A late start this sunday, due in the main to Robbo, Ian and Big Al having a late return from Cardiff, having suffered another All Blacks defeat. The weatherman had promised sunshine but it was a soggy bunch that met in Overton on Dee - good thing we were on the winter steeds! Only Robbo, Al, Chris and Ron made the trip, but where was Ian I hear you cry. Ian had in fact explained that he wouldn't be able to make it on Sunday for a very good reason, was he:

a) Advising Barack Obama on his foreign policy,

b) Having a much needed lie-in and power breakfast following a late request from Warren Gatland for him to step in as replacement tight head prop for the big game

or

c) Going to have a look at a nice washing machine that he'd seen in the sale.

Answer next week.

The surviving bunch wound their way along the highways and byways of North Shropshire for a full breakfast at the Raven cafe in Prees. Allan was still suffering the after effects of swine flu but put up a valiant effort to stay on Ronnie's wheel (is it me or is Ronnie actually faster in the Winter?). The return trip via Malpas, Worthenbury and Bangor fair flew by as Ronnie provided the lads with a running commentary on his own computer wizardry and inimitable film critique. A puncture 15 miles from home soon stopped our gallop but again Ron saved the day and kindly offered Chris the remainder of his CO2 - barely enough to blow out a candle. Robbo and the other 3 parted company in Eyton, with Big Al promising 'a good un' for next week. 47 miles.