The weather today was fair with cloud clearing to sun by the afternoon and temperatures up to 15C. I was the leader and I was joined at Chichester Cross by Sam, Jeff, , Rex and Russell so 5 out in all.

We headed out via the Centurion Way, West Stoke and Funtington. Then it was lanes over to Rowlands Castle and Horndean and on to The Garden Centre Cafe Then it was on lanes via Rowlands Castle to stop for elevenses at Horndean Garden Centre Cafe.

Then it was onwards via lanes towards Cathrington and then a very quiet lane running to the north of Denmead. Then it was down to Hambledon and up a very sharp hill 18% where we started being overtaken by riders on the Hampshire Hilly 100 Sportive’ A few though were struggling with their too high gears. Further on their route took them on  a longer loop so when we rejoined their route near Soberton I am sure some had to overtake us again. We stopped for lunch at the Shoe Exton with its garden adjoining the River Meon.

Having arrived for lunch at 12.00 we left soon after 1.00 and as we cycled a hill out of the village we saw Chris Dart coming towards us to meet us for lunch. He decided though to continue to stop for lunch. We continued on a very quiet lane south of Old Winchester Hill and climbed up between trees to Westend Down.

Then it was more lanes via Chidden and on past the Bat and Ball and the location of the first ever Cricket Match. Then down to Clanfield and on via Chalton to Tea at Rowlands Castle. Just getting ready to leave were Arthur, Lynn, Avryl and Graham. They were accompanying Lynn on her first ride of her new Titanium Bike. There was a lot of chat over tea on the popular topic of bikes.

We headed back to Chichester via Westbourne and Woodmancote passing on a lane large amounts of wild garlic on the verge  just coming into full smell. Mileage from and back to Chichester was 53. My mileage from Pagham was 64.

There follows a few pictures from the last weekends Isle of Wight weekend. The first one was on the Round the Island Randonnee. Sam is seen climbing up Blackgang Hill as we rode into the very low cloud base. 69 miles that day and 6000 feet of climb.

The next picture was taken as we cycled back from Ventnor on the Isle of Wight on Monday and was the first time I have seen a red squirrel. We had stopped for elevenses at the Garlic Farm Cafe, near Newchurch. The cafe had set up a box near the terrace containing nuts. 2 red squirrels lived in a nearby tree and took it in turns to get to the box, open the door and grab a nut.

The last picture was taken in London The part on the left started out life as a straight shot straight up of the much photographed Northern and Shell Building on Lower Thames Street, in London. This is also locally known as the Rubik Cube Building and is ideal for this kind of treatment. It was then flipped and both parts copied into a new image and combined. A shot of an edited star scene I had taken earlier was copied into the middle.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/17169049567/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:14 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather for the ride today was a lot better than expected. There was a little drizzle on the way up to Chichester but after that the rest of the day was dry though cloudy with a light northerly wind.

I was the leader and I was joined at Chichester Cross by Sam, Paul and Jeff so 4 out on the ride today. We also saw Rex but he went home to get dry after being soaked en route from a heavy shower (more rain out east) Chris who stopped off before going bell ringing had experienced the same thing.

We headed out up the Centurion Way and then on via West Stoke and Funtington encountering many Bluebells on the way and indeed all day. We continued via Rackham and then lanes across to Rowland Castle. Then up the lane towards Horndean before turning off on a quiet lane which led us to a descent through woods to the Chalton lane. After a climb up to the bridge over the A3 we went on to the Queen Elizabeth Country Park Cafe for elevenses. Our arrival coincided with a big group from Alton Cycling Club.

Our ride next took us up to Butser Hill from the relatively gentle side. The views were missing due to low cloud. We descended on the steep side and then lanes via  Ramsdean and Stroud. We took a lane for Steep ignoring the Road Closed Sign and luckily we got through OK. I stopped of at Steep Churchyard to have my picnic while the others continued to the Pub. My picnic was enjoyed on a bench surrounded by Bluebells.

I continued to join the others at The Harrow Inn which is also in a very pleasant rural location.

