Cutty Sark Ride 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Downs Link Part II

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


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


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


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


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

Downs Link part I

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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


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


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


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

The Horsham 100

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


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


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


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


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


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


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

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

Beginners Ride - Tracks and trails

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

Two Weald Ride (DA Event)

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

https://youtu.be/s31cS3yPU_Y


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


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


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

Cat and Canary, Henfield

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rendezvous Ride

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


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

Crawley Family Bike Ride

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

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


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


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


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


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


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

Jack and Jill, Clayton

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

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

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

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

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


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


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


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


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


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


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

DA Event - the I-Spy Ride

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


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


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

Chiddingstone Castle

Worth way to East Grinstead.


Coffee at Ros's.


A very enjoyable route on some lovely lanes.


A smashing lunch at Chiddingstone.


A pleasant return ride.

Let me take you down (copyright The Fab Four)

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

Beginners Ride

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fun and frolics at Deers Leap

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stooks at NewBridge

Thanks to Mick for leading what looks to have been an enjoyable ride with plenty of riders out who must have all remembered to alter their clocks!

The start was 9:15 @ HPP where I met Michael and Christine. Next was a new member, Frank from Christs Hospital. Then Norman and finally Pete. We headed off along the Forest Road to Pease Pottage where we met Pete and Marian, John C and Ken. After ringing Stooks to add two to the booking we headed for Handcross, then Slaugham and on to Lower Beeding. Turning right onto the A281 we then went left towards Maplehurst and Copsale. Right and left took us to Southwater Street then over the A24 and into Southwater itself. Bonfire Hill took us to Two Mile Ash and north to Christs Hospital. It was then a quick blast along the A264 to the lunch stop spot on 12:00!
Barbara met us there.
Lunch was good, see picture. 

After lunch Frank headed back home while the rest of headed towards Warnham. Christine couldn't manage the hill so she and Mike returned to HPP via the golf course. The rest of crossed the A24 and railway.
At the T junction Pete, Barbara and Norman turned right to Horsham.
The Crawley members were unsure on their route so I took them part of the way.
Not sure how many miles as my GPS battery died on me! 

Next weeks ride is an easy one - it's Old Crocks Day!  So we will meet up at There Bridges Station at 10:00 hrs, ride into town and see if we can spot a few veteran cars before pacing/racing/crawling along with them out as far as (perhaps) Staplefield before returning to Crawley, At 13:00 all members are invited to the Runs List meeting at Gordon's House (contact me for details) where we can determine what rides we want to go on during Q1 of next year (January, February, March 2015). Gordon and Jacqui are kindly providing refreshments once more.

Gordon's B-Ride

Lot's of words begin with B and Gordon tries to tick off as many as possible with this ride - breakfast, bacon, beans, bread, bikes, Broadfield, bridleways, Bob, beer, beautiful weather,

I took Gordon up on his offer of breakfast and rolled up on his doorstep at the unearthly time of 08:30. As we ate we discussed the coming ride and speculated on who else would turn up. When we ventured out the early morning chill was starting to dissipate and by the time we reached Parish lane we were getting quite comfortable. Gordon, Jacqui and I paused at the noticeboard for the Tilgate Downhill Bike Park where we read that it has ceased to be!

I enjoyed a speedy run down the firebreak to the "Orange" tree and having crossed the motorway I was just winding up to speed down through the golf course when I spotted two horses coming up so I came to a halt whilst they passed.

The downhill was clear so I rattled down at speed with a big smile on my face. Then it was through the woods and down the steps into Marion Road (everyone else uses the gate, but I love using the steps). Gordon took us on, into Maidenbower and then up the cycle path to the Worth Way and across to Three Bridges Station.

The station forecourt was a scene of carnage - the railway to Brighton was shut and so there were buses everywhere, taxis toing and froing, and displaced cars filling in the remaining gaps. Three cyclists (Ken, Eric and Sebastian) managed to negotiate through it all and now there were six of us.

