Neighbourhood Watch Cycle Hunt 2008

Well - the weather was something of a challenge for the annual Chineham Neighbourhood Watch Cycle Treasure Hunt on Saturday 6 September. The rain eased for the event, but was pretty vigorous both before and after. Neighbourhood Watch obviously has influence in high places.
The inclement weather doubtless influenced the turnout as the 44 riders was well down on the preceding two years, but none-the-less a good turnout in the circumstances. The Deputy Mayor set everyone off in 2 staggered starts. There was a new feature this year. Participants were required to complete a timed 'game' at a particular site nothing serious and it made everyone smile, which was the purpose really.
The route was 11 miles this year, luckily not using any farm tracks or un-made surfaces, so there were no problems with mud or water at all. Again the route took riders around various points of interest that many didn't know existed even after living locally for many years. They went through Popley and Norn Hill into the town then came back via Old Basing; nearly a circular route. They were joined along the route by PC Charlton, our local policeman (who'd helped prepare the event) and several PCSOs went along too and proved useful in mending the couple of punctures that people had the only problems all day.
All participants returned to the Scout Hall for hot and cold drinks with cakes and doughnuts.
The winners will be be listed here in due course