Basingstoke: Breezingstoke trip to Swinley Forest (off road)

As requested we'll lead a group round some of the trails at Swinley Forest again this year. This ride is aimed at those not confident or who haven't experienced forest trails/ singletrack and want to give it a go - or those who have done rides like this but are happy to be part of a social ladies-only group. Please be aware that car parking can be a nightmare so if driving please do aim to arrive say 0930 so you can get bikes out and set up for 10am start promptly. Mountain bikes only, ladies have tried hybrids and it's not fun. Please read the PDF linked below for descriptions of the trails: http://www.theroyallandscape.co.uk/media/159078/Crown%20Estate%20Mountain%20Biking%20Leaflet%202013.pdf We will start with a short chat and warm up. We will then ride the Green route which is straightforward. After that, we will ride the Blue route which is more challenging physically and some more technical bits but all the ladies who tried it last year got round and were buzzing and some did walk some short sections which is fine. We wait at main fire roads etc. If you do not want to do the Blue Route, that is fine, you can leave the group and do a re-run of the green run. It is a very nice introductory trail and you will not get lost - there may be a few of you who chose this option. Or you can go to the coffee shop! If after the first sections you find you are confident and want to head off on your own at a faster pace that is fine, just agree with the leaders before you do it and you'll then be responsible for yourself (we will check on you though!). Your leaders will be Ruth and Lynn. We'll no doubt have a coffee/break at the end (weather dependent!) so have added 30 mins for that (optional of course!) and in case we have any punctures etc. Any queries, [email protected] / www.facebook.com/breezingstoke or twitter @breezingstoke