Essex Branch Ride to Harwich

Sunday 7th June 2020.

Following the lowering of the lockdown restriction we in the Essex Branch have started a shorter run out day on Sunday’s.Also as we don’t know what eating houses may be open we are taking a picnic lunch with us.Throughout the day we will be following social distancing.Today’s ride was to Harwich. We met up outside McDonalds on the Services at J19 on the A12. Our departure time was going to be 10:30am. Several members couldn’t make the run today, but there was still 4 of us out for the ride today. There was Jeff, Lance, new member Ashley and myself. We set off around 10:40am and went along the A414 to Maldon then cut across country to the SW side of Colchester where we picked up the A133 and A120 into Harwich. We parked up along the Quay. Here we found the local toilet’s within a minute’s walk away from where we parked. Our lunch spot was right beside the bikes and sea wall. There are benches along here so you can sit on them or the sea wall.I was surprised to find the Burger Van parked here was open for business. Lance and Jeff took advantage of getting a burger and a coffee from them, I got a coffee as well.We had a good old natter whilst we had our lunch and found out a bit about Ashley who has just joined us.The return journey took us along the A120 and A12 to the junction by Stanway where we turned off and headed to Halstead. This was a much nicer road then the A12 home.We then headed down to Braintree and then along A131 to Chelmsford.After joining the A12 Jeff left us at the junction with the A130. Ashley and myself then continued home along the A12.Apart from a little drizzle just before lunch we just about made it home before the heavy rain started.Today was a great day’s ride out. We also had a new member join, , who has told me she really enjoyed the day out with us and can’t wait for the next run out. Weather permitting that will be next Sunday.Well done everyone for a great day out.Here’s to the next one.Ride safe. Now go wash your hands.

Roland Murphy. Essex HOC Branch Secretary.