I've just made it back. 118 miles for me.
Looking forward to beer, hot shower, food, bed + warm feet!
Thanks again, Abs, for flawless organisation, and everyone else for wonderful company and banter!
I really enjoyed the ride. Essex is a bit rolling, and with the headwind it was quite challenging going out. Easier coming back, but the tailwind didn't seem as strong as in the morning - I guess they never do...
We said we were going for fish and chips, and we weren't disappointed! They were not small plates at the pub, and they were oval, but the pieces of cod were hanging over both ends.
Washed down with a pint of the local brew made for a great lunch but probably not the ideal cycling fuel, so maybe no surprise that I had a bit of a low point c.20 miles into the return leg. But that passed, and then the route flattened, and straightened, as we took DZ's recommended Romford Road back into the City.
We were not disappointed by the carrot cake at the Blackmore Tea Rooms either. Highly recommended!
Looking forward to the next one,
Frank