The weather today was mainly cloudy in the morning with a little very light rain in the afternoon clearing to sunshine.

Arthur was the leader and we met for Elevenses at The Old Bakehouse Cafe, Eling near Totton. Arthur and Lynn and Martin Hines went there by car. I went by train to Southampton Station where I was met by Graham who lives close by. We took back streets and cyclepaths for the 5 mile ride to Eling. We got to the Cafe 20 minutes early but managed to arrive at the same time as the other 3.

Eling is ideally situated on the edge of countryside with back roads leading to the New Forest.. There were a lot of cyclists riding in the other direction taking part in a Sportive called the New Forest Rattler. There were about 600 entrants. One was held up briefly by a wandering pony enjoying the road.

We continued to Beaulieu for a lunch stop with some quite large portions.

As we left we were chased by some very deep black clouds. In the event though the rain, at least in this area, was very light and short lived, hardly enough to wet the roads. We stopped for tea at Butlers Hard Cafe and by the time we left the sun was breaking through.

We returned on a similar route with more wandering ponies spotted on the way back.

We returned to Eling for a second tea break. I would estimate that certainly for those coming by car the time in cafes was well in excess of the time spent cycling. I gave a miss to the second tea to cycle back to Southampton for the train to Chichester.

The ride was 26 miles. My mileage with the addition of rides to and from stations was 45.

My latest picture to be uploaded is one of a new underground tunnel from Kings Cross opened in June which has LED coloured moving lights in the wall creating a rainbow look.

For a larger picture and more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14707679719/in/photostream/

Early Wednesday morning the total worldwide photo views of my pictures on Flickr rolled over to One million.

For more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14884977916/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:40 BST

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OK, OK it was an ex hurricane and by the time it got to us it was a low pressure system but from all the publicity it might as well have been a Hurricane.

I was leading the ride today from Chichester to Portchester and when I left home at Pagham it was dry and a tailwind. Sam was the only other one to turn up, everybody else was more sensible and stayed at home.

The first plan was to get as far as Rowlands Castle for an early elevenses and probably come home from there. I took a route out via the Centurion Way, then on the lane past the Solar Farm and up to West Stoke. As we rode on the lane between West Stoke and Funtington the heavens opened and a stop under a tree was called for.

After discussion we decided to make a dash for Funtington and the village shop which does coffees. However it turned out the Pub was open for breakfasts and hot drinks so we went there instead to drip on the floor and watch the BBC News about Hurricane Bertha. It will be noted from the weather radar that it was a little wet at this time of the morning round Chichester.

When it eased off we decided to head home to dry out. I took a route via Watery Lane (appropriate) West Ashling and back to Chichester. Mileage from and back to Chichester was 14 and my mileage from Pagham was 26.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 14:27 BST

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Only 5 people on the ride today - Graham, Julian, Clair, Liz, and Alan. The weather was bright sunshine with no prospect of rain, but there was a strong South Westerly wind, gusting to 30mph, and this may have been offputting to some, knowing that a return from Littlehampton would be against the wind.

 We set off around the usual back streets to Felpham, then via the Arun Leisure Centre, the Roundle, and the new Estate to Flansham. Then up the cycle path to Barnham where we stopped to check progress on the reconstruction of one of the swivel bridges across the long disused Portsmouth-Arundel Canal.

 From Barnham we proceeded to Yapton and then at Burndell we took a route across Ford Airfield to the Rudford Industrial Estate, emerging near Climping Church. Then a short sprint via the cycle track to Bridge Road and we crossed the Arun on the old footbridge, following the River to the Look-Sea Centre. There we met John Maxim, who had made his own way there and was just leaving.

Our return route was via Climping School, The Street, then a short stretch of main road before diverting across fields to Grevatts Bridge and the route through Ancton Wood to Elmer. The woods make for delightful ride (pic) and the undergrowth had been substantially cut back since wec last came this way, making it a very pleasant detour.

 From Elmer it was a straight route back to Bognor, via Felpham. We avoided the promenade due to the strong wind and found the inland route made much more comfortable cycling.

 The mileage clocked from, and back to, the start point, was 18.8

 Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

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Julian has bribed me to send a report in on his behalf

Julian led this ride which saw 10 out tonight - Graham, David, Claire, Angela, Michelle, Russ and Tony met Julian at the start point with John meeting us along the way and Edwin coming direct to the pub from his time trialling.

