Thursday 16th April 2026
Another big turn-out (for us at any rate...), with eleven starting from the fountain and three joining us at lunch. My group consisted of Mia, Gareth, Jerry, Alan, Andy and Geoff H, while Geoff P led John, Rob and Stuart on a direct-ish route, arriving at the café just long enough to lock up before we arrived, having been on a longer loop. Mick, Pete and Paul had arrived at much the same time, and it wasn't long before we were all settled in the larger indoor area, it being a bit breezy out, and swarming with bikers of the motorised variety! The café refurbishment is now complete, and seems fairly efficient, though it wasn't too busy today. Andy and Alan made their usual early exits, and Paul set off for home ahead of the rest of us, and on leaving we immediately became separated into two groups, due to traffic, with Geoff leading the larger part and myself, Gareth, Pete, Mick and Stuart following on behind. In Southill Stuart followed Geoff's group towards Stanford and Clifton, while the rest of us headed to Shefford, then up the hill to Meppershall, where we popped in to my place for an extra break and a cuppa, as if we needed it! Back on the road, I accompanied the others for some of their rides homeward before doubling back. It had been a very pleasant run out, warm, and despite the forecast, zero rainfall!
Adrian Ride Leader.
