[svccridesupdate] A Celebration of Christmas for All Cyclists

As we are probably all sheltering indoors from Storm Bert today, I thought it was a good opportunity to remind everyone about the upcoming 'Celebration of Christmas for All Cyclists' on Sunday 8th December at St Matthew's Church, Cainscross. 

We have made a few changes to the event this year. 

1. We have invited members of the public to join a fun ride from the Sub Rooms to the church and back to the Sub Rooms afterwards and we would like as many SVCC members as possible to join the fun ride if they can. (Paul Rothwell is also offering a short ride before the event starting at 9:30am at Wallbridge – more details to follow.)

Alternatively you can go directly to the church, if you don’t want to take part in the fun ride. We will also need some SVCC members to help set up in St Matthew's Church Hall from 11:30am onwards. 

Here is a timetable for the day: 

11.30 am Assemble at the Sub Rooms for the ride to the St Matthew’s Church, Cainscross
11.45 am Riders depart
12.00 noon or shortly afterwards – Riders arrive at the church
12.00 noon to 1.00 pm – Tea, coffee and lunch
1.00 pm to about 2.00 pm – Carol Service
2.00 pm to 2.45 pm – Tea, coffee and cakes
2.45 pm Riders depart to go back to the Sub Rooms or ride home

2. We have revamped the structure of the service this year with Mike Weaver setting up a musical group of SVCC members to alternate with the more traditional organ accompaniment played by Peter Kwan. 

If you can, bring a bicycle bell with you to join in with the song 'Ring those bells' (to the tune of Jingle Bells)!

I'm pleased to say that the Church should be a bit less chilly this year as the heating will have been left on after the morning service. 

If you prefer not to attend the Carol Service, please feel welcome to attend the lunch and you could then help with tidying up and getting ready for the tea, coffee and cakes after the service.

We will be asking for a suggested donation of £5 towards the cost of refreshments and the hire of the hall. There will also be a collection in the Church. 

It would be really helpful if you could let us know if you are coming by Saturday 30th November so that we know how many we are catering for  – just send an email to stroudvalleyscc@gmail.com. 

Also, if you are able to help with preparing food for a buffet like sandwiches etc. or baking cakes etc., please get in touch. (stroudvalleyscc@gmail.com or 07772888267)

Let's hope we have better weather on 8th December!