Thanks mossy. Don't worry, I'll be there.
I've been most touched by the number of peeps who have PM'd with offers of loans or help.
The mercian is at the LBS now so hopefully it will get done in time. Basically this is the second re-build on the frame (Down tube last time). The bike is only 9 or 10 years old but it's nackered due to the daily abuse it gets. I think it's time to retire it. I've asked them to just do a cheap bodge job on it - I don't care what the paint work looks like.
My other option is to do the ride on my hybrid, but I don't really want to do that as I find it quite hard work. If I do use it, I won't be riding from Brum.