Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Thu Sep 2nd 2021

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. A ride out to Munchies for Coffee via Garford, Marcham and Fyfield. We might be lucky and catch the 1* group if we get a jog on! Approximately 21 Miles in total. Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16km - 19km (10-12 miles) per hour, usually with a café stop. During school holidays there will be shorter family rides of 16km - 24km (10-15 miles) at a slower pace. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed.
Riders: Des Higgs Geoff Neill John Tranter Karl Blake Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 5 Report:
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37347151"
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Thu Sep 2nd 2021

Cycle and meet up

Leader:	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: TBA
Description: This is an event where a destination (Usually a cafe) and time is set and riders make their own way to meet with friends to enjoy a socially distanced coffee and chat. This is not a led ride. The start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish.
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Thu Sep 2nd 2021

Daytime 1* Thursday Ride	1*

Leader: Lorna Swanton	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: NB: a new addition for the first Thursday of each month, catering for those preferring a more leisurely ride. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Easy, sociable rides of 16km - 24km (10-15 miles) at a pace of 13km - 16km (8-10 miles) per hour, usually with a café stop. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. To Southmoor for coffee at Munch; out by Hanney, returning via Charney Bassett.
Riders: Carin Tranter Kevin Hazell Lorna Swanton Riders = 3 Weather: Report: A ride of two halves: cool with a brisk north-east wind in our faces on the way up to Southmoor, then warmer and almost sunny after coffee, as we coasted gently back down towards Charney Bassett and home to Grove. We gained an extra rider at coffee too, after meeting the 2* group there (nice to see everyone!). Feeling reasonably energetic, we did an extra loop via Asti Equestrian back to Denchworth, adding just over a mile to the planned ride. Averaging 10 miles an hour, with a few stops, this was a very sociable morning ride. Next 1* Thursday will be on October 7th.
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37293614"
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Sat Sep 4th 2021

3* Saturday Away Day Ride	3*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: East Winchester P&R
Description: This year's trip to Normandy has had to be postponed again due to Covid, but I have managed to get the club access to the D-Day Map Room at Southwick Park near Portsmouth instead. With Eddie's agreement I have therefore hijacked this ride and it will now be an away-day down in Hampshire. It starts at East Winchester Park & Ride (St Catherine’s) at 0900, where there are toilets. It is then somewhat hilly (unavoidable in that part of the country) across to Southwick Park for 1130. I will give a short presentation in the map room (where Eisenhower made the "Go" decision for D-Day) and then we will head off for lunch at (hopefully) the Bat and Ball pub in Hambledon. It's then more hills with great views back to Winchester. A provisional route is at the link, but this may change before the day - I will update this if it does. It's 100km with 1200m of climbing, so at the upper end of a 3, but we won't be racing and all normal 3 riders will be fine. The ride is limited to 11 other riders plus me. So far booked are: John Tranter Eddie Little Jon and Karen Townsin Roger Postbeschild Email me to book, or message on 07875 456521. For security clearance purposes I need names by Sunday 29 August please.
Riders: Chris Bailey Eddie Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Richard Pethybridge Roger Postbeschild Riders = 7 Weather: Report: This turned out to be a super ride through some spectacular countryside, topped off with a bit of history. We started from the excellent Park & Ride at St Catherine's near Winchester and headed south east past Marwell Zoo towards Portsmouth. Mostly traffic free roads with decent surfaces (and the odd bit of gravel track) led us to the village of Southwick where we enjoyed some excellent coffee and cakes. From there it was a short hop to the old HMS Dryad to see the D-Day map room and for me to revisit my lecturing past and give a quick talk on the room's provenance. We left there and headed up to the Bat and Ball pub near Hambledon for lunch - a long climb to get to it but that meant a long descent immediately after to get the legs working. Up and down the two sides of the Moon Valley brought us superb views and tired legs, before the sawtooth road that returned us (via a final piece of gravel track) to the start.
Distance: 101.50 km (63.07 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/5905409031
Gravel track short cut Quiet lanes of south Hampshire Coffee stop at Southwick Tea Rooms Visiting the D-Day map room at HMS Dryad Outside Southwick House, home of the D-Day map room Lunch at the Bat and Ball, Hambledon After one of the Meon Valley climbs Near the top of Old Winchester Hill Almost back to Winchester Awesome group of riders!
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37154964"
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Written by : Karen Townsin

Posted on : September 4, 2021 at 9:17 PM

A great ride Richard. Thanks for organising the very special visit to the map room.