Our route took us through Felpham and then along the prom through Bognor where Claire pulled up with a puncture. She decided to experiment with the application of some gunk puncture sealant which from previous experience of seeing it used, appears to be extremely effective although it ruins the inner tube. Certainly it sealed her puncture and re-inflated the tyre very quickly. It is sold as a temporary repair although i know of one person who has been riding around on a gunk filled tube for over 2 years which still remains solid and giving value for money. Claire completed the whole ride without any problem so it remains to be seen when she will decide to get the tyre properly repaired.

Having cycled the length of the prom we headed through Aldwick and Barrack Lane, a detour through the Bay Estate and then to Summer Lane at Nyetimber where it was across our regular off-road route to South Runcton.

Some lovely quiet lanes followed with a background of glorious sunset before we reached Runcton Mill and the Walnut Tree pub.

After a leisurely drinks stop we returned to Bognor via Lagness along the Lower Road.

 My mileage for the evening was 17.8

 Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

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For the ride today the weather was pleasant sunny and warm at about 23C though quite windy.

I was the leader and I was joined at Chichester Cross by Sam, Chris and Keith. We met up with Gill at elevenses and Colin and Rex were at lunch so 7 out altogether at some time.

The route out took us via Westhampnett and Waterbeach and then the climb over the Downs on the lane to Pillygreen. Then along the ridge with views to the sea via Selhurst Park. Then along the main road and down Duncton Hill with a turn off at the bottom to take lanes via Barlavington and Coates to Fittleworth. Then a short stretch of the main road to stop for elevenses at Pulborough Garden Centre at Stopham Bridge.

After a pleasant break made longer by the queue to be served we headed off again, Gill and Keith headed back and the rest of us took lanes north from Pulborough via Codmore and then a track crossing the Arun  and up to Wisborough Green where we met members of Arun Adur and Horsham Crawley for the DA Picnic.

Chris headed south towards Littlehampton so it was just Sam and I to head back via Kirdford, Byworth, Burton Mill, Selham and Heyshott to Cocking for a tea stop at The Moonlight Cafe.

We both indulged in Ice Creams which turned out to be made by Chalder Farm which is on the track route to Sidlesham and the cows producing the ice cream are often seen in the field the track (cycle route 88) crosses. Note the notice at the bottom “WARNING – This product exploits human weakness” very true but still delicious and unlike some people we had expended a lot of calories, that’s my excuse!

We continued back via Cocking Hill, the main road to Singleton and then the Centurion Way path to Chichester. Mileage from and back to Chichester was 55. My mileage from Pagham was 67.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 22:11 BST

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The weather today was mainly dry with light cloud with the sun intermittently shining through and clearer in the afternoon. Temperatures were cooler than of late reaching 24C.

There were 2 rides today, a short ride to Prinsted and this long summer ride to Forest Green, near Leith Hill Surrey led by Colin and starting at 8.00 at Chichester Cross. Colin was joined by myself, Sam, Rex and Chris.

We headed out via Westhampnett and then up the quiet lane to the top of the Downs at Pillygreen before descending to East Dean. After riding along the valley lane we took the main road to descend Duncton Hill and then quiet back lanes via Barlavington and Shopham.

Next it was on via Byworth and a climb on a lane via Brinksole before descending to the village shop cafe at Kirdford  for a coffee stop at 10.00 with some of us going for their bacon sandwiches.

I had decided before leaving home that I wanted a moderate distance today (50 not 90 miles) so I headed back from Kirdford. The others continued north via Loxwood headed for the Parrot Inn, Forest Green where they were due to meet up with Arun Adur Group.

(Colin Reports - Routed up through Lynwick Street , Cox Green, Weare Street , Capel and then UP to the Leith Hill perambulatory road and heading west before dropping down to Forest Green. Arrived about 12.50. Arun Adur arrived about 13.05.

Returned via Ewhurst, Baynards, Tismans Common, Loxwood, Kirdford for tea, Balls Cross, Petworth, Shopham Bridge , Duncton Hill, Eartham, and Barnham.

