Thursday 11 May 2006 - Evening ride to The George, Eartham
The evening gave us absolutely superb cycling weather - brilliant sunshine, warm, and no breeze, so it was disappointing to see only Val and myself at the start point for tonights ride. Granted the destination did promise a few hills!

We set off from Felpham via Yapton, Barnham, Eastergate Lane, and Level Mare Lane. Riding through Barnham we noticed some stationery traffic ahead which we found was caused by an absolutely enormous Turkey wandering down the middle of the road, having escaped from a nearby farm and now perhaps wishing he knew the way back. there was no real assistance we could offer, so we left him to his fate and hope he got home safely. The good news however, was that as we moved away from this commotion I noticed a coin in the road. Not being one to leave unattended litter, I doubled back to pick it up only to find that, rather than the ?2 piece I had been expecting, it was only 5 pence. Still, 5p is 5p...

On we went, crossing the A27 then taking the road past Mount Noddy for the easier climb to Eartham. Once at the pub we were joined by Edwin fresh from his 10 mile time trial.

For the return trip, the 3 of us dropped down the hill to East Hampnett, narrowly avoiding a bat which homed in on Val and Edwin (no doubt attracted by their high powered front lights). Then we followed the A29 all the way into Bognor. Some smart running ensued on the surprisingly quiet road. More wildlife appeared as we entered Bognor with wild rabbits dining on the grass verges towards Felpham.

We arrived back at Felpham only 45 minutes after leaving the pub, having completed a round trip of just over 21 miles.

Graham