We headed through Three Bridges along NCN20 until Northgate Avenue where we followed the cycle path towards the town centre. Next we travelled along The Boulevard and then up the High Street before negotiating the one way system, crossing the railway and turning right onto Springfield Road. The day was getting better and better as the temperature continued to rise and the blue sky stretched from horizon to horizon. We passed through Goffs Park, crossed into Gossops Green, ran down into Bewbush and then through the scrubby woodland to the railway crossing point.

This is NCN228 and we stayed on it until the far end of Wimlands Lane where we turned right (instead of left) onto Wimland Road and headed towards Rusper. At the end of the road we turned left onto the Horsham Road and followed it down the hill before turning left (and back onto NCN228) onto Channells Brook Bridleway. There was quite a strong chemical smell here, but we soon passed it. At the end we turned right, crossed the railway and then the A264 before stopping for a tea break at the Strawberry Fields café (at New House Farm).

Refreshed, we carried on along the Crawley Road to the Roffey traffic lights and onto Harwood Road. we popped in to the car park at Leechpool woods to see if there was a route across to a bridleway we wanted to use, but no luck, so we carried on, turned left at the roundabout onto Comptons Lane and then left, just after the mini-roundabout, onto Hampers Lane. This lane is a public bridleway and starts off as a tarmac surface but then turns south away from the tarmac. Eventually it spat us out onto Hammerpond Road for a quick downhill across the tail of Roosthole Pond. Everyone else faced up to the incline to the car park entrance but I cheated, leapt off the road and road through the undergrowth to avoid the climb. I rejoined everyone in the car park and was greeted with some sarcasm (although I reckon it was envy). The trail up from the car park to Mick Mills Race has been much improved since last I rode it and was very enjoyable in the bright sunshine. The main drag up Mick Mills Race was a pleasure too and seemed to take but a couple of minutes.

On reaching the Forest Road we headed east to Colgate and then turned right onto Blackhouse Road. This was a pleasant downhill roll followed by a short climb and a left onto Grouse Road. From here we headed on into Pease Pottage and my party-piece ride down the slope by the Marie Vesco steps. Once over the road, we said goodbye to Eric and Sebastian who were heading through Tilgate Forest and back to Maidenbower.  The rest of us pulled up at Gordon's where we were treated to a delicious lunch - ahhhhh, this is the life - cycling, sunshine, food - and beer!

Thanks Gordon and Jacqui for a most enjoyable day.

Next weeks ride starts from Horsham Pavilions in the Park at 10:00 hrs and will be an easy ride over to Rudgwick for the Apple Fair.  Hopefully it won't be wet like last year when we didn't actually get there because it was so wet!

The Plough at Leigh

I still don't know how to correctly pronounce the name of the village, but that didn't mean that Anton couldn't lead us there.


The last Sunday in September dawned with glorious clear blue skies and on arrival at Three Bridges Station there were a couple of new faces joining us for the ride. Anton led Eric, Sebastian, Michael, Christine, John C and myself out through Three Bridges on NCN 20 and into the Industrial Estate (coincidentally, using the same route that I do on my way to work). The roads were fairly quiet and we were soon on the smooth path running alongside the River Mole towards the Airport terminal building. The lake at Horley was looking very picturesque in the sunshine and then Anton took us through the middle of Horley and over the corssroads by the Air Balloon pub. Meath Green Lane/Lonesome Lane was very smooth and we realized that we were running a long way ahead of time, so decided to fit in an extra stop.

Accordingly we pulled up at Reigate Garden Centre to have a quick drink and ablutions break...


On the road again, Anton took us on some pleasant lanes to Betchworth and past The Dolphin pub before fitting in a little extra loop to ensure we arrived at The Plough in Leigh bang on midday -  Anton scores maximum points for timing.


We sat outside in the sunshine and were met by Barbara who had ridden up from Horsham.




The beer was good, the food was good, the conversation was good but the weather eclipsed them all - a full-on summers day.

