I’d forgotten how much I love cycling. A few years ago (before I could drive) I literally cycled everywhere. It was a) the fittest I’ve ever been, and b) the happiest I’ve ever been, and today reminded me exactly why.

Cycling along tiny country roads, springs running down the side  streaking the parched roads with water, passing thatched cottages and converted barns, Wisteria growing up the side and honeysuckle scenting the air. The heat is negated by the breeze as you freewheel down a hill, bugs zip past, the long grass of the verge brushes your ankles. 

There’s something inexplicably liberating about working hard, beads of sweat snaking down your brow, the sun beating down on your neck, birdsong around you and a view over flood planes and fields, deciduous woodland breaking the horizon and the ever varied hedgerows following the winding roads that crisscross the countryside.

Finally! The sun is out, blue sky, birdsong, cool breeze, green trees, bugs and pollen float through the hazy air. For pure elation, happiness and joy, summer cannot be beaten.