The Blurb
Day 1 - 3rd Sept.
Timely departure, good journey down to Land's End. Left Brentwood at 6 a.m. and Left Land's End on the bikes at 2:45pm - wet and windy. Couldn't see much until Penzance. Bern declined the ride option! Nick was invited into a lady's house when he went to ask directions - open door Cornish hospitality. Arrived at Premier Inn, Cornan Downe, Truro at about 6:30.Chief trumper: John. Incident of the day: John, 360 into a dry stone wall, minimal personal damage. Other incidents: Paul rear-ended Mike, minor bleeding. Technical: John, chain snap 1 mile from end point. Nick, helmet-cam and mobile phone both gave up. John, GPS gave up. Mike, rear puncture.
Mileage for the afternoon: 41.
Day 2 - 4th Sept.
Incident of the day: Bern accident 57 miles in to the day's ride. Pleasant morning marred by directional errors, but not too much, Bern seen sprawled on Tarmac. Pastie lunch in the van at Tintagel - best pastie ever. Rain closed in as we left. Arduous climb out of Boscastle - hardest so far. Missed afternoon 'rendezvous' as we opted for main road as rain relentless. Met two Lejogers on A39. Hotel had beautiful views over River Torridge, not forgetting the "fawltyesque" atmosphere.
Incident of the day: Bern accident 57 miles in to the day's ride. Pleasant morning marred by directional errors, but not too much, Bern seen sprawled on Tarmac. Pastie lunch in the van at Tintagel - best pastie ever. Rain closed in as we left. Arduous climb out of Boscastle - hardest so far. Missed afternoon 'rendezvous' as we opted for main road as rain relentless. Met two Lejogers on A39. Hotel had beautiful views over River Torridge, not forgetting the "fawltyesque" atmosphere.
Mileage today: 92.
Day 3 - 5th Sept.
Mike's beetle friend popped out to say hello but retired disappointed. Mike's high speed blow out held us back a bit, Nick stepped in to help. Heavy showers most of the day. Bucolic English villages. Royal Oak pub, Winsford for lunch (in the van to shelter from the rain). Friendly instructions from all. Skirted round last hill of day and roomed at Travelodge - no other room at the inn. Three vicious hills - North Molton on to Exmoor , out of Withypool , and out of Winsford. Dinner at Compass Tavern - good food and beer and biggest mix grill ever. Punctures 3: Mike, Nick and Simon. No other issues. Sat Nav bought by John for trip broke on first day - new Garmin Edge 800 bought but not much better at moment - good job John brought waterproof paper maps of the entire ride. Team condition : generally fair with lactic acid residues and one case of minor pimples au derriere.
Mike's beetle friend popped out to say hello but retired disappointed. Mike's high speed blow out held us back a bit, Nick stepped in to help. Heavy showers most of the day. Bucolic English villages. Royal Oak pub, Winsford for lunch (in the van to shelter from the rain). Friendly instructions from all. Skirted round last hill of day and roomed at Travelodge - no other room at the inn. Three vicious hills - North Molton on to Exmoor , out of Withypool , and out of Winsford. Dinner at Compass Tavern - good food and beer and biggest mix grill ever. Punctures 3: Mike, Nick and Simon. No other issues. Sat Nav bought by John for trip broke on first day - new Garmin Edge 800 bought but not much better at moment - good job John brought waterproof paper maps of the entire ride. Team condition : generally fair with lactic acid residues and one case of minor pimples au derriere.
Mileage today: 68.
Day 4 - 6th Sept.
Travelodge - glad to leave. Rush hour in Bridgewater - interesting!! Some liked the challenge. Nice easy ride to Cheddar for cream tea. Kitted up for next stretch and the heavens opened - as Mike (Jonah) rides without rain jacket. He dons jacket and sun comes out. Nice easy ride to Chew Magna. Beer in Pelican Inn - lovely gastronomic pub. Ian pumped for first ride but suddenly deflated as Presta valve fought back - sense of humour failure big time!! Simon placed his personalised Eton Mess in a discreet place. Man down- Paul's knee fails , it succumbs to too much grinding! Bails out to the transit for the afternoon, sigh.....meanwhile support vehicle see saws over Severn Bridge can't believe you have to pay to get into Wales but it's free to get out! Advance team arrive at Castle View hotel, Chepstow to check out bar facilities - thumbs up! Congregate in bar - drink Welsh beer - brewery invented canned beer but lacked foresight according to hotel main man. Paul and Simon discuss the merits of Hendricks and Bombay Sapphire gins with locals in hotel. Dinner in hotel very good with Acorn Antiques service. Nick in "back room" guarding bikes. Technicals - punctures many: Mike 1, Paul 1, Ian 2 and one pretend one, plus a lost pump as Ian threw it away!
