Members’ Blog
This Blog is intended for entries relating to
This Blog is intended for entries relating to- Weekly rides, including names of riders, including surnames, in the group (needed to satisfy our 3rd party insurers)
- Changes to timetabled events
- Comments on pubs / venues
- Discussion relating to Holidays and Social Events
These entries will not only be posted onto the web site – they are also circulated to the bulk of the membership by email. Try to restrict your comments to items of general interest.
Questions for the attention of your group ride coordinator can be sent direct using
Members Mail.
Entries to the Blog can only be made by club members who are logged in to the site.
John Thompson
posted this comment on April 7, 2020Hi Peter,
thank you or your kind words, yes still riding and walking both with care. I could not send you this as member to member as the blog page wont accept me as a member.
best wishes keep safe and well
John Thompson
John Baker
posted this comment on April 5, 2020As per Richard Bingham’s note a few days ago, the Prems are planning to hold another Zwift group ride Wednesday 8 April at 11am and all members are welcome to join. You don’t need to worry about keeping up as the app holds everyone together just as long as you keep pedalling.
The route we’ll be taking is called Dust in the Winds on the sunny South Pacific island of Watopia. It’s an undulating 33 miles but don’t feel you need to ride the whole route. Just stop pedalling and quit the group when you’ve had enough.
In order to join the event you will need to:
1) Sign up to Zwift. You’re allowed 25km free then after that it’s £12.99 a month. It’s easy enough to cancel, just click to unsubscribe so you’re not tied into any lengthy contract.
2) You’ll need either a smart or classic trainer that can connect to Zwift via bluetooth or Ant+
3) Download the Zwift Companion app and select to follow me John Baker (Oaks Spokes). I’ll then send you an invite to join the event.
On the day, make sure your devices are charged and connected to Zwift in good time for the 11am start. You’ll be prompted to join the event a few minutes before the start but if you’re late you will be left behind unfortunately. There’s nothing I can do about that. The events can only be setup to depart at a pre-arranged time.
Look forward to seeing you……
Ray Hardinge
posted this comment on April 3, 2020Call for Photos.
Let’s have some photos of members riding solo, turbo training or just pedalling round their gardens. Anything with some Meridian kit and a bike.
You can use the “Photo Upload” in the Gallery menu to send them straight to the web site.
Best photo wins a free haircut (subject to T&C’s).
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on April 1, 2020Forgive my ignorance Stephen, but whats ” garden PB set?
Stephen Hardy
posted this comment on April 1, 20202nd outing saw me break my garden PB set last week. Came in at 18.98 miles in an hour at an average speed of 19mph. Had a bit of a wobble navigating the tulips and last of the daffs, plus nearly bonked coming up the col de wheelbarrow ramp, but made it to the end!
John Baker
posted this comment on April 1, 2020….from a returning Peter Grey. (Sorry Pete must have deleted without realising).
Richard Bingham
posted this comment on April 3, 2020Just to clarify any confusion, the Prems Group ride around London this week was a virtual ride using the Zwift cycling app with those attending via internet from the (dis)comfort of their own respective garages. The Prems plan to hold Group Zwift rides going forward and any members are welcome to join. You need a turbo trainer (either a smart trainer or a basic trainer with a speed sensor fitted)and of course you will need to sign up to Zwift
John Baker
posted this comment on April 1, 2020Wed 1 April – 7 Prems signed up for this week’s ride. Only four made it to the start though – 2 had connection/device problems and one claimed to have dropped a heavy weight on his foot.
In glorious sunshine the Four set off from Central London in a loop around the City, passing adoring crowds (social distancing) before continuing over the Thames through a space time continuum to arrive in Surrey. The tightly knit peloton proceeded at a brisk pace up Leith and Box Hills before returning over Tower Bridge to finish. Total distance 26.1 miles and 1700ft of climbing. The riders out were Richard Bingham, Dave Hickman, and John Baker with a special guest appearance from a returning
John Thompson
posted this comment on April 1, 2020What Notice
rosemary wakefield
posted this comment on April 1, 2020NOTICE
This is an impoetant notice.
It is imperative you read this notice.
