Craig – I (literally) feel your pain. I have had some very similar experiences. Usually in winter, with freezing cold shit covered wheels, in the dark and rain, at furthest point from either work or home, with Reynauds Syndome and arthritis is both thumbs just to make it even more fun.
PS it’s the Real Ale Wobble on 28th and we’ll be heading your way. Drop me a line if you available for selection.