6 out in total for today's ride, originally scheduled for Lott's Cafe,  Hambledon but switched on the day to the Isaak Walton at East Meon.

Russell was ride leader and he was joined by Edwin, Sam, Mike and Gary at Chichester Cross, with Chris meeting up for lunch.

The group set off up Centurion Way, where Edwin, following his period of enforced inactivity, peeled off to do his own shorter recovery ride. Then it was the usual route through West Stoke and Funtington to the Village Cafe at Compton, encountering large groups of sportive cyclists heading in the opposite direction. Arrival at Compton indicated that many local cyclists were on the sportive ride - unusually there were no other cyclists at the cafe, a very rare occurrence.

Post elevenses ( Sam enjoying a monster slice of game pie and chutney), the group climbed the hill to Finchdean, encountering many more sportive riders before a steady climb to Buriton. By now the early morning freshness was giving way to more frequent sunshine, albeit with a gusty SE breeze.It was then a fast ride down into Buriton, Sam surprising a motorbike by passing it on the descent !

More quiet roads and we arrived in the picturesque village of East Meon, 10 minutes before opening time, bagging a table by the river.

Chris then joined us for lunch, having cycled a roundabout route from Chichester.

After lunch we rode due south from East Meon, along wonderfully quiet lanes, to the Mercury Park road. It was then past the Sustainability Centre for a rapid descent to Clanfield, following by more climbing up to Butser and another very fast descent to the QE park. Then the usual roads to Rowlands Castle and afternoon tea at the 'Tea on the Green' Cafe ( new name?), in increasingly warm sunshine (18C according to Garmin). We arrived back in Chichester around 3.30pm, having ridden 49  leisurely miles on a lovely early summer's day.

Russell

Edwin’s Ride

I was not yet ready to do a full ride after my hip injury so I rode with the group up Centurion Way before splitting off at Lavant to do a circuit to home.

My ride was intended to be 20 miles but I ended up doing 30 miles. From Lavant I headed across via Halnaker, Aldingbourne, Fontwell and Walberton. I was down to the coast by soon after 11.00. Not being very up to date with local Events I came back via a path onto Bognor Prom only to find myself in the middle of the peak of the 10K Bognor Prom Race. I rode along slowly to get to an exit with a few good natured calls of cheating from spectators. An Ice Cream stop was taken at the Boathouse Cafe, Felpham.

My latest shot to be processed taken last year shows a staircase in a block of flats in London with a couple of Bikes parked up.

More details at

https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/34586374212/in/dateposted-public/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 15:51 BST

Updated: Monday, 22 May 2017 10:23 BST

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Fifteen cyclists gathered at Chichester Library, and a warm welcome was given to a couple of old faces, Dawn & Fred, who hadn’t been out on their bikes for a while.

The group headed west towards Westgate, picking up The Centurion Way cycle path towards Lavant.  After cycling through the old Lavant Railway Station, the group continued north along Lavant Down Road, and then crossed over the A286 Midhurst road to head west along Two Barns Lane towards West Lavant.

At the junction with Downs Road, West Lavant, the group headed west towards West Stoke and arrived at The Design Vintage Café just after 3 pm.

The café was rather overwhelmed by the number of cyclists descending on them, so there was a bit of a wait for tea and cake!

At the junction with the B2178 Funtington road, everyone carried straight on down Moutheys Lane towards the junction with Clay Lane.  The group then headed west back towards Chichester over the railway crossing and along Westgate, to arrive back at the library at approximately 4.45 pm.

Philippa

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

Updated: Monday, 15 May 2017 16:40 BST

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The day was pleasant and sunny though cooler than of late at 13C. Sam was the leader and he was joined at Chichester Cross by Russell, Bob, Mike and Paul so 5 out on the day.

The group first rode out to stop for an early elevenses at Compton. Then it over Harting Hill on the easier approach and a steep downhill to Harting. Then it was on lanes via villages such as Goose Green. Then it was on to lunch at Cafe Nero, Petersfield, chosen as an alternative to the scheduled lunch stop of the Cafe at Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill. Then it was lanes and hills via Steep before coming back over the Downs on the new Cyclepath above the A3.

Nobody took any pictures on the day but here is one taken on an earlier ride in February along the cyclepath.

50 miles for the day from and back to Chichester.