Sun Sep 5th 2021

2* Sunday Shortie	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: A short ride out to Letcombes Childrey Kingston Lisle Baulking and Goosey , back to grove Via Denchworth..
Riders: David Jackson Des Higgs John Groves Paul Bentley Stephanie Haddrell Susan Holdroyd Riders = 6 Report: First Sunday shortie of the season lovely to have good company. We had planned to go to the Letcombes via Denchworth road and Ham road, but due to road closures we headed up to East Challow and up the hill by the Cricket Club and down into Letcombe regis. Fully warmed up we cruised through the Letcombes, on to Childrey and Sparsholt and Kingstone Lisle before headiing back via Goosey and Denchworth. A lovely morning ride and special credit to Des for coming having done 60+ miles on the Isle of Wight on Saturday, great effort!
Distance: 30.58 km (19.00 mi)
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Tue Sep 7th 2021

Tuesday Evening 1* Ride	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Our last 1* evening ride of the season will be a flat tour of familiar lanes taking us out to Goosey, Charney Bassett and Lyford. Lights are required due to the early sunset. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. To book, please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Our leisurely and sociable Tuesday 1* rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of about 10 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way.
Riders: Carin Tranter Kevin Hazell Michael Tayler Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Tim Waite Vyvyan Hazell Riders = 8 Weather: Report: What a lovely way to finish the summer season of Tuesday 1* rides! A gloriously sunny late summer evening with wonderful light, long shadows, a sunset and golden clouds. All enjoyed with excellent company. Mellow!
Distance: 19.31 km (12.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29341976"
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Tue Sep 7th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. A nice mellow route around the Vale to the north. If it goes well and we have some daylight left, we will explore the beautiful back lanes of Hinton Waldrist and Longworth. 21 easy miles.
Riders: Barry Stanton David Jackson Des Higgs Gareth Smith Ian Howland John Tranter Julie Haynes Karl Blake Roger Postbeschild Sarah Bowen Susie Turnbull Val Smith Riders = 12 Weather: Report: A perfect, hot late summer evening proved tempting for many as a big group assembled. Thanks to Gareth for enabling a split by leading a second ride. Some impatient motorists marred our exit from Grove, but it was generally a lovely run round the Vale. As we approached Pusey, group 2 became a little frisky and decided to overtake and become group 1. We took the chance to go along the bridleway between Hinton Waldrist and Longworth and were rewarded by the truly lovely sights of the manor house, pond and church tucked away at the back of Longworth. The light was fading fast as he headed for home, but we made good time with the wind behind us. Thanks to all for a great end of season ride!
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/74802789
2* group in Longworth - last ride of the season!
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31860825"
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Tue Sep 7th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Sharon Bedford	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. A shorter route marking the end of the season - BUT BRING LIGHTS PLEASE
Riders: Andrew Rimmer Chris Bailey Howard Houlston Jane John Joanna Houlston LeeAnn Norris Lisa Footner Nicole Pethybridge Richard Ashford Roger Turnbull Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 12 Report: A glorious hot sunny evening arrived seemingly out of nowhere to reward us with the opportunity for a fabulous early September ride. With a group of 12 tempted out by the warmth we split the ride into two groups. Thanks for Jane for stepping up a second ride leader. We all agreed that the long descent from Kingstone Lisle down to Bauking was one of our favorites and tonight it was made even more special because of the orange glow of the setting sun, (photo courtesy of Jane).
Sunset
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37413461"
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Tue Sep 7th 2021