The information in this notice is beneficial.
The notice contains useful data.
You should not ignore this notice.
The notice is for you to enjoy.
Thank you for reading this notice.
Your rewading of this notice has been reported to the authorities.
The 7`oaks committee of the April Fools Day Society.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 31, 2020This would’ve been the busiest time of the year for garden centres. They’ve prepared lots of plants for sale & will now have to bin them.
Robert Stock
posted this comment on March 31, 2020It’s because the garden centres are having a very hard time of it at the mo, as gardeners aren’t going out to buy plants etc this Spring. 🙁
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 31, 2020Will Polhill & Coolings still be available when things return to normal I wonder.
Daniel Eagles
posted this comment on March 31, 2020Why do you ask that Peter?
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 29, 2020A belated “Happy Birthday” from the Sevenoaks Section Brian.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 28, 2020Ain’t Misbehavin’
Cycled, solo of course, to Trosley County Park. Barrier açross entrance it I wriggled around it. Deserted inside, eerie. I’d brought elevenses & sat at a picnic table in the sunshine.
Retraced my route home, arriving in nice time for lunch.
Only 30 miles but satisfying.
brian weekes
posted this comment on March 28, 2020Thanks to members of the committee for your greetings on my birthday. I should have been enjoying lunch with the family and perhaps a pint or more but……..better not to be ill i guess.hope its not long before we can resume normal activities.yours Brian
Reginald Oakley
posted this comment on March 27, 2020This is getting embarrassing, but enjoying it. Might need support from others if this gets to the public enquiry stage. https://www.cyclinguk.org/blog/local-campaigners-step-closer-turning-footpath-bridleway?fbclid=IwAR2CYSPtLta4utSBKIRH6N42ujKoJpDVUjkW5w3pIbeuF3EAg9VOELd-Bxg
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 27, 2020I’m. sure you’ll get plenty of support Reg.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 26, 2020“Always Look on the Bright Side of Life dada,dada dada dada etc.”
Riding solo has its advantages, particularly for leaders-no collecting of names, no backmarker to appoint,
always just the right pace, nobody half-wheeling you,no moaning “why didn’t you pick better weather,
no objections to the route, no need to book the pub.
Much more peaceful.
Dominic Haslam
posted this comment on March 27, 2020Quite agree, Peter. Went for a lovely ride yesterday and I kept stopping from time to time just to enjoy the view and the peace and quiet. Hard to do in a group!
Stephen Hardy
posted this comment on March 25, 2020Lovely day out on the bike, well sort of, sat on turbo trainer in the back garden. For those interested, 17.98 miles in 1 hour at 18mph. Tried to upload a picture Mrs H took of me, but the file size is too big for our blog and I can’t compress it. Never mind, you’ll just have to use your imaginations.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 25, 2020Wednesday, March 25th.
Still “Ain’t Misbehaving”.
It’s Wednesday & being a creature of habit I used my ‘one recreational ride a day’ allowance climbing to the top of Ide Hill. It was glorious up there.One other cyclist, but he kept his distance.
On the way home I bought half a dozen eggs at a farmhouse. They’re in short supply locally.p
.
Ken Dean
posted this comment on March 26, 2020You’re sounding more like Alan Bennett every day
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 26, 2020I’m flattered!
Daniel Eagles
posted this comment on March 24, 2020I’ve just heard from Annie Castle, Ron’s wife, she tells me that he is in Darenth Valley hospital
he has cancer of the kidneys and it’s spread, she says it’s at stage four, she’s trying to get him home but because of other viruses that are about at the moment it’s not been possible, I have asked her to keep me lnformed at when I know anything I will put it on the blog, she has also said that a text on his mobile would be appreciated.
Danny
Bob Craig
posted this comment on March 24, 2020That is bad news Danny. Thanks for letting us know.
I will of course text Ron.
Bob
Dominic Haslam
posted this comment on March 25, 2020Bad news indeed. I don’t have Ron’s number – please pass on my very best regards to him if you are messaging him. Thanks.
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 25, 2020Ron’s number is on the list of club contacts it is 07964 675876.
