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)
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Rick Green
posted this comment on April 18, 2019A2 ride 17 April. An undulating route from Polhill to Addington taking in Chelsfield Hill, Well Hill, Bower Lane, Cotmans Ash, Terrys Lodge, Stanstead Hill, and Trottiscliffe enjoyed in the sunshine and warmth by a group of nine. The Angel Was friendly and the food was good. Riding with me were John W, Bob S, Ken S, Tony B, Peters P and B, Steve D and Malcolm M.
rosemary wakefield
posted this comment on April 18, 2019In rersponse to Bernie`s report about the Litle Brown Jug there is a better alternative nearby – the Greyhound at Charcott new owners and very welcoming with food from the owners farm.
Mike Wakefield
rosemary wakefield
posted this comment on April 18, 2019B1 Ride Yesterday Ashford to Ivychurch
Thanks to John Thompson as back marker all 10 of us reached the Bell Ivychurch where we had a very social lunch sitting round a table shaped like the top of a grand piano. The food was highly rated. En route the site of a 1943 advanced landing ground was visited and it was a great mainly flat ride with a few minor inclines.
Mike Wakefield
rosemary wakefield
posted this comment on April 18, 2019B1 Ride 17th April Ashford to Ivychurch
Thanks to John Thompson as back marker all 10 of us reached the Bell Ivychurch where we had a very social lunch sitting round a table shaped like the top of a grand piano. The food was highly rated. En route the site of a 1943 advanced landing ground was visited and it was a great mainly flat ride with a few minor inclines.
Mike Wakefield
Bernie Fisk
posted this comment on April 18, 2019The ride to Chiddingstone occurred without any major technicals. The highlight was a small herd of deer that bounded across Norsted Lane at the beginning of the ride. The downside was the Little Brown Jug where the service was slow athe food expensive. Some discussion was held as to whether it should remain on the runs list and I was asked to raise that issue for discussion when I wrote my report. Bernie would like to thank Adrian, Brian W, Dave, Derek H, Emrys, Heather, Linda K, Mike H, Nick, Peter H, Tim and Trevor S for there company.
Diana Outram
posted this comment on April 17, 2019B2 ride on 17th April 2019
Lovely sunny ride from Ashford to Canterbury using the Sustrans route via Wye and along a track through fields and woods almost to Chartham and then along a delightful river path right into the heart of the city. Sandwiches in a park by the river and a return trip following the old Sustrans route up and up to Sole Street and back to Wye and Ashford. 37 miles enjoyed by Di,Rosemary W, Ken D,Cliff and Valerie. Thanks for your company.
Roland Courtney
posted this comment on April 17, 2019A1 ride to the Gallipot Inn, Upper Hartfield, on a pleasant spring day. Riders were Roland Courtney (me), Danny Eagles, Chris Simms, Ron Castle, Dave Binks, Ray Hardinge. We took a route via Knockholt, down to Sundridge, Ide Hill, Markbeech, Cowden, Cansiron Lane, Hartfield. Lunch was acceptable but there is a very small selection of sandwiches (basically BLT or BLT) and the reception was a bit cool. We rode back along the old railway to Withyham and back via Chiddingstone Hoath. A picturesque route on mainly quiet country lanes with quite a bit of climbing (my round trip ascent was 1150 metres). Thank you all for your good company.
Chris Simms
posted this comment on April 18, 2019Good ride , Roland. My ride stats were 65 miles and 1565 metres of ascent. It explains why I felt pretty knackered by the time I got home!
Roland Courtney
posted this comment on April 19, 2019That’s quite a round trip Chris – that’s what comes of living on top of the wrong hill!
Glad you enjoyed the ride though.
rosemary wakefield
posted this comment on April 13, 2019Wednesday 17th April B1 and B2 Rides from Ashford
The B1 ride is to Bell PH Ivychurch and the B2 ride to Canterbury High Street. Both Leave at 1100 after coffee at Costa in entrance to Ashford Station. Both rides take cycle routes out of Ashford to avoid busy roads and there are no major hills. The rides return to Ashford station for homeward journey. B1 leader Mike W. B2 leader Diana. For routes see runs list.
Train times are Orpington 0931 Sevenoaks 0940 Tonbridge 0950 to arrive at Ashford at 1030.
There will be parking in our drive 81a Bradbourne Park Road TN13 3LQ for anyone who wishes to catch the train at Sevenoaks.
