Bridges Station. From here it’s just a mile home and I pulled up at my front door with 44 miles on the speedo and half an hour before our first guests arrived. Timing!
Next weeks ride starts at 09:30hrs from Three Bridges Station once again. It’s called the Railway Crossings ride and will be led by Mick. There will be a little quiz at the lunch stop (I think it might be railway related) which is at the Blacksmiths Arms, Adversane (TQ074232). It’s rated as a medium ride and should finish by about 16:00 hrs at the latest.
Don’t forget, the AGM is coming up on Thursday 22nd October at Broadbridge Heath Village Centre. It would be nice to see as many members there as possible so you can let us know what you want your club to provide in the way of rides and events. It’s a 7:30 pm start so you should be able to get there after you’ve had your evening meal.
Friday, 2 October 2009
Seaside Ride
At only 93km (56 miles) Sunday's ride was 507km short of a full days ride for Anton, but nonetheless he joined us in Lindfield for a ride toDitchling cafe, his first ride in a month (by the way Anton thinks thatthere are 36 hours in a day, as well!). Five of us left Three Bridges at 9.15 - Bob, Richard, Martin, John C and myself, Peter S - on a glorious sunny day. Warming up on the short climb (slope!) up to Turners Hill we arrived in Lindfield at 10 having been intercepted by Anton just beforehand.
After a pleasant ride down Slugwash Lane and across Ditchling Common, we arrived at Ditchling Café at about 11.
After a pleasant ride down Slugwash Lane and across Ditchling Common, we arrived at Ditchling Café at about 11.
We all had a drink with a tea cake - except for one person, who will remain nameless, who partook of a sizeable breakfast. Suitably refreshed we left the cafe and took the left turn in to Ditchling road at 11.35. Bob lead the way up the Beacon closely followed by Richard, but Richard slip-streamed past him at the top to take the first place, the maillot verte and the prize (we think you did this last year as well, Richard?! (:->). I arrived at the top of the Ditchling Beacon some time later at 11.49 - for me this is a great success (only 14 minutes) and it means that I pass my annual fitness test and will be kept on at home for another year.... John C, out on his latest new bike, left us in Ditchling to return home with Anton, who is recovering from an operation - it was his first time out on the bike for four weeks and so we were especially pleased to see him.
Guess who had the sizeable breakfast?
From the top of Ditchling Beacon it is a splendid and easy stretch across the Downs with wonderful panoramic views in to Brighton where we arrived at 12.30. At Old Boat Corner, Richard left us for Lewes so just three of us carried on to Brighton. Coincidentally the Labour party conference was taking place and we were much amused to see Bob triumphantly arrive on the seafront with his own personal five strong police motor cycle escort! Total distance to Brighton 29 miles for our annual trip to the seaside in the sun. Dare I say it, but it has been sunny four of the five years we have done this trip.
A short lunch on the front at the smoked fish bar left Bob and me to do the ride home as Martin had commitments and returned by train.We left at 13.00 and rather than head directly for the NCN20 Bob lead us through Hove via Hove station, Hove park and parts of NCR82 to Devils Dyke.
This was a long steady climb but very pleasant (partly) following the route of the old railway up to the Dyke. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dyke_railway_stationFrom the Dyke we had a fast freewheel via Newtimber to the A23 where we joined the NCN20 which duly lead us to The Victory in Staplefield for 14.50 (we know this as it closes at 15.00 and we just sneaked in in time).
Then a gentle slope up to Handcross and home through Tilgate forest. Total for the day 56 miles on a really lovely day out by the seaside.
Thanks to all who joined us and especially to Bob for his company on the way back.
This was a long steady climb but very pleasant (partly) following the route of the old railway up to the Dyke. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dyke_railway_stationFrom the Dyke we had a fast freewheel via Newtimber to the A23 where we joined the NCN20 which duly lead us to The Victory in Staplefield for 14.50 (we know this as it closes at 15.00 and we just sneaked in in time).
Then a gentle slope up to Handcross and home through Tilgate forest. Total for the day 56 miles on a really lovely day out by the seaside.
Thanks to all who joined us and especially to Bob for his company on the way back.
Monday, 21 September 2009
Morning Ride
Today’s attendees were myself, Mick, Bob and Norman.
Today’s ride was going to be a 35 easy ride but having ridden the route in preparation for the actual ride I found it to be medium to hard so changed it accordingly.
The ride started as last week along the Brighton Road and up Kerves Lane, the first of several hills. It was then on through Copsale and Maplehurst and up another two hills. It was tops off in Partridge Green as to sun had made an appearance.
The next part of the ride through Shermanbury was relatively flat, lulling the attendees into a false sense of ease. We then turned north towards Wineham and Twineham then east along Bob Lane, see below;
After Bob Lane it was on to Hickstead and turning north again to start the final six climbs up to Handcross. It was at this point that Norman confessed that he thought today’s ride was easy. No such luck.
Passing through Handcross we had lunch at the Mucky Duck (Black Swan) in Pease Pottage. After this Bob returned home to Crawley and Norman and I returned to Horsham.
No a very good turn-out but a pleasant, if hilly, ride.
Sunday, 13 September 2009
The Woodsman
Today’s attendees were myself, Mick, Pete S, Martin, John, Bob and Norman.
