I may have to drive almost 70 miles into the heart of London most days - but I have to say that sometimes it’s worthwhile. Take this morning, for instance. It was beautiful - crisp and cool with a stunning sunrise. At times like this I actually feel privileged to be able to pedal round London - seeing the sights before most people are up and about.

More early morning views around London to follow soon…

James, Georgie: please bear in mind its not always like this (just a brief interlude before the rain and fog comes again) so there’s no need to feel homesick…

Ah, the benefits of my job! Got invited out to Tenerife by Team RAC to participate in the pre-season training program for their British Touring Car drivers.
First morning a 64km cycle ride from a little above sea level up to Mt Teide, the 3,714 metre high dormant volcano that dominates the entire island. So just the 2,000 metres of vertical climb to worry about…
The idea of the piece I was writing for the mag (I work for Auto Express) was to show just how fit racing drivers have to be. It was really tough stuff - the route was constantly uphill, warm with no shade and little breeze and generally very energy sapping.
Tom Onslow-Cole (only 19 years old, bless him) managed just 3km before the recovery wagon had to scrape him up from the side of the road. That left Colin Turkington (26), his ex-SAS training instructor, me and our guide.
After about 20km the lean-as-a-whippet Aussie bike guide and I stopped for a break. He turned to me and asked how long I had been racing for. I had to tell him I was the journalist. He nearly fell off his bike…

It took the others five minutes to catch up.

Well, James and I have clocked up a few kilometres this weekend. With snow all week we got up on Saturday with a small dusting. Wrapped up warm we set off along the Isar River and through the English gardens, this is a huge park in Munich which runs north out of the city. It has fab trails and plenty of nice views as you pedal along.

So we did about 55km on Saturday and 75km today. Today the sun was shining so a great ride! Feeling a little weary back home and planning a well deserved roast for this evening!