Todays news headlines, "After months of mild weather and a record-breaking summer, winter is finally set to hit Britain on Wednesday".

Most of us dislike this time of year. Living room lights on at 5.00pm, turning on the central heating and rain blow and snow. Well decided this year to do something about it.

Just back an hour ago after touring Ireland (was I missed) ? Down the West side and up the East side. Only a 1,000cc rt BMW with built in sound system for company. It Has to have been the mildest October for years. Two visits to an internet cafe to check mail and besides a mobile phone, that was my only contact with technology. B&B's were excellent.

Now for part two. Heading over to central Europe for the month of November,(aircraft not bike) starting this week, meeting a friend first in Germany, then head to Paris, down to Nice, then on down to Spain (invited a friend over here for long weekend) and over next to Italy. Then plans afoot for Atlantic crossing early new year. So come on folks, get off the backsides and beat the winter blues. Enjoy cheap flights before the Green taxes arrive !