Through Horsham and up Kerves Lane just to test the riders out. It was then along Southwater Street where we had a couple of close encounters with white vans overtaking too closely. One carried on the overtake manoeuvre even when warned of oncoming traffic.
On through Southwater and over the A272 and onto Shipley to test out the new road surface. Not a bad job. Norman left us here as he was limited to an hours ride. We passed several ‘No Local Landfill’ signs near Thakenham, another NIMBY!
Turning right towards Adversane Martin said that there were hot air balloons at Wisborough Green today so as we were early I decided to stop there and take a look. We got there and no balloons, apparently they had left a 6:00 and were not due back until 18:00. Somehow we had arrived at the mid point.
So it was on to Kirdford for Bob to pose in front of the plaque below;
The plaque is titled ‘Degradation of Drunkenness’ and reads;
“There is no sin which doth more deface God’s image than drunkenness, it disguiseth a person and doth even unman him. Drunkenness makes him have the throat of a fish, the belly of a swine and the head of an ass. Drunkenness is the shame of nature, the extinguisher of reason, the shipwreck of chastity and the murderer of conscience. Drunkenness is hurtful to the body, the cup kills more than the cannon, it causes dropsies, catarrhs, apoplexies, it fills the eye with fire and the legs with water and turns the body into an hospital.”
No comment.
It was then onto the pub where we met three cyclists from East Surrey. A nice pub and an even better pint. See above.
After lunch is was on to Capel for tea. Martin left us on route as he needed to get back to Horsham. The route included Weare Street, one of the best lanes in the area. Tea at Capel was as good as ever with a selection of about 20 cakes, I managed fruit, banana, apple and lime and a cup of tea.
Heading home we got caught in a bike race. We could not understand this as they had not stopped for a pint or tea and cakes!
Through Horsham and up Kerves Lane just to test the riders out. It was then along Southwater Street where we had a couple of close encounters with white vans overtaking too closely. One carried on the overtake manoeuvre even when warned of oncoming traffic.
On through Southwater and over the A272 and onto Shipley to test out the new road surface. Not a bad job. Norman left us here as he was limited to an hours ride. We passed several ‘No Local Landfill’ signs near Thakenham, another NIMBY!
Turning right towards Adversane Martin said that there were hot air balloons at Wisborough Green today so as we were early I decided to stop there and take a look. We got there and no balloons, apparently they had left a 6:00 and were not due back until 18:00. Somehow we had arrived at the mid point.
So it was on to Kirdford for Bob to pose in front of the plaque below;
The plaque is titled ‘Degradation of Drunkenness’ and reads;
“There is no sin which doth more deface God’s image than drunkenness, it disguiseth a person and doth even unman him. Drunkenness makes him have the throat of a fish, the belly of a swine and the head of an ass. Drunkenness is the shame of nature, the extinguisher of reason, the shipwreck of chastity and the murderer of conscience. Drunkenness is hurtful to the body, the cup kills more than the cannon, it causes dropsies, catarrhs, apoplexies, it fills the eye with fire and the legs with water and turns the body into an hospital.”
No comment.
It was then onto the pub where we met three cyclists from East Surrey. A nice pub and an even better pint. See above.
After lunch is was on to Capel for tea. Martin left us on route as he needed to get back to Horsham. The route included Weare Street, one of the best lanes in the area. Tea at Capel was as good as ever with a selection of about 20 cakes, I managed fruit, banana, apple and lime and a cup of tea.
Heading home we got caught in a bike race. We could not understand this as they had not stopped for a pint or tea and cakes!
Monday, 7 September 2009
DA Event - Arun Crossings
Nine riders turned up for the final DA Event of 2009, the Arun Crossings Ride. Colin, the ride leader was joined by Richard, Peter, Dave, Andy, Tony, Gill, Jeff and me, Bob. It was noticeable that this year, following last years unfortunate accident for Edwin, everyone was riding knobbly-tyred bikes.
Leaving Pulborough railway station we headed west on the A283 to make our first crossing of the day over the Old Stopham Bridge (1) . We then doubled back over the Arun using the new Stopham bridge (2) before diving left up a sharpish off-road climb through some pleasant woodland. As the bridleway levelled out so it became sandy and keeping our bikes from squirming around became our main preoccupation - although I did manage to admire the extensive view of the South Downs to our right. Regrouping in the sunshine near Park Farm we then headed north along Coombelands Lane for about a mile before heading west and through a ribbon of woodland to cross the Arun (3) just upstream of Pallingham Lock where the Wey Arun Canal joins the river. At this point Jeff caught his handlebar on a post and gashed his leg slightly as he was catapulted off his bike. He had some plasters with him and administered his own first aid in the best traditions of mountain biking self-sufficiency! From here, we climbed through a couple of fields and some woodland to emerge onto a road and head down Horsebridge Hill.
Turning right onto another bridleway, we travelled through a woodland and then traversed another couple of grassy fields before crossing the river (4) and then the dry canal bed . From here a couple of farm tracks brought us out onto Black Gate Lane for a short while before taking a bridleway along a private drive and then down a hill to cross the canal and then 100 yards later the river once more (5) . Last year that 100 yard stretch of path was under a good 18 inches of water - today the water level was at least two metres lower!