Chris peeled off down the Downs Link at Baynards to Christ’s Hospital and Sam peeled off after Duncton down to East Dean and Singleton.

Arun Adur comprised Richard Boulton, Dave Fox and one other.

About 86 miles for Sam and me, slightly more for Rex)

My latest pictures to be processed are below. The first one is corn flowers taken at Lordington using focus stacking (different images at different focus are combined to get all the flower in focus.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14520173139/in/photostream/

The next picture was taken at a wheat field near Pagham by a footpath. Fisheye lens was used, the camera placed in the field and then remotely triggered. Could call this “Mouse Eye View”

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14739501942/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 16:26 BST

Updated: Sunday, 27 July 2014 20:57 BST

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The weather today stayed warm with sunny spells in the afternoon and luckily storms thunder and lightning staying away for the day.

Today it was a long hilly ride westward with Sam as the leader. He was joined at Chichester Cross by myself, Colin and Jeff so 4 out on the day.

For a change Sam started the day with a fast paced flat ride along the A259 reaching Southbourne in 30 minutes. Then it was inland on lanes via Westbourne, Rowlands Castle and Finchdean. Then it was up Buriton Hill on the easier wooded south side. My compact camera in the low light under the tree produces a long shutter speed resulting in a motion feel in a picture taken riding along.

From Buriton it was quiet lanes west to East Meon where we stopped for elevenses at East Meon shop.

From East Meon the route was up a steep lane to the ridge road running from HMS Mercury to Old Winchester Hill.

Then we descended on more quiet lanes between downland wheat fields to Meaonstoke and Corehampton. After another climb it was a winding descent on aq beautiful lane to the tiny village of Dundridge and lunch at the Hampshire Bowman. Below Colin and Jeff looking out of a very flowery pub window.

Straight after lunch there was an appropriate steep climb getting to 16% on a quiet lane. Then it was on via Upper Swanmore , Swanmore and Soberton and quiet lanes to Hambledon. Here it was only 2.00 and too early for tea so Sam led us on more lanes to Horndean and then Rowlands Castle for tea.

We continued back to Chichester via Westbourne and Woodmancote.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was 60. My mileage from Pagham was 73.

A little over a week ago I took a ride with my Cameras to an Open day for Lordington Lavender neat Walderton which had some great photo ops with a Lavender field plus wild flowers.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14649605791/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 21:27 BST

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There were 2 rides today, a long ride to Chiddingfold and a short flat ride to Hayling Island. I opted for the shorter ride which was led by Arthur.

Despite the forecast of showers it ended up dry with a lot of pleasant sunshine.

At the start there was Arthur, Lynn, myself, Graham, Martin, Alan, Liz, Jan, Keith and newcomer Bob Birtwell on a Pashley. Chris was also at the start having missed the long ride by about 3 minutes but he decided on his own ride. As I forgot my camera the ride pictures today are thanks to Lynn’s Iphone.

We took the lanes via Wodmancote and Westbourne to stop for elevenses at Fintstones Cafe, Emsworth near the harbor. Alan and Liz headed back from here and we gained Linda and Zeffy.

Then it was on to Havant and a back road and track to a path following the line of Chichester Harbor to the bridge. Then it was across the bridge onto Hayling and the lanes via Nortney. Then down to South Hayling and a stop for lunch at the Coastguards Cafe.

The first part of the return ride was similar to the outbound journey. At the harbor path we came across some swans one of which took a nip at Martins shoe (sorry no action shot taken)

Then it was back to Flintones cafe for an ice cream stop where we queued up behind holiday makers.

Then it was a fast ride with a tailwind along the A259  cycle path to stop for tea at Fishbourne Roman Palace Cafe. Return mileage from and back to Chichester was 35. My mileage from Pagham was 47.

I took the next 2 pictures of the Tour de France on stage 1 from my viewpoint on Buttertubs Pass, Yorkshire on Saturday 5^th July..

The first image used photoshop editing to select and highlight with colour the Tour riders.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14419304410/in/photostream/

The next picture was looking down on the Tour riders as they were forced into a narrow passage where the climb was at 17%. A zoom effect in photoshop was used to concentrate attention on Cav and Condador and a very excited spectator.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14628044615/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 22:20 BST

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 Philippa led today’s Saturday ride from Chichester Library which was advertised to run to Wellies Cafe at West Stoke.

