Into 2007 with the TCA

With John determined to put his best foot forward towards his New Year's resolution to "get a bit fitter" and Al keen to lose some of his "Christmas excess" we thought it best to make a start. We were not feeling particularly inspired though and, Jon having been up the Trundle earlier in the week, chose our 'old faithful', Hambledon #1 route (maps here). Jon was round to Al's pretty early but we dawdled over a cup of tea and a chat about our holidays and, having donned our usual thermal protection, eventually left at about 19:00. The rain of previous evenings had eased and, although it was overcast, we were left with a perfect evening for a cycle.

After a while Al had wished that he had also chosen shorts; with legging's and the new thermal base layer that Santa had left he was soon sweating profusely in the unseasonably warm weather. In truth there is nothing much to report - the ride was very similar to the recent outing at the end of November - the conditions were wet and muddy throughout guaranteeing odd looks from the locals at The White Lion at Soberton and Traveler's Rest at Newtown (had there been any locals), even before Al passed up the offer of a beer (month off; his New Year 's resolution). In fact the deserted pubs were perhaps the most remarkable thing - it felt like we were on the set of Day of the Triffids - there was no one else around!

The White Lion: Kicking!

Thankfully the mutant plants hadn't got to Trudy who was on hand to knock out a chicken curry for the TCA after their obligatory strip on the step and hose down. A gentle but enjoyable start to 2007.

Jon proposes a toast to absent members while

Al enjoys his blackcurrant & soda water
('Happy' New Year my a*se!)

(Posted by: Al)