A slight gradient then took us through Harsfold Hanger and past Harsfold Farm to emerge on the A272 for a short ride into Wisborough Green and a stop at The Coffee Cup cafe for elevenses.
Refreshed, we carried on north and east from Wisborough Green along Newpound Lane and then north along the B2133. Colin found another bridleway that took us through some woodland, up and over a couple of fields and past a pair of lakes to arrive at Malham Farm. From here we continued north through more farmland and woodland before popping out onto Drungewick Lane. Another crossing of the canal was soon made as was a tributary of the Arun, but not the main river itself. Turning right onto the Loxwood Road, we headed east for a quarter of a mile before heading south on another bridleway, past Newhouse Farm to cross the Arun (6) just before Gibbons Mill . From here it was just a short ride to the lunch halt at The Blue Ship in The Haven, where we were met by Barbara, Edwin, John, Alan and Liz.
After lunch, Colin lead us along a couple of lanes and down a quiet woodland bridlepath to emerge back out on Okehurst Road and meet a couple of our road-based lunch colleagues. Then, after Bignor Farm, we left them to the tarmac as we headed west over a couple of fields for our next crossing point (7). Once again, last year this area was covered in water but today all the water was neatly contained within the river banks. The route runs alongside a dry stretch of the canal before crossing it on a bridge by a ruined lock. From here a farm track led us the couple of hundred yards up to the scene of last years accident - we noticed that the track seems to have had most of the potholes filled in and was relatively smooth. We were now back at Malham Farm and retraced our earlier steps as far as our next bridleway just north of Newpound Common. Heading east, this track skirts around Loves Farm and it's "Beware of the Dogs" sign. Sure enough, one of the dogs came running over, barking its silly little head off but we ignored it as we went on into the woods. We popped out of the woods at Loves Bridge, described on a nearby plaque as the loveliest bridge on the Wey and Arun Canal. Unfortunately there's very little water in the canal at this point - I believe the landowner is against the restoration of this bit of the canal - sad really as a restored canal looks really good and is a very positive feature in the landscape. By contrast, the bridge over the river(8) is quite plain. heading east we came out onto Okehurst Road and followed it south as it became Rowner Road. At Rowner Farm we passed to the left of a large barn and then through a small copse to emerge at some kind of metal weir on the river - I've no idea what it's used for but it's a fairly substantial structure. We crossed here (9) and heading due west came to Rowner Lock on the canal. There were several people working on it repairing the stonework, and it was almost completely drained thereby affording us a good view of the amount of engineering involved. One gentleman came over and gave us plenty of information about the lock and indeed the whole canal. He also explained that they were not going to be replacing the lock gates as there was no water upstream and lock gates deteriorate more rapidly when not in the water. We now continued westwards, past Paplands Farm and back onto the road at Newpound Common where we took Newpound Lane past Fisher's farm back to Wisborough Green and another stop at the Coffee Cup cafe.
At this point I had to make my goodbyes as I had to be at a family birthday party back in Crawley for 16:30. Heading south from Wisborough Green I took the bridleway past Harsfold Farm and crossed the Arun one last time before regaining the tarmac on Black Gate Lane. I missed my intended right turn into Pickhurst lane so ended up using the A29 via Codmore Hill to get back to Pulborough Station with just about 30 miles on my speedo. Within the hour I managed to drive back home, get washed, changed and get over to Ifield Wood to celebrate my nephews 5th birthday. So that was all the boxes ticked - great day out on the bike, get to birthday party.
Thanks Colin for what is one of my favourite rides - I've done it three times now and each one has been different but all have been immensely enjoyable - don't change a thing.
Leaving Pulborough railway station we headed west on the A283 to make our first crossing of the day over the Old Stopham Bridge (1) . We then doubled back over the Arun using the new Stopham bridge (2) before diving left up a sharpish off-road climb through some pleasant woodland. As the bridleway levelled out so it became sandy and keeping our bikes from squirming around became our main preoccupation - although I did manage to admire the extensive view of the South Downs to our right. Regrouping in the sunshine near Park Farm we then headed north along Coombelands Lane for about a mile before heading west and through a ribbon of woodland to cross the Arun (3) just upstream of Pallingham Lock where the Wey Arun Canal joins the river. At this point Jeff caught his handlebar on a post and gashed his leg slightly as he was catapulted off his bike. He had some plasters with him and administered his own first aid in the best traditions of mountain biking self-sufficiency! From here, we climbed through a couple of fields and some woodland to emerge onto a road and head down Horsebridge Hill.
Turning right onto another bridleway, we travelled through a woodland and then traversed another couple of grassy fields before crossing the river (4) and then the dry canal bed . From here a couple of farm tracks brought us out onto Black Gate Lane for a short while before taking a bridleway along a private drive and then down a hill to cross the canal and then 100 yards later the river once more (5) . Last year that 100 yard stretch of path was under a good 18 inches of water - today the water level was at least two metres lower!
A slight gradient then took us through Harsfold Hanger and past Harsfold Farm to emerge on the A272 for a short ride into Wisborough Green and a stop at The Coffee Cup cafe for elevenses.