After lunch we headed back 0n lanes via Sheet. Then it was on to the B-Road in the Harting direction but turning off before then to take the lane via Ditcham Park School which has some beautiful views on an out of the way route with little traffic.

Then it was on via Finchdean to stop for tea at Rowlands Castle.

We returned to Chichester via Westbourne and Woodmancote. Mileage from and back to Chichester was 51. My mileage from Pagham was 64.

On Monday I went to London and visited the Sky Garden at the top of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper in the City. Admission is free subject to pre-booking online. Pictures were mainly of the Architecture rather than the gardens. The first image shows the very top floor which most visitors seem to miss.

For a larger image and more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/17033742818/in/photostream/

The second image shows the view looking down on the bar and balcony viewing area. Both images were taken with a fisheye lens.

For a larger image and more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16632532773/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 18:12 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

I led 15 out on today's ride -  Deb, Michelle, Dave, David, Julian, Alan, Liz, Liz (2), Clair, Nicola, new riders June and Alan (2), and Ann & Roy who, having been regular riders with us 10 or so years ago, have  dusted off  their bikes again!

 It was good cycling weather, bright and sunny with light SW winds, and although light rain was forecast for the afternoon, this did not appear until we reached the outskirts of Bognor on the return ride, and then it ias literally a few drops which did not trouble us greatly, so i think its fair to say it was another dry one for us.
 
Having established that Denman's shuts at 4pm, with last orders in the Cafe 3.30pm, we set of on a reasonably direct route, over Highfield Bridge, skirting North Bersted on the back roads and then past the thatched cottages in Shripney Lane, crossing the ugly scar that is the Bognor Northern Relief Road, where it severs this picturesque old lane.
 
A short cut through old Shripney brought us out onto the main A29, for a mile of main road before turning off into Hook Lane at Woodgate.    The A29 was in fact reasonably free of traffic and the cars that came across us didn't seem too confident about passing 15 cyclists all in single file, so this short sprint was incident free.

Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 22:02 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

Another sunny Sunday today with temperatures up to 12C. The only problem was a chilly and strong NE wind. It was more north than east so we battled against it on the way out.

Sam was the leader and he was joined at Chichester Cross by myself (Edwin) Paul, Jeff, Mark and Rex so 6 out on the ride.

Sam led us out of Chichester up the Centurion Way and then lanes past the solar farm and up towards Mid Lavant.

The it was on via West Stoke and the rolling lane to Funtington with bluebells spotted en route. After a short climb we descended to Racton and then the B-Road up the valley via West Marden to stop for elevenses at Compton. We arrived soon after 10.00 and bagged a table in the sunshine before other cycling groups started arriving.

Next it was the lane over Compton Down cutting across towards Ibsworth starting with a short climb.

As we descended I spotted a herd of about 10 deer running in the field. They were hemmed in between the road and a line of fenced trees running parallel  so they ended up  running alongside us. They were trying to run away from us but we were descending at about 25mph so they ended up racing alongside us. First time I raced deer!! Sorry, not a great picture, I aimed the camera in about the right direct with the screen invisible from the sun and trying to look where I was going.

At the bottom of the hill I turned off to leave the group. After a bad cold all week I did not want to push it with too long a ride. The others continued with a climb through the woods of Buriton Hill and then lanes to East Meon for lunch. I headed back via Rowlands Castle, Westbourne and Woodmancote. I stopped at 12.00 for a picnic lunch on a bench by Chichester Cathedral. My mileage for the day from Pagham was 41.

Sam reports on the route home that after discussion it was from East Meon back to and up Buriton. Mark & Paul unfamiliar with Chalton Hill so were introduced to the joys. On to Rowlands for a tea stop & then Home the usual way. 48.5 Miles in total Cross to Cross.

My latest pictures to be processed are first one at the Lloyds Building with the light trails of one of the external elevators.

http://edwinjonesphotography.com/blog/2015/4/3-2-1-elevator-lift-off

The next one was taken at Clapham Underground station which is one of the few with a central platform so I was able to catch 2 trains moving at once.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 16:00 BST

Updated: Monday, 20 April 2015 09:00 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather was good today with sunny skies and temperatures up to 15C inland and 12C on the coast. The only downside was a very strong SW wind to battle into on the way home. I was the leader and I was joined by Sam and Paul at the start at Walberton Pond.

