Well what can i say but thank you all for words of wisdom and support,much appreciated and taken on board.

I understand the male thing of wanting to ride faster etc but i guess i would have never started cycling if partner didnt want company to ride with, but i must say i am glad i did even if i am in a predicament at the moment because i just love to cycle and i am hooked

I have put out sos's on the forum board of the ride i am signed up for asking if there was anyone there in same position as me and a bit slow at the moment who would like to ride together for company on the sportive, i have had a reply so far from a male, i somehow think that would not go down that well with my other half, but i also got lots of support from many others there, as i hav here which is great. One person said just go for it doesnt matter how long it takes me to finish but think of the satisfation i would have at the end, but i am scared to ride on my own at this stage so might sit this one out. But i will keep you all informed of progress any more ideas or thoughts pass them on.
Furry Duck