24.08.07: The day dawned 'misty and eerie' according to recycling.co.uk team manager John Herety. Even at sea level there was a low cloud that added to the atmosphere of the event.

Once the racing got under way it was fast and furious. The guys from the recycling.co.uk team were safely embedded in the peloton and were to stay there for the full stage. The day belonged to the sprinters and the television pictures showed classic examples of 'rotation' over the final kilometres. Many teams set up their trains in readiness for the big sprinters to do their work. Noticeable in the team trains were the British PCA team who with Gordon McCauley and Tony Gibb were not to be underestimated in such a fast finish. 'Gibby' is no mean sprinter and has the type of presence to be noticed.

Meanwhile the recycling.co.uk team were content to sit in the bunch and see what opportunities would arise for team leader Chris Newton. If things went right on the day for the former world points race champion and Olympic medallist, then he could well be in the mix for the finish. However, it was not to be and Chris finished in a safe position within the body of the peloton.

Overall it was a good day with Adam Bonser relishing the fast finale over the final 20 kilometres or so. A very good experience for the young man from the North West of England.

Team mechanic and Fatspanner sponsor Aaron Berry had an easier day. He was on the hotel run. Aaron was taking the luggage and setting up the infrastructure at the overnight stop ready for the riders after the stage. The vastly experienced Sandy Gilchrist was in the team car today ready to give mechanical support to the team if needed. Thankfully it was not.

Once again the team were in a super hotel and this event sponsored by the Irish tourist board is proving a hit with all concerned. Even the sun is shining!

Charlie Jackson