John247

Clearly this is a topic that people feel, one way or another, quite strongly about. I personally would welcome an M&S. I don't think it would constitute overdevelopment. If people love particular shops, then the best way to keep them open is to shop in them.

Have these rides now died? Have people gone all mid-90s and started roller blading instead?

Afraid I will be giving the rides a miss until the new year now, but perhaps we should all have a christmas drink one evening. J

Good ride today. The mist made the ride very Victorian. See you guys next week for the long ride. John

Hybrids are pretty good commuting bikes because of the upright riding position, but at the end of the day, if you don't have the luxury of being able to own more than one bike, I'd go for a road bike. You'll enjoy it more at the weekends if you go for long rides, but get puncture resistant tyres. If you are going to change bikes, I'd do it now to enjoy it over the summer.

I've been three times. Opening night, the food was fantastic. Wasn't so impressed the second time (the pasta was over cooked). Excellent again the third time. It is clear that this is not a restaurant that will fail. Yes, it has to get the consistency right - that's a challenge for any new restuaurant. Equally, it's clear that they are making huge efforts to get it right. It's also been packed every time I've been. BTW - the wine list is excellent and reasonably priced.

Telly's Lunch - Telly Monster (from the Muppets)

Some of you may have seen this, which highlights some of the rather more dangerious driving out there - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-12334486

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Thanks Applespider - let's consider the matter closed. If nothing else, thought it was an interesting piece of news.

I posted it as I thought one of the reasons people get annoyed with cyclists is the perception they can do whatever they like. Just to be clear, I'm a cyclist, and most are reasonable and considerate.

According to many newspapers, the Department for Transport is considering bringing in a law to punish cyclists who kill or seriously injure pedestrians. The Government is concerned that the current maximum penalty for dangerous cycling is a ?2,500 fine, whereas the maximum punishment for dangerous driving is 14 years in prison. The move comes amid mounting concern for 'Lycra lout' cyclists who fail to obey road laws and travel at high speed on pavements. Mike Penning, the Road safety minister, said that the government wished to make it clear that "everyone who uses the road, including cyclists, has a responsibility to behave safely". I am a keen cyclist, but support measures to kerb the behavour of some cyclists whose behavour can be reckless in the extreme. What do other people think?

The gate by the estate isn't usually looked. I go in that way some mornings for the odd run.

I personally enjoy cycling along the South Circular which takes you through Clapham Common and over Battersea Bridge into West Brompton. Afraid you do get a hill each way, but it will make you fit. Avoids the hell that is cycling in terrible traffic in Vauxhall. Despite being the South Circular, it's a stretch that is nice to cycle with plenty of road space. It saves cutting across central London.

I don't think much of the Bose Wave system. It's ok, but if you want something that is small, but sounds exceptional, then you are much better off with this - www.meridian-audio.com/product-model/compact-systems/meridian-m80.aspx - Pricy though.