February 28th – Unusually, I passed through Aldridge on my way to work today. While popping into the shopping centre, I noticed a Royal Mail bike parked up near Anchor Road. These are a longstanding design, manufactured by Pashley in the UK. They weigh a ton, but have lots of solid, dependable tech – hub brakes and gears by Sturmey Archer, step through frame, Scwalbe marathon plus puncture resistant tyres, and dutch-style wheel lock on the rear, as well as the all important sturdy rack and front tray. Sadly, these bikes could be a passing tradition, as the wonks at the Royal Mail are apparently considering discontinuing the use of bicycles. Idiots.