A grand day out! Firstly, headed north along the farmland by the R Ribble. For miles and miles it was under a few inches of water. This low lying, flat land is only 6m above sea level, he water can’t drain anywhere. So far, it has stood there for two days. Humidity is very high and afternoons are punctuated by thunderstorms.

Further towards Penworthan, I checked out the Ribble Way, a potential gravel route. Then to Stoney lane near Parbold and a fast descent of Bannister Land. I touched 43mph. Next a coffee stop. The bit on the map in Formby was a second cafe stop where I met the other half. By the time I got home was almost 70 miles in all.

17°C, light W, sunny.

That felt easy after yesterday’s slog. This route has several long straights where you can settle into a pace with effort. Below a threshold, it felt easy but step up and muscle burn builds up.

17°C, white cloud, light SW, dry.

Rode the 500th mile on the Zing. That went by quickly. Another 500 and it will need a new chain.

This is only the 2nd ride this week with other exercise taken up with 3 days walking. The total calorie count is, therefore – high. I’m still not losing any weight though.

16°C, W wind, strong still. Drying out.

20°C, brisk S, dry humid and dull.

A warm humid air dominates today’s mood. Warm and heavy, the rain was an empty threat. He gears are still indexing badly.