Another day of transferring from one place to another, but one that sees me finally at the starting gate for the Camino Frances, nestling in the shadow of the Pyrenees and in bed by 10pm (house rules, don’t you know…)

After a contretemps this morning with a shower door at my Airbnb in Biarritz, I’m happy to report that my left foot is fine and looking forward to the challenge ahead.

The right foot also agrees and is being slightly superior about it too.

Meanwhile, Bayonne proved to be well worthy of a four hour layover, with a splendid cathedral and a reasonably priced chicken salad on offer, as well as a good catch up with yet another Pilgrim (we’re everywhere).

After a lovely rail journey up into the foothills of the Pyrenees in the hands of a train driver who allowed his son and daughter into the cockpit and sound the horn at will, it was a pleasure to still be alive to wander around SJPDP (as we Pilgrims call it) and buy yet more vital equipment.

I now have what can only be described as a Gianluigi Buffon/Nik Kershaw-type snood (UV protection, yadda yadda) and a new disease-carrying wristband.

I’ve just had an excellent meal with 20 fellow Pilgrims, which saw me actually consume and enjoy lentil soup.

If that’s not evidence of this already being a life-changing experience, I don’t know what to tell you.

Night night.