 However shortly before the start time Philippa discovered that due to a large private party, Wellies would be unable to accommodate us. So a quick examination of the map found an alternative destination, the Aerodrome cafe at Goodwood.

 It was a lovely sunny afternoon with temperature hovering around 22 degrees, and light wind. The fair weather brought 11 to the start point: Philippa, Alan, Julian, Graham, Liz, Debbie, Galya, Christine, Clair, Nicola, and new rider Karen.  

 We set off through Chichester City Centre to join Centurion Way, a route we would have taken in any event had we gone to Wellies. Then just before Lavant we took a shortcut through a farmyard to emerge at the East Lavant turning. Through East Lavant and then right took us onto the Lavant Straight. We then took Stocks Lane, which is a somewhat overgrown bridleway skirting the Goodwood perimeter.  None of us had been down this track for a considerable number of years - it looked like nobody else had either but in fact apart from one muddy patch the riding  was not too bad at all. Halfway down we came across two cyclists repairing a puncture but they didn't require assistance and fortunately the same fate didn't befall us as we all got through intact. [Pic is us just coming off the track back to civilization]

(Editors Note – last time I used that track there were 10 in the group and I was the only one not to get a puncture! – Edwin)

Emerging just south of the Rolls Royce roundabout it was a short sprint to Goodwood where we had to jump out of the way of two souped up sports cars charging out through the entrance tunnel.

We had a pleasant refreshment stop watching airplanes.

Our return route was northwards back to the Lavant Straight and then down Fordwater Lane, where the Lavant was in full flow, to Summersdale, then College Lane to Chichester.

We ended the ride at North Street. I cycled back to Bognor with Clair, Galya and Debbie. My mileage was 25.6.

Round trip from Chichester would have been about 11.

 Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

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A lovely evening today, dry, Clear and sunny, with the wind dropping making perfect riding conditions. 10 riders at the start point:  Julian, Graham, Steve, Carol, Harvey, Russ, Liz, Suzanne, and 2 new riders Nicola and Clair who we hope enjoyed themselves and we hope to see again soon. Dave met us at Aldwick making 11 out in total.

We took the promenade route to Fish Lane at Aldwick, then dropped into Barrack Lane, turning left at Stoney Stile Lane  to emerge eventually at Nyetimber, where we took one of our regular routes down Summer Lane and across the Pagham Rife to Bowley and south Runcton.

Most of this route will become officially recognised as part of National Cycle Route 2 if Sustrans lobbying is successful.  No shortage of midgies across the fields, but the ground was hard and not quite as lumpy as I've known it, so no-one had any problems negotiating it.

Then it was south through Fisher on waymarked Route 88, turning at Chalder Farm to briefly inspect the site of Chalder Station on the old Selsey tramway, before emerging on the main Selsey Road right next to the Anchor pub. Richard & Elizabeth were there to meet us, having made their own way from Chichester. This particular route probably has more off-road riding than any of our other routes, but the scenery and absence of any other road traffic at all between Pagham and Sidlesham more than makes up for it.
 
For the return route, we had a bit of a dilemma - whether to return by road or take the shortcut around Pagham Wall and the Harbour. It was on this route last year that Julian and his bike took an impromptu mud bath in the harbour. However it was quite a bit lighter tonight and after some discussions we decided the moon rising over the harbour was a sight not to be missed. So it was down Mill Lane and across tracks to Halseys Farm to reach Pagham Wall, which on this occasion was negotiated entirely without incident. We arrived back in Pagham before sundown.  Then it was through the Bay Estate back to Aldwick  and then back along the prom, with people peeling off along the way.
 
My mileage for the evening was 19.8.
 
Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

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The weather today was mainly sunny though with some cloud and dry. Temperatures reached about 20C.

Colin was the leader and he was joined by just myself and Rex for the 9.00am start at Walberton Pond. However Colin got a text from Anne to say she and Roger were at Chichester Cross, had they got it wrong? Yes and Colin texted to meet for elevenses at Sumners Pond, Barnes Green.

Colin, Rex and I headed out via Madehurst at Collins usual brisk pace and then on via Houghton and Amberley. We tood a little lane before Storrington going past the Gliding Club and came across 3 from Arun Adur heading out on their ride to Midhurst.

