What an epic ride that proved to be, even if my legs blew up after only 50 miles! A big bunch of riders at the start (myself, Dave Farmer, Dave Croft, Dave Barber, Joe Morris, Gary Skerratt, Phil Houlton and Wesley Inskip. We were also joined by three others - Martin Ford, Wayne Lacy and "Noonsie".....racers all I presume. The pace was high enough for me not to notice that Gary, Wes and Phil peeled off at some point before Long Lane Cafe. Beautiful weather and rolling roads all the way to Long Lane, with Sam Bills and Dave Croft doing huge work on the front into a stiff headwind. My legs felt "OK" at the cafe, only for them to turn to useless appendages once we discovered the cafe was full to bursting and we'd have to find nourishment elsewhere. So began the 22 mile trek to RAF Cosford, which heralded the proper start of my suffering. Joe Morris regularly peeled back to give me a much-appreciated shove up the inclines. Sausage, egg, chips, a packet chocolate coats raisins, a coke and a latte were soon devoured but to no avail - the lack of energy showed itself immediately. It was then a long stint in the cave all the way back home, with Dave Farmer doing a hero's job for at least 20 miles by sitting on the font and pacing me back when I got separated for good from the bunch. Many thanks Dave. A puncture for me on the A34 coming into Tittensor saw the final separation, then it was a gentle solo push home for the final few miles. All in all, an epic ride that will stay in the memory, regardless of the physical effort, discomfort and bar chewing antics. At least the banter made me smile!