Travelodge - glad to leave. Rush hour in Bridgewater - interesting!! Some liked the challenge. Nice easy ride to Cheddar for cream tea. Kitted up for next stretch and the heavens opened - as Mike (Jonah) rides without rain jacket. He dons jacket and sun comes out. Nice easy ride to Chew Magna. Beer in Pelican Inn - lovely gastronomic pub. Ian pumped for first ride but suddenly deflated as Presta valve fought back - sense of humour failure big time!! Simon placed his personalised Eton Mess in a discreet place. Man down- Paul's knee fails , it succumbs to too much grinding! Bails out to the transit for the afternoon, sigh.....meanwhile support vehicle see saws over Severn Bridge can't believe you have to pay to get into Wales but it's free to get out! Advance team arrive at Castle View hotel, Chepstow to check out bar facilities - thumbs up! Congregate in bar - drink Welsh beer - brewery invented canned beer but lacked foresight according to hotel main man. Paul and Simon discuss the merits of Hendricks and Bombay Sapphire gins with locals in hotel. Dinner in hotel very good with Acorn Antiques service. Nick in "back room" guarding bikes. Technicals - punctures many: Mike 1, Paul 1, Ian 2 and one pretend one, plus a lost pump as Ian threw it away!
Mileage today: 74.
Day 5 - 7th Sept.
Stupidly early wake up call at 6-30 which still did not affect the departure which was 9 am. Still working on reducing the "faffing time" in the morning. Team photo in front of Chepstow castle and off up a 4 mile climb. John decides to be asthmatic all day and was stung by a jasper after 4 miles - slight sense of humour failure but understandable. We rolled along and hit a high speed descent in to the Wye Valley at Stowfield - stopped for photos. Beautiful location. Kingfisher spotted by Mike and he thought he heard an otter. John later identified the rarest of British wildlife - "the Tree Otter" - all caused by global warming - apparently. Followed the river to Ross On Wye - lovely town. Pushed on to village pub - The Lamb Inn - for sausage sandwiches at Stoke Priory. Accosted prior to departure by lovely lady looking for Ian - his sister in law, Penny. Team pushed on to Ludlow - got lost and saw more of Ludlow than intended - a bonus. The most picturesque town to date. Rest of the ride was rolling and pleasant with a damp run down in to Much Wenlock. Stayed at Gaskell Arms - met by Kurt Bauer who drove up to meet the chaps. Kurt made a cameo appearance with the chaps at Coed Y Brenin six years ago. Finish - 7 ish. Four counties today- Monmouthshire, Gloucestershire, Shropshire and Herefordshire. Technicals: one puncture - Mike.
Stupidly early wake up call at 6-30 which still did not affect the departure which was 9 am. Still working on reducing the "faffing time" in the morning. Team photo in front of Chepstow castle and off up a 4 mile climb. John decides to be asthmatic all day and was stung by a jasper after 4 miles - slight sense of humour failure but understandable. We rolled along and hit a high speed descent in to the Wye Valley at Stowfield - stopped for photos. Beautiful location. Kingfisher spotted by Mike and he thought he heard an otter. John later identified the rarest of British wildlife - "the Tree Otter" - all caused by global warming - apparently. Followed the river to Ross On Wye - lovely town. Pushed on to village pub - The Lamb Inn - for sausage sandwiches at Stoke Priory. Accosted prior to departure by lovely lady looking for Ian - his sister in law, Penny. Team pushed on to Ludlow - got lost and saw more of Ludlow than intended - a bonus. The most picturesque town to date. Rest of the ride was rolling and pleasant with a damp run down in to Much Wenlock. Stayed at Gaskell Arms - met by Kurt Bauer who drove up to meet the chaps. Kurt made a cameo appearance with the chaps at Coed Y Brenin six years ago. Finish - 7 ish. Four counties today- Monmouthshire, Gloucestershire, Shropshire and Herefordshire. Technicals: one puncture - Mike.
Mileage today: 87.
