The morning started with bright sunlight and the weather remained fine all day. At about 7.15, Stefano and I (Jean) met up with Paul Davis, Richard Riddle and James Dunlop from Camden Council to get everything ready. Helen arrived in a taxi with an enormous supply of food – an internet order from a supermarket. Angela arrived soon after and helped us to set up the stall. Never before have we seen such an array of croissants, pain au chocolat, bites of every possible flavour and texture, mini muffins as well as apples, bananas and a wide variety of fruity drinks. As soon as we were ready, at about 8 am, the cyclist started to arrive.
early comers, 8.02 8.05 many more approach at 8.10 
Richard was very busy in his role as Dr Bike since we were not able to provide anyone to help this time. We had been expecting someone from the police to deal with marking bikes, but as they didn’t show up, Paul had to spend a lot of time in that role. We were all too busy to count the arrivals, but guess that there were more than last year’s 230 (counted) – Angela’s techniques for flagging people down although entirely verbal were very effective. Richard discusses bike with owner Helen supplies maps and James advises Richard fixing bike 
We were pleased when Mary and Geoff arrived to help us with the many arrivals at the event – there’s a lot to do with passing maps, flagging down, getting out more supplies. And the most useful aspect is when we spoke with someone who had a query or an issue. But it can occasionally be tough! I was a bit taken aback by some rather fierce remarks about cycle parking at the main line stations. However, I realise that in spite of some small gains from recent meetings with officers and network rail, we haven’t made the point about Kings Cross where parking is on the platforms and can only be used after passing a barrier.
Busy time at the stall Not quite so busy time at the stall warning sign 
All in all it was a very pleasant morning and we were very happy to see our regulars as well as the many newcomers.
Photos by Paul Davis, Paul Braithwaite and Jean Dollimore