If ride is to be cancelled due to inclement weather forecast notice will be posted on blog by 1830 previous evening, but lets pray this will not happen and we all have a great day out.
Mike Wakefield
brian weekes
posted this comment on April 12, 2019Wed 10th On my written list but omitted from the screen but very much with us Trish Hewlett,so sorry.Brian
brian weekes
posted this comment on April 12, 2019Wed 10th b2 9 rode to ST Mary Platt via Shoreham Otford Bat and Ball Godden and Bichet Greens Stone Ivy Hatch Plaxtol and Crouch Enjoying the sunshine and wind were Sally Maxted Linda Kemp John Ropkins David Parker Emrys Wilson Brian Wood Brian Weekes Peter Hawker who left us for a shorter route at the Bat and Ball,
Eric O,Connor acted as Backstop ensuring nobody missed the fun.
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on April 10, 2019Wednesday 10th April Nine A1s set out from Lullingstone with a rather rowdy send off. The riders were Ron Castle, David Keith, Ray Hardinge (happy birthday Ray), Tony Reeve, Steve Birkin, Chris Simms, Zoran Almuli, David Binks and myself. We had an uneventful ride if somewhat hilly to the Man of Kent in East Peckham. The staff were very welcoming and friendly and the food arrived promptly. A very pleasant day.
Peter Woods
posted this comment on April 10, 2019Peter Woods
I went to Ruxley Corner as per Runs List but no one there😢. I discovered at lunch that you meet in cafe,which I didn’t know existed.
Paul mcateer
posted this comment on April 10, 2019A big Thankyou to the three people who joined me on my ride to Springfield park.They were, Dave Colier, Ken Dean, Ken Mould and myself Paul McAteer. Our ride started at Selco in Sandy lane Sidcup passing through Greenwich park then through the foot tunnel to Millwall Dock.Then we made our way to the Regent’s canal via the Thames Path and the on to Victoria park before joining the Hertford union canal to the river Lee Navigation. We followed the river until we finally reached our destination Springfield park.The food and service at the cafe was good.
Dave Collier
posted this comment on April 11, 2019Thanks Paul for leading the annual “Mike’s Meander” ride up the Lee Valley. It was a very enjoyable day with some good route changes included. It was a disappointing turnout. Where was everybody?
Tricia Hewlett
posted this comment on April 12, 2019Having a lovely time on our bikes in the sunny (albeit hilly) countryside in the fresh air! Catch up soon.
Malcolm McIntyre
posted this comment on April 10, 2019Nine B1 riders arranged an accompaniment of sunshine and glorious blue skies for their ride to St Mary Platt, via; Horton Kirby, Hartley and down Vigo Hill.
Mike Yeo jumped ship before the destination, but the rest of us made it to the Blue Anchor for good service and good value, and chips.
We were; John Broadfoot, Rick Green, Steve Daniel, Danny Gazzi, John Wilks, and welcome to new boy Ian Walker. Excellent back marking throughout by John Thompson.
John Thompson
posted this comment on April 9, 2019Thanks Paul
John Thompson
posted this comment on April 9, 2019cannot open the GPS route to load on my Garmin for the 10 April. Are other member having the same problem.
Ken Dean
posted this comment on April 9, 2019There looks to be a problem. I’ve notified Paul Godfrey who will look into it.
Paul Godfrey
posted this comment on April 9, 2019Have sorted should be working OK now
Bob Craig
posted this comment on April 8, 2019Hi A1 riders.
I popped something in my knee on Saturday and it is not too good at the moment. Could someone be on standby to lead my ride to the Man of Kent on Weds. I will confirm tomorrow if I am able to do it but am not very confident.
Thanks
Bob Craig
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on April 9, 2019Bob, I will be prepared to lead the ride n Wednesday. Just let me know by tonight.
Bob Craig
posted this comment on April 9, 2019Thanks Barry
If you could take over I would really appreciate it. My knee is clearing up with lots of anti inflamatories but I don’t feel like risking further damage.
Many thanks
Bob
PS we must arrange a get together to run through the membership process.
Chris Simms
posted this comment on April 6, 2019Saturday 6th April:
Three of us met at Polhill – Steve Birkin, Dave Binks and myself. We rode via Hawley’s Corner, Clacket Lane, Limpsfield and Crockham Hill before arriving at Weald for lunch. It managed to drizzle with rain most of the morning so we were relieved to find the Windmill had a nice open fire and was warm and welcoming.