We headed out on the usual route on lanes via Madehurst. Then it was a fast descent down Houghton Hill and on to lanes via Amberley and Rackham.

We continued on lanes to stop for elevenses at Wiggonholt RSPB Cafe.

We headed out together and gathered at the top of the freewheel hill. There were the 3 of us from Bognor Chichester. 5 from Arun Adur and 6 from Horsham Crawley.

I took a fair few pictures and this one is of Sam our Groups downhiller extraordinaire riding to overall first place.

Paul didn’t get anywhere being far too light (why he goes up hills so fast)

We gathered afterwards and the final result was Sam first and Dave Fox second. First lady was Ann Hall and second lady was Corinne Pitts both of Horsham Crawley.

We headed back via Broadford Bridge and a climb up the old freewheel hill to West Chiltington. We returned via stop for tea at Wiggonholt where Sam helped Paul to fix a bolt.

Then it was on via Coldwaltham and Coates to climb Duncton Hill. Sam and Paul headed home via Singleton while I headed back via Eartham and Aldingbourne. Mileage from and back to Walberton would have been about 57. My mileage from Pagham was 73.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:07 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather today was much improved over last Sunday with temperatures up to 10C, light winds and the occasional glimpse of the Sun. I was the leader and I was joined at Chichester Cross by Sam, Paul, David and Rex. We were later joined at lunch by Graham Young so 6 out during the day. A cyclist from another group volunteered to take a picture of us at the start.

We headed out via the Centurion Way, West Stoke and Funtington. Then it was the B-Road up via West Marden to Compton where we were looking forward to a stop for hot drinks. As we arrived we saw the closed sign up. They had opened for a few hours for papers only. Anybody would think it was Easter Sunday! All garden centres and their cafes have to close on Easter Sunday so there were not a lot of choices. We took a rest outside anyway and as Sam had a streaming cold he decided to head home from there.

The rest of us continued up the hill and down to Harting. Then it was on a lane via Elsted and Elsted Marsh to Stedham. It was north from there on a lane I have not used for many years up a long hill via Redford. That is a few houses and a garage with pumps looking to date back pre-war. Then it was down and more lanes to Fernhurst and lunch at the Red Lion. Due to the lack of an elevenses stop and a fairly brisk pace we arrived at the Pub at 11.50, Horsham Section quality!

As we were about to leave we were joined by Graham Young who had ridden up to meet up with his cousin Sam with whom he was not best pleased! Graham rode back with us as far as tea.

In the afternoon we rode on lanes via Lickfold. Lodsworth and Selham. Then it was on to Cocking where we stopped for tea at the open Moonlight Cafe though we were the only customers, perhaps everybody expected it would be closed. Then it was on up Cocking Hill and down to Singleton where Rex turned off to head back home to Littlehampton. A little further on Paul turned off to head back to Selsey. David and I returned via the Centurion Way where David got a front wheel puncture though it was soon repaired.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was 55. My mileage from Pagham was 66.

My latest pictures to be processed are first an image taken at Whiteleys Shoppping Centre which is in Bayswater west of Paddington.

For a larger picture and more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16787885748/in/photostream/

Next another spiral staircase, this one converted to Mono which I thought looked better

For a larger picture and more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16819542868/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 19:04 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather today was quite poor, almost as bad as forecast. The only up side was that instead of heavy rain we got drizzle with some light rain though with very strong winds as forecast. Still 3 of us went out for a bike ride from Walberton Pond, myself, Sam and Paul.

Those of you who are paying attention may have noticed that the ride today was scheduled to go to Dial Post, way north of Worthing off the A24, so how did we end up at Midhurst instead, a bit off course? We made a mutual decision to avoid going a long way east and have a long way to get back into a howling westerly gale. Instead we headed to Petworth for elevenses and then Midhurst for lunch.