Refreshed, we carried on north and east from Wisborough Green along Newpound Lane and then north along the B2133. Colin found another bridleway that took us through some woodland, up and over a couple of fields and past a pair of lakes to arrive at Malham Farm. From here we continued north through more farmland and woodland before popping out onto Drungewick Lane. Another crossing of the canal was soon made as was a tributary of the Arun, but not the main river itself. Turning right onto the Loxwood Road, we headed east for a quarter of a mile before heading south on another bridleway, past Newhouse Farm to cross the Arun (6) just before Gibbons Mill . From here it was just a short ride to the lunch halt at The Blue Ship in The Haven, where we were met by Barbara, Edwin, John, Alan and Liz.
After lunch, Colin lead us along a couple of lanes and down a quiet woodland bridlepath to emerge back out on Okehurst Road and meet a couple of our road-based lunch colleagues. Then, after Bignor Farm, we left them to the tarmac as we headed west over a couple of fields for our next crossing point (7). Once again, last year this area was covered in water but today all the water was neatly contained within the river banks. The route runs alongside a dry stretch of the canal before crossing it on a bridge by a ruined lock. From here a farm track led us the couple of hundred yards up to the scene of last years accident - we noticed that the track seems to have had most of the potholes filled in and was relatively smooth. We were now back at Malham Farm and retraced our earlier steps as far as our next bridleway just north of Newpound Common. Heading east, this track skirts around Loves Farm and it's "Beware of the Dogs" sign. Sure enough, one of the dogs came running over, barking its silly little head off but we ignored it as we went on into the woods. We popped out of the woods at Loves Bridge, described on a nearby plaque as the loveliest bridge on the Wey and Arun Canal. Unfortunately there's very little water in the canal at this point - I believe the landowner is against the restoration of this bit of the canal - sad really as a restored canal looks really good and is a very positive feature in the landscape. By contrast, the bridge over the river(8) is quite plain. heading east we came out onto Okehurst Road and followed it south as it became Rowner Road. At Rowner Farm we passed to the left of a large barn and then through a small copse to emerge at some kind of metal weir on the river - I've no idea what it's used for but it's a fairly substantial structure. We crossed here (9) and heading due west came to Rowner Lock on the canal. There were several people working on it repairing the stonework, and it was almost completely drained thereby affording us a good view of the amount of engineering involved. One gentleman came over and gave us plenty of information about the lock and indeed the whole canal. He also explained that they were not going to be replacing the lock gates as there was no water upstream and lock gates deteriorate more rapidly when not in the water. We now continued westwards, past Paplands Farm and back onto the road at Newpound Common where we took Newpound Lane past Fisher's farm back to Wisborough Green and another stop at the Coffee Cup cafe.
At this point I had to make my goodbyes as I had to be at a family birthday party back in Crawley for 16:30. Heading south from Wisborough Green I took the bridleway past Harsfold Farm and crossed the Arun one last time before regaining the tarmac on Black Gate Lane. I missed my intended right turn into Pickhurst lane so ended up using the A29 via Codmore Hill to get back to Pulborough Station with just about 30 miles on my speedo. Within the hour I managed to drive back home, get washed, changed and get over to Ifield Wood to celebrate my nephews 5th birthday. So that was all the boxes ticked - great day out on the bike, get to birthday party.
Thanks Colin for what is one of my favourite rides - I've done it three times now and each one has been different but all have been immensely enjoyable - don't change a thing.
Monday, 31 August 2009
NCN21 - Greenwich to Crawley
I think that I (Peter S) have lead this ride on three occasions now and, although the basic idea is the same, each ride turns out very differently, whether it is the attendees, the weather, the lunch or whatever!
We had six riders this year – John V normally join us and knows the way from Victoria to Greenwich but he was not available this time, although he had kindly supplied me with route details. Helen joined me at Victoria station for 09.00. We left along Victoria street at 9.15 for Parliament square and then to follow NCN (National Cycle Network) route 4 to Greenwich. There was a clear blue sky and a perfect day for the slightly surreal experience of us ‘country folk’ cycling in the ‘Big City’ amongst all the famous landmarks and along surprisingly quiet streets with very little traffic. The final part of this route to Greenwich wends its way through former docks and canals and is surprisingly pleasant for what was once a very run down industrial part of London.
Here's a picture: http://www.flickr.com/photos/15603250@N03/3884327921/
At Greenwich we were pleased to see Bob, John C, John H and Norman. We headed off south at 10.15 following the NCN21 as it meanders its way south through various parks and green spaces, as well as through some back routes through Catford and south London. Very little of the route uses busy roads and the whole thing is surprisingly green and pleasant. The main challenge is to find the route signs but, fortunately, we had Bob in the group! In what seems like no time we emerged in to countryside at the White Bear in Fickleshole at 13.00 where we had a very pleasant lunch. A freshly made sandwich for £5.15 with salad trimmings. Oh, and some people had a beer as well – either ginger or hop based.
The onward route from Fickleshole heads broadly south through Woldingham golf course and private school before crossing the A22 and climbing up to the North Downs above Caterham where we had splendid views to the South. It is at this point that you can orientate yourself perfectly by watching for aircraft landing at Gatwick. Pressing on the group indicated a preference for religiously following the NCN21 and so we went around the southern edge of the M25 up to the M23 junction before turning south through the lakes remaining after the fullers earth has been extracted. Suddenly we were in Redhill and quickly through the centre we passed the former Royal Earlswood hospital (why is/was it Royal......?) to arrive in Horley and then Gatwick, by now following well known routing. Helen and Norman jumped on the train leaving the remaining four Crawley riders to head home for tea at about 17.00 after 55 odd miles.
