In order to stay local,and with a poor weather forecast Richard V suggested a start from East Malling,whilst other Midweeker members decided to go with the scheduled Hothfield ride. As it turned out ,the weather turned out much better than expected. However, Tony M offered to lead from East  Malling,starting off with 6, but later joined by 2 others at Wateringbury. From there it was a nice route out to Top Nosh cafe at Paddock Wood via Brenchley.An uneventful return taking in Mathews Lane,Mereworth before most of the group dropped off at various stages towards the the finish. A distance of 33 miles at  12.5 mph average.