The first part of the day was fine with a strong tailwind so we hardly noticed light rain. We headed out  via the Madehurst Lane and then from Whiteways a fast descent of Bury Hill. Then it was lanes via West Burton towards Coates and on via Shopham Bridge to stop for elevenses at Tiffins Petworth.

Then it was on lanes via Burton Mill Pond and across the main road to take lanes via Duncton Common, Selham and South Ambersham. Now we were heading into the wind though with the benefit of trees and high hedges to tone down the strength of the wind. We stopped for lunch at Gartons Coffee House in the Old Town Hall, Midhurst. Very fast service and reasonable prices, worth a visit. I managed to get the other 2 to smile despite the wind and rain.

The return was south into the wind and a bit more rain on a lane via Bepton to Cocking, up the hill and down to Singleton. We took the Centurion Way down to Chichester with the top end being quite reasonable to ride despite the rain.

If we had returned to Walberton Pond which we didn’t mileage would have been about 47. We all did at least that though having ridden out there before the start. My mileage from Pagham was 60.

I have processed 2 pictures in the last week from trips to London. The first is an unusual viewpoint of Westminster Underground Station which I call Lines to the Saucer.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16695754387/in/photostream/

The next one is traffic trails taken on London Bridge, 3 second exposure.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16933155121/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 18:42 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather forecast for today wasn't very good, but it did indicate there wouldn't be any rain during this afternoons ride. Dull and windy it may have been,  but you couldn't fault the forecast as no rain actually fell. CycleBognor's "no-rain" guarantee held!

 Considering the overcast and windy conditions, it was a good turnout with 9 of us at the start point. I led Steve, Carol, Liz, Bob, Clair, Dave, Nicola and new rider Rhonda out through the back streets of Bognor, to the new estate at Felpham, where we took the cycletrack to Barnham. From there it was Walberton and a brief stop.

Then our way was blocked by what appear to be emergency roadworks completely blocking the street. I'm not sure how the buses got through, but there was just enough room for us to walk the bikes along a very narrow pavement and carry on.

Our route continued through Binsted and then beyond the tarmac and past the Madonna pond to rejoin the road on the other side of Binsted Woods, where we took the cut through to Torton Hill, dropping down to meet the A27 at the Ford Road roundabout. Then it was 200 yards of pavement, under the bridge to Fitzalan Road, and into Arundel Town Centre. A slight change of venue followed, as we were directed to Rounds Cafe, which made for a very pleasant stop.

 Most of the outward route had been with the wind, and but the return meant we would be against the wind nearly all the way, and not much shelter from trees. So we took a shorter route back via Ford station and Yapton, then via Bilsham to Middleton & Felpham.  The wind was gusting up quite a bit, so it was slow going. Rhonda peeled off at Yapton to return home, the rest of us soldiered on back to Bognor.

 The round trip mileage from and back to Bognor library was 23.2, a little longer than our normal Saturday afternoon rides.  I had clocked up almost 30 by the time i got home.

Graham.

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

There were 2 rides today, a short morning only ride and a long ride to Hipley. This is the report on the Hipley ride.

The weather was pleasant and sunny all day with temperatures up to 10C. The only problem was a cold NE wind.

Sam was the leader and he was joined at Chichester Cross by myself, Jeff and newcomer Paul on his second ride with us.

We headed out on the South Coast Cycle Route via Woodmancote and Westbourne. Then it was on lanes via Rowlands Castle to stop for elevenses at Horndean Garden Centre Cafe. On the way out Sam discovered a Health and Safety issue as his front wheel disappeared down between some planks.

Then it was onwards via lanes towards Cathrington and then a very quiet lane running to the north of Denmead. Then it was on past the village of Worlds End (temps fate) to the Horse and Jockey pub at Hipley where we arrived at 11.30 and chatted in the Garden until they opened. When ordering we learned that the garden was closed for ordering food in case the Staff slipped on the grass. We were also not allowed to take our food out to the Garden ourselves because of “Health and Safety” (o dear!) They did though agree we could be served with food in the paved patio area.

