It was good to see Louis at the start, albeit as a non-riding walking wounded!

Although the Vale was bathed in sunshine, it got overcast as we headed south. There were plenty of riders coming down Hackpen Hill, and a sportive food station was at the top. Phil joined us at Shefford Woodlands, and we took a small diversion to avoid the A4 and Hungerford, and hopefully introduced a few new lanes to some riders.

John took his customary detour whil everyone else heaved and panted up the 100 Best Climbs side of Coombe Gibbet - some lovely views were the reward. The Honesty Cafe at Inkpen didn't disappoint with great cakes and coffee, but the service was a little slow.

A change of route to avoid the A338 saw us take in a new lane for most skirting around Leckhampstead (when the off-the-front brigade came back to join the main group) and the Chain Hill descent was great fun as ever. A good turnout today, and nine riders made it back to the pub for a swift top-up.