Info supplied by Sam. Report compiled by Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

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The ride today was originally scheduled to run to Denmans Gardens, but was changed to the nearby Aldingbourne Country centre after the gardens went into administration. The last opportunity to go there will be next Thursday 25th when everything will be auctioned off to pay creditors.

Todays sunny weather with temperatures of around 16 degrees encouraged 19 riders to the start point, a brilliant turnout.

It was good to meet up again with longstanding members Bob and Gill out on their first Saturday ride for some years, and riding tandem. As well as them we had a new member, Tom, plus  Debbie, Michelle, Carol, Steve, Mike, Tracey, Ali, Andy, Alan, Liz, another Steve, another Alan, Sam, Maureen and Christine who had come specially over from Shoreham.

We set out round the usual back roads to Felpham but I then took a very recently reinstated route from Bognor Golf club through the Blakes Mead development, crossing the relief road to the Barnham cycletrack. This route was formerly two very rural tracks known as North Road and Stanover Lane. Its reinstatement cuts about a mile off as it saves riding out to Flansham Lane and Hoe Lane. Then up the path to Barnham.

From Barnham we took the Walberton cycletrack and at the duck pond turned down Eastergate lane to Fontwell Avenue.

300 yards of A29 then took us back on rural lanes behind Fontwell racecourse to Level Mare Lane where we crossed the very nasty and busy A27.

A short run then brought us to Aldingbourne Country Centre. The centre is having significant building work done and the main gate is locked. Access is via a temporary car park at the rear field. It also appears that the "Rear entrance" may not be accessible either.

After a welcome refreshment stop, we set off for home via Halnaker Barn Lane. Here the ride split, with a group opting for a longer route home via Tinwood Lane, Halnaker, Boxgrove, Tangmere and Oving.

I led the rest of us on a shorter return via Crockerhill, Aldingbourne village, and Hook Lane, then to Shripney via Lidsey. From there back roads through South Bersted to Bognor centre.

The return mileage from, and back to, Bognor library, was 18.5.

Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 21:50 BST

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The weather today was beautiful with clear blue skies and temperatures inland over the Downs at 23C and on the coast up to 15C. There was a SW wind which was troubling on the way back.

I was the leader for the 9.00am start from Walberton Pond and I was joined only by Sam though Bob Birtwell joined us accidentally after tea. A local walking his dog and chatting to us was persuaded to take a picture of us.

We headed out on the usual route via Madehust and down Houghton Hill to stop for elevenses at Wiggonholt. Then it was a very direct route on lanes via West Chiltington, Broadbridge Heath and Coneyhurst  to Barnes Green. We arrived well before anybody else at 11.45 and went to the Green where I had sandwiches. Then on to join the other Clubs at the lunch stop at Sumners Pond Cafe.

We all cycled to the Freewheel Hill where you start off with one pedal revolution and then freewheel downhill and as far as possible up the next slope. There was some talk about the weight of Sam’s electric bike giving an unfair advantage. Possibly extra weight has a limit before the drag on the upslope counteracts the speed. Sam came in second.

Pipped at the post by Bob of Horsham Crawley.

Only 9 took part in the event from the 3 clubs despite the great weather or perhaps that was a draw to do other things.

We headed back afterwards via Wisborough Green  and then a track across fields to come out on a lane north of Pulborough and on to Amberley where we stopped for tea and coincidently saw Ray and Jo from Arun Adur out on their own ride. While we were stopped Sam took the opportunity to fit the spare battery he was carrying to make sure he had enough electric assist to get home.

Then it was on to Houghton and the track to Arundel nicknamed the Khyber Pass. At the top we spotted Bob recuperating on the grass. He joined us for the rest of the ride home.

I split from the others at Yapton to head  down to the coast and the Prom Cycleroute where a sea mist had rolled in making is distinctly cold. The sun was low as by this time it was 6.30. The distance from and back to Walberton was 52 while my mileage from Pagham was 68

It was busy day on Saturday. This started with a ride over to Ford to get a shot of a steam Excursion train in the early mist at 08.45.

In the early afternoon some of us joined a Rally against over 1000 extra houses at Pagham adding to the local traffic. I had just in time got hold of a nice banner from national HQ

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 BST

Updated: Monday, 10 April 2017 10:20 BST

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The weather today was beautiful and spring like with blue skies all day. There were  light winds and temperatures which after a chilly start rose to 15C.

