Four of us departed Earlswood taking a slightly longer than necessary route to Alvechurch where a latecomer joined us as we continued towards Burcot. As we took another slightly unnecessary turn there was a muttered complaint from the latecomer. After passing through Catshill and Bournheath we arrived at the Swan a few minutes before opening time and there were no further complaints as we were soon supping Bathams Best in the company of a sixth member who had been frying bacon in the woods. After enjoying the Bathams and the company of many other cyclists we took the usual route back to the Coach where another three members joined in the festive cheer.