We remounted and headed west before turning south to get to Parkgate. From here it was west and south again to Newdigate and then further south to Rusper. We stopped there for a while (and some of us had an icecream) before Barbara headed off towards Horsham and the rest of us headed back to Ifield. We took advantage of the new Ifield to West Green cycle route and then used the backstreets of Southgate to get to Hawth Avenue and thence Furnace Green where I left the group. Anton carried on, under the railway to Maidenbower and then guided the last couple of riders back to Three Bridges Station.


Next weeks ride is Gordon's B-Ride - it starts from Three Bridges Station at 10:00 hrs .(or 08:00 for Breakfast at Gordons) then follows a mixed surface route out to Horsham on the NCN 288 route and back via St. Leonards Forest. Mountain bikes or strong tourers are recommended.  Why B-Ride you ask - well, it features breakfast, bacon butties, banter, bikes, bridleways, Bob(probably), bumps, bunnies(maybe), bananaskins, babies - that's enough b's! Ed.

Downslink in a Weekend - Part two - Slinfold to Shoreham

Up early again, ride over to Horsham again, arrive at Horsham Pavilions in the Park early again!  Yes, I know, EARLY, AGAIN!! It didn't go unnoticed nor without comment - thanks folks.......

Norman was already there and we were soon joined by Pete E, Val and Malcolm. Nine thirty passed without anyone else arriving, so it was time to get going. As yesterday, we were heading for Slinfold but this time once we got to Broadbridge Heath, Pete led us along some quiet roads, through the underpass and then along some new cycle paths through the building development and back onto the road at Newbridge. Arriving at Slinfold we took the gate that was at the end of yesterday's video (and Norman was happy).

Once again, the surface of the Downslink was just right and the weather looked like it was going to be the same. We were enjoying the ride and had soon passed Christs Hospital and the Bax Castle before arriving at Southwater Country Park and having a quick comfort break. Next it was under the A24 and through Copsale out into the country.

Partridge Green was next and we noticed a new cafe just south of the village as the route leaves the main road opposite the Lock Estate. We were travelling at a fairly brisk pace but needed a bit of a break when we reached Henfield. I had the urge to eat a Mars bar and conveniently there's a convenience store on the road just opposite the Cat and Canary.

In spite of our progress, we were running slightly behind time and the drag away from the line of the old railway seemed to take forever. My camera battery gave up on the rough stone track just after that - it always seems to run out just there. So I still haven't got any footage of my death defying style down that hill on the stones!

Now we just had to get through Bramber and cross the Shoreham Road - doh! We were stuck there for ages as there seemed to be an endless steam of traffic in both directions. The stretch along the riverbank was very pleasant and easier than last time as the vegetation has been cut back. It wasn't long after that we pulled up at the Red Lion for lunch.

The pub was packed but amazingly, just as we were looking for somewhere to sit, an entire bench became free and we settled down to eat, drink and watch the Airshow. As it happens, that was just the time that all the flying stopped for lunch! However, we can always keep ourselves entertained and we had a good hour of chatting before the ear-shattering sound of a Eurofighter announced the air displays were restarting. As last year, the Eurofighter (also known as Typhoon) was my favourite, but I also enjoyed the two historic trios of WWII RAF planes that followed -  firstly the Gloster Gladiator / Spitfire / Hurricane: 

and then the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Spitfire / Hurricane / Lancaster):

We remounted and headed back north with the bright sunshine on our backs. Stopping every now and again for a breather, we didn't seem to be making very good progress - I think the wind was slightly in our faces. When we got to Partridge Green we stopped at the new cafe. It's called Stans Bike Shack Cafe and we would recommend it highly - good coffee, great cakes and reasonably priced. I noticed a track pump available for use and there was also a work stand there suggesting that a bike mechanic was available.

We carried on but I was now running late and had to meet up with my wife in Horsham so I said goodbye to everyone at Christs Hospital and raced off.

Meantime, Val was feeling the pace a bit and whilst stopping for a breather realised she had a puncture as well. Norman fixed the puncture and eventually everyone made it back to Horsham.

