We’ve been so lucky these last few weeks that the sun has kept shining right the way through, despite it being traditionally cooler.

But you can’t stop time or the seasons it seems because suddenly, Bam!, it’s autumn and then the rain hits – and boy has it rained and rained these last few days.

Well, if like me you’re still cycling round Oxford to work or play, then I hope you’re not thinking it’s bus weather.

So how can I convince you to keep the cycling up?

After all there have been times when I’ve looked so wet when cycling that I resemble ‘that girl’ from all those romantic films – you know, where they’re about to kiss in the pouring rain – only I look like I’ve just found out the guy I’ve got to kiss is Woody Allen and not Colin Firth as I’d hoped. I hope you understand the look – it’s wet and miserable. Only dry clothes and hot chocolate can cure this.

This year I’m determined to get some waterproof trousers just for those ‘cats and dogs’ days. Will I look like a prat? Do I care? I’m hoping I can get some trousers I can get out of without anyone thinking I’m a drain cleaner.

Anyway, something I didn’t realise is that more water comes off the road than down from the sky, so fitting decent mudguards can keep you much drier. I’ve even seen mudguards made from old cut-up plastic bottles attached by a plastic tie.

But there are other essentials that will help you tough out this autumn and winter. The main thing is to sort out your bike. Give it a decent clean, then oil it with all-weather lubricant but not on the brakes or wheel rims.

If you have to keep it outside, then check the chain more often or your bike starts making a ‘funny noise’ (technical term).

Rain does make a difference to car drivers noticing cyclists, especially now clocks have gone back and it gets dark so much earlier.

Luminous clothes really work when it comes to getting you spotted, in addition to your usual lights and reflectors. And by the way, luminous colours ARE in this season (just in case you’re a fashionista).

With my little toddler, I have a visor which keeps the wind and rain from spraying straight in her face (I keep her at the front of the bike; my version of a mascot, like those you see on lorries...).

But although I have a padded baby suit for her, it is not as waterproof as I’d like, and she seems to grow like a Michelin man with all the water soaking in.

This is another thing I’m on the look out for – a fleece lined waterproof suit; I had one for my son which was perfect.

About a week ago I was freezing in my morning ride for the school drop off. It took me two days to remember to bring the warm gloves down out of the loft.

Having warm hands and feet can make all the difference in those first few moments of unlocking your bike and setting off. Well, try all of the above and then take away the fact that cycling is keeping you fit and active which also helps prevent winter sadness.

Oh, and keep plenty of hot chocolate to hand.

Because...well, do you need a reason to drink chocolate?