We were honoured to be allowed to observe the archaeological dig. Afterwards the young man in charge asked if he could commandeer our tandem to ride a little further north to another site. We said that this would be fine, and that I would accompany him.

I found it very difficult to cycle with a complete tandem novice. At one point we travelled backwards along the single track road, then crashed into a swarm of lycra-clad Sunday racers.

I was relieved when my companion spotted activity in a nearby field. The day would be saved by the South Uist Sheepdog Trials.