A nice day out. Thank you to everyone that attended.
Here's the ride profile: http://www.flickr.com/photos/15603250@N03/3885121968/in/photostream/
You can find out more about the NCN at: http://www.sustrans.org.uk/ including on-line maps and information about Sustrans in our area. NCN21 runs from Greenwich, through Crawley to East Grinstead and eventually Eastbourne. (We rode Eastbourne to Crawley a couple of years ago and so in effect we have ‘done’ the whole route end to end). Later this year – Sunday 27th September – we ride to Brighton returning on the NCN20 to Crawley (or by train). See you then.
This Sundays ride is most suited to off-road bikes or sturdy tourers - it's the final DA event of this year, the Arun Crossings ride. It starts from Pulborough Station at 0935 and involves crossing and recrossing the Arun using a variety of roads and bridleways. Lunch will be at the Blue Ship in The Haven (TQ 083305).
We had six riders this year – John V normally join us and knows the way from Victoria to Greenwich but he was not available this time, although he had kindly supplied me with route details. Helen joined me at Victoria station for 09.00. We left along Victoria street at 9.15 for Parliament square and then to follow NCN (National Cycle Network) route 4 to Greenwich. There was a clear blue sky and a perfect day for the slightly surreal experience of us ‘country folk’ cycling in the ‘Big City’ amongst all the famous landmarks and along surprisingly quiet streets with very little traffic. The final part of this route to Greenwich wends its way through former docks and canals and is surprisingly pleasant for what was once a very run down industrial part of London.
Here's a picture: http://www.flickr.com/photos/15603250@N03/3884327921/
At Greenwich we were pleased to see Bob, John C, John H and Norman. We headed off south at 10.15 following the NCN21 as it meanders its way south through various parks and green spaces, as well as through some back routes through Catford and south London. Very little of the route uses busy roads and the whole thing is surprisingly green and pleasant. The main challenge is to find the route signs but, fortunately, we had Bob in the group! In what seems like no time we emerged in to countryside at the White Bear in Fickleshole at 13.00 where we had a very pleasant lunch. A freshly made sandwich for £5.15 with salad trimmings. Oh, and some people had a beer as well – either ginger or hop based.
The onward route from Fickleshole heads broadly south through Woldingham golf course and private school before crossing the A22 and climbing up to the North Downs above Caterham where we had splendid views to the South. It is at this point that you can orientate yourself perfectly by watching for aircraft landing at Gatwick. Pressing on the group indicated a preference for religiously following the NCN21 and so we went around the southern edge of the M25 up to the M23 junction before turning south through the lakes remaining after the fullers earth has been extracted. Suddenly we were in Redhill and quickly through the centre we passed the former Royal Earlswood hospital (why is/was it Royal......?) to arrive in Horley and then Gatwick, by now following well known routing. Helen and Norman jumped on the train leaving the remaining four Crawley riders to head home for tea at about 17.00 after 55 odd miles.
A nice day out. Thank you to everyone that attended.
Here's the ride profile: http://www.flickr.com/photos/15603250@N03/3885121968/in/photostream/
You can find out more about the NCN at: http://www.sustrans.org.uk/ including on-line maps and information about Sustrans in our area. NCN21 runs from Greenwich, through Crawley to East Grinstead and eventually Eastbourne. (We rode Eastbourne to Crawley a couple of years ago and so in effect we have ‘done’ the whole route end to end). Later this year – Sunday 27th September – we ride to Brighton returning on the NCN20 to Crawley (or by train). See you then.
This Sundays ride is most suited to off-road bikes or sturdy tourers - it's the final DA event of this year, the Arun Crossings ride. It starts from Pulborough Station at 0935 and involves crossing and recrossing the Arun using a variety of roads and bridleways. Lunch will be at the Blue Ship in The Haven (TQ 083305).
Monday, 24 August 2009
Shoreham Airshow
Five of us turned up for this ride, all blokes: Norman, John C, John H, Richard and myself, Bob. Under a bright blue sky I led us out of Horsham via Depot Road, Comptons Lane, St. Leonards Road, Hammerpond Road and Doomsday Lane. For the first time I can remember, we didn’t have to stop before crossing the A281 – there were NO cars in sight! I don’t remember any cars passing us on Magpie Lane either and we were soon turning left at Copsale to head towards Maplehurst. Here Norman had to leave us as he needed to get home by the time his children were getting up and looking for breakfast (as they’re teenagers we speculated that he could probably spare another half day before they’d be up!). The rest of us turned south and hit the two climbs that lead to the A272 crossing. From here we continued on into Littleworth and Partridge Green to take the B2135 to Ashurst and then Steyning. Carefully avoiding making the wrong turn up the Bostal, we took Maudlin Lane and then Annington Road through Botolphs and Coombes Road through Coombes to cross a very busy (but slow moving) A27. Crossing the Old Shoreham Bridge, we went up the thoughtfully named “The Street” before turning left and heading up Mill Hill. No vehicles were being allowed on this road, so we had a nice relaxing half mile climb with only a few pedestrians to watch out for before we picked a spot on the hillside overlooking Shoreham Aerodrome.