Then it was on a bridleway across the West Sussex Golf Club near West Chiltington with some sandy tracks which we walked. Then it was some beautiful out of the way lanes across to West Chiltington.

Colin took us though West Chiltington, down the old Freewheel Comp hill and on via lanes via Broadford Bridge and Conyhurst to stop for elevenses in the pleasant surroundings of Sumners Pond Cafe. At one point Colin and Rex were looking very studious and engrossed in technology.

Anne and Roger soon joined us after cutting across country via Duncton and Wisborough Green.

Colin then took us on a little loop to the east of Barnes Green on beautiful lanes via Southwater, Maplehurst and Partridge Green. Then it was a very quiet lane from Ashurst.

We soon arrived at The Old Barn Nursery Cafe with both having sandwiches first and then on to the Cafe for Coffee.

After lunch it was more quiet lanes south of Shipley and then down to Ashington. Then a lane with a steep climb up to Warminghurst Church and on to the edges of Storrington. We continued to ride through Pareham Park where we saw 2 deer, sorry too quick for me to get a picture.

Then it was on to Amberley to stop for tea at the village tearooms and stoking up with more calories from delicious cakes.

We spit up after tea with Colin and Rex taking the track to Arundel and the rest of us heading up Houghton Hill. By coincidence the Bognor Regis Cycling Club riders, the local time trial club came past on the hill on the way home from a 100 mile club ride to Box Hill and back.

On my mileage the distance from and back to Walberton Pond was 61. However the leader Colin did an extra loop via Arundel so his official mileage for the day would be about 65. My own mileage for the day from Pagham was 80.

On Wednesday evening I took the bike train assisted to Lancing and then went up to the Downs north of Sompting and Lancing to take pictures of a Poppy Field. This one was taken about an hour before sunset.

For more details and a bigger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14325568507/in/photostream/

Edwin.

Posted by RideLeader at 21:21 BST

Updated: Sunday, 29 June 2014 21:24 BST

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After a week of hot weather, the forecasters told us that it would break this evening, with heavy showers likely.

 Certainly that looked accurate in late afternoon when the clouds rolled in and spots of rain appeared.

It was very dull and threatening when I arrived at the start point but a brief shower had by then run its course. The forecast probably accounts for the fact that only 4 of us were at the start point - Julian, Michelle, myself, and new rider Suzanne.

We set out tentatively wondering what the weather would bring, but somewhat incredibly, we had not one drop of rain for the whole circuit.

 Our route took us up the cycle track to Barnham, where we stopped at the old canal to inspect progress on the reconstruction of Hollinsworth swivel bridge. Then it was Hill Lane to the Mill, then onwards through Yapton and Horsemere Green.

 At Climping School we took Bread Lane down to the shoreline before heading back up Climping Street past Bailiffscourt to the Black Horse for a well earned refreshment stop.

 We left the pub about 21.30 when it was still light, so i decided to take an off road route through Ancton Woods. On our way there, in Climping Street, we were passed by 4 Black Daimlers all bearing consecutive registrations, so we speculated that somebody important was staying at Bailiffscourt.

 Turning into the field that leads to Ancton Woods, we found the pathway very overgrown but still cycleable, albeit on the bumpy side. The woods were their usual picturesque self but coming out into the open on the south side, the track was again quite overgrown.  Happily we all made it through to Elmer unscathed and without incident.

 Suzanne left us at Elmer to head home whilst the three of us headed back to Felpham and our separate ways. It had only taken 30 mins to ride back through the woods, and was still not quite dark when i got home.

 My round trip mileage was 14.75

 Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

Updated: Friday, 27 June 2014 09:16 BST

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The weather today was warm and mainly sunny except for a cloudier spell around lunchtime and temperatures reaching 21C.

I was the leader today and I was joined at Chichester Cross by Sam, Chris, Keith, Russ and newish riders Bob Birtwell and Brian Burdford.

We headed out via the Centurion Way and then on a lane observing the nearly completed large solar farm. Then it was on via West Stoke, Funtington and West Marden to stop for a pleasant 11s stop at Compton.

A good shot here of Keith’s Bamboo Bike unaffected by last week’s panda encounter.

Then it was some pleasant quiet lanes with some ups and downs via Apple Down.

