The wind was driving the rain into my face as I rode up to the square, where I was overjoyed to find Louis and Nick waiting. Off we went to battle our way up Hackpen Hill and over to Lambourn into this strong liquid headwind. Nick was in good form so we kindly let him sit on the front for the exposed section. By Lambourn the rain had stopped and this, together with the more sheltered terrain, made the climb up to Ermin Street less of an ordeal. After that it was easier going and we ripped along nicely. At Trindledown Farm we were greeted by three very friendly alpacas who came over to the fence for strokes and photos. The cafe there is an outpost of Goodies (of Lambourn) so the food is simple, hearty and good value. We emerged from the cafe to find the wind had dropped right off and we were cheated of a free ride back to Wantage. I still managed to hit 45mph down Chain Hill but I credit my Christmas fat reserves for that. All agreed it turned out to be a much more enjoyable ride than was anticipated at the start.