The return route took us north on a beautiful quiet lane across rolling open downland via Hoe Gate. Then it was more lanes via Chidden and Hambledon to Clanfield where Jeff suffered a rear wheel puncture.

A co-operative effort got Jeff on the road again and we headed on down to Horndean and lanes across to Rowlands Castle for tea.

We headed back via Westbourne and lanes via Hambrook before joining the A259 for a fast return to Chichester.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was about 47. My mileage from Pagham was 58.

My latest picture to be processed is of the light trails of cars and buses at the junction by the Bank of England.

For a larger picture and more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16871113245/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:09 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

On a cloudy, chilly day, 11 cyclists gathered at Chichester Library for the Saturday ride to The Control Tower Cafe, Goodwood Aerodrome. Amongst the cyclists were Wendy, Nick and Youssef, who had cycled all the way from Southampton!

The group headed north, riding past the old Roman walls to come out at the top end of North Street, Chichester.  A route was then taken via the roads north of St Richard's Hospital, to emerge at the Homebase store.  Everyone then headed in an easterly direction via the old Roman road of Stane Street (also formerly the A27).  Halfway along, a turn was made left into Claypit Lane, passing the famous Rolls Royce Motor Works on the right.  From there, it was a short distance to the Aerodrome on the left.

(Thanks to Carol for the picture)

Having spent a happy time imbibing tea and cake, some of the group decided to climb up to the balcony of the cafe to watch the cars whizzing round the motor circuit.  At this point, Alan & Liz arrived and the group from Southampton left to continue on their 70 mile round trip!

The route back to Chichester was towards East Lavant, turning off down Fordwater Road on the left, to arrive back in the Summersdale end of town.

Philippa

Posted by RideLeader at 15:01 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather today was cold at about 6C with a NW wind. The forecast was cloudy with some showers. It didn’t start on message with bright sunshine at the start. It soon clouded over though. It stayed mainly dry except for bits of isolated light drizzle near Rake and on the way back at Cocking.

I was the leader and I was joined at the start at Chichester Cross by just Sam and newcomer Paul who lives in Selsey.

We headed out on the Centurion Way and  then lanes via West Stoke and Funtington. Then it was on via Racton and West Marden to an early 10.00 elevenses at Compton. It was just as well we were early as soon after we got our seats large numbers of other cyclists arrived in small groups from different clubs. We were joined by former member Graham Young and Brian Hall both of Bognor Regis Cycling Club.

After elevenses the real climbing started with first the long climb to Harting and then after lanes via Nyewood and Rogate the long climb north from Rogate. We again got to lunch at Rake Garden Centre early just before 12.00. Rake Garden Centre had been chosen a while ago as part of a Mothers Day avoidance strategy. This worked as we were there before anybody else and they only had a few tables reserved.

The return route took in some really quiet out of the way lanes via Milland and Stedham. Then it was lanes via Bepton to Cocking and a stop for tea at the Pub so Sam could recuperate before tackling Cocking Hill.

After the hill we had a long descent to Singleton and West Dean and on to the Centurion Way. The top end of this is now fully dried out and fine for cycling.

Mileage for the day from and back to Chichester was just under 45, for a  change almost spot on the estimate in the Rides List. My mileage from and back to Pagham was 57.

My latest pictures to be processed are first a picture taken from the rear window of a DLR train in a tunnel.

For more details see http://edwinjonesphotography.com/blog/2015/3/dlr-warp-speed

Second is a picture of a Spiral Staircase at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich.

 For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16180702584/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 18:11 BST

Updated: Sunday, 15 March 2015 18:16 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather today was fairly mild up to 12C though cloudy with a few sunny spells. It stayed dry despite forecasts of a little rain in the afternoon..

Sam was the leader and he was joined at Chichester Cross by myself, Jeff, Roger and Mark so 5 out on the day

We headed out up North Street and then a fast training type pace up the main road via Singleton and Cocking before turning off on a lane via Heyshott Green and Lavington Common to the Petworth Road. After a brief spell on this we took another lane via Burton Mill Pond. Then it was on via Shopham Bridge and lanes to Petworth for a welcome elevenses.

