The usual quiet of Wantage square was disturbed this morning by preparations for the town fair. A slight route change to avoid barriers saw us on the way to Lambourn via Letcombe Bassett into a brisk southerly wind. Skirting around Hungerford we began the build up for classic Combe Gibbet climb, which proved steep but relatively short (and on this route can be conveniently bypassed for anyone not feeling the urge). The coffee and cake break at the Crown & Garter was a little longer than anticipated owing to the speed of the local baristas. With the wind moving onto our backs we maintained a good pace northwards back toward Wantage. With the town fair in full flow we dispersed without the usual finish at King Alfred.