Tricia Hewlett
posted this comment on March 28, 2020Please pass on my best wishes. Trish
Paul Hills
posted this comment on March 24, 2020Hi All, Stark reality of this virus. Someone I know through Kent Schools Athletics died last night. Not a teacher. Not seen him for 2 months, last spoke to him on phone a month ago. Stay safe. Paul
emrys wilson
posted this comment on March 24, 2020I have put details of a magnetic turbo trainer that I am giving away on the sales/wanted page if anyone is interested.
Reginald Oakley
posted this comment on March 24, 2020Puts group riding into context. Meanwhile all the best to you all and your loved ones https://www.cyclingnews.com/features/commentary-why-its-better-not-to-ride-together-in-the-time-of-coronavirus/
Dominic Haslam
posted this comment on March 23, 2020All A riders (1 & 2) Wednesday 25th March – given the current situation I will not be leading a ride from Polhill this week. From now on I will be riding solo or with my wife. I very much look forward to riding with you all again as and when we can.
Roy Cheesman
posted this comment on March 23, 2020Dear all, sorry to have caused offence in some quarters. From reading other blogs and seeing a few members
on the road I can only plead being the recipient of mixed messages. I was scheduled to lead a ride on Wednesday before the recent crisis. As a relatively new member this would have been the first ride that I was asked to lead and I thought it would seem like I was trying to somehow shirk my commitment. Far be it for me to be a spreader of pestilence and cause of the downfall of the NHS I’ll be riding solo from now on. Something I haven’t done since I was fifteen as I was told it makes you go blind. Now there’s something to ponder for those worried about an overburdened NHS. All those cyclists doing it on their own, damaging their poor eyes. Best wishes and, seriously, stay safe. Regards, Roy.
Roy Cheesman
posted this comment on March 23, 2020Hello B1s and possibly 2s, I am intending to leave from the Pollhill Garden centre car park at 11 o’clock on Wednesday 25th should anyone be interested in a non-club ride.
I’m thinking of going across to Halstead, Knockholt, down to Sundridge, over Ide Hill for a loop around Bough Beech, Hever and Chiddingstone. Perhaps a cup of tea outside at Chiddingstone or at the Ide Hill cafe on the way back, again a sit outside. Both places were open on Saturday with ‘social distancing’ potential. I will be returning basically by the same route either to Knockholt station or to my car at London Road nearby. Regards, Roy.
Brian Wood
posted this comment on March 23, 2020Aren’t we supposed to by riding solo not riding in groups?
Chris Simms
posted this comment on March 23, 2020When will people get the message?
Do you want to be banned from cycling solo as well?
Eric Oconnor
posted this comment on March 23, 2020You’re a very naughty boy Roy
Colin Kane
posted this comment on March 23, 2020Maybe you should be asking yourself if ridding your bike is absolutely necessary ? God forbid you should have an accident and put extra load on an already stressed NHS. Even if you do manage to keep a safe distance from every other cyclist or member of the public who thinks this won’t effect them.
This is a collective effort to beat the virus.
Think about it !
The Prems won’t be ridding until this thing has been beaten.
Stephen Hardy
posted this comment on March 24, 2020Great point, with a daughter front line NHS, I’ll be dusting off the turbo trainer at home. See you all back out on the road when this blows over
Ken Dean
posted this comment on March 22, 2020Effective use of the Blog
When commenting on an existing entry, rather than make a new comment, use the ‘respond to comment’ link below the relevant post. All related discussions are then neatly grouped together. eg See Bob Hazel’s comment on Peter’s post on 19th March.
Ken Dean
posted this comment on March 22, 2020This is a post linked as a comment to my original entry.
Just a reminder that member’s can update their profile on the site so that they receive or block emails that are circulated automatically when a new blog entry is made.
Reginald Oakley
posted this comment on March 21, 2020Solo to Yopps Green more thanks to the battery in my Boardman than my now much declined cycling ability. Made me happy though.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 21, 2020It’ll be a challenge to hold my breath for three months Reg.I’ll compromise by ticking them off in my calender.
Reginald Oakley
posted this comment on March 21, 2020Thankyou Peter for your kind comments re the gate on the St Clere estate.