Next it was north from Petworth before turning off onto lanes via Balls Cross and Kirdford to our lunch stop at The Old Mill Cafe, Wisborough Green.

The return route took us back to Kirdford and a long gradual climb to Flexham Park and the down to Byworth. Then it was back via Shopham Bridge and a lane to Barlavington. We stopped at the base of Duncton Hill for a break. Mark discovered that he had forgotten to drink a bottle of beer he brought to have with his picnic lunch. Sam did not have it, that was set up for the camera, Mark had to cart it back with him.

After climbing up Duncton we had a gradual downhill. Most of the group turned right at Upwaltham to head back to Chichester via East Dean and Singleton. I took a more direct route home via Eartham, Aldingbourne village and Colworth.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was about 52. My mileage from Pagham was 64.

My latest picture to be processed was one of the Lloyds Building, processed in Black and White for a dark skies look.

For more details see http://edwinjonesphotography.com/blog/2015/3/metropolis-at-lloyds

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 19:19 BST

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather today was warmer than of late reaching 10C with most of the day sunny. Luckily the rain held off until about 5.00 when we were all home. There was a very strong westerly wind which we fought against on the way out but blew us home.

Arthur was the leader and he was joined at Chichester Cross by Lynn, Avryl, Sam, Russell, Bob, Jeff, Graham, Rex and myself so 10 out on the day.

We headed out on West Street and the lanes near West Ashling where there was a brief stop to divest excess layers.

Then it was on via Woodmancote and Westbourne to a stop for elevenses at The Greenhouse Cafe, Emsworth.

Russell headed back after elevenses and the rest of us continued to Havant and turned off on the road and then path going down to the waterfront and along to the Hayling Bridge. When we crossed there a strong crosswind so it was just as well to have the cycle path. Then it was lanes round to North Hayling and lunch at Meadow Farm Nursery Cafe. This was the first time this one has been on the Rides List and we will certainly return. Sam needed to hold his stomach in before the photo was taken.

My latest picture is of a new Spiral Staircase opened a few days before my visit at The Wellcome Collection, Euston Road, London.

More details at https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16621471965/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 17:26 GMT

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

There were 2 rides today a morning only ride led by Arthur to East Wittering and a longer hillier ride scheduled to go to Steep nr Petersfield. The weather started sunny and frosty with some ice and went downhill from there to wind and rain by the afternoon and temperatures up to only 6C.

I was joined at Chichester Cross for the 9.00 start by Sam, Jeff and Mark.

To avoid any ice on the Centurion Way I headed out via North Street and then up the B-Road a ways before taking a lane up to West Stoke and quiet lanes to Funtington. We stopped there briefly for a hand warming stop (where did that bus get to!)

Then it was on over the hill to Racton and up the B-Road via West Marden to Compton where we stopped for elevenses in the welcome warmth of the Cafe. I had decided earlier to turn back at elevenses due to an eye infection. Jeff was going to take over and lead the others over the Downs. However having entered the Cafe in sunshine we came out to dark clouds and the first spots of rain. The others decided to join me in a morning only ride. The very light rain continued during our return though it later turned out to be localised to the area west of Chichester and was in advance of the main rain which arrived soon after 1.00

From just north of Compton we took a route over a short hill to Idsworth and the lanes via Finchdean to Rowlands Castle. Here Sam and Jeff diverted to the Cafe for a second coffee stop/early lunch. Mark and I headed on back to Chichester via Westbourne and Woodmancote.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was about 27. My mileage from Pagham was 40. I got home with 20 minutes to spare before the serious rain.

Earlier in the week on Tuesday I took the following picture of a Crocus at a small green at Aldwick. It was a bright sunny day like spring, didn’t last! The photo method used is called focus stacking with 20 pictures taken a different focus settings and combined together.

See more at my Photo Blog at http://edwinjonesphotography.com/blog/2015/2/february-spring-crocus-bloom

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 15:17 GMT

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

We met at Walberton Pond with Rex as the leader and he was joined by myself, Colin and Sam. It was a special day for Rex as it was his first ever Ride Lead. The weather was dry with clear skies to start on the coast but we got low cloud as we went over the Downs. This cleared to sunshine by after lunch. Temperatures were up to a pleasant 10C, almost spring like.

