WOLDINGHAM LANES 17/12/06 (Report by Mark W as relayed to Mark D)

Although this was a hastily arranged last-minute ride, we still had 10
people at the start for a crisp winter's day ride around the lanes. The
train to Woldingham gives you a great headstart and gets you right out
into the rural areas. Unfortunately, when I mapped the route out I
wasn't really familiar with the lane out of Woldingham station but I
thought it would just be a gentle traffic-free rise. Unfortunately it
was the most brutal hill we've ever been up! Everybody walked and the
route got a bit muddy at the top. To add insult to injury, two
punctures were sustained on the way up.

Once out on top of the North Downs, everyone stopped for a breather in
a layby to admire the great views. It was 11:30 by the time we trundled
into Beaver Water World, a little-known reptile zoo with a basic cafe.
As we were behind schedule, a vote was taken on whether we should lunch
at the Old Jail but it was decided we should press on towards the
Harvester in Addington Village.

Jewel's Hill defeated a few riders and there was confusion at the top
where one rider was nearly mislaid but we were soon on the long descent
of Featherbed Lane and along the cycle track to the pub. Lunch was
reasonably priced with the added bonus of unlimited salad. Good job too
because straight after lunch was the tough climb up Spout Hill. It only
takes a minute longer to walk up than it does to ride.

People peeled off on the way home but 5 ventured all the way back to
Pollards Hill. Out for 6hrs, 23 miles. No pix yet but here's the route:

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=577283

Hope you all have a great Christmas and don't forget the Boxing Day
mystery ride at 9:30 from the library.

Cheers
Mark
PHC Co-ordinator
07711 688189