Sunny but cold in Wantage Market Place, it was a pleasant surprise to see Rachel and Ian again after a bit of a break.

We were alert to the risk of early morning black ice. Just as well as we found some at Sparsholt Firs where we regrouped after the first hill of the day. The run down through Lambourn and through to Ashbury was taken steadily.

At Nick's behest we went past the planned turn into the muddy New Town lane, instead turning right into Cues Lanes in Bishopstone. At this point Nick became a mad driver magnet: a car just stopped and reversed into him and then at a T junction a car cut across him, causing him to swerve to avoid contact. Nick's fine, as is his bike.

Carpenters canteen in Coleshill was busy but we were able to find indoor seating. One of the staff said it was her first day. After spilling drinks and having to be asked for our cakes, Paul remarked in a stage whisper, "it may be your last day".

The second half of the ride included one steep hill at Badbury but was otherwise uneventful. Some of us made it to Alfies, where we encountered some village idiots - a pleasant beer.