Rex led us over the Downs on the lane via Madehurst up to Whiteways. Then it was along the ridge on the A29 with misty views towards the Arun valley. Amberley could be seen in an isolated patch of sun. After a sharp descent of Bury Hill we took the lane via West Burton and then towards Bignor. As we rode a herd of Deer ran ahead of us in the distance at the foot of the Downs before joining another Herd. I tried taking a picture but they were too distant.

Then it was on via Bignor and Sutton and the lane via Shopham Bridge over the Rother to Petworth and a welcome stop for elevenses.

We returned via Shopham Bridge before turning off on the lane via Coates to Fittleworth. Then it was a short way on the main road to the Garden Centre Cafe at Stopham Bridge over the Arun for lunch.

The return was back to Fittleworth and then a stretch of the B-Road south before turning off on a lane and a sharp climb to West Burton.. Then it was over the main road and lanes via Bury to Houghton and down to the Riverside Cafe for tea.

The return was on the usual route via Houghton Hill. Rex provided us with a good pleasant route on a beautiful day. Mileage from and back to Walberton was about 35. My mileage from Pagham was  53.

My latest picture to be processed was of traffic and Bus Trails on Westminster Bridge looking south towards the London Eye.

For a larger picture and more details at

https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16454699496/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 18:09 GMT

Updated: Sunday, 15 February 2015 18:12 GMT

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

Today's weather forecast suggested light rain between about 2pm and 4pm - right about the time of our ride. However I set off with blue sky above, but by the time I arrived in Chichester, it looked decidedly black.

 There were 11 of us at the start - Richard, Bill, Steve, Carol, Graham, Michelle, Dave, Julian, Alan, Liz, and brand new rider Hilary.

 Richard led us from the City Centre, through West Street and down to Appledram Lane where we joined Salterns Way. The off road section was a welcome relief, as there seemed to be an unusually large  number of cars about, all anxious to shave a few seconds from their journey time trying to get past our group at awkward spots.

 We continued down Salterns Way, which was puddly from earlier rain but perfectly rideable. When we got down to Birdham Pool the rain started. This changed from light rain to steady as we crossed Chichester Canal, and then  to heavy as we passed Birdham Church. However a few hundred yards later we emerged onto the main road where it was a short sprint up Birdham Straight to Russell’s Garden Centre, and a chance to stay dry.

 After suitable refreshments, blue sky had returned and we set off back  more or less the way we came, but with a different circuit round Birdham and riding on Appledram Lane instead of the track.

 Carol & Steve left us early to head back to Bognor, whilst the rest of us continued back into Chichester. Cloud cover returned, but fortunately we made it back in the dry.

 My mileage for the afternoon was just shy of 20; a round trip from, and back to, Chichester Library would have been about 13.

 Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 GMT

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather today started cold but with sunshine all day temperatures rose to a spring like 11C. Harvey was the leader and he was joined at Chichester Cross by myself, Sam, Russell, Rex, Bob, Richard, Avryl, Arthur and Lynn so 10 out on the day.

For a change we headed up North Street and up the B-Road from Northgate. Then it was lanes to West Stoke and an early elevenses stop at the Fox & Hounds, Funtington which is open for coffees on Sunday morning. The warmth inside soon removed the early morning chill. Richard headed back after elevenses.

We headed on up the hill to Racton and then the B-Road towards West Marden but turned off before that for a short but steep climb through the trees. Then it was on via Forestside and a steep descent to Deanlane End. Then a short way on to lunch at Rowlands Castle.

The return was on lanes via Westbourne and Woodmancote and a stop for tea at Fishbourne Roman Palace Cafe.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was 24. My mileage from Pagham was 37.

My latest picture to be processed was taken at London Bridge Underground Station. I processed it to mono and increased the shininess for a futuristic feel.

