I took the plunge yesterday and went for a ride with my local club, The Kingston Wheelers.

Cleaned my bike on Sat night, got my kit ready. Turned up as instructed at 9am and found approx 40 others waiting to start.

The club went off in 3 groups and I joined the 'normal' group.

I must take my hat off to the club. I was not ignored by anyone and everyone had something to chat about. A brisk ride through the Surry countryside and we where at the top of Box Hill (My virginity broken). Tea and Cakes, everyone was chatty, again not ignored.

The downhill back to Chessington was a pleasure to be part of, with a little sprint at the end.

I will most definately be returning.

This club has totally blown out the water my perceptions of cycling clubs as being full of people who are more interested in the bike than the riding.

My first outing with a group of 14 other like minded people was a real pleasure.

Well done KINGSTON.