There were 2 rides  a long hilly ride to Fernhurst and a shorter ride to Rowlands Castle. Arthur led the short ride supported by 14 riders. They stopped at Woodmancote for elevenses and then on to Rowlands Castle.

I went on the long ride with Russell as the leader. He was joined at Chichester Cross by myself, Mike and Bob. Chris joined us at lunch so 5 of us in all.

After a while indisposed we saw Sam just as we were leaving. He was joining the shorter ride later at 10.00.

We took the Centurion Way north and with the recent opening of the exit were able to use the extension to West Dean.

The bike ramp was a bit steep to use going down, the bike tended to run away if used so we carried the bikes down. Bob nearly fell over going down the last step, not a very auspicious start.

We gathered at the bottom for a christening photo.

Then it was onto the main road, fairly busy to Cocking where we turned off onto the quiet lanes via Bepton. Mike turned off at Cocking to head for home as he had to be back early. The rest of us continued to elevenses at Rotherhill Nursery, The Glasshouse Cafe, Stedham and some welcome hot drinks and cake.

The route after elevenses was full of spring with blossom on the trees, wild flowers, lambs baaing and the sound of woodpeckers.

We took a route via a long climb on a lane to Redford. We stopped briefly to look at the ancient Redford Garage whose pumps are apparently still in use.

Then it was downhill before more lanes to stop at Fernhurst. Our official destination was the Red Lion Pub but as we all had sandwiches we stopped at a bench on the nearby Green for lunch.

Chris joined us a short while later. He had ridden direct  after finishing bell ringing at Chichester Cathedral. Soon after leaving Fernhurst we came to a short but extremely steep hill and stopped to regroup at the top.

Then it was on via lanes through Lickfold and Lodsworth and turning off at Selham to go past the Polo fields. Then on via Heyshott and turning off onto the lane to Cocking. Beautiful views and quiet though having an abundance of potholes.

After a stretch of the main road again we stopped at West Dean Gardens Cafe for cold drinks and Ice Cream, very refreshing.

Then back to Chichester again using the full extent of the Centurion Way. Mileage from and back to Chichester was 46. My mileage from Pagham was 57.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:24 BST

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The weather was excellent today, dry and clear blue skies and temperatures up to 17C. The only problem was a strong NE wind giving us a headwind on the way out but compensated for by a good tailwind on the way back.

The leader was due to be Colin but as he is now in China we figured this was a good excuse and I took over. I was joined for the 9.00am start from Walberton Pond by Russell, Mike and Paul.

We headed out on the usual route via Madehurst, down to Houghton and then Amberley and lanes via Rackham to the edge of Pulborough where we turned off for West Chiltington. Then up and over the Golf Course Hill and on to Broadford Bridge. Then a lane up to Billingshurst. I had chosen Whispers Cafe, Mill Lane, Billingshurst both because it was en route for the ride and because they advertise with us in the Pedaller. They were very helpful storing our bikes in a locked side passage. Hot drinks and for some of us chocolate cake were delivered very quickly and enjoyed in the warm sunshine outside.

We were soon off again taking a short section of the A29 north before turning off on Okehurst Lane and up the lane to pass The Haven. Then it was more lanes up to Bucks Green catching a brief glimpse of Brian and Sue Howe going the other way. At Bucks Green Russell turned off for home to get back for a mid afternoon Mothers lunch. The rest of us continued a short way towards Rudgwick for lunch at The Milk Churn Cafe which adjoins the Downslink cyclepath and was clear of any Mothers.

The return felt easier with the tailwind and a lot of downhill to start with riding via Loxwood and then Ilfold where there was a brief map check stop.

Then onwards on a lane to Kirdford. From there it was a long gradual uphill on a lane crossing the A272 and down to Byworth. More lanes took up via Barlavington and the challenge of Duncton Hill. After the descent Paul turned off on the lane to Singleton to return to Selsey while Mike and I continued to the coast via Eartham, Fontwell, Walberton and Yapton.

Mileage from and back to Walberton was 52 well down on the estimated 75 though the latter did include an allowance for Colin loops which I avoided. My mileage from and back to Pagham was 71.

Down on the coast it seemed all the mothers had gone for a walk on the Prom after lunch as it was very busy, like summer.

My latest picture on Flickr was taken a month ago on Westminster Bridge and posted on Wednesday as a Tribute to those killed on Wednesday in the terrorist attack.

More details and a larger picture at https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/33594925335

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 20:40 BST

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Today was mainly overcast though still mild at 12C and dry though with a very strong  SW wind.

