IOW Red Squirrel "Hunt" 25ish miles, mostly on quiet roads

A gentle paced bike ride on Isle of Wight from Yarmouth to Parkhurst Forest. Largely on quiet roads, but off road in the forest itself. Hybrid, gravel or mountain bike needed. Because this is largely on tarmac, although it is about 25 miles total, it should be no more strenuous than about 15 miles of a typical Cycle Tracks ride. We'll stop at a pub for lunch part way on the return ride to the ferry.
Parkhurst Forest is a likely place to see red squirrels. No guarantees, but I have seen them several times in the past on similar rides.
Meet at Lymington Ferry Terminal at 9.40am to catch 10.00am ferry. Return ferry about 4pm, but Wightlink tend to let cyclists take a crossing earlier than the one booked for the return leg unless overbooked for cyclists, which is rare, so I suggest booking the 17.05 ferry.
Wightlink require that tickets are bought in advance, easy to do on line, and that you check-in at least 15 minutes before scheduled departure. Please only buy your ticket the day before the ride though, in case of cancellation due to bad weather forecast.
Please have your phone with you, and the leader's number stored in it.
Please also bring a spare inner tube, tyre levers and pump.
In the event of last minute problems on the day, please text me on 07922 168992 as this is the most reliable way of contacting me after I've set off from home.

Please ensure that you follow the club rule, all riders must wear a cycle helmet at all times, if you fail to have a cycle helmet then you will be asked to leave the meetup, this is for your own safety.
Tim