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
Riders: David Brown Robin Tucker Riders = 2 Weather: Report: You wouldn't forget your shoes for a ride, would you? Well someone did, and we're not mentioning names, but they are absent from tonight's list of names after calling in half way from Newbury to Wantage. 🤣 David and I decided to take advantage of the last ride before rain by heading East and long, mostly on the Ridgeway. We headed South after the A34 crossed a road and then looped back up to Compton and North to rejoin the Ridgeway. Then a solid dash West in darkening, er, light, and a fine run down Goddards Brook to Knights Farm. Excellent!
Distance: 38.62 km (24.00 mi)
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Thu Sep 9th 2021

Cycle and Meet Up

Leader:	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: Appleton Community Store
Description: This is an event where a destination (usually a cafe) and time is set and riders make their own way to meet with friends to enjoy a socially distanced coffee and chat. This is not a led ride. N.B. The start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish.
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Thu Sep 9th 2021

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: A ride out to the Appleton Community Store for refreshments using a hidden cut-through from Kingston Bagpuize to Fyfield en route. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Friday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained.
Riders: David Bridge Des Higgs Karl Blake Kevin Hazell Lorna Swanton Patrick O'Leary Stephanie Haddrell Susan Holdroyd Riders = 8 Report: A lovely morning for a relaxed ride out to Appleton , cooler than earlier in the week with light breeze. The route was to include the old A420 and a track which took us to the Fyfield junction. Karl was holding the vital information on this route but had been delayed so we were all relieved to see him waiting at Denchworth. A very relaxed pace with much chatting on the way. We arrived at Appleton before the rain which decided to come just as we sat down with our coffee and cakes! The journey back was mainly dry and uneventful, no mechanicals and very good company. Thanks to all and especially to Des for leading!
Distance: 41.84 km (26.00 mi)
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Sat Sep 11th 2021

Ride and Stride for Historic Churches 2021	2*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Update 3/09: We've decide to head north to Witney - draft route attached to give a general idea of the ground we shall cover. This passes 25 churches, 10 of which we expect to be open. We may tweak as we find out more about participating churches. The second Saturday in September sees the annual Ride and Stride event in aid of the Oxfordshire Historic Churches Trust (further details at: https://ohct.org.uk/ride-stride/ ). The idea is to either stride or ride (awheel or ahoof) to visit as many Oxfordshire churches as you like between 10am and 6pm. Although we don’t know how many churches will be open this year (as this is dependent on volunteers) it still makes for an interesting, sociable ride and a great day out. Discovering historic gems, often in hidden corners of local villages, away from the beaten track, is one of the great charms of this event. The outline plan is for an all-day ride at 2* pace (8-20km/h or 11-13mph) covering around 40 miles with not many hills and (obviously) a lot of stops. Some will be brief and some longer depending on particular points of interest and, where churches are open, the chance to look around and the temptation of refreshments. We will start as per usual at 9:30 from OMH and head north towards Witney. We’ll stop for a café or pub lunch. It's not compulsory to do the whole ride and we can advise on routes home. For those who fancy the whole day, we expect to reach our last church just before 6pm. And we'll expect to be back in Grove before 7pm - but lights recommended. Although participants are encouraged to seek sponsorship, we normally make a donation. This is split between the OHCT and a church you can nominate. Please contact Steve (07857 527990) or Gareth (07817 701644) for more information and please text Steve to book a place. It's an interesting and fun day out and a very social day awheel. Do join us for some or all of the day.
Riders: Eddie Little Gareth Smith Gerry Jones Lorna Swanton Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 6 Weather: Report: A super day out. Perfect conditions for a long day and we really made the most of it. 23 churches in 44 miles of cycling over 9 and 3/4 hours. A lovely group to ride with and we enjoyed some interesting and informative discussions with the church hosts we met. Some great discoveries too... A fuller report and pictures to come.
Distance: 70.81 km (44.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/75101873
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37307365"
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Sun Sep 12th 2021

