January 10th: The oh so optimistic weather forecast was predicting that by lunchtime it would have 'warmed up'. Now I don’t mean to be negative but I hardly call -1 to 1 degree centigrade something to get excited about. At those temperatures it’s a forgone conclusion that the digits are going to get pretty chilly to say the least.

Doing an early morning driveway inspection revealed one thing. Man alive that tarmac’s slippery. Too dicey to risk venturing out on the road bike, unless of course you find the prospect of a shattered pelvis appealing. I thought not, neither do I. Enter Mr Scalpel. Ridden, abused and still going strong. I’m sure that both my patellas are likely to go pop long before this bike is laid to rest.

The crisp sound of ice under tyre is somewhat satisfying. Two wheeled, out of control, slides on the road bike are converted into calculated power-drifts on the dirt, precisely tee-ing up the next bend in perfect harmony. The trails are deserted and frighteningly quick. A blanket of white crystals as far as the eye can see. That’s right, it’s far too cold to be outside today, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. Even if I wanted to take a drink I’d struggle with a bottle now resembling a 'Slush Puppy'.

Yes, far too cold. Take heed, you hear me? Best stay tucked up under a duvet all day in front of the telly. That’s what I’d recommend.

After all, I wouldn’t want anyone else out here when I’ve got this all to myself.

Another great day!