A while ago we asked you to write a story that would make us laugh or cry, with the theme of ‘what sacrifices have you had to make to get out on your bike?’

Whether for a race or a Sunday pootle, we wanted to know what lengths you go to ride your bike, your best excuses for the wife/girlfriend/family, and we had some interesting stories, ranging from the ridiculous to the sublime.

The prize was a copy of Matt Seaton’s Escape Artist, a story about amateur cycling, about passion and loss. We’ve five copies to give away, and as an extra bonus we got Matt to sign each copy.

First up, Stephen Chmiewliski for trying to sneak out but the plan backfiring when his wife caught him.

Jez Cook earns brownie points by doing errands around the house and cashes in those points when he wants to ride.

Arnold Laurence chose a bike (a Pegoretti) over a woman.

Stewart Ward for sneaking out in the early hours of the morning while everyone else is sleeping (this was a popular suggestion).

Finally, Fuzzy has the best excuse to ride, being a cycle patrol officer!

Congratulations to all of you, if you can send us your details to ([email protected]) we’ll get a copy in the post today.