David Millar has picked up more prestigious jerseys on the Tour de France.

But the big Scot was still delighted after Sunday's second stage, won in commanding fashion by Australian Robbie McEwen, after the rare experience of pulling on the polka-dot jersey for the race's best climber.

Millar may be a talented rider, but he is the first to admit his climbing skills are, comparatively, just above average.

And it was with a wry smile that he appeared from the Saunier Duval team bus to explain what made him go out and race like he did on the second of two days in England.

"I was in a kind of dark, angry mood this morning and I wanted to do something," said Millar, who pulled on the race's yellow jersey after winning the prologue in 2000.

He also wanted to repay the British public for its support, he added.

"I wanted to say thank you to everybody. That was it. It was one opportunity in my life to do that," said Millar.

"It's been amazing, there were loads of people with flags with my name painted on them and calling my name. It's nice to hear my name being called out in an English accent and not 'Daveed'."

With the legs now well and truly warmed up, Millar is beginning to think about where he can realistically aim for a stage win.

"Today I wasn't even going for a stage win, but I want a stage win before the end, I'm pretty sure of that. I tend to decide the night before," he added.

But asked if he could hold onto the polka-dot jersey through the Pyrenees, he fired back: "Yeah, right! I've got no illusions about keeping this during the big mountain stages."