Ride 2005 to go ahead in spite of ferry confusion

- Mon 25th Oct 2004

We reported last month that the news about P&O’s decision to cut their services to France from Portsmouth had left our plans in some disarray. At the time of writing, the clouds of confusion are beginning to disperse, but we are still very unsure as to what our costs will be on our crossings with Brittany Ferries and so we can’t yet print entry forms with definite entry fees. There is also still uncertainty over whether there will be a Portsmouth to Cherbourg crossing, despite news announcements that this will continue. The Bike Ride committee has voted in favour of a Poole to Cherbourg crossing, currently being offered by Brittany, as second choice, in the absence of the first choice Portsmouth to Cherbourg crossing, with a Portsmouth to Le Havre and a new 5-Day route option being devised, as third choice.

PRACTICE RIDES
Since these have been so popular in the lead up to the main event in July, we have decided to continue them through the autumn and winter months, although not as intensive, of course. The schedule can be found on the website below. The majority of riders who are local to Hayling find them very useful, but don’t wish them to be too long, preferring a mid-morning start and a break for lunch, where the family have the opportunity to join them. The ’Father Christmas Ride’ will take place on Sunday, 19th December. Also, don’t forget the C2C in May!

PLANS FOR THE 20th RIDE IN 2005
Reservation forms are already going out, so that riders can book their place, with a £75 reservation fee. Entries are already flooding in, so book your place now! A dozen or so new riders are from Ditcham Park School, including 10 students, aged 14 and 15. We hope to provide further details about the shape of next year’s 20th Ride in the December issue, once the dust settles on the crossings issue.

But make no mistake, there will be a great ride in 2005, whatever happens!

Phone enquiries to 023 9246 1412 or by post to Paris to Hayling, PO Box 30, Hayling Island, Hants, PO11 9UD. Mobile – 07770-888501.
Website - http://www.hayling-cycle-ride.org.uk
e-mail address – paul.fisher69@ntlworld.com

PAUL FISHER 26/10/2004

By forum user, PaulFisher