Sunday 3* Half Day Ride	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Half day ride (60-70km / 38-45 miles), with a tea stop, riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Likely to visit distant destinations. Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing likely. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text or email your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Sunday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Text 07512645320 Or email edlittle157@gmail.com This ride is at the shorter end of the scale for a half day ride, 38 miles. Staying close to the Vale, we’ll pass through the villages of Denchworth, Charney Bassett & Buckland. We’ll then enjoy the descent of Buckland Hill passing over the River Thames at Tadpole Bridge. From this point we’ll turn off the main road onto the wonderful lanes of Great Brook & Shifford. This will take us through to Aston Pottery where we’ll stop for our elevenses. Once all refreshed we’ll head through to the villages of Bampton & Clanfield, then over the River Thames at Radcot Bridge, this will take us through to the market town of Faringdon. From this point we’ll head for home passing through Fernham, Uffington, Baulking & Goosey. Expect to be back in Grove for around 01:00pm.
Riders: Eddie Little Jane John John Groves LeeAnn Norris Nick Dunton Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Report to follow!
Distance: 62.76 km (39.00 mi)
Team photo Shifford. Tea at Aston Pottery on a sunny September morning. Jane & Lee Ann Aston Pottery. Spectacular colours over the gardens Aston Pottery. September, Aston Pottery.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37406803"
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Tue Sep 14th 2021

Late season Tuesday Evening Ride	3*

Leader:	Start Time: 5:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Sorry Ride Cancelled
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Tue Sep 14th 2021

Late Season 2*	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 5:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A familiar ride out from Grove to Letcombes Childrey Kingston Lisle and back via Goosey and Denchworth. Please bring Lights.
Riders: Andrew Rimmer David Jackson Des Higgs Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 4 Report: After heavy rain during the day it was lovely to get out, a dry evening mild with little wind, perfect conditions and great company. A familiar route to the Letcombes and up Holborn hill where we breaked for a chat before heading to Childrey, Kingston Lisle and Baulking. Thanks all for your company!
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
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Tue Sep 14th 2021

RIDE CANCELLED - Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	2*

Leader:	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Apologies but there is no one to lead this ride tonight and therefore it is cancelled. - As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres required and good lights when it gets dark (‘get you home’ lights in Spring/Autumn). We are keen to welcome new riders and can make recommendations or have spare lights to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we’ll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if we decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
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Thu Sep 16th 2021

Cycle and Meet Up

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: Ardington Grocers Chef
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. This is an event where a destination (usually a cafe) and time is set and riders make their own way to meet with friends to enjoy a socially distanced coffee and chat. This is not a led ride. N.B. The start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish.
Riders: Ali Kempson John Groves Paul Bentley Riders = 3 Report:
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Thu Sep 16th 2021

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Friday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. A ride out to Ardington Grocers Chef, via Locking Ginge and Hendred, Back via Laines Barn
Riders: David Bridge Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Eddie Little Ernie Trimble Kevin Hazell Lorna Swanton Patrick O'Leary Roger Postbeschild Stephanie Haddrell Val Smith Riders = 11 Report: Lovely to see so many riders out today! We split into 2 groups for the main roads with Roger kindly leading the second group and Des Sweeping. We headed out along the cycle path to Charlton along the path to Lockinge and out through Ginge before heading along the Icknield way to Hendred. Back through some lovely paths and the Bridge of doom to Ardinghton for coffee where we were greeted by Paul, John and Ali. We had a lovely catch up before a neighbour with an angle grinder disturbed the peace and we headed home via Laines Barn. A great ride and so good to see everyone, thanks for a lovely morning!
Distance: 22.53 km (14.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37520935
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Sat Sep 18th 2021

1* Saturday Afternoon Ride	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A Saturday 1* ride from Grove! After an enjoyable series of awayday rides over the summer, this afternoon we will start from "home". A loop around the vale to Childrey and then into Wantage via the track to East Challow. Refreshments at Marmalade Cafe in the Market Place. There will be a 1/2 mile stretch on the A417 between Goosey and Challow Station. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Please text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Sunday before the ride. Monthly 16-32km (10-20 miles) family and social afternoon rides, usually with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 13-16km/h (8-10mph). Occasional short or gentle climbs.
Riders: Alvaro Rey Brian Hipwell Ian Howland Julie Haynes Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Tim Waite Riders = 7 Weather: Report:
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37511243"
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Sun Sep 19th 2021