Ray Hardinge
posted this comment on April 6, 2019My Conservative candidate for the local elections came round canvassing just now.
I rather enjoyed giving him an ear bashing about cycling facilities in Sevenoaks.
Can anyone else give these people a bash in the other ear?
Excuses for non-action offered –
no money (but they’ve spent millions on a new car park)
roads narrow and congested (but they still encourage more cars)
KCC do the road design (but have they told KCC to provide facilities? No)
Sevenoaks D.C. has a strategic plan which includes cycle tracks (ha, ha, ha – had that for years with no action)
we are adopting a plan for S.E. trains to take bikes (they already do!!)
I’m still waiting for a cycling-friendly candidate to knock on the door – he/she will get my vote.
Ray.
Bob Hazell
posted this comment on April 5, 2019This might concern Strava users and others who haven’t already seen it.
https://singletrackworld.com/2019/04/gps-scrambler-devices-cause-strava-tracking-chaos/
Ray Hardinge
posted this comment on April 5, 2019Bob,
Apparantly published on 1st April!
Bob Hazell
posted this comment on April 5, 2019You spotted that Ray! Seasons greetings. Bob
Diana Outram
posted this comment on April 4, 2019B2 ride on 3rd April 2019 to Weatherspoons at Oxted. A short direct ride to Oxted in very cold conditions was enjoyed in part by 11 riders – Ken, John Broadfoot, Paul Godfrey, Peter Hawker, Derek Hunter, Brian Weeks, Rosemary W, Peter Woods, and Di with David Collier and Tricia peeling off early. Cliff Bell joined in at the pub. Apologies for the shortness of the ride but the enormous hail stone storm we had in Sevenoaks on Tuesday made me anxious to return before the forecasted rain came down in the afternoon. Many thanks to the excellent back marker Paul and all my very patient companions.
Pete Pembery
posted this comment on April 4, 2019On a cold(back to winter gear day) nine A2 riders left Coolings on route to Redhill Aerodrome, our route was via Tatsfield, Woldingham, Halliloo valley, Woldingham girls school, Godstone, Bletchingey, Redhill Aerodrome where we arrived with Kens chain intact this time!The food at the cafeteria,( which is in one of the hangers) is very good, especially the homemade soup which was served in generous portions. The gang of nine joining me, were Dave Sims, Steve Daniel, Tony Beaumont, Ken Strange, Bob Stock, Paul McDonnell, Pete Jones, and Danny Gazzi, who was back marker.
John Thompson
posted this comment on April 4, 2019I have received an email from Strava, asking are there two Meridian web sites, any other members received the same question?
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on April 4, 2019one of them meridiancyclingclub.com is the old site belonging to Ray Ransom. Please make sure you do not access this by mistake. He still thinks he runs the club despite having not been a member for several years.
Bob Hazell
posted this comment on April 4, 2019Yes I had it too John. I assumed one of the websites cited is the old original one Ray set up but I don’t know. I was interested that the message came via Strava – but not interested enough to reply! I assume our Director General will do that if deemed necessary. All the best Bob
Steve Birkin
posted this comment on April 4, 20199 A1s rode to the Spotted Dog at Penshurst despite the leader having devised a route to the Swan on the Green. We went via Ide Hill, Chiddingstone, Chiddingstone Hoath and Penshurst. and returned via Ightham Mote. The riders were: Barry Barlow, Chris Simms, Ron Castle, Dave Binks, Ray Hardinge, David Keith, John Bull, Dominic Haslam, and me. Luckily the weather forecasters had a bad day and it didn’t rain until after we returned home.
Richard Bingham
posted this comment on April 3, 2019Wednesday 3 April: Prems ride to The Chequers Inn, Laddingford. Only four riders out for this following the weekend trip to Flanders. Route from Coolings was down Star, East along Pilgrims to Trottiscliffe, through the Mallings, Teston, West Farleigh and Yalding. 27 miles with 1,500ft of up
As usual made to feel very welcome at the pub and good value food and coffee. The four riders were Paul Geradine, Martin Gill, Dave Hickman and me
Christopher H Brett
posted this comment on April 3, 20193rd April 2019 – 1st Wednesday ride post the original Brexit date for the B1’s. The weather forecast fortunately for us turned out true for the ride from Coolings, Rushmore Hill to Wetherspoons, Oxted, i.e. cold, little wind and no precipitation. Yee Ha!
