June 14th – The rest of the ride was periodically odd and awe-inspiring. My energy levels were poor and I was suffering badly from hayfever, but throwing the bike down that incredible woodland downhills was a terrific as ever. On the other side of the canal south of Tamhorn, a fallen tree blocked the way in the most beautiful, vine-draped manner. 

It’s clearly been a good season to for foxgloves, which are currently showing wonderfully in the hedges and canal banks. 

Returning along the A51 and heading for Waitrose, I spotted two practicing unicyclists – these lads were great, and made for a very unusual sight. I could have watched them for ages; they were confident and good riders. I could never attain the balance required to master one.

Later, I emerged from the supermarket to see the adjacent bike stand taken by two clearly well-loved road bikes; a very popular Apollo TDF, and a B-Twin; both looked ridden well. These are low end, but very popular road bikes representing good value for money. The interesting thing about them is that they were both small steeds, and had been very creatively locked using a D lock and cable. 

The threading of the cable lock could have been better, but it was clearly thought about. I don’t know who the riders were, but I wish them well.

Hopefully in the next couple of days my hayfever will subside…