I had had the usual rest and rich food over the Christmas period but felt strong and fit ready for the New Year cross racing.

I arrived at Top Barn for the first time to be met by my worst nightmare, a flat non-technical course.  After the practice laps were done I was still feeling good and warmed up.  At the start line there were all the usual faces plus a few that we all recognise, Liam Killeen and Roger Hammond.  Off we went at the usual blistering pace but something clicked and my riding was together and going to plan.  I found a pace and one by one was picking them off.  Three laps in and going well the worst happened – I hit the first bank of the off camber section with some gusto and ‘bang’ the tubeless tyre went.  With no spare bike on this occasion my race was over.  Hey ho, bring on Aldersley.