For gods sake don't follow someone else - it'll end in tears.
Get into a group of 3 or 4 and trust no-one as most riders blat off and hope for the best - you'll be amazed how many you see coming back the other way because they've missed a turn. We started in the mid 60's on the Eastbpurne LDT at the beginning of August but were around the 10th to 20th riders back home.
But we did get a fantastic picnic on Pevensey Marsh from a farmer included in the entry - sadly not provided by the Sidcup Club
At some point in the day there will be 15 bikes going round in circles due to either a duff road book box or everyone reading their trip meter wrong and going down the wrong road.
It's a brilliant day out but I do admit to doing it for the road book and lane riding side, not the trials sections, as I have a total and utter lack of ability and know my limitations.