Four started off from Great Shefford in the drizzle - Pam and Nick had ridden over from Wantage. The first quick detour (after the stop for Pam to repair a puncture at Hampstead Marshall, conveniently alongside the bus shelther) was to check out the topiary at Ashmansworth - very good as always. A few hills to deal with but nothing too taxing, and we made it to Popham just gone midday.

The airfield was very quiet, and the cafe somewhat busier as we ordered various goodies. Pete was happy with his wrap (but didn't have a bap), so all was harmonious. Just as we set to leave, the rain was coming down heavier so we stayed indoors for more drinks and cakes.

No more than 100m up the road and disaster struck, Pam came off in a low-speed tumble and had a painful arm as a result (we later found out it was a non-displaced fracture of the neck of the radius). It was clear she wasn't going to be riding further, and we were at the furthest point from home. Plan B consisted of Pete and Chris going back to fetch a car from Great Shefford, while Nick stayed with Pam in the cafe.

As it happened, Plan C came about and Pam got a lift back home, leaving Nick to cycle.

The journey back was broadly dry and very scenic. It's a great route to a great cafe - quiet country lanes, enough hills without being onerous and options for other stops.

Wishing Pam a speedy recovery!