Our timing was perfect and we’d barely settled down before the aerial display began. There was a good range of aircraft types flying ranging from World War I biplanes and triplanes through to the latest Eurofighter and from four biplanes with wingwalkers through to dazzling displays of aerobatics performed solo or in pairs by prop driven and jet propelled aircraft. For me the highlight was the Eurofighter which seemed to ignore the rules of physics and stay in the air at ridiculously low speed. I think it’s power to weight ration must be seriously biased in favour of the power!
Our timing was perfect and we’d barely settled down before the aerial display began. There was a good range of aircraft types flying ranging from World War I biplanes and triplanes through to the latest Eurofighter and from four biplanes with wingwalkers through to dazzling displays of aerobatics performed solo or in pairs by prop driven and jet propelled aircraft. For me the highlight was the Eurofighter which seemed to ignore the rules of physics and stay in the air at ridiculously low speed. I think it’s power to weight ration must be seriously biased in favour of the power!
As we enjoyed the spectacle we also enjoyed a picnic, although being fully exposed to the sun all our drinks had lost their power to refresh – warm water from a plastic bottle is never a great drink. After managing three hours sat out on the hillside we decided it was time to head back home. I gave the group the option of shortening the route back by using a half mile section of very rough bridleway to leave the Downs rather than an eight mile circular route back the way we’d come – in spite of them all having slick shod road bikes, they went for it and we were soon heading north on the A2037. As we did so, we were overflown by a De-Havilland Vampire with its distinctive whining sound and we also spotted a B17 bomber. I took us east along a lane at the foot of the Downs as far as Fulking and then turned north again up Clappers Lane. We continued north up Blackstone Lane and also Wineham Lane where, upon spotting the Royal Oak, in the best traditions of the Horsham and Crawley group we just had to stop and have some liquid refreshment!!
As each of us was heading back to Crawley, I took us the most direct route via Warninglid, Slaugham Pond and Handcross. This involved a fair bit of climbing and so it was with some relief that we hit the top of Pease Pottage Hill and could freewheel down to K2 before the easy riding through the streets of Tilgate and Furnace Green back home. I finished the day with a total of about 57 miles on my speedo (I’d started the day by riding from Crawley to Horsham). I was also quite tired and had managed to sunburn both legs (but more so the right one). Strange that I’ve been riding bare-legged for about four months and yet this was the first time the sun had actually caught them. Follow this link to see the ride profile: http://www.flickr.com/photos/15603250@N03/with/3861370181/
The Sunday 30th August ride is an interesting one – it’s from Greenwich to Crawley along NCN21. Leaving the Cutty Sark at about 10:15hrs, lunch will be at a pub in the North Downs and we should get back to Crawley by about 16:30hrs. The mileage from Greenwich to Crawley should be somewhere in the region of 45 miles and the route is suitable for all types of bike.
Meet at London Victoria for a ride across town to Greenwich at 09.00
Train times:
Horsham 07:37 arrives 08:39
Three Bridges 07:50 arrives 08:39
Gatwick Express – 8.20 or 8.35 – journey time 35 minutes. Fare £16.90
Or
Three Bridges to London Bridge and get the river ferry to Greenwich (which takes bikes).
Or
Meet at Greenwich at 10.00. We will (mostly) follow the National Cycle Network Route 21 back to Crawley – signage permitting! Lunch will be at The White Bear, Fickleshole - http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/53038
There are options to get the train back to Horsham/Crawley earlier from Redhill and Gatwick.
Weather forecast is good. We will aim to leave Greenwich by 10.15 – if you will be later than this please text the leader – Peter Smith.
As each of us was heading back to Crawley, I took us the most direct route via Warninglid, Slaugham Pond and Handcross. This involved a fair bit of climbing and so it was with some relief that we hit the top of Pease Pottage Hill and could freewheel down to K2 before the easy riding through the streets of Tilgate and Furnace Green back home. I finished the day with a total of about 57 miles on my speedo (I’d started the day by riding from Crawley to Horsham). I was also quite tired and had managed to sunburn both legs (but more so the right one). Strange that I’ve been riding bare-legged for about four months and yet this was the first time the sun had actually caught them. Follow this link to see the ride profile: http://www.flickr.com/photos/15603250@N03/with/3861370181/
The Sunday 30th August ride is an interesting one – it’s from Greenwich to Crawley along NCN21. Leaving the Cutty Sark at about 10:15hrs, lunch will be at a pub in the North Downs and we should get back to Crawley by about 16:30hrs. The mileage from Greenwich to Crawley should be somewhere in the region of 45 miles and the route is suitable for all types of bike.
Meet at London Victoria for a ride across town to Greenwich at 09.00
Train times:
Horsham 07:37 arrives 08:39
Three Bridges 07:50 arrives 08:39
Gatwick Express – 8.20 or 8.35 – journey time 35 minutes. Fare £16.90
Or
Three Bridges to London Bridge and get the river ferry to Greenwich (which takes bikes).
Or
Meet at Greenwich at 10.00. We will (mostly) follow the National Cycle Network Route 21 back to Crawley – signage permitting! Lunch will be at The White Bear, Fickleshole - http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/53038
There are options to get the train back to Horsham/Crawley earlier from Redhill and Gatwick.
