Who knew, eh, that when it’s a leap year the longest day falls not on 21st but on 20th June? Maybe we knew this four years ago but, being in our dotage, we were surprised by it all over again. Such were the imponderables discussed over a summer solstice lunch at Café 19 following our outing to Madingley Hall.
In 1861 Queen Victoria rented Madingley Hall as a residence for her son, Edward, Prince of Wales, while he studied at Cambridge; I only wish my university digs had been as palatial. That said, Edward’s stay was brief and his departure sudden, due to the sudden and unexpected death of his father, Prince Albert.
Speaking of toffs, back in Duxford, while us plain folk were quaffing beer, Simon was to be seen sipping champagne. In truth, it may have only been Prosecco but, nevertheless, it was clear evidence of a class divide in the peloton. And we hear Simon’s staff, among them Maurice and Brian, had earlier fixed his puncture. To the manner born, eh?
Punctures aside, we had enjoyed a splendid ride around the quiet lanes west of Cambridge, followed by an excellent lunch in Duxford. Moreover, it was Geoff’s birthday and he very obligingly bought the drinks.
For the record the turnout was: Alan, Brian, Charles, Geoff, Jeremy, Keith, MartinB, Maurice, Neil, Nigel, Ric, Roger, Simon.
Our thanks go to Jeremy for planning and leading the ride, and to Geoff for the beers, not to mention the fizzy wine.
Brian
The Windmill Cycle Club 