Sunday Shortie 2*	2*

Leader: Jo Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. A gentle loop out through Denchworth and then onto Southmoor, across the A420 to Longworth and then back across the A420 through Pusey and Stanford before returning to Grove via Goosey and Denchworth. 19.9 miles
Riders: Des Higgs Ernie Trimble Jo Little Karl Blake Roger Postbeschild Riders = 5 Weather: Report: The weather was a bit wet to start with, but it soon stopped raining and turned into a warm, dry ride. The short off-road section in Longworth was new to me and gave us the chance to cycle through more lovely villages. It was lovely to be back out on my road bike again and thanks to everyone for their great company.
Distance: 33.80 km (21.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37473537"
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37473537"
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Sun Sep 19th 2021

Regular Wantage Ride	3*

Leader:

Start Time:

9:30 am

Start Location:

WMP

Description:

Monthly 80-100km (50-65 miles) all-day touring ride, lunch and possibly tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable.

Unfortunately this Ride has been Cancelled

As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. All-day touring ride (80-100km / 50-65 miles), lunch and possibly tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained.

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Tue Sep 21st 2021

Late season Tuesday Evening Ride	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 5:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Second in a series of three late season Tuesday rides. Please note 5.30 start Should be back before dusk - BUT BRING LIGHTS PLEASE
Riders: Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce Yvonne Bird Riders = 3 Weather: Report: What a glorious evening for a bonus Tuesday evening ride! A select 3 had a ball: Warm weather, quiet roads and good company, who could ask for more. We had the occasional reminder that it was commute time - quite a pause to cross the A420 but this just increased the enjoyment of the quiet back roads. Thanks to Sharon for a perfect route for a Tuesday evening quick ride - we missed you!
Distance: 38.87 km (24.15 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/6012989771
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37441739"
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Tue Sep 21st 2021

Late Season 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 5:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A gentle ride out around the Vale of approximately 20 Miles
Riders: Andrew Rimmer David Jackson Des Higgs Karl Blake Roger Postbeschild Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 6 Report: After leading so many rides with no punctures, this ride made up for it with 2! Karl had one before we got to Denchworth and I had one myself at Sparshot. The route was made up as we went along but obviously I chose one where the farmers had cut their hedges. I was sorry to keep the other riders from getting home to their meals but one of the joys of cycling is thorns. A good ride with good company. Thanks
Distance: 30.50 km (18.95 mi)
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Tue Sep 21st 2021

Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	2*

Leader:	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres required and good lights when it gets dark (‘get you home’ lights in Spring/Autumn). We are keen to welcome new riders and can make recommendations or have spare lights to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we’ll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if we decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
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Thu Sep 23rd 2021

Cycle and Meet Up

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: Stanford Cafe
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. This is an event where a destination (usually a cafe) and time is set and riders make their own way to meet with friends to enjoy a socially distanced coffee and chat. This is not a led ride. N.B. The start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish.
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Thu Sep 23rd 2021

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: A ride around the Vale with coffee at Stanford. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Friday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained.
Riders: Des Higgs John Groves Karl Blake Kevin Hazell Richard Kidd Roger Postbeschild Riders = 6 Report: A good, well paced ride for a Thursday. The route was Charney - Southmoor - Hinton - Pusey - Stanford for coffee and back to Grove via Park Lane and Denchworth. No mechanicals and a very good group to ride with. Thanks to all.
Distance: 29.21 km (18.15 mi)
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Sat Sep 25th 2021

3* Saturday Half Day Ride	3*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Half day ride (60-70km / 38-45 miles), with a tea stop, riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Likely to visit distant destinations. Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing likely. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Sunday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. We head north into the Thames Valley via Fyfield and Standlake, with a coffee and cake stop at Blakes in Clanfield. We then ride to Faringdon and head home via Uffington and Goosey. 40 miles with only a couple of minor climbs.
Riders: Chris Bailey Gerry Jones John Tranter Sally Bensoussis Riders = 4 Weather: Report: A select but elite group for this ride. Calm weather made it all pretty straightforward. We bowled along happily down into the Thames valley and enjoyed the peaceful roads in the strange wilderness around Shifford. We had planned to have a coffee stop at Blakes in Clanfield but it was very busy so we pressed on. Sally mentioned a new cafe in Great Coxwell and it turned out to be a great choice - the Little Ranch Shop was a delightful place and we very much enjoyed their epic chocolate cake. Very much recommended. Suitably refreshed, we returned home on familiar roads across the Vale. Thanks to all for great company.
Distance: 62.76 km (39.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/75908433
3* ride in Shifford The Little Ranch Shop, Great Coxwell
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37575210"
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Sun Sep 26th 2021