Firstly my thanks to Malcolm who helped sort out a few issues with my Garmin before we started out so the ride took my planned route via Knockholt Pound, Riverhead, Goathurst Common and then down Ide Hill and on to Four Elms, then turning north at Edenbridge, Marlpit Hill and after a little respite up and over Crockham Hill and on to Limpsfield Chart, Limpsfield and finally the Wetherspoons, at Oxted.
We started with seven but sadly Bob West dropped out just after Riverhead (I think I exhausted him on Monday when we did a dummy run of the ride). The only two to complete my ride were Malcolm McIntyre and myself.
The other four, Paul Dean, Mike Wakefield, Chris Brading and Martin Pickett mutinied before Crockham Hill proper. I was told later (they arrived some 10mins after Malcolm and I) that “cycling up that hill was too dangerous”. I didn’t find it particularly daunting and indeed better than many of the lanes we ride where drivers do the most stupid overtaking manoeuvres. I only knew they’d gone when Malcolm told me there was only us two left! I had been just a few metres in front. I have found this revolt very discourteous. I had been frequently checking the riders progress all the way. What wind there was had been mostly behind us or to our side so the distance covered of 19.1 miles at an average speed of 10.96 mph so that was just about average of all the other B1 rides I have ridden.
A present I am feeling “don’t ask me to lead a B1 ride again”.
Chris Brett
rosemary wakefield
posted this comment on April 3, 2019B1 Ride 10th April
There is no leader next week Lullingstone to Blue Anchor. I am not going to be available so will somebody volunteer and let me know so they may be entered on the Runs List.
Mike WakefieldI
Malcolm McIntyre
posted this comment on April 3, 2019I can lead the B1 group next week. Will be trying for the normal B1 pace of 12.5 mph, moving average.
With luck I’ll be able to post the route in advance.
Malcolm
ronald castle
posted this comment on April 1, 2019‘A1’ride Wednesday 27th March 2019.
Our ride took us from The Olympic to East Malling. We went via South Darenth, Speedgate, Fawkham Green, Stansted Hill, down Vigo Hill and then through Ryarsh, Birling and onto East Malling. Unfortunately Chris Simms got a puncture going up Stansted Hill. The Rising Sun at East Malling was excellent value as always.
The 11 riders joining me were Barry Barlow, David Keith, Ray Hardinge, Chris Simms, John Ball, Tony Reeve, Dave Binks, Roland Courtney, Bob Craig, Danny Eagles and Zoran Almuli.
Paul Hills
posted this comment on March 29, 2019Hi All,
As very much an amateur rider, I need help/advice. Damaged wheel rim in a pothole last week. Stupidly thought I will just go into a shop and buy a new wheel. Now aware you buy a rim, spokes and hub? Any advice on where to go to. Do shops sell complete wheels for my Ridgeback tourer. Out of saddle for a few weeks now after hernia repair on Monday. Would be nice to get it sorted while I`m not riding.
HELP.
Paul
Ken Dean
posted this comment on March 29, 2019Paul
It depends on in what condition your wheel is in. If its OK then I would get somebody to replace the rim. I would start by ringing Paul Mepham at Woolwich. see http://harryperrycyclesuk.co.uk/
If the hub/spokes are worn then a new wheel is the best option. You could start by looking at https://www.merlincycles.com/ , Spa Cycles or sjs cycles. A few years ago I bought a pair on eBay and they were fine.
Paul mcateer
posted this comment on March 28, 2019Seven riders joined me on Wednesday 27th from the Olympic at Swanley to the Green Man at Hodsoll st.They were Chris Brett,John Broadfoot, Paul Dean,Ian Doughty,Jeff Drumond,Martin Pikett, Mike Wakefield and myself Paul McAteer.
Dave Collier
posted this comment on March 28, 2019B2 ride on March 27th. Nine riders set off from The Olympic at Swanley for The Green Man at Hodsoll Street. They were Kens, Dean and Mould, Brians, Weekes and Wood, Erics, O’Connor and McNally, Peter Hawker, John Ropkins and myself. It was a chilly day but we soon warmed up with climbs up Mussenden Lane, through Fawkham Valley Hospital, and Idleigh Court. The pub served our food promptly and all said they had enjoyed the ride.