Although it does look as if St Clere has capitulated regarding the upgrade to a bridlepath, we havent crossed the finishing line yet. The opportunity to challenge the planning inspectorates ruling ends on March 26th. Then there is a further 3 months in which time KCC has to conduct a public enquiry before ordering the upgrade to be made.
So strictly speaking it is still illegal to cycle through there, but I will be very suprised if anyone representing the landowner will challenge you.
So enjoy solo and social distance rides and give cheery waves to other cyclists.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 21, 2020PS I wasn’t misbehavin’-riding solo.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 21, 2020Today, Saturday, I saw that the side gate to the St Clere barrier was removed.
Our thanks to Reg Oakley & the CTC.
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 20, 2020All A riders (1 & 2) Wednesday 25th March Dominic Haslam is happy to lead a ride starting at Polhill car park outside the closed café. Leave at 10:30 sharp and either bring sandwiches or Dominic will find a garage to buy coffee and sandwiches for lunch. Do not forget to bring a drink as there will not be much refreshment along the way. Do not forget to ride at a socially isolating distance apart!!!
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 20, 2020Paul Godfrey, the font of all wisdom, has posted this uplifting thought on the West Kent Sevenoaks Section blog:
“It’ll be alright in the end. If it’s not alright, then it’s not the end!”
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 19, 2020Ken: “triple butted DT spokes and Salim nipples”sounds exciting. Is there a floor show featuring those locally?
Sally Maxwell
posted this comment on March 19, 2020HaHa! Thank you for some much needed amusement, Peter. x
Ken Dean
posted this comment on March 19, 2020In anticipation of better weather at the weekend, am rebuilding my rear wheel.
Had a problem with broken spokes at the rim end so am using triple butted DT spokes and sapim nipples. These nipples have rounded shoulder that allows them to align with the spoke.
🤞
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 19, 2020ride 18th march ’20
“Ain’t Misbehavin'”
Along the Pilgrims Way, from the bottom of Polhill to Westerham, there are usually several groups belting along,
but today, on my own, I met just two lone riders. They passed more than a metre from me, so we were ‘social distancing’, excercising responsibly.
But because of my age I’m now confined to barracks by my family, “self isolating”.
So if you happen to see me on my bike I’ll be on some essential errand, so please be discreet & look the other way.
This scourge will be over eventually. lets hope we’re all still here to enjoy it.
Bob Hazell
posted this comment on March 19, 2020Is there a number to report sightings Peter?!
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 18, 2020A ride 18th March The unofficial A ride left a closed Lullingstone visitor centre at 11:00 sharp without a leader. We were Stephen Hardy, Ray Hardinge, Danny Eagles, Tony Reeve and me. We muddled along up Shacklands and then Toys Hill where Stephen peeled off and we lost Tony who went sailing on ahead and re-joined us again at the pub. Finally, we struggled (at least I did) up Uckfield Lane to the Kentish Horse. The pub was excellent as usual and the service extremely quick as apart from a couple of old ladies and the two regulars we were the only people on there.
Ken Dean
posted this comment on March 17, 2020Please see the website which contains a notice formally cancelling all club rides.
Steve Birkin
posted this comment on March 17, 2020The guidance from Cycling UK is unambiguous – all rides organised by affiliated club rides should be cancelled.
I had already, independently, come to the conclusion that I should avoid pubs, cafes and groups of people (including cyclists). I will be riding solo.
Consequently I hope to see you all once this crisis has passed,
Steve
Reginald Oakley
posted this comment on March 21, 2020Good to see you solo near Kemsing on Wednesday.
Paul Godfrey
posted this comment on March 17, 2020B2 Riders – In view of the advice from health profesionals and cycling UK I do not intend to lead the ride from Lullingstone tomorrow. For the forseeable future I intend to ride solo for a long as it is possible.
Peter Jones
posted this comment on March 17, 2020Following the advice from CyclingUK (and BC) to cancel all group rides, the A2 ride tomorrow is cancelled.
Peter
Martin Howe
posted this comment on March 17, 2020….other cassettes are available!!
