Amid the short, cold days of winter, many riders struggle with motivation and mood. James Shrubsall finds out why this time of year hits so hard – and how to fight back

January had seemed to last forever. The razzle dazzle of Christmas a mere memory, spring and its promise of sunny days still a good couple of months away. And now there was February to contend with. S

MIND, BODY, RELATIONSHIPS & MONEY

DES TAYLOR

Good preparation and a willingness to allow the weather and river conditions to dictate your targets are key to catching in the cold

From drought to deluge, future-proof your plot with resilient plants, smarter watering and flexible gardening