Out and about today, there's a lot of social riding going on: a club run spread over about a mile, with pairs of riders, many other pairs looking like club mates rather than families - lots of them too of course. In the Chilterns, it felt like there was some sort of cycling event. Hundreds out! When I stopped in a village for elevenses out of my saddlebag, I was expecting irate locals with pitchforks, but all passers by were cheerful and friendly. Though nearer to home, Finchingfield is plastered with 'keep out of our village' signs by the way.
I'll think about some suitable Mid-Essex village venues, with seats/bus shelters, lots of open green space and not right in front of houses. Open to suggestions! Next Saturday or the Bank Holiday Monday maybe? I think this might call for another thread. Got a roast dinner to cook now, so in a day or two ...