Chineham Neighbourhood Watch Annual Cycle Ride

 

The ride took place on Saturday 8 September and saw 110 participants competing in what is a treasure hunt, rather than a speed trial. The beauty of the event was the fantastic range of participants both in terms of age as well as conveyances.

For once the weather was also favourable. Participants benefited from getting a closer look at some areas to the north of Chineham, principally in our neighbouring parish, Sherfield-on-Loddon. Most competitors returned to the Chineham Scout Hall wearing a big smile. Mishaps were limited to a few nettle stings and a youngster in a ditch, resulting in a shock for both the little girl and her family, but no broken bones.
Results are expected to be announced in the next few days, and Spotlight hopes to have the answers to the questions for those frustrated competitors who could not quite disentangle all the clues.

The riders were started on their way by Basingstoke Mayor Councillor Warwick Lovegrove but particular mention must go to the Neighbourhood Watch team ably led by Marian Adams and Ian Josey. The marshalls and other helpers were essential to the smooth running of the outing. It was also great to see Chineham's new PCSO Lauren Miller taking part and sensitively protecting the cyclists.