Sunday 20th March, long ride. Lilo Bleasdale, Jim Swan, John Hare, Graham Orford, Iain MacDonald and Chris Kinsey follow me out of Uxbridge. An advance party consisting Dave Peck, Liliane Rausch and Phil Hallewell, have been sent as emissaries to Datchet Water Sailing Club. Confident of the success of their diplomatic mission, we take our time, wending our way through West Drayton and Thorney. All is quiet when we arrive, save the rattling of teaspoons and cups. A strange conversation ensues, beginning with the invasion of alien marine organisms, and ending in hydrothermal vents; all inspired by the aquatic environment. After refreshments we trade John for Phil and set off for Horton. Liliane sets a relaxed pace so we can save our energy for the climb ahead. Bidding farewell to Dave, Liliane and John, we head up Crimp Hill and arrive at The Barley Mow, Englefield Green quite early. Sunday roast doesn't seem to be on the menu, so baguette, chips and salad seems to be a good choice. Afterwards we head for Windsor Great Park. At Eton Lilo takes a short cut home. At Boveney we lose Jim, who fails to notice our turn off to the boating lake. We wait at the entrance, unaware that he has already headed towards Dorney Common. With no Jim sight we continue to Burnham Beeches and our tea stop at Coffee, Eats and Treats, Farnham Common. Jim has beaten us to it. Chris and Iain head for Uxbridge while the rest of us have our beverages. The final leg home takes through Black Park, and we disperse soon afterwards. A dry ride, cool and cloudy. All the best Bernie the bolt.