Martin H
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 17, 2020Tomorrow, Wednesday 18th March, I’ll be singing:
No one to talk with, all by myself,
No one to ride with, I’m happy on the shelf,
Ain’t misbehaving, saving my love for you – Meridian.
I know for certain, the thing I love,
I’m thro’ with flirtin, it’s you that I’m thinkin’ of,
Ain’t misbehaving, saving my rides for you.
Like Jack Horner, in a corner, don’t go nowhere,
What do I care, B2 rides are worth waiting for,
Believe me.
I won’t stay out late, no place’ to go, home well before eight,
Just me and my radio. Ain’t misbehavin’, savin’ my rides for you.
with acknowledgements to Fats Waller.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 17, 2020Cycling UK advise the cancellation of group rides.But we can
wave to each other – still be matey!
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 17, 2020All,
As mentioned before we are intending to meet as planned at Lullingstone. I have checked and they are still open at the moment. I have been advised to ring back later and confirm. I will publish any update so please watch this space.
Some riders (the Sevenoaks group) are intending not to turn up until just before 11 and skip the coffee in order to minimise contact. This seems like a good idea for anyone else who is a bit doubtful.
See you tomorrow!!
Stephen Hardy
posted this comment on March 17, 2020Hi Barry, are you still intending to go following Cycling UK advice? I’m up for a bimble about without going to the pub
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 17, 2020I do not believe you can catch coronavirus from ridning with someone. I shall be at Lullingstone tomorrow for a personal ride. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome.
Dominic Haslam
posted this comment on March 17, 2020I would be there, Barry, but as it happens we are in the Brecon Beacons this week so can’t join you.
Reginald Oakley
posted this comment on March 17, 2020Regarding if rides go ahead, it will have to be the venues that have the decider on if they can cope with groups. Just heard that the Italian Deli in Kemsing is arranging more outdoor seating to cater for circumstances as they presently stand.
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 16, 2020All,
Several people have expressed concern about our continuing to meet on a Wednesday.
I do not think the committee should make a decision which concerns each of you personally.
The advice for the government is only advisory and until it becomes mandatory, I suggest we continue to meet as usual. I shall be there until I am told not to.
Anybody with underlying health problems should obviously not turn up and it is up to each individual to decide if it is right for them. Nothing has really changed since last week except for the expected increase in numbers of cases of covid 9 and we had a very good turnout.
Please respond on the blog if you have anything to say about this.
Stephen Hardy
posted this comment on March 17, 2020Agreed, sensible comments. See you there, although members shouldn’t feel pressured into attending by those that do.
rosemary wakefield
posted this comment on March 16, 2020B1 Ride Wednesday
Malcolm I will lead but will you do 1st April as a swop when presumably you will be fit and well again.
Mike Wakefield
Chris Simms
posted this comment on March 15, 2020Saturday 14th March:
Met up with Steve Birkin and Danny Eagles at the Pondview Cafe in Otford. Danny was in civvies but later relented and nipped home to get his bike. We had a largely dry ride via Seal, One Tree Hill, Charcott, Chiddingstone, Hever and Dormansland, arriving at the Star in Lingfield for lunch. Good food and good service. We returned via Clackets Lane and the Pilgrim’s Way. A good ride although a bit lumpy. My personal total was 62 miles and over 4400ft of climbing.
Paul McDonnell
posted this comment on March 15, 2020Wednesday 11th March A2 ride. 9 of us set out from Coolings, destination Markbeech
Joining me were Peters Boden, Jones and Pembery, Roberts Bunce and Stock, Ken Strange, Chris Brett Chris Brett and Dave Marshall. We went via Bailey’s Hill, Chiddingstone and Hever returning via Ide Hill. The Kentish Horse was excellent as usual.
Paul McDonnell
posted this comment on March 15, 2020Sorry there were not 2 Chris Bretts!
Linda Kemp
posted this comment on March 14, 2020Wednesday 11th March – B2 ride – Coolings to Limpsfield Chart
10 riders set off in the sunshine for the Carpenters Arms Pub, they were: Rosemary W, Trish H, Diana O, Ken D, Paul G, Neil K, John B, Peter H, Cliff B and myself. We rode through Tatsfield, Oxted, Hurst Green and on to Limpsfield, spotting spring flowers on the way. 8 made it to the pub where Meridian riders were allotted a room to ourselves. The hot food took a while but was very tasty.
