I was about to ask where you'd got to Fraser, I looked for a yeti and didn't find one and I couldn't find you on the results? Whereabouts were you? Magic was in a camper van in the second field and Phil & I were in 1 of the 2 orange Vangos. (the Polish national xc champion was in the tent next door, she was a lovely young lady and the closest I'll ever come to winning) 

 The atmosphere was superb, like a carnival at times, I particularly liked the guy on the finish line, although all the marshalls were full of enthusiasm.

 If autumns on then I'll be there, probably as a solo

yeah, well I'll be the white haired man riding with the bald man. A couple of weeks after the marathon should be okish Fraser as long as you use them more for rest than for riding.

thanks for your comments re the bivvy, it's my favourite island (memories of 96 and a beautiful friend) I may not even take a tent next year if the weather looks promising

I don't know what Phils bike is Magic, mines a seven sola with flat bars and bar ends, the best identifier should be my brand new (thank you Norwich Union) 4 man orange Vango. Beer sounds good, single malt sounds better, it'll be my treat.