Yes of course, thinking about it. . . It is probably the freehub. Not freewheeling equals slack chain

The chain could be slightly worn. I replaced it about 6 months ago , just got it the same length as the original chain.

The correct way to size it is big ring front and back plus 2 full links yes?

The freehub is a bit ropey too, I don’t understand how this could affect it though?

I always ride aroud hurstwood/worsthorne way. Do you two have a map of the rides you just mentioned please?

Feel like I can broaden my horizons!