Six intrepid cyclists braved the "fresh" breezy ride. We started by being buffeted with a cross wind up Chain Hill where we had a well timed meeting with Chris at the top. A few minutes to gather thoughts and we were off again with the wind behind us through Farnborough and West Ilsley.

The leader felt that it would be pleasant for the group to have a short break with views over the A34 just before East Ilsley whilst he mended his puncture, assisted by Andy. Off we went again through East Ilsley and Compton, dodging the pot holes, with the wind still at our backs, then another unscheduled stop for a puncture......mucky roads and potholes have a lot to answer for. Round in a loop by the Four Points and passed the Rain Forest and into Hampstead Norreys for refreshments, where Phil was waiting for us.....good to see you Phil.

Off again now against the wind, at a good pace, towards Worlds End and Beedon, through Stanmore to Lilley, where we parted company with Chris (on good terms). We continued up the B4494 past Saddlebacks and then Jenny dropped off to go home not wishing to face the cross winds down Chain Hill again.

The remaining four tackled the return journey down Chain Hill with due caution given that the wind was still strong. All arrived safely back in Wantage.

Good ride, thank you for your company