2* Sunday Shortie	2*

Leader: Jo Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: The Beacon
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Starting from the Beacon we will head out through the Letcombes and then up Hackpen Hill (slowly and waiting for everyone at the top!). We will then take the lovely route over Seven Barrows before returning to Wantage through Kingston Lisle, Goosey, Denchworth and Grove. 21.7 miles with climbing, but taken at a steady pace. Please note: the route map shows us starting at Grove, but the start will be at the Beacon in Wantage.
Riders: Barry Stanton Des Higgs Jo Little John Tranter Karl Blake Riders = 5 Weather: Report: This has to be one of my favourite rides and it didn't disappoint today. The climb up Hackpen was rewarded with great views into Lambourn and through Seven Barrows followed by the descent of Blowingstone, which was thrilling as always. Warm, sunny weather and good company made this an enjoyable ride. Thanks everyone.
Distance: 33.80 km (21.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/59343471"
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Tue Sep 28th 2021

Late season Tuesday Evening Ride	3*

Leader: Sharon Bedford	Start Time: 5:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Please note 5.30pm start. Hoping you can join for the 3rd (last) ride in the late season Tuesday mini series. PLEASE BRING LIGHTS
Riders: Andrew Rimmer Joy Arthur Sharon Bedford Riders = 3 Weather: Report: After exchanging a few texts we decided to be brave and venture out despite the forecast. All three of us got to Old Mill Hall in the dry - but then the rain came. By the time we got to Kingston Lisle we were somewhat soggy so we decided not to venture up to the Ridgeway. Holbourn Hill was interesting - large puddles to cycle through and we had to peddle hard DOWN the hill just to counter the headwind. We were rewarded though because the rain stopped just as we got to Letcombe Basset so we had a nicer end to the ride. We all agreed we had enjoyed it (yes we are mad). Thanks to Andy and Joy for being such good companions.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37442585"
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Tue Sep 28th 2021

RIDE CANCELLED LateSeason 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 5:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. RIDE CANCELLED DUE TO ADVERSE WEATHER
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Tue Sep 28th 2021

RIDE CANCELLED - Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	2*

Leader:	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Cancelled due to expected heavy rain - As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres required and good lights when it gets dark (‘get you home’ lights in Spring/Autumn). We are keen to welcome new riders and can make recommendations or have spare lights to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we’ll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if we decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
Riders: Riders = 0 Report: Cancelled due to expected heavy rain
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Thu Sep 30th 2021

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Susie Turnbull	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. We will be heading north through the vale on a circular route with a coffee stop at Stanford. 22 miles
Riders: Carin Tranter David Bridge Des Higgs Ernie Trimble Karl Blake Kevin Hazell Patrick O'Leary Susie Turnbull Terry Ryland Riders = 9 Report: we managed to dodge the showers heading through north through the Vale and turned west after Fyfield into a very strong wind. We did an interesting detour through Longworth and Hilton Waldrist and then south to Stanford for coffee. Battling against the wind. After a welcome coffee we headed back to Grove via Park Lane. 23 miles and very little rain
Distance: 37.01 km (23.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37640382"
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Ride Filter

Start Locations: WMP
Wantage Market Place; OMH
Old Mill Hall, Grove

Categories: 1* - Suitable for irregular, social, beginner or family riders, pace will match the slower riders. Not hilly or long. Expect rides up to 3 hours. Gentle exercise.; 2* - Suitable for regular riders who prefer to cover some distance but at a more relaxed pace. Likely to be half-day rides. Solid exercise.; 3* - Suitable for experienced riders, may be hilly, long, quick, or any combination! Likely to be half or full-day rides. Challenging exercise.; 4* - Suitable for athletic riders who can ride safely above the 3* standard. Quick rides for the fit.; More Information