Our next ride is the final DA Event of the year, the Arun Crossings.  it will start from Pulborough railway station at 09:30 hrs. Lunch will be at the Onslow Arms in Loxwood. I would recommend using a mountain bike or at the very least a strong touring bike for this event.

Downslink in a Weekend - Part one - Allez Guildford

A Saturday ride - would anyone turn up?

The answer is yes, for I was joined at Horsham Pavilions in the Park by Barbara, Corinne, Norman and Ken. Pete E even popped by to see us off, but would not be riding until tomorrow.

I decided that we would head for Slinfold, so we went over the Golf Course, through Broadbridge Heath and past Newbridge. Barbara was getting worried that we'd be going up the hill in Slinfold but no, we turned onto the Downslink just beforehand. 

The weather was improving as the cloud burned off and the surface of the track was good so a nice days riding was in prospect. 

Before long we reached the double bridge and we stopped there for a breather and a spot of sightseeing. A couple of other cyclists were also there and we all had a pleasant chat standing in the sunshine. Before long, the two minute break I'd intended had become 15 minutes!! Time to get going again - especially as Michael would be meeting us somewhere near Rudgwick. 

We crossed the A281 and proceeded through Rudgwick but I could see no sign of Michael. Then he replied to the text I'd sent to tell me he was at Baynards, just north of us. A couple of minutes later, on the climb past the tunnel, we met up with him as well as son Eric and wife Christine. The climb up the ridge (the tunnel diversion) was harder than I remembered it but I enjoyed the fast run through the woods on the other side. Unfortunately Barbara had a minor off there and decided to hit the road and head back to Horsham. The rest of us headed on, back onto the Downslink (avoiding the flooded stretch near Baynards) and soon arrived at Cranleigh. Christine left us here - the call of the coffee shop on the High Street was too great. 

The next few miles were covered as we chatted about the new Icelandic volcanic eruption - Norman is waiting for a call to say "Come and view me". He's been to Iceland before an eruption and after an eruption but not during. At Bramley we paused for a few minutes (comfort break) before carrying on and then, after crossing the A281, finally leaving the route of the railway just before it merged with some still existing railways. The official Downslink had headed off to the north east and St Martha's Hill where it meets up with the north Downs Way. We were now on  part of the national Cycle Network route to Guildford. it took us alongside the A281 on and off for the next few miles before finally putting us on the tarmac for the last few hundred yards into the centre of Guildford where we crossed over the old bridge and pulled up at the White House pub for lunch.

Lunch was enjoyed sitting outside on the terrace but I have to report that we lost another one of our riders here - Corinne had seen a Duck she fancied and because she couldn't carry it on her bike had decided to head home by train. I believe she named the duck "Gillie" and I should point out that he wasn't a real duck!! Gillie is a sand filled leather duck shaped doorstop.

For the return trip, we decided to use the towpath to exit Guildford. The towpath is a "permissive" path which means cyclists are allowed but don't necessarily have a right. So, we rode along it taking our usual high standard of care. It presented a couple of minor challenges - a landslip and some building works but was very enjoyable to use. Here's a video of pretty much the entire route back from Guildford to Slinfold (I speeded it up but it's still 23 minutes long):

Just before Rudgwick we stopped off at a new cafe that's opened in the old Rudgwick brickworks. There's also a brewery there, so Norman and Eric were in their element. The rest of us enjoyed refreshments in the cafe (where we met up with Christine once more). 

That left just three of us - Ken, Norman and myself to say goodbye to Michael, Christine and Eric at Rudgwick and then have an uneventful ride back to Slinfold. From there it was but a few minutes back to Horsham where Norman peeled off as Ken and I headed to Roffey. Here, we parted - Ken prefers to use the A264 back to Crawley whereas I'm much more comfortable using the Forest Road.

Tomorrow we'll do the southern part of the Downslink - I think we'll have to start from Slinfold again as Norman has been making noises about us missing out the middle if we start from Copsale and he might have to complain to the committee! (tongue in cheek).