Then on via North Marden to descend for lunch to the Isolated Royal Oak Pub at Hooksway for lunch.

The only problem with Hooksway is that you have to tackle the steep climb back up again, not good for those with too heavy a lunch.

After the fast descent to Chilgrove we turned off on the quiet backroads to West Dean some parts of which actually had sections of new tarmac for the first time in many many decades. Then it was on to the Centurion Way. One section of this north of Lavant narrowed down to tiny passage with undergrowth of near 7ft overshadowing us and making us think of jungle, hint to WSCC!

We continued via Lavant and Westhampnett to Tangmere and the great Strawberry Tea at Avry’s. As usual there were large amounts of Strawberries and lashings of cream. More joined us here who rode direct including Harvey, Anne, Gill, Steve, Carol, Dave and Jan.

The main ride would have been about 33 miles from and back to Chichester. My return mileage from Pagham was 43.

Last Tuesday evening I went to Goodwood Motor Race Circuit to take pictures of the cycle racing. This shot was taken with a long lens and then a zoom effect added in Photoshop.

For a larger picture and more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14270247268/in/photostream/

On Saturday I took some pictures at the Bishops Palace Gardens, Chichester including this one taken in the wild flowers section of flower buds. The image is taken with a macro lens which has a very narrow area of focus. This one uses focus stacking and 16 images were taken and combined to get all in focus.

See more on my Photo Blog at http://edwinjonesphotography.com/blog/2014/6/wild-flower-buds-focus-stacked

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:28 BST

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Today the weather was dry though mainly cloudy and cooler than of late at about 18C.

Arthur was the leader today and he was joined at Chichester Cross by Lynn, Avryl, Graham, Martin Hines, Keith Dodman, Harvey, myself  and Brian a Havant member joining us so 9 out on the day. We also coincidentally met at the Cross John Maxim cycling home from the ferry at Portsmouth after a week in the Dordogne.

Next we continued on lanes via Westerton and Waterbeach followed by a few hills added to the menu riding via Halnaker and Eartham before descending to our lunchtime Cafe stop at Aldingbourne Country Centre Cafe.

When we arrived some other cyclists were just leaving and they stopped to admire Keith’s Bamboo Bike. Following a suggestion by Graham I decided to add another admirer having another interest in bamboo.

The selection of the Panda is credited to usename OZinOH through Flickr creative commons license. A link to the original Panda Picture is http://tiny.cc/ktdihx

We then continued on lanes including Slindon Bottom Road with beautiful views of Slindon Woods.

Then it was another climb up to Slindon and down to The Forge Cafe and a tea stop. This was extended a bit when Graham found he had a puncture and everybody gathered round for the cycle sport of watching the mending of a puncture.

We continued via Walberton. Most of the group headed back from there to Chichester. I split off to return home via the Barnham cycle path to Flansham.

I took time out to explore the new road being built for the Bognor bypass near Flansham. A footpath took me from the Barnham path to the new road which is blocked from traffic by 2 sets of barriers. My route was only possible on a Sunday when there is nobody around to say no. I got through the first set of barriers through a small gap. Then it was on to enjoy a tarmac road which has not yet seen a car.

The second set of barriers was more difficult. Part of the side barrier was laid flat but on a steep bank so I had to scramble down that. Then it was on to the open section of road and on via Flansham.

Mileage for the day from and back to Chichester was about 30. My mileage from Pagham was about 35.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:23 BST

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An unpredictable day weather-wise ensured only 6 at the start point for today's ride.

Overnight thunderstorms followed a sunny morning before the sky turned cloudy and threatening around lunchtime.
 
With the temperature hovering around 18 degrees and not much wind, it was quite humid when i set off with Steve, Carol, Julian, Liz & Bob.
 
We made our way to Felpham via back roads, and then through the new Estate at Flansham before taking the cycletrack to Barnham.
Just after crossing the river bridge the weather broke and a light shower set in. By the time we had reached Barnham Church this had turned into steady rain and a few hundred yards later the heavens opened.
Fortunately we were able to take shelter under trees but it was 20 minutes or more before the rain eased sufficiently to continue the ride.

