Of course the reality of the court ruling was very different.

"The result (subject to any reconsideration by the House of Lords) is that any organiser of Critical Mass is now required to notify the police at least 6 days before the event providing them with the date, route, and name of organiser.

"The Court of Appeal’s judgment does not mean either that the ride is unlawful or that those merely cycling in the ride are acting unlawfully."

But since there is no organiser there really is nobody to prosecute, so it's at worst a hollow victory for the state.

Many cyclists were on their first ever CM ride and were thrilled by it.

It's an empowering experience to say the least, and the buzz of hundreds of cyclists circling Parliament Square, chanting "More bikes - Less cars" whilst the police block off the traffic could be the most fun you can have with your clothes on.

CM. Long may it continue.