After the heavy early morning rain and mixed forecast I was expecting the usual winter threesome - me, myself and I. But Nick was already at Alfie's statue and Paul had messaged that he would join us in Harwell. All three of us had additional rainwear just in case.

The ride out to Cholsey was assisted by a Southwesterly gusting up to 30 mph, except when it wasn't - some alarming cross winds at times! I'd done my research in advance - the three of us had all day breakfasts at The Garden Cafe in Pangbourne (cash only).

Given the wind, the westward leg was started with some foreboding, but the route was very sheltered and when it finally opened up we were past Hermitage and going northwards. We took it cautiously down Chain Hill, which was exposed to strong crosswinds and made it back home before the next squalls came in.

A marvellous, mild and dry winter ride!