AUDAX CYCLISTS
Midhurst Munch-In

Audax Cyclists enjoying a relaxed munch-in at the War Memorial, Church Hill

Midhurst Corker June 2007 Report here

Mid-morning on Saturday the 21st of October 50 or so hungry and thirsty cyclists from Denmead, Nr Waterlooville descended like so many happy starlings on Commestibles Deli in Church Hill, Midhurst. They needed an urgent refuelling. Saturday morning is a busy time anyway for Commestibles. But the staff, after the initial shock of having so many additional customers, got into their stride and take-away coffees and flapjacks flew out of the door.

Steve Cockram, one of the partipants, has provided this account for Midhurst Pages:

"These are of members of Audax UK halfway around a 100k ride from Denmead to Midhurst & back.

 

Audax UK (AUK) is a national cycling organisation, linked to a worldwide organisation ( Les Randonneurs Mondial or LRM) which is dedicated to the sport of long distance cycling. Rides range from 100k to near 1700k, which have to be completed within a set time, the 'standard' distance is 200k in 15 hours (all distances are in kilometres as the sport is governed from Paris, & 200k = 125 miles). Riders follow a route sheet & have to pass through pre-ordained 'controls' (which is what we were doing at Midhurst) which are 'open' only for a set period of time. Each rider carries a card (known as a 'brevet card') which is stamped at each control and is then used to validate the ride. Although Audax riides are non-competitive there are a variety of awards which can be obtained for various rides/distances.

Yesterday's ride was really an end of season jolly, which is why everybody was fairly relaxed and happy to sit around wasting time at the control!" 

Editor' Comment. Well, it was clear Audax riders were lapping up the warm October sunshine, as I was myself with my vantage-point seat outside Commestibles. But I wonder how many were aware that they sat in a recent film set for Foyle's War Series 5 which is due to be screened in early 2007?

Church Cottage which features on the left in Steve Cockram's picture above is Lydia's cottage in the story, and most of the second phase of filming in April was based at the cottage. I wonder how many Audax cyclists will recognise this cottage if they watch the series.

Midhurst holds its secrets tightly. Even when you've lived in the Town for years it comes as surprise to discover yet another interesting feature, business or personage.

Not many know we have a famous deep-sea explorer, David Mearns, who has his office in the Square. David discovered and photographed the former German battleship Bismarck sunk by the navy in WW2 in the Atlantic. You can read the story how John Moffat, the Swordfish pilot, accredited with the final successful torpedo attack on the Bismarck came to meet David Mearns. It's a marvellous story.

Latest News for hungry cyclists. Loch Fyne Seafood Restaurant, North St, with 60 inside covers and 32 Terrace Garden covers await your pleasure!

Thank you Audax riders for coming to Midhurst. We loved having you, and hope you'll come again.
Please keep in touch: john.trueman44NOSPAM@virgin.net Just remove NOSPAM and email as ususal Pictures and stories are welcome!

John Moffat's Wedding in Selham
John Moffat's Pictures
Selham Fleet Air Arm Airfield - now Cowdray Polo
David Galle's Account of a Wet Sunday 22nd October in Midhurst

 

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