Mid-June 2020 update

Since the last blog update I have cycled around Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire with Mr Hoopdriver and the feisty Jessie Milton - courtesy of H G Wells in 1896. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wheels_of_Chance

Here in the 21st century, our national body has just announced that the suspension of club group rides has now been relaxed, so that subject to risk assessment, social distancing and a whole lot of other considerations, groups may now organise rides for up to six people. 

However, permitting and happening are two different things, as one this Coronavirus FAQ makes clear:

Q: Even though the guidance might allow for group rides, is it sensible to do so?

Cycling UK: We have outlined what the regulations and guidance permit, but riders and clubs should make their own assessment of whether they should undertake any socially distanced group ride, and if so, when, where and how.

Infection rates may vary regionally, some groups will have different demographics and members with different risk factors, and it may be difficult to maintain social distancing within a group on certain rides.

It is therefore important for people to exercise their own judgement and common sense if they are undertaking group rides, having regard to their own safety, other road users, and infection risk.

So basically, in a rather long-winded way, this is to say that no Five Miles to Fabulous rides are scheduled for the time being, but we are looking forward to resuming as and when we reasonably can.

June 2020 update

Since our last 5MTF ride in March, I have been cycling around the world with Jenny Graham: http://theadventuresyndicate.com/round-the-world-podcast

And as far as the re-opened Simmons in Marshalswick to get supplies:

Bike Week starts on Saturday.  We did have a ride scheduled, but obviously, it ain't happening.  Bike Week will happen, online https://www.cyclinguk.org/bikeweek

Latest Cycling UK advice on latest government guidance can be found by clicking through from the links on our web-page, but includes a reminder for  'cyclists to use their own judgement when deciding whether it is sensible to undertake group rides.'

This ride leader's judgement is not sensible yet.  In carrying out my assessment I have considered the very real need to continue to limit the spread of infection, backed up by having friends and family working in health care and my own experience of how long it can take to recover from even a 'mild' dose of the virus.  So although I am missing the rides and longing to see my fabulous buddies, I am not rushing to re-instate group rides.  Thank you for your understanding.

The very good news however is that 5MTF participants have been going out solo or with their households, and more recently in limited and distanced sensibly-judged company. Hurrah!

Cycling UK's Women's Festival of Cycling is scheduled to take place 11 - 31 July.  Not certain currently as to exactly what will happen, but there will definitely be some online things, keep an eye on https://www.cyclinguk.org/womensfestival