Jeff was the leader today and he was joined at Chichester Cross on the longer faster ride by myself Mark and Mike. Harvey was the leader of a short morning only ride to Compton meeting at 10.00.

We headed out up the Centurion Way and then on via West Stoke and Funtington. We continued via Rackham and then lanes up to Compton for a welcome early elevenses stop. They had a new sign up for the Tea Rooms obviously designed to attract cyclists which worked.

We arrived about 10.15 and easily gained seats. While we were there a constant flow of small groups of cyclists arrived from various points of the compass until all seats were taken.

While the rest continued on a hilly route to stop for lunch at Denmead I headed back to make it a half day ride. On the way back down the valley I first encountered Anne out for a ride going the other direction. Then a mile further on it was Harvey leading a group of 4 on the 10.00am ride towards elevenses at Compton, I hope they got seats.

My mileage from and back to Pagham was 38.

Jeff continues the story of the Hard Ride after elevenses -

Edwin turned back at Compton, leaving me to give the two other hard riders what they came out for. Well they got it , 3497 feet of climbing at an average speed of 10.39  and my Garmin tells me I burned 2624 calories.

After Compton we headed up the usual route to Buriton then the usual route to East Meon all on good quiet lanes. From here we climbed up to the ridge above Winchester Hill ( Teglease Down ) where we had a photo call. From this high point we sped  down to Chidden, passing lammas in a field  then up and down lanes to Denmead.

3 lamas look at 3 cyclists

 The  Fox and Hounds was earmarked for lunch, instead of the nearby  Horse and Jockey on a busy road . I have always avoided this pub as it advertises itself as pub of the year 2012 ( who says?)  and it is now 2017.  As Mike and Mark brought lunch we sat on the village hall wall for a quick snack  before heading off at 1.30 . Rowlands Castle by 2.15 and still the hard riders did not want to stop at the cafe. So  back to Chi with a fast wind assisted ride on the main road from Bosham, turning left at the cycle shop in Fishbourne to inspect the cyclepath which I helped to clear a few weeks ago with Sustrans volunteers, then we used the  new path laid out as part of the new development at the rear of Salthill Road  then Chichester by 3.05.   Job done . Roll on Summer ! Return mileage from Chichester was 54.

Jeff

Back to Edwins Report

On Saturday I took this shot 0f a Steam train crossing the River Arun at Ford at 9.45.

This was the Bath and Bristol Steam Express Day Excursion from Three Bridges.. The advantage of this spot apart from the scenery is that the train has to slow for the points at the junction just before the bridge. When running fast Steam trains can readily get to 70mph. The train is an Express with next stop Salisbury. Steam Excursions on the main line run regularly in various parts of the country but only visit our local line 2 or 3 times a year.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 17:42 BST

Updated: Sunday, 19 March 2017 20:31 BST

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A misty day today, no wind but temperatures lingering around 7/8 degrees, kept down by the fog which dispersed a bit as we rode northwards, but re-appeared as we headed back to the coast.

I was joined at the library start point by 16 others - Carol, Steve, Maureen, Harvey, Chris, Mike, Alan, Liz, Steve(2), Alan(2), Julian, Dave, Sheila, Clair, Russ, and Colin.

We headed out through the usual back lanes to Felpham and the Arun Leisure Centre, then it was onto the new Bakes Mead Estate which seems to have opened a new bit of road every time we go through it. After successfully negotiating it I took the group down Stanover Road to join the Barnham cycle track, which was considerably less muddy than the last time we used it.

From Barnham it was cycle track to Walberton, then West Walberton Lane to Fontwell. Under the A27 subway and into the woods of the Slindon Estate where the track was hard surfaced and quite dry.

 By this route we emerged into Park Lane and in doing so avoided the agressive gradients of Folly Hill at Slindon College. A short sprint found us at the Forge tea rooms after an uneventful run. There we met Edwin who had made his own way by a more adventurous route but came back with us.

I took a straight run back via Slindon Common Road and Sunnybox Lane down to Walberton and Yapton which included the usual treacherous crossing of the A27.  We reached Bilsham without incident and crossed the A259 into Middleton at Comet Corner where roadworks are in place. This makes the difficult crossing easier than normal as a temporary pelican crossing has been set up to negate the missing central refuge.

We made it back to Bognor via the seafront with a round trip mileage of 18.2.

Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 22:12 GMT

Updated: Saturday, 11 March 2017 22:30 GMT

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Despite a forecast of dry weather till evening the actual weather included showers of heavy drizzle. Probably because drizzle isn’t enough wet to register on the weather radar. Still after drizzle until 9.00 it cleared and we had a dry ride to elevenses. It was fairly mild with temperatures up to 11C and a fairly strong SW wind.

Russell was the leader and he was joined at Chichester Cross by myself, Mike, Mark and Gary. Colin joined the group at lunch  so 6 out during the day.

We headed out via West Street and Clay Lane on the South Coast Cycleroute via Woodmancote. Then on via Westbourne and Rowlands Castle and up the hill on the Horndean Road with a brief stop to regroup at the top.

Then it was on to Horndean to stop for elevenses at Keydell Garden Centre Cafe for a welcome break. There was even some sunshine as we left.

I preferred a shorter ride today so I split off for home while the rest continued to lunch at The Kings Head, The Square, Wickham. They returned via Portsdown Hill and Havant with a nice tailwind.

My ride back included some lanes and down an especially pretty one to the Chalton – Finchdean Road. Some interesting trees on the descent.

More spells of drizzle on the way back and for me a total mileage from Pagham of 45 miles.

My latest picture was taken on Friday on a London trip. One of the objectives was to get shots of Big Ben before it is shrouded in scaffolding from early this year for 3 years for repairs.

For more details and a larger image see http://edwinjonesphotography.com/p447855433/h844f1f59#h844f1f59

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 16:44 GMT

Updated: Sunday, 26 February 2017 21:45 GMT

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Unlike yesterday today was overcast though still mild at 11C and dry with a light SW wind.

I was the leader today and I was joined at Chichester Cross on the longer faster ride by just Colin and Gary. Richard was the leader of a short ride to East Wittering meeting at 10.00.

We headed out up the Centurion Way and then on via West Stoke and Funtington encountering many Snowdrops on the way and indeed all day. We continued via Rackham and then lanes up to Compton for a welcome early elevenses stop.

We continued with the gradual climb up Harting Hill before a fast descent into Harting Village. We turned off on quiet pleasant lanes via the small hamlets of West Harting. Quebec and Goose Green. Then it was back to the main road before turning off to bypass Petersfield to the east and up to Sheet and then on to the The Harrow Inn which is  in a very pleasant rural location just over the A3

After lunch we headed back with first a very steep climb to the appropriately named Steep Village. Then it was on via the villages of Stroud and Ramsdean. After lanes to the Roundabout leading to Buriton we turned onto the new Petersfield to Queen Elizabeth Park Cyclepath. This was opened in November last year and this was our first Club Ride on it. The path starts adjoining the slip road.

A short way up it turns off onto the old A3 or what remains of it and then gradually climbs up on new pathway until it is well above the new road.

 Apart from a short stretch alongside the new road separated by a fence it continues some distance from the road and is generally a pleasant new route over the Downs.  

Then it was on via Chalton, Finchdean and Rowlands Castle return  to Chichester via Westbourne and Woodmancote. Mileage from and back to Chichester was 50. My mileage from Pagham was 63.

On Thursday I took this macro shot of some crocuses flowering in Aldwick Green off the Aldwick Road.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/32555962240/in/photostream/    

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 19:51 GMT

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There was a fairly good turnout today with 13 meeting at Bognor Regis Library.  Mike was the man with the camera,  - I forgot mine. Pictures to follow.

A nice ride, in warm sun ( 13C according to my max/min thermometer at home) . We went out via the leisure centre, then the ring road cycle path , then footpath ( ahem cyclepath) to Shripney Lane where Mike the mechanic was called on again - this time for a seized chain link which was causing auto gear changes on one of the bikes ( thanks Mike ). it was then through North Bersted Street and into the modern housing estate before a cycle along that horrible A259 cycle path. A few of the newer members hadn't seen the thatched houses in North Bersted Street before.

When we arrived at the Brick Kiln our ears were assaulted by an ageing crooner belting out Elvis songs. Luckily we had timed it right and only had to endure one of them before he finished. Actually he wasn't that bad!

Usual nice tea and cakes and more Mike the mechanic ( addition of oil and lots of wiggling of seized chain = happy customer!)  before a direct route return to Bognor Library, getting back at 16.05hrs . My mileage for the return trip came to just under 17 miles.

