NY DAY RIDE NOTES … 1.1.2020

Dear All

Sixteen of us arrived at Blackshots for the annual new year day ride, all of who were experienced riders. It was pretty cold and damp but undeterred we set out along the cycle paths beside the Lodge Lane and onward… with much good chat and gossip on the way. Usually we cross near the Harvester Restaurant and on through Davy Down and the Mardyke Vally … however, having reconnoitered earlier it was just too flooded and muddy. Over the busy junction 31 and through to Watts Wood eventually arriving at the RSPB cafe… Here we met up with old club friends Martin and Andrea and also Richard and Jane. Dave F who was coughing well… waited here We set off around the the ‘loop’ taking in the sticky Marsh Road (debris dropped from lorries…) and a left turn up to the concrete barges. Here the views across the ancient Thames never fail to fascinate and inspire – a low tide, much bird life, great mud flats exposed and the river as settled as a mill pond… Onwards – and a race to the cafe for eats and drink. We were joined by Chris and Tina here and more jolly chat and catch up on the news. Soon we gathered ourselves and set out again for home, some heading to Aveley, Ockendon, Upminster and beyond. The rest of us towards Grays, returning along more or less on the same route, and our final ‘Happy New Year’ farewells. A really big thank you to everyone, the weather was really grim – but you all made the day just a bit brighter – see you all again on 1.1.2021?!

A Big Cheers! For the new decade ahead with – Gateway Cycling…

Jon L.