Ken Dean
posted this comment on March 28, 2019This is Dave’s Route. https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29575430
Danny Gazzi
posted this comment on March 27, 2019A2 ride today. Set off from the Olympic with a few moans about the chilly north wind from those wearing shorts (well, whose fault was that?). Through Darenth, up Knatts Valley and Tinker Pot Hill (which caused more moans), down Exedown to Ightham where there was rebellion in the ranks as people headed straight for Noahs Ark, chopping a mile off the planned route, and arriving at the Bell in Kemsing where the food and service were excellent. 13 riders: Tony Beaumont, Rick Green, Ray Smith, Bob Stock, Kent Strange, Steve Daniel, Malcolm McIntyre, Dave Simms, Peters Boden, Jones and Pembery, Paul McDonnell (thanks for backmarking), and myself.
23 miles and 1600 ft of climbing in all, which seems reasonable to me. No punctures or mechanicals.
Martin Gill
posted this comment on March 27, 2019Prems ride today. 5 of us (John Baker, Richard Bingham, Peter Gray, Dave Hickman and me). headed East from the Olympic across the grain of the country across a succession of Downland valleys via Hartley and Meopham. We enjoyed the long descent to Luddesdown, crossed the Medway by the motorway bridge and crossed back over Peters bridge. Near Paddles-worth I gave the others a taster for their coming visit to Flanders with a stretch of,farm track. Our pub experience was the same as the A’s on Saturday: Birling closed, Ryarsh busy and Addington just the Job.
Roland Courtney
posted this comment on March 26, 2019I would be happy to lead the A1 ride on 17 April assuming I come back in one piece from skiing and don’t get locked away as an undesirable alien in France. I know a good route to Hartfield.
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 26, 2019Thanks Roland
Ray Hardinge
posted this comment on March 26, 2019Thanks Roland. Runs list updated for the 17th April.
Ray
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 26, 2019Sacre bleu I have put my name down to lead on the 17th April and I am due to be on Grandchildren duties so I can not do it. I have never been to the Gallipot Inn so I am sorry to miss it. Can any body stand in for me please.
Bob Craig
posted this comment on March 25, 2019A1 Ride Sat 23 March.
Ron Castle, Chris Simms, Dave Binks, Danny Eagles and me left Hawley Rd Garden Centre en route to Birling via Speedgate, West Kingsdown, Stansted, Hodsell St and Snodland. The Neville Bull turned out to be shut ( doesn’t open Sat lunchtimes any more ). Oh well we thought we thought on to The Duke of Wellington at Ryarsh which was so busy we gave up and left. Chris Simms suggested The Angel at Addington. Good choice. Very welcoming with good beer and food.
Peter Jones
posted this comment on March 25, 2019A2 Riders. Danny G is leading the ride this week from The Olympic to The Bell in Kemsing. However we have several vacancies for leaders in April, May and June. Please let me know asap which date you would like to lead. Thanks
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 22, 2019The ‘C’s, Derek Hunter(ebike), Ken Mould (realbike) and Peter Hawker(same model ebike as Derek’s) went to the Blue Anchor, Platt, on Wednesday. During Peter’s picnic in the churchyard he was interrupted by a parishioner who observed “What a pity! If you’d have been here 15 minutes ago we’d have served you tea and cakes.” I explained that I was joining my colleagues in the pub shortly. Refreshments are available in the church annexe from 10am to midday.
Otherwise the ride was uneventful.
Richard Bingham
posted this comment on March 21, 2019Prems Wed 20th:
A Lucky 7 riders out for our Flanders warm up ride to the Swan on the Green, West Peckham. 25miles and 1700ft of steep ramps, gnarly lanes and a 1km sector of unmade up road! Warm reception and good service at the pub. Those enjoying the fun were John Baker, Paul Geradine, Martin Gill, Peter Gray, Dave Hickman, Julian Hutchings and me.
John Thompson
posted this comment on March 20, 201912, B1 riders out today, Dunton Green to East Peckham (Man of Kent )
one puncture near stone street.An average of 12.5 miles, 1175 elevation gain.
Mike Wakefield,Paul Dean, Chris Brading,Chris Brett, Danny Gazzi, Paul Mcdonnell, Paul Mcaleer, Paul Mcintyre, Bob Stock,KenStrange, Peter Woods,and yours truly JT
Ken Dean
posted this comment on March 20, 2019Wed 20th: B2 Ride Dunton Green to Man of Kent – 18miles
16 riders set off from Dunton Green, 3 got detached at Otford but rejoined at Plaxtol. Paul Hills suffered a mechanical and left for home at Kemsing. Paul Godfrey acted as back marker.