Russell 

Posted by RideLeader at 21:18 GMT

Updated: Saturday, 18 February 2017 21:21 GMT

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The weather today was very cold, only just managing to struggle up to 3C with a freezing NE wind. I preferred to avoid the cold involved in leaving home at 8.00am to get to Walberton for a 9.00am start so started much later and got a train to Pulborough. Newcomer/founding member from the 1980s Gary Yeoman also came direct having taken a wrong turn on the way to Walberton and missed the start by 5 minutes.

Colin was joined at the start by Sam and Mike so in all there were 5 out riding today.

Gary and I missed the main group and after lunch at the Wyevale Garden Centre Cafe, Stopham Bridge we left to ride back about 1.00 and took a direct route via Wiggonholt and Amberley to climb Houghton Hill. We stopped briefly to recover at the top. Gary took some water contained in an old bottle of something stronger. On his shopping list is a bike water bottle.

We continued down the A29 which had reopened after a few days of a lot of work trimming and felling trees adjoining the road. We headed back via Yapton and Bognor Seafront. The day had been dull and drab but the Sun made a very brief appearance as I rode home.

My mileage for the day was 28.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 19:44 GMT

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Leaders Steve & Carol
Riders 12
Harvey,Colin,Kev,Steve,Maureen,Chris,Graham,Sam,Dave,Mike
Goodwood control tower cafe

Steve led the ride out on a cold 3 degrees day which started to snow.

Left library turning right then right through car park and down underpass to Highfield lane.
On cycle path past Tesco turning Left into Rowan's way. Through new housing estate to Chichester road turning right at Mercedes garage.

Past St Andrews church to Tangmere airfield. Through Tangmere then left onto A27 cycle path and a brief stop for a picture.

Then through Maudlin turning right into Clay Pit Lane, past West Hampnett Primary School and left to Goodwood Control Tower Café.

Enjoyed tea and large portion's of cake and warmed up nicely . At the Circuit There were saloon car trials of some sort racing around.

Carol led return journey, snow had stopped and not so cold.
Turning right then left thorough Westerton village then Right onto Lavant straight leading towards Boxgrove when Maureen got a puncture. Mike the mechanic saved the day, thank you and to Steve for new inner tube.

Went on and across Tangmere airfield and followed outward journey back to Bognor library.

Total mileage 25miles.

Steve and Carol

Posted by RideLeader at 20:56 GMT

Updated: Sunday, 12 February 2017 22:10 GMT

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The weather today was dry with temperatures up to 7C and a light NW wind.

Sam was the leader and he was joined at Chichester Cross by myself, Bob, Mark, Jeff and newcomer Gary Yeoman. There is a story behind Gary as he was a founder member of the Club in 1984 as a teenager and a regular rider until he went to College and dropped out of cycling. Welcome back Gary.

Sam took us out via the Centurion Way to Lavant and then the main road. At West Dean we lost our leader for a little way as Sam powered ahead with electric assistance while the rest of us took the loop road through the village and up the vey steep hill from the Church to rejoin the main road where Sam was waiting for us. Bob took a rest on the verge after the hill and a short way further on decided to head back early. Thanks to Jeff for the picture.

We pressed on to Cocking where we turned off on the backroad to Bepton and then on the nice lane past the  Countryman Pub to cross the main road to Stedham. We stopped for elevenses in some nice warm air at the Rotherhill Nurseries Cafe.

We were given a send off by the Nursery Dog with that pleading “I want food” look. I decided to go straight back for a half day ride and Jeff decided to join me. The main group planned to continue with a loop to the north via Fernhurst and Lodsworth before going on to lunch at Gartons Cafe Midurst.

Jeff and I retraced our outward journey. Jeff decided to take the Centurion Way path north of Lavant while I stayed on road and rejoined him at Lavant. A warning in the following picture from Jeff, stay away from the bit of the Centurion Way north of Lavant!

By the time I returned to Pagham by mileage was 43 and getting home just before 2.00 for a late lunch.

My latest picture was taken in Oxford on a visit a week ago on Saturday which included a visit to the new School of Government at Oxford University on their open day.

 More details and a colour version at https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/31764891294/in/dateposted-public/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 16:54 GMT

Updated: Sunday, 5 February 2017 16:58 GMT

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Twelve cyclists gathered at Chichester Library, and a warm welcome was given to newcomers Bev & Colin, Kev and Chris, who normally went out on Saturday rides with the Bognor group.

