And so to Ampney St. Peter.

It had been decided that an early start was not required today as the journey to Ampney St. Peter was shorter than the previous rides. A gentle start writing the blog in bed!  This was followed by a very healthy breakfast taken with my hosts. Luxury.  We left Bath a little after 10.00 to return to the pick up point of the previous evening.  There was an overlap just in case the Ride Police questioned us closely later in the day.  Steve helped me put the bike together.  Slight problem with the front brakes but after a quick adjustment all seemed well.  The ride for the day started a 10.40. Felt strange with blue skies and no wind.  It was pretty chilly and I was glad that I had not dispensed with too many layers.  The route took me to Trowbridge and then towards Devises.  I must say that I could not get that schoolboy limerick out of my head!  There was a young man from Devises..........!    Our host for the evening did complete the limerick but the female version.     Back to the ride please.    Legs felt heavy this morning and the going tough. Started to look for things to blame. Maybe the front brakes  were sticking on.  Checked this out and the front wheel was certainly not turning free and after a stop for adjustment the situation improved.   At Devises the mandatory hot chocolate was taken with water and a rest.  I then set the dial for Swindon and off we went on a great route gently down hill for mile after mile.    This could not last. Memories came flooding back as I rolled through the village of Avebury.  Years ago Shirley and I had retrieved John and Debbie in their balloon after a meet at Longleat.  On that flight they flew over Avebury.   Great days.    The village was crowded with visitors. I had forgotten just how large these standing stones were.    Carrying on and up a slight hill to the top of a ridge from where you could view the historic town of Swindon.   I long ride downhill ride to the old town.  Managed to locate the railway station without a problem fifty minutes before the arrival of the train which was bringing great friend and guitar maestro Richard Durrant to join the ride with me for three days.    Whilst waiting a Costa shop provided me with a light lunch.  I also loaded up with a gel to make sure that my energy levels for the afternoon ride would be high.   RD arrived ten minutes ahead of schedule and we set of at speed in the direction of Cirencester.   Richard is as fit as a fiddle and managed to show me for most of the way to Ampney St. Peter a clean pair of peddles.  I am the tortoise to his hare I hope. Little did we know that the tracker battery was down and it was assumed that I was stuck in Swindon with a problem. A fate worse than death.   Thanks to all for their concern.  The main road to Cirencester was frightening and a more than a little dangerous.  Not helped by a white van man who appeared to aim his vehicle at  the riders.  Richard responded with a gesture or two.  Drivers like that should have their vehicles confiscated for a few days and made to ride a bike on the very same road.   Had been informed that the distance to our destination from Swindon was 12 miles.  It turned out to be 16. Off the main road we soon found ourselves at Down Ampney where directions were needed for Ampney St. Peter. Two ladies out jogging were no help but a gentleman in his car encouraged us with the news it was a further four miles and to keep left. John A guided us in and before long we were there off our bikes and enjoying tea and beer and all the comforts and hospitality from John and Debbie.  This is the second time in a little over a year that I have arrived on my bike.  Last year i was on my way from Norfolk to St. Bonnet in the Auvergne. That trip took thirteen days. Nothing was too much trouble and like the previous evening it was good to be in the company of such good friends. So supportive and nothing too much trouble.  Arrival photographs were taken and after a wash and brush up, dinner.  We were joined for the evening by none other than Steve and Polly.  I am sure they are starting to get sick of the sight of me!    We had a great evening and much chat and laughs on routes, chaffing and other important matters.    We planned a long ride for Sunday and the hopes of reaching Tamworth.    A chance to get ahead of the scheduled Royal Leamimgton Spa.  Who knows!