Here is some live commentary from The Guardian on the breakaway riders ...

"229km to go: Cofidis rider Stephane Rossetto shoots off into the distance, somewhat reluctantly if the way he’s jabbering into his radio is anything to go by.

Behind him, Wanty-Gobert rider Yoann Offredo bridges the gap with all the enthusiasm of a condemned man walking to the gallows. He’s obviously under orders from his directeur sportif and keeps looking behind him in something approaching desperation to see if anyone else is coming with him. There are no takers."

BTW, Ofredo was the lowest ranked rider still in the TDF.

SV Coug