Box Hill and beyond
Posted on Thursday 17 May 2007 by Paul Foster
At least it was not raining when 10 of us convened at Victoria. Nick Bloom arrived bearing apocalyptic predictions about what the weather was to do to us in the afternoon. It was decided to buy tickets to Redhill to facilitate an early bale out. We arrived at Purley, only to have the first wardrobe faff of the day as it had started to rain gently at first, and then with more purpose.
We were soon out of Purley and wound our way up to Tadworth via Chipstead Valley. At Tadworth, there was a huddle in shop windows as Nick Wells fixed a puncture. Onwards to Headley, where after a sharp climb, we descended to the foot of Boxhill, with pleasing, if moist vistas glimpsed at speed on the way. At Box Hill, the party split into 2. Feigning concern for health and safety, Inez assumed an unusual mother-hen air and accompanied a small but select group around the principal obstacle. Paul escorted the other party over the hill. A shopping faff at the top was averted thanks to some sharp words from Paul, who reminded the putative shopper that the others would be waiting in less than ideal conditions in the Audax Hotel in Betchworth. The views at the top of Box Hill were superb, despite the dreariness of the weather. After a swoop down to Betchworth, the parties reconvened, and a fag break was had by the usual suspects. We then (John, Nick B & Keith especially) tackled the flatter bits with gusto, and all arrived by way of Leigh to the Skimmington Castle outside Reigate for lunch with nearly 50k covered.
The pub fed us excellent food in short order, whilst we looked at a deserted golf course and worsening rain. A quick vote was taken, and 8 of 10 cats preferred not to get wetter than absolutely necessary, so took the most direct route to Redhill. Nick Wells and Geraldine opted for further fun in the rain, and went to find or make a way to London. The more wussy (?sensible ones) were Victoria bound within 10 minutes of getting to the station. On arrival, Paul discovered a squishy tyre, which he fixed whilst partaking of the post ride coffee with John, Nick, Camille and Inez. Further fun was had watching the arrest and questioning of 3 apparent miscreants on the station. Oh yes, it did stop raining the moment we got out of the station!
The cast in full; Nicks Bloom & Wells, Denise, Naomi, Keith, John, Camille, Geraldine, Inez & Paul.