It’s going to be another damp one.

Well, that’s what the BBC and Metcheck are predicting. Again.

After an initially great forecast earlier in the week, the weather gods have conspired against us (again) and are throwing wind, rain and plummeting temperatures against us hardy cyclists. Again.

If the sheer volume of rain predicted falls tonight then it will probably be damp the weekend through. Bizarrely Saturday may be the better day as the mud will be wetter and less claggy - it’s also the warmer day of the two, albeit quite breezy.

If it’s your first time winter riding at Aston Hill read the essentials and the frequently asked questions – clay, chalk and wet roots make Aston Hill a very different animal in the wet! The boardwalk at the bottom of the Red Run is particularly difficult when covered with a layer of mud.

Hang in there; it will soon be time to run to the hills!

Honestly?

If the forecast happens, it’s going to be wet - certainly for Saturday. Unless you can’t get over at any other time or specifically want to dial your wet weather skills, I’d leave Saturday morning well alone and let the morning deluge run off (it’s been fairly dry for the second half of the week, so hopefully the Hill will shrug the rain off fairly easily).

There is a good breeze blowing and freezing temperatures Saturday night, so Sunday will undoubtedly be the better day.

We’re heading toward mud tyre season now, and if you’re visiting for the first time or would regard yourself as a novice, take extra care - the chalk and roots of Aston Hill are particularly unforgiving in the wet.

To sign off, some wise words from The Cure. Have a good weekend!