It had been my intention to do a sixth tour to the highlands but lots of work on my old sandstone house was found to be necessary. Most efforts to retain fitness have combined sessions on the indoor bike with daily stretching exercises. Cycling outdoors was usually in the best of the variable weather and for less than a couple of hours. Rides to Durisdeer (49 miles) and Powfoot (39 miles) were exceptions.

The next lap to the north of Glasgow to see a cousin in his care home should take just a few days.