This was sent to me some time ago now Phil lives in the U.S.A and below is part of his letter.
My bike arrived today and all I can say is WOW. And of course I can't wait to get her built and take her for that first ride. The detail and craftsmanship are everything I hoped for.
My Mercian is an incredible ride! I've never been so comfortable on a bike before and I can truly ride this bike all day long and still feel fresh. PLUS, it attracts admiration and bike lust wherever I go, which is never a bad thing.

Attached is a picture from a group ride earlier this summer where she won a “best looking bike” contest. Trust me when I tell you the picture doesn't do it justice. As you can see from the photo I've tried keep in a classic mode with the frame by giving it hammered fenders, waxed canvas rear bags, a Nigel Smyth front bag as well as moustache bars (with shellac cloth tape) and of course a racing green Brooks saddle.