Conditions were good and, despite the headwind and early climbs, we set a decent pace on the quiet country lanes out to Avebury . The sun was beating down as we took an early lunch from the basic but adequate selection at the NT cafe there. Jarv was traumatized by the NT prices but after some counselling was able to continue the ride. Further therapy may be needed I fear.

The Avebury to Wroughton road was much busier than I expected. Traffic was building up behind us even though we were in a tight 2x group and there were plenty of straights for overtaking. Some drivers just lack the confidence to overtake I guess. So we pulled over periodically and also experimented with different formations. On this road, on this day groups of 4 riders seemed to work best as it allowed us to ride single file and drivers then seemed more comfortable going for the overtakes. We continued like this to Wroughton without incident where we got back onto quiet back roads again. From there we surfed the tail wind back to Wantage, pausing briefly for ice creams at Shrivenham Spar.

A couple of us went to the Fred's Head garden for a pint after and were glad that we bagged the only covered table as a heavy shower hit just as we got the beer in our hands. But all was dry when we left 30 minutes later. Result!

Another enjoyable day out in the countryside, mostly a pleasant route apart from the Avebury - Wroughton section.

Thanks to Louis for diligent sweeping duties.