After 58 grueling miles, all members of the Chearsley Bell Bikers crossed the finishing line of the 2001 London to Brighton Bike Ride together, to a rapturous welcome from the coach load of supporters who had made the trip to the south coast. Not only did the threatened rain fail to materialise, but the riders arrived in Brighton to patches of blue sky and touches of sunshine.
A beach-side buffet awaited all, with a generous spread of food and drink available to mark the celebrations and give the riders some well earned refreshment.
The day was capped with a pre-arranged stop for dinner at Epsom, where both Peter Grimsdell and Nic Brown were toasted in recognition of the tremendous work they had put in to organise the day - the logistics of arranging registration, transport and post-race victuals being no small matter. The day was finally complete with the presentation of a splendidly decorated cake to mark Nic's birthday.
A beach-side buffet awaited all, with a generous spread of food and drink available to mark the celebrations and give the riders some well earned refreshment.
The day was capped with a pre-arranged stop for dinner at Epsom, where both Peter Grimsdell and Nic Brown were toasted in recognition of the tremendous work they had put in to organise the day - the logistics of arranging registration, transport and post-race victuals being no small matter. The day was finally complete with the presentation of a splendidly decorated cake to mark Nic's birthday.
Clapham Common, 7:00 am, and the Chearsley Bell Bikers prepare for the off...
... and just before the off, a well-clad team pose in the cool London air.
The first of two scheduled team stops. Peter Grimsdell demonstrates his missing fingers while Mark Gillis wonders just what was in that burger he just ate . . .
An unknown usurper pips the Chearsley Bell Bikers as they cross the finish line en masse.
"I know that photographer from somewhere"
The relief is obvious as the riders dismount.
On to the beach party and Sue and Nic, caterers supreme, pose momentarily as guests are forced to serve themselves.
Rider Paul 'Nibblet' Kingsman is forced to decide between beer and more beer.
Maureen is temporarily flummoxed as she's is joined by a familiar looking beach hobo...
Almost the complete team, plus a young supporter.Then, on to Epsom for a splendid feast....
...and finally, Happy Birthday Nic!