As previous day, headwinds impeded progress but not in so sapping a fashion; in contrast, no substantial rain, just late showers in Hatfield area. Much use of gravel paths and cycleways from Roydon to St Albans, some of which were narrow, loose and scary at times. Lunch at Roydon Marina courtesy of Ian acting as support for son John (9 years old) and wife Fiona. Very generous in supporting two oldies at the back, including buying lunch. Many thanks indeed. Mystery puncture in back wheel wasn't a mystery at all - I probably hit an edge hard and caused a patch to lift. Super team effort got me going again in c 25 mins. Met and escorted by St Albans rider to a podium reception in the Cathedral, where John rightly held centre stage. Had to miss the tea and cake to go for train. Saga followed, with one train cancelled and another missed due to have to use lifts to access platform. Despite stress of it all, I made the Leeds train with 6 mins to spare, being greeted by train crew who help stow away the BJ. Phew! Route was a mixture of nice and nasty, progressing from thatched villages in NE Essex to unpleasant sections alongside major A roads into Hatfield and the usual incessant fast traffic. Alban Way ex-railway line into the city was good apart from the tree roots but as it was a busy cycle route a keen eye and concentration were needed.