It wasn't clear whether this was a temporary lull between showers or whether the rain had passed for good, so we thought in view of that and the time  it would be foolish to press on to Aldingbourne (especially as they do close quite early on a Saturday afternoon). After some debate we headed through Barnham towards Eastergate intending to stop at the Wilkes Head and then complete a circuit back to Bognor via Shripney.
 
As we went down Eastergate Lane, two things happened.
Firstly, the sun came out, and stayed with us for the rest of the afternoon.
Secondly, we came upon Eastergate Church Fete which was in full swing with an invitingly placed tea and home-made cakes stall.
Our stop was decided and we paid our 50p admission to access this very "village-like" event with Maypole, tractor rides, pony rides, and tea for 50p, with a generous portion of strawberries and cream offered for £1.00.

 
All in all it made for a very different day and a very different refreshment stop.
 

To complete our circuit we went back to Bognor via Norton Lane to the Oving Road and then the Woodhorn Lanes back to Colworth. Bob and Liz left us there heading back to Chichester, whilst the rest of us took the cycletrack into North Bersted, through the new Estate and back through South Bersted to Bognor town.
 
My mileage for the afternoon was 21.
 
Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

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The weather for the ride today was ideal being dry with a lot of sunny spells, temperatures up to 19C and light winds.

Arthur was the leader and he was joined by Lynn, Avryl, Jan, Graham, Sam, David Sinclair, David Glue, Martin Hines, Martin Guarnaccio, Gill Marshall and Peter. I joined the ride at lunch and Alan and Liz met us for tea so 15 riders out during the day. Team backup van (sag wagon!) was provided by Brian and Di Noyce

The ride started at 7.00am and the morning included lanes to the west with breakfast at The Boaters Bar, Prinsted.

Having ridden hundred miles many times before I decided to join the group for lunch and ride the afternoon section. I went to East Wittering via Chichester Yacht basin and spotted these 3 ducks lined up in a row by the canal lock gates at Chichester Yacht basin.

At East Wittering there were too many for one cafe so the group spread out and regrouped at a junction.

Then it was lanes up via Sidlesham and Hunston and on via the cyclepath to Bognor. Some parts of the seafront Cycleroute were used.

Then it was lanes out to Elmer and on to Yapton to rendezvous with the team backup.

For the curious wondering what everybody is looking at here is a picture.

Then it was on via Ford to Arundel for the main tea stop where Alan and Liz met us. Lynn arrived at Arundel with a swollen knee having developed over the last few miles so the sag wagon was put to good use.

We returned via Ford, Yapton and then a brief stop in the sunshine at Walberton Pond.

Our last stop was at Woodhorn near Oving for another feed stop.

My mileage for the day was 67. Everybody else except Lynn completed their 100 miles.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

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There were 7 at the start at Felpham Leisure Centre...the usual suspects being  Julian, Graham,  Carol,  Steve, David,  John and new rider Michelle out for the first time. Harvey met us at the pub having mistaken the start time and found no one else there.  The route was via south and  north Bersted, Shripney Lane, Woodgate  and then alleyways.

The route continued via the Wilkes Head in Eastergate lane, and then on to Barnham and the Murrell Arms where Graham took a quick shot of the group.

Edwin joined after Time Trialing. Most returned on the Barnham path while Edwin and John returned  on road via Yapton.

Round trip about 14.5 miles.

Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

Updated: Saturday, 31 May 2014 11:11 BST

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The weather today was beautiful and sunny though with a cool SW wind and temperatures up to about 16C.

I was the leader and I was joined at Chichester Cross by Sam, Jeff and Keith.

We headed out up the Centurion Way and then lanes via West Stoke to Funtington. Then it was on the valley road towards West Marden. Before the village we turned off on a back road towards Forestside  with a steep climb. Near the top we were overtaken by a stream of riders from Alton CC.

Then it was on with a sharp descent to Finchdean and lanes round to Chalton and then onwards to stop for elevenses at Queen Elizabeth Country Park.

After elevenses it was a lane to Clanfield and up and past the Bat and Ball before turning off on some very quiet lanes with ups and downs via Chidden. At a brief regrouping stop Sam took advantage of the break to be unhealthy. He was very pleased with his new chainset which had its first outing today.

Then it was a sharp downhill to Exton with some walkers and their dog not noticing Sam hurtling down the hill towards them and hurriedly pulling back from crossing the road after a loud shout from Sam.

