Despite a promising forecast it was a chilly start at South Cerney and Dave soon took up pacing duties to ensure we warmed up quickly. The three Corners at Nailsworth provided a very comfortable early coffee stop for us to contemplate the steep W climb up to Minchinhampton Common. Having clawed our way up we then lost all the height gain in the descent to Stroud. The climb up Whites Hill was soon upon us - each time I do it the climb seems steeper and this time the Wahoo indicated a short stretch of 20%. Once up on the escarpment there was the opportunity to take it easier and enjoy the extensive views first to the South East and then across to the Gloucester and the Malverns behind. A refuelling stop at Brockworth Subway provided an opportunity to overeat before the tough climb up Birdlip Hill. The relief at getting the three main climbs out of the way and the continued dry, though rarely warm, weather encouraged a fast pace through quiet Cotswold villages back to Cirencester. The return route shortened relative to last year seemed to work well as we arrived back at South Cerney at 1410, accompanied b y a few drops of rain.

Thanks to all for making this ride, one of the hilliest we tackle, so enjoyable!