In PBP years we run a no-frills version of London Wales London.

Starting on Friday 2 June, at 6pm from near Rickmansworth (just outside London), it appeals to people who like a night ride and who are not worried about the total absence of refuelling stops in the small hours of the night.

A typical warm and welcoming petrol station – note the comfy seating – ideal for those times when only a cold Ginsters will do

There’s not a lot of glory – no medals or cheering crowds. You might just get away with actually looking like one of those models with the “I just stared into the abyss” look in a cycle kit photoshoot, but don’t expect anyone to be impressed. Have fun and enjoy the beautiful ride through the night and some fantastic views during the day.

This sums up our philopsophy – if it resonates, come on down!

As well as appealing to people who still needed a qualifying 400km for their Paris Brest Paris campaigns, it attracts riders who want a test without needing the bragging rights. Oh, there’s a beer at the finish!

It’s the same route as the classic LWL but the Friday evening start means you’ll be hitting Tewkesbury around midnight. Between there and Chepstow, the roads are quiet and the towns deserted until morning; if you need to fuel up you’ll need to rely on churchyard taps or detours to Gloucester or Ross on Wye.

And if you need a train home, you’ll have a long wait and don’t expect us to come and get you.

But, you’ll be coming home to a hero’s welcome at Rickmansworth. You’ll be turning up at the brewery around the same time as finishers on the 200km Tour de Ricky who will doubtless marvel at your tales of daring do and being chased by gamekeepers across starlit fields.

There is no limit on the number of entries but you’ll barely even get a civil send off on 2 June so don’t expect us to put ourselves out for you anyway.

If you like a bit of an adventure or just need a qualifying 400km ride to get you on the start line in Paris, this could be the 2023 ride for you.