I lead the "nominate" ride followed by John Hare, John MacMillan, Dave Taylor and Iain MacDonald. Dave's bike is now sporting a brand new Brooks saddle and seat post courtesy of St John's Street Cycles. So with clearing skies we follow the Oxford Road, over Denham Mount, then shadow the A413 to Chalfont St Peter for elevenses at Crumbs. After refreshments, we climb the hill to Chalfont Grove, a task made harder because I haven't climbed any decent hills lately.Onward to Chalfont St Giles, we reach Penn Street where John Hare departs. Beamond End Lane is trickier than usual with plenty of mud to contend with. I use my back brake only, on the descent, a wise choice but not without it's problems as I lock the wheel on a couple of occasions. I'm relieved to be at the bottom of the hill at Little Missenden, Turning left, we are soon at Deep Mill Diner. There are quite a few bookings today and the staff are relieved to find there are only four of us. After a splendid lunch we climb out of the valley towards Hyde Heath, following a route suggested by John Mac. It's not quite as steep as the one I was going to use, but it's the same hill. At the top we begin the slow descent through Amersham and the Chalfonts. Dave begins to feel the effects of his new saddle, I suspect that a hot bath and some liniment may be required. The weather having been kind thus far, turns showery by Roughwood Park, but none of us can be bothered to put our waterproof trousers on. Regards Bernie G.