Four hard-core riders dealt with the cold and wet conditions with great stoicism. It was raining right from the off and cold too, but at least there was no sign of the forecasted black ice which had prompted the later start time. We plugged away at a steady pace and nobody flinched when we reached the turning for a potential shortcut. By the time we arrived at the Gilbertine Kitchen café all of us were feeling the cold so we were a bit disappointed that it wasn't warmer in there. So we took positive action and hijacked the one and only fan heater, aiming it directly under our table. We were all impressed with the food. We learnt that In January they will close for a major refit and expansion so we will have to go back when they re-open.

Conditions remained the same as we left the café but energy levels were up from the food boost. We got a further lift when the rain stopped at Lechlade and the sun began glimmering through.

Top marks to everyone for staying positive through this character building ride.