Hobo Backpackers in Tredegar has been running the Taff Bash for a few years now, and the sixth event will be held on Saturday 7 February 2004. The format is simple. Start from Hobo Backpackers, ride out into the Brecon Beacons, enjoy the predominantly downhillness of the trails, end up at a pub considerably lower than where you started and – the clever bit – get a lift back up to Tredegar. Splendid. You can ride back up if you like, though…

There’ll be “recovery” rides on Sunday too, either locally or at the nearby MTB centres of Afan Argoed or Cwmcarn.

Cost is £8 for the ride, plus £8 if you’ll be availing yourself of transport back from the pub. And if you plan to stay at Hobo it’s £12 a night. To book your place on the ride you can send a cheque for £8 made out to H Cliff and send to Hobo Backpackers, Morgan St, Tredegar, NP22 3NB. Need to know more? Contact Hobo main man Horace Cliff at [email protected], call 01495 718422 or visit www.hobo-backpackers.co.uk.