Alas, I didn't zip round, but was part of said little group, together with my wife, and her sister (on first Audax).
Given the company, t'was one of the most pleasant Audax rides I have done so far.
Next time, though, I shall not wear LEL jersey on a 50 and thus endure the ridicule of Marmite Geoff (happily now seen back on a bike and also member of said group)