The group headed west towards Westgate, over the Fishbourne crossing and then carried on until the end of the road, before heading through the A27 underpass towards the A259.  After emerging from the underpass, everyone then took a sharp right to take the cycle path past Fishbourne Roman Palace, which then lead onto Salthill Road.  The group then headed left towards the A259.

Heading west through Fishbourne, everyone turned left to go down Old Park Lane.     

The group continued to head south towards Bosham Hoe, following the road around the coastline.  An opportunity for a photocall presented itself on the west side of Bosham Hoe, as the group went along Shore Road, opposite the picturesque village of Bosham.

Following an hour’s worth of copious consumption of Victoria Sponge and cups of tea, the group headed back to Chichester along the A259 cycle route, arriving back at approximately 4 pm.

Philippa

Posted by RideLeader at 00:01 GMT

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After a couple of cold days, today was sunny and at 10 degrees with a light SW wind, it promised very favorable cycling conditions. Others must have thought so too as no fewer than 18 riders were lined up at the start point.

I was joined by Debbie, Michelle, Carol, Steve1, Steve2, Sam, Alan, Liz, Julian, Dave, Lucy, Andy, Ali, Chris, Mike, Harvey, and Russ.

I had thought about taking the riders via the Flansham-Barnham cycletrack but several sources told me it was very muddy and my own check of it last week confirmed it was certainly sticky. So instead I led the group over Highfield Bridge, through South & North Bersted to Berry Lane and across the new estate, round the lake and on to the Chichester Cycletrack.

Continuing through Colworth and Woodhorn we skirted Oving and took the old route across the Tangmere runways to emerge at Aldingbourne village. Unfortunately Lucy then pulled up with a flat tyre, this was mended quickly with a foam injection.

We carried on through Nyton with a difficult crossing of the A27 to approach the Country Centre from the lesser known "rear entrance" which skirts the farmyard.  it was on arrival at our coffee stop that it became apparent that Lucy's tyre repair had failed and it was flat again. The culprit turned out to be a very large thorn, which had the appearance, and strength, of a rusty half inch nail. Very grateful thanks to Mike, one of our two super mechanics riding today, for taking considerable time out from the rest stop to strip the tube and tyre, clean the failed foam and effect permanent (we hope!) repair.

Repairs complete, Steve and Carol had to leave us early so went straight back.  Harvey, Russ, Alan & Liz also made their own ways home leaving the rest of us to take the "official" route via Halnaker Barn Lane to drop down to Crockerhill, and another "at grade" crossing of that horribly busy scar across the landscape. From there it was back through Aldingbourne, then Hook Lane to Woodgate, a short stretch of the A29 to Shripney, and then back to Bognor via Shripney Lane and north Bersted.

Mileage from, and back to, Bognor library, was just over 18.

Graham

Posted by RideLeader at 20:46 GMT

Updated: Monday, 16 January 2017 20:49 GMT

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Today was the Mince Pie Ride to the house of Philippa and William at Bracklesham Bay.

We met at Chichester Cross at 10.00. Those on the ride were myself,  Harvey, Gill, Steve, Mike, Graham and just in time after Bell Ringing Chris  so 7 in all. The weather was cloudy all day with light rain early which cleared by the time we left at 10.00. At least it was mild at 10C and very light winds.

We headed out on West Street and then Appledram lane. we missed the mud of the Salterns Way path by a stretch of the main road. Then it was lanes via the Yacht Basin and Birdham Pool to Birdham. Then from the roundabout a stretch of the B-Road towards Bracklesham before turning off on a backroad via Earnley  and on to Philippa and William at Garden Avenue at Bracklesham.

We had a splendid spread provided including sausage rolls, Stollen, Mince Pies and Profiteroles.

More club members arrived coming direct by car being Dave, Jan, Alan, Liz, Arthur, Lynn, Freda, Jim, Richard and Roy so including Philippa, William and David there were 20 in all.

On the way back we took a route on lanes via Almodington to Sidlesham Common. Then it was a stretch of main road towards Hunston where there was a bit of excitement. I found I couldn’t pedal so I signaled to stop, tried to get my foot out but found it was jammed. Not clips but toe clips and straps. There then followed a gradual slow fall off the bike onto a luckily soft verge so no injuries. What had happened was that a piece had come off my overshoes and wrapped itself around the pedal and straps so my foot was jammed in the pedal. Must be a new reason for falling off a bike. After some help getting untangled we were on our way again.

