St Pauls Walden - Hertfordshire

20 December

Todays ride was to St Pauls Walden. There were two rides today, a longer ride via Hexton and Gravel Hill which was lead by Adrian with Roy, Steve, Shelia & Mia. A shorter direct ride via Great Wymondley and Redcoats Green which was lead by Geoff with David W, Frank C and I. On our (the shorter ride group) arrival at the Strathmore Arns, we were advised that the pub was fully booked by a funeral party. They were, however able take a lunch order from us, before the funeral group arrival which we were able to eat in a little side room. The longer ride group were not so lucky and decided to double back to the Bull at Whitwell for lunch. Unfortunately Roy had a puncture which had to be fixed prior to their departure, which gave them a little time to chat with us before they left. I have no details of Adrians ride back after lunch, but Geoff, Frank and I came directly back and David took a detour via Old Knebworth and Stevenage for some shopping. It was a lovely bright, sunny winters day with very little wind. My mileage was in the region of 17 with an average of 11.5 mph.