Riders were; Paul Godfrey, Eric O’Conner, Di, Bernie, Emrys, Brian Weekes, Rosemary Wakefield, Linda Kemp, Trish, Bob Tomlinson, John Broadfoot, Cliff Bell, Dave Collier, Ann Fowler and myself.
Man of Kent provided prompt service (especially as they also had a good number of B2 riders) and good quality food.
On the way home Eric had a puncture that was promptly fixed using an aerosol can of gunk.
Eric Oconnor
posted this comment on March 20, 2019Thanks for an excellent ride Ken and your technical expertise in the administration of gunk outstanding.
Ray Hardinge
posted this comment on March 20, 2019Roland (A1),
With the Town and Parish Council elections coming up in May, we have a chance to elect some cycling friendly councilors (desperatley needed). Who do you think are the candidates (Con, Lab and Lib Dem) who are most likely to support our cycling cause? Because I, for one, will vote for them.
Ray.
Roland Courtney
posted this comment on March 22, 2019Ray – in response to your question, undoubtedly the two main parties supportive of cycling, active travel and making Sevenoaks less subservient to the car, are the Greens and the Lib Dems. Both of these are actively supportive of the goals of the Sevenoaks Bicycle Users Group (SBUG). Hope this helps!
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 20, 2019Wednesday 20th March 2019 nine riders set out from the Rose and
Crown; Ray Hardinge, Ron Castle, Chris Simms, Tony Reeve, Roland Courtney, Danny Eagles, David Keith, Myself and Dominic Haslam joining the A1s for the first time. All nine manged the climb up Hogstrough and from then on it was plain sailing down Gangers Hill, through Tandridge and Edenbridge to the Kentish Horseman at Markbeech where although the pub was very busy, we were served promptly and well.
Peter Jones
posted this comment on March 16, 2019Reminder for A2 riders. There is no leader for next Wednesday and Tony, Peter, Rick and myself will be away in Spain. Peter
Chris Simms
posted this comment on March 16, 2019Saturday 16th March: Only Steve Birkin, Dave Binks and I braved the breezy weather to meet at Lullingstone for coffee. We then rode via Otford, Seal, One Tree Hill and Dunks Green ending up at the Bush, Blackbird and Thrush in East Peckham for lunch. It was a bit of a miserable day with almost continuous drizzle but the pub had a real fire and was welcoming and warm.
Diana Outram
posted this comment on March 13, 2019B Ride 13/3/2019
The B ride went to Oxted, Weatherspoons via the Spinning Wheel , Chestnut Avenue and the Pilgrims Way after Rectory Lane. Although a bit scary with the blustery wind to start with the sun soon came out and the wind subsided. We missed the only heavy shower eating lunch in the pub. Riding with Di, were Paul Macateer,Cliff,Peter Woods, Richard,Emrys and Bernie who slipped off to Biggin Hill at the Spinning Wheel. Great to have some companions.
Barry Barlow
posted this comment on March 13, 2019Wednesday 13th March 2019
What Wind
Seven set off from Polhill:- Roland Courtney, David Keith, Chris Simms, David Binks, Richard Bingham, Martin Gill and myself. We were quickly joined at the top of Polhill by Peter Nuttall. I managed to lose him again at one tree hill, Although when we arrived at the pub he was waiting for us. The pub (The Plough at Leigh) was excellent with quick friendly service and good food. The ride home was uneventful and there did not seem to be an excessive amount of head wind.
Peter Jones
posted this comment on March 12, 2019A2 Riders. The forecast for tomorrow is for wind gusting up to 45mph (F8/9) and a yellow warning has been issued by the Met Office. We also don’t have leader for tomorrow so I am cancelling the ride. Peter Pembery and myself will probably drive to Polhill so if you fancy a coffee….! Also we don’t have a leader for next week and Rick Green, Peter Pembery, Tony Beaumont and myself will be away in sunnier climes so if anyone is prepared to lead please let me know asap. Peter.
John Thompson
posted this comment on March 12, 2019Hello,
With forecast of very strong winds for the ride on 13th March. as the ride leader I have cancelled the ride, sorry.
Bob Craig
posted this comment on March 10, 2019A1 Ride Sat 10 March. Only 3 riders Chris Simms, Dave Binks and me rode a very windy 23 miles to The Black Horse at Stansted. We rode via Halstead, Shoreham, Speedgate, Ash and up Haven Hill through Fairseat and back to Stansted where we spotted a motley crew of Meridian riders already enjoying their lunch in the pub.