Thank you for your company everyone.
Malcolm McIntyre
posted this comment on March 14, 2020B2 ride this Wednesday 18th to East Malling Rising Sun.
I’m afraid that I have been struck down by a virus, and will not be well enough to lead the ride.
My route is on the Runs List, if anyone wants to take it over.
Sincere apologies.🦠
Malcolm McIntyre
posted this comment on March 14, 2020Sorry, brain not working. I meant B1ride this Wednesday.
Daniel Eagles
posted this comment on March 13, 2020Wednesday 11th March A1ride to Man Of Kent East Peckham from Rushmore Hill, A dry but windy 28mile ride, the pub was busy but the food was good and arrived quickly, with me today were Chris Simms, Barry Barlow, Dom Haslam,Ray Harding,Steve Birkin,Martin Howe, and David Keith.A
couple of mishaps on the way, Steve Birkin’s bottom bracket packed up and he had to abandon, Ray Harding had the usual problem of his tubeless tyre blowing out and because of the time it usually takes to fix it we left him with Barry Barlow and continued to the pub where they joined us later, when we left the pub the group split up with the fast boys going off leaving myself and two fellow knackered riders at the back, the pace obviously not fast enough on the way.
John Baker
posted this comment on March 12, 2020Wednesday 11 March – 4 Prems set off from Coolings in warm conditions. The route took us along the ridge to Tatsfield, down to Westerham, up Hosey then due south to Hartfield before looping back via Blackham to The Spotted Dog at Penshurst. Good food, prompt service and all at a sensible price. No dramas but the strong wind made going tough particularly for those of us with heavy legs. Overall the route was 30 miles and surprisingly lumpy with a gravel section along Chestnut Avenue and potholes up Walters Green Road to sharpen the bike handling skills.
The riders out were Richard Bingham, Colin Kane, Paul Geradine and John Baker. The route has been added to the runs list on the club website.
Paul Dean
posted this comment on March 11, 2020Wednesday 11 March B1 Ride to Limpsfield Chart. The B1’s enjoyed a sunny and hilly (500 metres climbing counted by Malcolm) ride via Bessels Green, Back Lane, Goathurst Common, Ide Hill, Toys Hill with a final ascent up Pains Hill which proved a popular choice. The pub was busy but the B groups had the Garden Room to ourselves. There was a bit of a mix-up with our food orders as they did not take names when we ordered. This was quickly resolved and the food quality was good. The B1’s were Malcolm McIntyre, Trevor Sim, David Parker, Paul McAteer, Clive Adams, Mike “E” Wakefield, Danny Gazzi, Mick Cleary (our backmarker) and myself.
Heather Sim
posted this comment on March 11, 2020Date for your diary – Christmas Lunch 2020!!!!!
We have booked the Meridian Christmas Lunch at High Elms for the 9th December. It is a very popular venue with dates already filling up! Information to follow in the Summer.
Chris Simms
posted this comment on March 8, 2020Saturday 7th March:
A good turnout of seven at Polhill including Steve Birkin, Martin Howe, Danny Eagles, Richard Bingham, Ray Hardinge, Dave Binks and myself. We set off down Shacklands, through Shoreham and up Fackenden Lane somehow managing to lose Steve on the way. Apologies for that, Steve. We continued up Tinker Pot, on to Fairseat then down to Trosley and along to Peters Bridge which we crossed and arrived at The Chequers in Aylesford for lunch. There was water leaking through the ceiling and the gents toilets were flooded but we had a good lunch.
Michael Yeo
posted this comment on March 6, 2020B1 ride 6th March:- from Olympic Swanley via South Darenth, Longfield, Southfleet and Bean to the chequers at Darenth. Those joining me where Mike Wakefield, Danny Guzzi, Roy Cheesman, Davis Parker Paul McAteer, and Clive Adams who we somehow lost at Longfield, apologies for that Clive .