Mileage from and back to Chichester was about 18. My mileage from Pagham was 28.

My latest HDR picture is one taken in Wells Cathedral during a day trip from Bath while staying there with family over Christmas week.

For more details and a larger picture see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/31235589043/in/photostream/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 17:05 GMT

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The weather today was dull and misty but could have been worse as it was dry with light winds and temperatures up to 9C. The ride today was a short one to Prinsted with Arthur as the leader and we met at Chichester Cross beside the Christmas Tree.

On the 7th day before Christmas 12 cyclists went a riding. Arthur was joined by Lynn, myself, Russell, Chris, Steve, Gill,  Richard, Trevor, Keith, Terry and Andy a newcomer on his first ride. Andy had heard about us in the Chichester Observer Events Section so Kudos to Philippa our Publicity Officer for getting us in there.

Arthur led us  via West Street and Clay Lane and the South Coast Cycleroute lanes to Woodmancote for an elevenses stop at the Woodmancote Inn for coffee. The Pub overdid the festive cheer a little as we had to stoop to avoid the Christmas Decorations. Two of the group, not me, also had cake which proved to be gianormous and spoiled appetites for lunch (not complaining).

We continued via Westbourne and then the cyclepath across to back streets towards Emsworth where Ho, Ho, Ho I spotted 4 Farther Christmases on bicycles coming up behind us. We lost them when turning off at the Emsworth Roundabout to take the road towards Thorney Island. We then turned off for Prinsted and lunch at the Boaters Bar. We arrived about 11.30. Those not too full with cake had sandwiches.

For the return we took a short stretch of the main road before turning off at Southbourne onto lanes via Hambrook and then rejoined our outbound route. All but 3 of us went to Fishbourne Roman Palace for tea. Thanks to Trevor for his map of the outward route. Trevor’s mileage was from the outskirts of Chichester so the distance from and back to Chichester Cross was about 19.

My return home included the Chichester Canal which gave the opportunity for some atmospheric photos and a longer ride. My mileage from Pagham was 34.

My latest picture was taken overlooking London from the Tate Modern extension viewing area.

For a larger picture and more details see https://www.flickr.com/photos/edwinjones/31593088875/in/dateposted-public/

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 16:52 GMT

Updated: Sunday, 18 December 2016 17:20 GMT

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The weather today was dry with some sunshine. It started cold at 5C with low mist over the fields as the sun rose. Temperatures later rose to 10C. Sunny skies gave way to mist and fog hanging over the Downs. The picture was taken as I left home soon after sunrise at a Pond just north of Pagham

Sam was the leader today and he was joined at Chichester Cross at 9.00 by Mark, Jeff, Colin, Russell, Mike and myself making 7 out in all

We headed out on the Centurion Way. On request Sam eased back on the Power Output of his Electric bike. Up the Centurion Way it was very quiet soon after 9.00 though at times it was hard to see the path through the wet mulch of fallen leaves. We continued on the path north of Lavant to West Dean taking the old route as the exit has not yet been built though planning consent was granted on 31^st October.

Then it was on over the Downs along the main road with gathering mist. We stopped briefly at the top.

The sun returned as we headed down Cocking Hill and turned off on quiet lanes via Bepton and Severals Road up to the A272 just west of Midhurst. We followed a cyclepath beside the main road before crossing over to take a lane to Stedham and a stop for elevenses at a new cafe at Rotherhill Garden Centre. This is family owned and much better than the chain type Nursery Cafe. Sam had scouted it out and obviously made an impression as they gave us a warm welcome

My rear tyre slowly went down as we neared the cafe, good timing. The tyre is the almost but not quite puncture proof Schwalbe Marathon Plus. This is used on all my bikes and was the first puncture in about 2 years. Sam helped with getting it off and Colin helped with pumping it up thanks to his mini trackpump

After elevenses 3 of us headed straight back with myself Russell and Mike. We retraced our outward route. My mileage for the day from Pagham was 45.

The rest headed on to Durleighmarsh for lunch. A bit of offroad was included. After lunch they headed back via Ditcham Park School and Rowlands Castle getting back to Chichester by 3.00pm. The main groups mileage from and back to Chichester was 46.

Edwin

Posted by RideLeader at 16:22 GMT

Updated: Monday, 12 December 2016 09:30 GMT

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