Why is it the wind seldom seems to be behind when its really blowing ?
Bob Craig
posted this comment on March 10, 2019A1 Ride Weds 6 March.
A belated report on Weds ride to the Scared Crow. Route went via South Darenth, Fawkham, West Kingsdown, Wrotham, Trossley, Ryarsh and Birling. The 8 merry souls were Peter Nuttall, Chris Simms, Dave Binks, Ron Castle, Danny Eagles, Barry Barlow, Ray Hardinge and me. Only slight hiccup was Rons puncture on the windiest part of Pilgrims Way. Good food and service at the pub.
Danny Gazzi
posted this comment on March 8, 2019A2 ride to Walthamstow Wetlands, 6th March.
Five went on a bike ride.
They headed off north from Chislehurst at 10:15, and picked up a couple more riders before the Woolwich Foot Tunnel. Under the Thames, and onto the Greenway and the River Lea Navigation, turning back a bit after the Wetlands, when the asphalt/concrete path turned into gravel. A coffee stop at the Waterside café, and back through Victoria Park, Docklands and the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, with a late lunch at the Meantime Brewery pub. The Famous Seven were Tony Beaumont, (leader), Rick Green, Bob Stock, Ken Strange, Peters Jones and Boden and Danny Gazzi(scribe).
Peter Jones
posted this comment on March 8, 2019A2 riders – due to unforeseen circumstances Rick is no longer able to lead next Wednesdays ride to Addington and will reschedule it. Is there anyone willing to lead on Wednesday at short notice or we will have to ‘ad lib’ on the day? We also need a leader for for following week 20.03.2019. Peter
Paul Godfrey
posted this comment on March 6, 2019B2 Ride from Lullingstone to Trottiscliffe was a mite breezy but no real rain until the return, Joining me were Di,Ken Dean, Linda Kemp, Brian Weekes, David Collier, Cliff Bell, Rosemary, Peter Woods and our back marker Eric O’Connor. David, Cliff and Emrys left us on route the rest made it to the usual efficiency at The George.
Paul mcateer
posted this comment on March 6, 2019On my ride today 6/3/19 were Chris Brett, Chris Brading,Dave Sims who left us at Junction of Exedown and Pilgrims way. Mike Cleary,Mike Yeo who left us at Crouch, Mike Wakefield,Richard Bush,Steve Danils and myself Paul McAteer.My route was up the Nats valley past what was Woodlands golf club. Then up past the Rising Sun(now closed) down and along the Pilgrims way turning right and proceeding towards Ightham village. Turning left from the village at Mill lane and on then to Crouch and windmill lane Wrotham heath A20 and then left past the traffic lights to arrive at the George Totisclif.
Steve Birkin
posted this comment on March 2, 2019“A” ride to Kemsing !st March. 6 started, me, Chris Simms, Ray Hardinge, Bob Craig, Dave Dudman and Ron Castle. We had a choice of routes, the one devised by Chris involved Toys Hill and Baileys so mine was chosen. Ray and Bob peeled off before the finish. Although the route didn’t have the big hills it was still quite testing and was 28 miles in length. The pub in Kemsing was friendly and good value. A short ride home. A good day for riding with no rain and cool temperatures.
Paul Godfrey
posted this comment on March 1, 2019The West Kent Tri Vets 100 mile ride takes place on 14 July. Based at the Village Hall Golden Green it is a flat ride with good support and refreshments. A number of Meridians took part last time and had a really good day. Anyone interested should use this link https://www.cyclinguk.org/event/west-kent-ctc-tri-vets and send an email to Rob Seall. Make sure you let him know that you would like to be with other Meridian riders.
Peter Hawker
posted this comment on March 4, 2019Paul,
I can confirm that the TriVets 100 is great fun – well supported.
I have a medal for my participation in 1992.I did it several times thereafter and would love to have another go,
but I must regretfully decline – my battery doesn’t have the required durability.
Ken Dean
posted this comment on February 7, 2019New Runs Library
Paul Godfrey and I have developed a new Runs Library facility. This enables members to
1. Display and download rides that are stored in the library
2. Upload your own rides to the library for the benefit of other club members.
Rides are classified by ‘Group’ (eg. Prems, A2 etc) and by type (eg. Car assiosted, Holland etc)
Have a look and see what you think – it’s shown on the top menu.