Weather forecast is good. We will aim to leave Greenwich by 10.15 – if you will be later than this please text the leader – Peter Smith.
Tuesday, 18 August 2009
Four Countries in a Week
It is an old adage that the wind is always in a cyclist’s face, but here is a tip - If you want to cycle to France, Belgium and Holland start in Calais and head north – the wind will be predominantly at your back.
Four of us left Calais on Monday 10th August following the canal to St Omer. Three of us had taken the train from Three Bridges to London and then to Dover on Sunday with a tourer and a tandem. A journey that could have been fraught with the now traditional difficulties of transporting bikes on trains in the UK, but that actually went very smoothly. This was helped by travelling on a Sunday morning. An uneventful crossing followed by a short ride to the hotel in Calais to meet with JV. Most people pass through Calais quickly but we wanted to spend a night and see the highlights including the spectacular Hotel de Ville (Town Hall) and associated gardens.
The canal led us to St Omer, after negotiating a diversion caused by roadworks on the towpath. The final entry in to St Omer was very pretty with a long stretch in to town running alongside the canal and having old workers homes along both sides bedecked in flowers. En route in Watten we rode up a hill to visit a fine restored windmill with views to Gravelines – this was actually the only hill of the whole trip (sounds like one of my Sunday rides!).
St Omer itself is not particularly outstanding but does have some wonderful restaurants – we had a three course gourmet dinner for a prix fixé 16€ - probably the best meal of the trip – at Le P’tit Montmartre. Highly recommended.
40 miles today.
Tuesday 11th
Today we headed for Lille and had hoped to follow a canal, but couldn’t find the way on to the towpath, so we followed quiet lanes to Estaires where we stopped for lunch. We had some light rain early on but it was warm and so didn’t bother with waterproofs. After a very pleasant day in the lanes we arrived in Lille in time for a walk in bright sunshine around the old town centre with its grand buildings, squares, narrow streets and lots of people. We all had time to sit in an outdoor bar for some Leffe blonde before dinner by the Gare de Lille-Flandres station.
54 miles today
Wednesday 12th
Leaving Lillie on an excellent dedicated cycle route that took us up to Roubaix where we rode on some of the pavé used in the Paris – Roubaix classic cycle race. We were allowed in to the velodrome and all had a ride round it, including the tandem with full panniers!
Four of us left Calais on Monday 10th August following the canal to St Omer. Three of us had taken the train from Three Bridges to London and then to Dover on Sunday with a tourer and a tandem. A journey that could have been fraught with the now traditional difficulties of transporting bikes on trains in the UK, but that actually went very smoothly. This was helped by travelling on a Sunday morning. An uneventful crossing followed by a short ride to the hotel in Calais to meet with JV. Most people pass through Calais quickly but we wanted to spend a night and see the highlights including the spectacular Hotel de Ville (Town Hall) and associated gardens.
The canal led us to St Omer, after negotiating a diversion caused by roadworks on the towpath. The final entry in to St Omer was very pretty with a long stretch in to town running alongside the canal and having old workers homes along both sides bedecked in flowers. En route in Watten we rode up a hill to visit a fine restored windmill with views to Gravelines – this was actually the only hill of the whole trip (sounds like one of my Sunday rides!).
St Omer itself is not particularly outstanding but does have some wonderful restaurants – we had a three course gourmet dinner for a prix fixé 16€ - probably the best meal of the trip – at Le P’tit Montmartre. Highly recommended.
40 miles today.
Tuesday 11th
Today we headed for Lille and had hoped to follow a canal, but couldn’t find the way on to the towpath, so we followed quiet lanes to Estaires where we stopped for lunch. We had some light rain early on but it was warm and so didn’t bother with waterproofs. After a very pleasant day in the lanes we arrived in Lille in time for a walk in bright sunshine around the old town centre with its grand buildings, squares, narrow streets and lots of people. We all had time to sit in an outdoor bar for some Leffe blonde before dinner by the Gare de Lille-Flandres station.
54 miles today
Wednesday 12th
Leaving Lillie on an excellent dedicated cycle route that took us up to Roubaix where we rode on some of the pavé used in the Paris – Roubaix classic cycle race. We were allowed in to the velodrome and all had a ride round it, including the tandem with full panniers!
We then found the canal and rode eastwards to the river Scheldt which we joined in Helkijn. The canal was shaded and had large trees at the side; mostly tarmac with some white shell surface. Arrived Oudenaarde at 13:00 for lunch.
In the afternoon we had a longer run by the Schelde, sometimes doing 18 - 20 mph on the tandem with help from the wind. It was very warm but clouded over later. We saw lots of cyclists often on road bikes.
It was quite difficult to find our way in to Ghent, but we arrived at our hotel about 17:00 after JV remembered the layout of the canals.
We all walked in to Ghent centre for dinner.
58 miles today.
Thursday 13th
We liked Ghent; it has lots of old buildings in a large area and is not crowded. When we were there it had lots of major reconstruction work going on.
We left about 11.15 in light rain and followed canal towpath to Brugges, stopping for a coffee on the way by which time it had stopped raining, the sun had come out and it was warming up. It was hot and sunny by the time we ate our pastries by the canal. It was very pleasant riding and route, even in the drizzle.
We spent the afternoon on a very pleasant walk round Brugges in bright sunshine - looking for ice-cream! The centre was very crowded with large numbers of cyclists including touring cyclists.
