Frances's ride starting from the Wee Waif attracted 6 followers. I wasn't sure where we were most of the time so if you really want to know the twists and turns check out the map ! We set off toward Sonning in dry but cool conditions where we joined the river path eventually arriving at Caversham Heath GC for morning coffee, kindly paid for by Peter (yes Ann had dug him up again). With the sun now blazing down, we headed off to the lunch stop - the Swan at Streatley. However, Frances had 'accidentally' factored in some rather trying hills which were rather challenging (some of us declined the challenge half way up and walked). The plus side of going up a hill is the rewarding glorious swoop® down when you get to the top. Frances's choice of lunch venue was superb - we sat on the terrace for lunch overlooking the river in glorious sunshine and with the added bonus of no wasps. Post lunch, we were somewhat dismayed to find that what had been a glorious swoop® to the pub was now a tedious grinding climb but what the heck we were in no rush. Afternoon tea was at the Herb Garden Centre (which we have used before) where I spent some time, at Ann's insistence, in the stocks for smoking . Heading back to the Wee Waif, Peter was unlucky enough to pick up a puncture but that was the only mishap of the day. A great day out with Frances, who can always be relied upon to provide a great ride well out of our normal cycling territory and all done without a GPS unit.
Most Disappointed Loiterer of the Day Award goes to Peter. It was his birthday today and the only present that he had been given was a pair of socks by his son and diddly squat from Ann (though there was a half hearted and belated promise of a new inner tube)