FNRttC Ditchling Beacon

Signing up for this classic route in the summer seemed like such a good idea. Everyone kept talking about how hard Ditchling Beacon was and we had this to look forward to all night as it was right at the end of the route.

It was great cycling through the night. As we went through towns the local young people going home from a night out gave their vocal encouragement and support. All very good natured.

The ride leaders marked every junction and always had a tail end charlie so you could never go wrong or be left behind. We gathered at the top of every hill or every so often to regroup. The organisers were amazing - thank you!

The lanes were quiet (obviously most normal sensible people were in bed asleep!) and we had planned refreshment stop at a Scout hut. Wow they were great to prepare all the sandwiches and cakes for us. Really appreciated a great cuppa.
The second part of the ride was probably the hardest, I was so tired and found it hard to focus on the road on a few occasions. But before we knew it we were at the notorious monstrous Ditchling Beacon. This hill was hard but manageable and there was a great reception at the top, with cheers of encouragement from fellow FNRttC'ers. I have blipped the view of the sunrise on the way up - good excuse to stop and catch my breath! After this everyone picked up the speed for the last push into (down hill mostly) Brighton.

We all met up in a cafe on the sea front for breakfast some more bleary eyed than others. After breakfast we had a photo on the beech of the Peterbough pose -1 - none of us braved a paddle though!!

Then it was back on the train into London and home to Peterborough. Great to be home and I am really pleased I have done this, very knackered and looking forward to a glass of wine and an early night.

I have put a few other pictures on my Blipfolio