On recovery days, generally after a 200 km ride, I often watch Youtube videos of ultra distance cyclists who stop at a shop or petrol station leaving their bike outside unlocked without a thought of its being stolen. Not a problem for them as there is usually a support or media crew outside. For the solo rider like me, it’s a risk too far, even with a cafe lock. I always start a ride with several bidons of energy drink or water but what to do when I’m running low and there’s no cafe nearby?

Here are four churches with water that I’ve found on my rides west of London.

Not a “How to”, but “How I” record rides.

What can go wrong, will go wrong and how to deal with it.

The controls for any ride - calendar or DIY - include the start and finish. Many of my intermediate controls on DIYs are places where I can buy water or food to refuel.

Audax organises events throughout the year; these are known as calendar events. Members can organise their own rides, solo or with friends; these are called DIY events.