More details at https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16433440672/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 17:37 GMT

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

The weather today was very cold with a strong NW wind and mix of sun and cloud. Luckily though it had stayed a few degrees above freezing overnight so there was no ice to worry about.

I was the leader and I was joined at Chichester Cross at 9.00 by Colin and Andrew.

We headed out on West Street and then up Centurion Way. As we took to the wilds north of Chichester remnants of yesterday’s snow could be seen in occasional patches. It is reliably reported that areas like Chichester, Barnham and Littlehampton had snow yesterday morning but sunny Bognor stayed clear of it.

We continued on lanes via West Stoke and Funtington. Then it was up the valley on the B.Road via West Marden  to a stop for elevenses and to warm up at Compton Tea Rooms.

Then it was the long climb up Harting Hill before a sharp descent to Harting Village. At this point we finally turned east. For me from Pagham it had been 20 miles to Harting all of it riding directly in to a 20mph NW and very cold headwind!

We next headed east via Elsted and Elsted Marsh to the main A272 which we crossed and turned on to more lanes via Stedham and Woolbeding to Midhurst. Lunch was down as choose cafe on the day. We settled on Garton’s Coffee House located in the Old Town Hall and Jail. The cells are now used to store Wine. Large portions and a good range of light bites at reasonable prices. A future regular methinks.

We headed back on the lane via Bepton and then up Cocking Hill. Then it was Singleton, Lavant and Tangmere and back across the airfield. Mileage from and back to Chichester would have been about 43. My mileage from Pagham was 54.

Strava Map from Andrew

My latest picture to be processed was taken a few weeks ago on Westminster Bridge and is a composite of 2 pictures with Bus light trails.

A larger picture and more details at https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/16368575356/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 17:33 GMT

Updated: Sunday, 1 February 2015 18:19 GMT

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

Nonetheless 9 hardy cyclists set off from the library and headed straight into that bitter head wind.

Steve, Julian, Alan, Dave, Graham, Michelle, Deb, Nicola, and new rider Lea set out along Bognor's back streets and across  Aldwick Green to the Lower Bognor Road.  Then it was an amble across the usual farm lanes via Butterlees Farm. I noticed several spots where repairs had been carried out on the worst of the broken concrete roads, so the trail was a little smoother, the downside being that recent agricultural activity had made it a bit muddy - but perfectly rideable.

We reached Manor Nursery in about an hour and headed straight for the Palm House Restaurant, where hot drinks - and a late lunch for some - were the order of the day.

For our route back to Bognor we completed a circular ride by taking Merston Lane through the village, then cycle track to the Colworth loop, where the flood water across the road was as deep as usual. The temperature was just as cold on the return but the tail wind made cycling a lot more pleasant.

A brief  - and probably never to be repeated - exploratory trip up the Northern Relief Road  followed, using the narrow painted margin that may or may not be a cycle lane. We turned at Shripney Lane, a detour only available to cyclists or pedestrians, and made our way back to town via North Bersted Street and Highfield Bridge, dropping people off along the way.

Round trip mileage from Bognor library was about 13.25 - I'd done just shy of 20 by the time I got home.

Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 21:28 GMT

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink

16 people turned up for Arthur’s birthday ride from Chichester to Emsworth. The ride was our first trial of a morning only ride and attracted a few people new to Sunday rides, joining us from the Cycle Bognor group. We even had a tandem join us.  And despite the ride being a short one, some people managed an astonishing three coffee stops.

We headed west out of Chichester under the A27 via Clay Lane.

We added an additional stop in at Woodmancote after some mechanical issues (a slipping chain) split the group. After the stop we cycled the few miles on to Emsworth for coffee stop two.

On the way back we came straight down the cycle path along the A259. Some stopped off in Chichester Cathedral for another coffee. Over coffee in Emsworth I had said that one of the things I didn’t know how to repair was a broken chain. Just outside Bognor my chain broke and I had to walk the last mile.

The total distance to and from Chichester was around 19 miles.

The route (including my loop to Bognor) is here

David

Posted by RideLeader at 09:27 GMT

Updated: Monday, 26 January 2015 09:28 GMT

Share This Post

Post Comment | Permalink