We stopped for lunch at The Shoe Inn which has a garden with the river Meon running past.

For the return route we took beautiful lanes above the valley via Meonstoke and  Soberton.

Then it was lanes across to Hambledon and a steep climb on a quiet lane. Then we worked our way East on Lanes via Cathrington and Horndean and on to stop for tea at Rowlands Castle.

Then back to Chichester via Westbourne. When descending into Westbourne from Rowlands Castle the lane through the village, formerly a mass of potholes has finally been fully resurfaced.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was 55.. My mileage for the day from Pagham was 67.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:40 BST

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This Event had a start at Southwater Country Park Cafe at 9.30 and participants made their own way there. The weather was beautiful with clear blue skies and warm summery temperatures up to 22C.

I planned to get there train assisted though engineering work closed the line from Chichester to Ford making a train from Littlehampton required. It was a pleasant ride along the seafront to start with this picture taken at about 7.00 at Felpham .

After arriving at Billingshurst it was then about an hour’s ride to Southwater. The only other Bognor Chichester members taking part were Colin and Russell. There were 4 from Arun Adur and 7 from Horsham Crawley plus the organizer this year, Pete Ayres.

I joined Colin, Dave Fox and Richard Boulton in a team and set off with our route and clue sheet. The ride was mainly on quiet lanes with few hills and about 30 miles during the day.

The lunch stop was at Fishers Farm Cafe, Wisborough Green where John Maxim joined us. Colin left at lunch.

The rest of us continued with more clues returning to Southwater for tea and the results. Our team was third. Gordon and Jacqui from Horsham Crawley were 2^nd and Val, Barbara and Bob from Horsham Crawley were first by virtue of the tie break of the number of post boxes on the route.

With the addition of riding to and from Littlehampton and to and from Southwater my mileage for the day was 70 depite the train assistance.

My latest processed HDR picture was taken in London on 19^th May looking straight up at a building next to London Bridge.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14042022977/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 18:18 BST

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Sunday 11 May. Ride to New Alresford

The weather today was a little blowy, well actually steady 30mph gusting to 40mph mainly from the west with a little south. We managed to avoid the isolated showers and stayed dry all day. It was mainly cloudy in the morning and pleasant sunshine in the afternoon. Sam was the leader and joining him at Chichester Cross for the early 8.30 start were myself and Colin.

We headed out into the wind on the South Coast Cycle Route via Westbourne , Rowlands Castle and Finchdean. As we started up the gentle climb towards Buriton we started to encounter riders on the Hampshire Hilly Hundred, a Sportive Event organized by British Cycling. The riders had started from Winchester at 8.00am. The riders kept coming in the opposite direction as far as East Meon. After the first few hundred times of saying hello it got a little tiring!

As we cycled through Buriton Woods the combination of the dull day and less light under the trees lowered the shutter speed for a nice effect.

As we descended the steep north side of the Downs towards Buriton groups of Sportive riders were coming up with cars trapped among them and Sam let out a somewhat annoyed (understatement) yell as some cyclists were way over on the wrong side.

We continued on the lane near Ramsdean to East Meon and a coffee stop at the village shop which does hot drinks.

Then it was on to West Meon and quiet lanes to New Alresford for lunch. We found a good cafe with bike parking at the back so I took a photo for future reference.

Then it was more lanes via Tichborne and Cheriton and then a fair few climbs on lanes south to Bishops Waltham.

Then it was more lanes east, finally picking up a tailwind to Swanmore and on to Lotts Cafe, Hambledon for an early tea. Camera man for a change is Colin.

After tea there was a steep climb on a lane with some curious onlookers.

We continued on lanes via Cathrington and Horndean and then Rowlands Castle. Here Sam stopped for a second tea while Colin and I having further to go pressed on for home.

The nearest a shower got was this view from the Bognor Chichester cyclepath. Luckily it shifted away east and out to sea before I got to it.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was 73. My mileage for the day from Pagham was 87 making it my longest ride of the year so far.

Below is a picture I took a City Hall London last year which I processed for a panel of 3 for a Camera Club Competition and which gained 3rd place.

For a bigger picture and more info see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/14119740486/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:30 BST

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