I'm thinking I've got some in the cellar. Not sure quite how old but likely older than a student readership I shall investigate and report back

... with two large boxes of WRT T shirts :-bd A new bike helmet for the gravel bike. Last one is coming up to 5 years old and thought about getting a new one when someone mentioned STIF cycles had a decent sale on deer protection helmets, so was happy to oblige I'm confused now - are you saying that...

In light of Duncan's comments ... do completely ignore anything I may have said

Perhaps a small wood burning stove?

Most source rivers are currently at normal levels - they do rise quickly but obviously fall quickly too.

Generally just trying to keep as much weight off the front as possible.

More weigh, more grip

I will also suggest Lomo. Long, thin and very tough ... obviously a bit heavier though.

I was thinking exactly the same

Based on the met office app you've been basking in sunshine compared where I am

I can only assume you're underground.

Wynnstay Arms, Llanbrynmair ... 4 miles from the Towers.

Move south a little here Shaf. Plenty of off road tracks over the mountains. Some may not be 100% legal RoW but they're well used by bikes.

Just ride there ... imagine how fit you'll be when you arrive

Just me who thinks we've been beneath a full eclipse for the last two months?

There seems to be a well organised guerrilla group helping with reintroductions hence beavers being found in places where they haven't been officially reintroduced

... but just where does one obtain a pair of beavers from?

Any on the Twymyn or Dyfi? That'd be interesting to see.

Reintroduced on the Dyfi Reg. Down near the Osprey centre I believe.

That's right, today is the day to celebrate and give a special thought to those soggy furry bundles of fun

Please, no smut.

Keep with your single bottle and buy a filter. Also, consider carrying a bladder which can be filled up just prior to stopping for the night.

Water's heavy, think of ways to carry as little as you can.

Full carbon??

No, carbon is another £200 on top of what is already an expensive helmet.

Thank you for the birthday wishes all ... I've deliberately avoided doing anything even remotely or potentially birthday related.

Matt Hoffman helmet?

He may have Paul but Simpson stuff is more commonly used for drag racing.

New birthday hat from Dee. A relaunched Simpson M30 in case you're wondering.

then Bob Vylan

A little envious. Enjoy.

Lions? Can't see any other reason why you'd do that - aside from Hippo maybe, they can get a pace on when they want.

Lidl sometimes have lightweight half zip fleece tops. More mid-layer than outer / over layer. They're cheap and do the job.

Walking football for you then. Yes, it is a thing and very big in Brixham where most men are over 60 Aye, Dee coaches walking netball with her now over 60. I think it really just boils down to whether you believe that there is / or isn't a difference between bikepacking and other forms of cycling s...