30 miles today.
Friday 14th
We left at 09:00 in fine sunny weather on the road to Damme, then Sluis, which looked very nice, alongside a wide canal. At Breskens we stopped for coffee before catching the ferry across the Scheldt estuary to Vlissingen. We then rode beside a canal to Middleberg, where we ate our lunch. From there we followed the road to Veere and then across the top of the first dam. Mostly we were following the Long distance cycle route LF1b Nordzee route, which was well signed, but not always. We also had the Dutch red signs directing to towns/places.
Each dam had a two-way road across it and the same space, completely separated from the road, for bikes and service vehicles. This is a big holiday area with lots of bikes around, large sandy beaches, the sea on one side and the inland sea on the other. Lots of sailing and water sports. We were making good speed on the tandem, often cruising at 15-18, with a light tail wind (fortunately).
We stopped for drinks and pannekochen (pancakes) by a working windmill - lovely! Across country for the last leg arriving about 17:00. Marian and I then rode an extra 3 miles to the beach for a swim. Big waves and very pleasant/refreshing.
67 miles today.
Saturday 15th
We left about 9:00 after visiting a windmill next to our overnight pension and a conveniently located bike shop.
We continued to the ferry to Maasluis on the north of the river Maas (Rhine) where we stopped for drinks and to buy lunch.
Rode on to Delft for ice-cream and then to Monster (yes, Monster) for the beach cycle route. We arrived at the Hoek-van-Holland about 19.00 where we stopped for dinner and then went to board the ferry at 20:30.
It had been a very hot day and quite tiring riding. Heading south was hard in to the wind - we have been lucky all week!
Ferry to Harwich left at 22:30.
55 miles today.
Sunday 16th
Ferry arrived at 5.30 and we were able to disembark at 6.30 and JV left us to cycle south. We had an excellent train service leaving from Harwich at 07.30 and getting us back to Three Bridges for 10.30. The only difficulties being lack of provision for bicycles and especially tandems on the train, but we had cunningly planned to travel Sunday morning so there weren’t any problems for us.
A very pleasant 320 miles in six days. Excellent route planning by tour leader, guide and raconteur – John V.
In the afternoon we had a longer run by the Schelde, sometimes doing 18 - 20 mph on the tandem with help from the wind. It was very warm but clouded over later. We saw lots of cyclists often on road bikes.
It was quite difficult to find our way in to Ghent, but we arrived at our hotel about 17:00 after JV remembered the layout of the canals.
We all walked in to Ghent centre for dinner.
58 miles today.
Thursday 13th
We liked Ghent; it has lots of old buildings in a large area and is not crowded. When we were there it had lots of major reconstruction work going on.
We left about 11.15 in light rain and followed canal towpath to Brugges, stopping for a coffee on the way by which time it had stopped raining, the sun had come out and it was warming up. It was hot and sunny by the time we ate our pastries by the canal. It was very pleasant riding and route, even in the drizzle.
We spent the afternoon on a very pleasant walk round Brugges in bright sunshine - looking for ice-cream! The centre was very crowded with large numbers of cyclists including touring cyclists.
30 miles today.
Friday 14th
We left at 09:00 in fine sunny weather on the road to Damme, then Sluis, which looked very nice, alongside a wide canal. At Breskens we stopped for coffee before catching the ferry across the Scheldt estuary to Vlissingen. We then rode beside a canal to Middleberg, where we ate our lunch. From there we followed the road to Veere and then across the top of the first dam. Mostly we were following the Long distance cycle route LF1b Nordzee route, which was well signed, but not always. We also had the Dutch red signs directing to towns/places.
Each dam had a two-way road across it and the same space, completely separated from the road, for bikes and service vehicles. This is a big holiday area with lots of bikes around, large sandy beaches, the sea on one side and the inland sea on the other. Lots of sailing and water sports. We were making good speed on the tandem, often cruising at 15-18, with a light tail wind (fortunately).
We stopped for drinks and pannekochen (pancakes) by a working windmill - lovely! Across country for the last leg arriving about 17:00. Marian and I then rode an extra 3 miles to the beach for a swim. Big waves and very pleasant/refreshing.
67 miles today.
Saturday 15th
We left about 9:00 after visiting a windmill next to our overnight pension and a conveniently located bike shop.
We continued to the ferry to Maasluis on the north of the river Maas (Rhine) where we stopped for drinks and to buy lunch.
Rode on to Delft for ice-cream and then to Monster (yes, Monster) for the beach cycle route. We arrived at the Hoek-van-Holland about 19.00 where we stopped for dinner and then went to board the ferry at 20:30.
It had been a very hot day and quite tiring riding. Heading south was hard in to the wind - we have been lucky all week!
Ferry to Harwich left at 22:30.
55 miles today.
Sunday 16th
Ferry arrived at 5.30 and we were able to disembark at 6.30 and JV left us to cycle south. We had an excellent train service leaving from Harwich at 07.30 and getting us back to Three Bridges for 10.30. The only difficulties being lack of provision for bicycles and especially tandems on the train, but we had cunningly planned to travel Sunday morning so there weren’t any problems for us.
A very pleasant 320 miles in six days. Excellent route planning by tour leader, guide and raconteur – John V.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