Michael Yeo
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 6, 2020A1 ride Wednesday 4th March 2020 A small group set off for Ye Arrow, Danny Eagles, Ray Hardinge, Steve Hardy and Martin Howe and I. The forecast was not good, but because I put on my mac when it started to drizzle it did not rain before we arrived at the pub. Ray got a puncture, but because he has tubeless it only necessitated a short stop to add some air. The service and the food were good and particularly reasonable costing less than £10. After lunch, Ray and Danny went home by a more direct route for Sevenoaks while the rest of us retraced our steps.
Colin Kane
posted this comment on March 5, 2020Prems 4th March 2020. First out of the blocks! Really not our usual start, but we made the most of the clear roads heading for The Cock Inn, Boughton Monchelsea. Our route was planned to keep away from the worst of back lanes and so we took the main road to Longfield then New Ash Green the Mailings and North Pole to East Farleigh where Paul Gradine left us. The rest of us Richard Bingham, John Baker and Peter Glanfield continued to the pub via the village of Loose.
The atmosphere in the pub was interesting with the landlord barking his orders at the staff, but the service and food were both good. It was just the prices that where a bit strong. £3.30 for a very average coffee left us all with lunch bills of around £20.
It had been a lumpy ride out and we could done without the rain and headwind on the way back. I clocked up 75 miles at an average speed of 15.5mph and we were all pleased to get home without incident.
Peter Jones
posted this comment on March 5, 2020After a 10.00 start from The Nene Cafe in Chilsehurst, Tony Led the group to the Walthamstow Wetlands via Eltham, Woolwich, along the Thames Cycle Way to Greenwich where we met up with Ron, Keith and Peter Boden. We crossed the Thames through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel through Limehouse, Victoria Park, the Olympic Park to the Old Pump Station on the Walthamstow Wetlands. We retraced our route to the Olympic Park where we continued to Three Mile Island, Limehouse Cut, back through the Greenwich Tunnel and on to the Dog and Bell in Deptford. Unfortunately the pub had insufficient food for all 14 riders so the group split up and went in different directions in search of lunch. Rob had a nasty fall after catching a raised curb on the Thames Cycle Way. Fortunately he was wearing a helmet (listening Tony and Ron?) and only suffered a cut above his eye. More importantly his bike was OK so he continued the ride. Keith suffered a puncture along the Greenway Link. Riders were: Tony Beaumont, Peters Pembery and Boden, Chris Brett, Paul McDonnell, Paul Dean, Dom Haslam, Malcomb McIntyre, Dave Sims (who left us at the Foot Tunnel on the outward journey), Rob Bunce, Ron Townsend, Keith Stevens (guest rider), Rick Green, John Wilkes and myself. Peter Jones
brian weekes
posted this comment on March 5, 2020B2 ride 4th March,from the Olympic Swanley we rode to Farningham,Knatts Valley Woodlands Ash Fawkam Green Dean bottom to lunch at Darenth.Di Outram Trish Hewlett Dave Collier John Broadfoot Brian Wood Paul Hills and Peters Hawker,Woods,and Ham [who acted as our backstop] joined me Brian Weekes in the Aventure.Trish and Dave Collier leaving en route before the inevitable rain joined the party at lunch.All agreed how awful to see so many fly tips spoiling the countryside of kent.
rosemary wakefield
posted this comment on March 1, 2020AWAYDAYS/CAR ASSISTED RIDES
As you will see from the AWAYDAY/CAR ASSISTED RIDES some members have volunteered to lead rides starting in April but more are needed. If you would like to lead an AWAYDAY ride please let us know
DATE: Group: Start place: Time: Destination: Lunch Pub/Cafe.
If you would like to lead a ride but need an inspiration. Please talk to your group leader or Mike W.
Mike and Rosemary Wakefield
Peter Jones
posted this comment on March 1, 2020A2 Riders: Tony is leading this Wednesday’s ride to the Walthamstow Wetlands with lunch at the Dog and Bell in Deptford. We will be leaving the Nene Cafe (111 High Street Chislehurst BR7 5AG) at 10.00.
Peter