Yesterday's long ride follows. Chris Kinsey's ride. Followers are: John Hare, John Owen, Colin Acreman, Tim Oakley and me. Our route takes us through Ickenham, Harefield and along the canal to Rickmansworth. Past Micklefield Green, our refreshment stop is at Blackwell's, Chipperfield. John H and Colin leave us here. The remaining four of us resume the slow climb past Venus Hill and Ashley Green. At Grim's Ditch we begin our descent into the valley, crossing the Grand Union to our lunch stop at The Valiant Trooper at Aldbury. Curiously I can't see the stocks they used to have outside, so whether they've moved them somewhere, or we are sitting in the wrong place, I don't know. After lunch we cross the canal again by Tring station, and follow the valley until we get to Berkhamsted. There follows a horrendous climb to the A41, but after Whelpley Hill, the climbing is over. We meander gently to Flaunden church for refreshments. Continuing past Sarratt, we head for Rickmansworth. At Batchworth we bid farewell to Tim, while the remaining three of us continue through Northwood. A bit of off-road follows bringing us onto tarmac again by Ruislip Lido. On the way there one of the clips that holds the pannier onto my rack comes off. A half an hour is spent trying to fix it to no avail. (Thanks Chris and John for trying). Chris saves the day by lending me one of his bungee cords to support it. In Ruislip we all go our separate ways. I continue to the Polish War Memorial and home that way. A great day weather wise, but not too hot. Regards Bernie G.