As the rain hammered down at 7am, I wondered whether this ride would take place. At 9am there was dampness in the air, five club members willing to ride and two riders, Rachel Bennett and Ian Lambourn, joining us for the first time.

It wasn't an easy start - straight up Chain Hill - and it didn't get easier along the rollercoaster of the Ilsleys through Compton and Aldworth. By the time we had got to the top of Streatley Hill we had climbed 400 metres in 23 kms. The hill was closed for cars due to roadworks so we descended slowly in expectation of a blockage and sure enough there was one right at the bottom, but a footpath was available.

The road from Goring to Wallingford was straightforward and we took a snack at the Bean & Brew on St Mary's Street. Replenished we rode out towards Brightwell-cum-Sotwell.

And then we had the headwind - another 23 kms, this time into a 20mph headwind. By the time we got to West Hendred some of us needed a break and providence provided it in the form of a puncture that required a couple of goes to fix.

We got back to the market place at 1:10pm, a bit worn out but pleased to have ridden. We certainly enjoyed the ride with Rachel and Ian and hope that they enjoyed it too!