Day 6 - 8th Sept.
Usual 9am start and fast descent in to Ironbridge. Nice old bridge (obviously) and quaint town. Down means up and a testy 2 mile climbed followed. Directed by a lady in a wheel chair with an Ulster accent who expressed her frustration at her disposition but with lovely smile. Passed "the Wrekin" - a hill it seems. Bumbled along following canals to Market Drayton and headed to Aston for lunch in the car park of the Bhurtpore Inn - nipped in to taste local ale - research purposes required this. Continued along nice lanes through Nantwich, Middlewich but had to take main roads in to and out Knutsford. Another Premier Inn.....Easy ride upon reflection. Other issues arising- the boys had a full squadron up - Mike selected the Peugeot (only 25 years' old with a loose rear wheel bearing) . Gear changes were er "long-winded"...The worst day for car drivers getting too close...The team has finally honed the "one out all out" policy of comfort breaks. Technicals - punctures 3: Nick 2, Simon 1.
Usual 9am start and fast descent in to Ironbridge. Nice old bridge (obviously) and quaint town. Down means up and a testy 2 mile climbed followed. Directed by a lady in a wheel chair with an Ulster accent who expressed her frustration at her disposition but with lovely smile. Passed "the Wrekin" - a hill it seems. Bumbled along following canals to Market Drayton and headed to Aston for lunch in the car park of the Bhurtpore Inn - nipped in to taste local ale - research purposes required this. Continued along nice lanes through Nantwich, Middlewich but had to take main roads in to and out Knutsford. Another Premier Inn.....Easy ride upon reflection. Other issues arising- the boys had a full squadron up - Mike selected the Peugeot (only 25 years' old with a loose rear wheel bearing) . Gear changes were er "long-winded"...The worst day for car drivers getting too close...The team has finally honed the "one out all out" policy of comfort breaks. Technicals - punctures 3: Nick 2, Simon 1.
Mileage today: 75. Total mileage to date - 476.
Day 7 - 9th Sept.
Knutsford Premier Inn , who would you expect to see but a fellow Stondon Massey resident and cycling grandee Mr G Mann (End to Ender - 1971) Respect. Nice easy roll out. First comfort break was one for the horticulturalists - wild lupins by the roadside. The last vestiges of summer. We were waived the toll to cross the Manchester Ship Canal - up and over another steel bridge built many moons ago. Fine British engineering, a bit like British Leyland - Leyland being a town passed by on route. Preston observed in the distance from our efforts up one climb. On to grim Northern towns - Leigh, Atherton, Westhoughton. Adidas attire and attack dogs (Stafordshire Bull Terriers we think) - small and aggressive. Seemingly the must have accessory to walk to Betfred or off-licence. Middle class sentiment abounds. Main street white washed windows and vacant stores, seems like nobody ain't gonna settle down here no more, they're closing down the textile mill across the railroad tracks, foreman says these jobs are going boys and they ain't coming back, to my hometown...." - Springsteen (approx). Fitting followed the M6 for a few hours. Stopped for photo at canal lock gates - lovely. Strange when you climb for two minutes to water. Up and down thereafter with punctures interrupting progress so we rolled in to "Whalley" around 2-30 to feast at Bern and Mike's Mobile Diner. Viewed the Ribble Valley Viaduct in the distace - majestic. John asked the inevitable question as we tried to locate our lunchtime rendezvous. (Where's Whalley?) 40 mph achieved on the long down hill. Post lunch meant the fells and some monster climbs but beautiful moorland scenery enhanced by a low sun which kept us company most of the afternoon - photos and punctures dominated the ride but the views compensated. Puncture stop saw us witness bantams and ducks housebreaking in search of food whilst John chatted up an ageing tabby. Over Burn Moor (three big climbs) and in to High Bentham which was kicking as all the locals were picking up their take-aways. The last push for home - Ingleton. We docked at two B&Bs at 7-15. Total journey time 10hrs 30mins including stops. Simon adorns Nick's grundies and T shirt and Mike's shorts - kit left at Premier Inn. Dinner at Mason's Arms - huge steak pies enjoyed by the team and Nick nods off - lack of recovery drink the culprit apparently. Technicals - four punctures: (Ian, Simon x 2, Mike) and one wheel spindle defective.
Knutsford Premier Inn , who would you expect to see but a fellow Stondon Massey resident and cycling grandee Mr G Mann (End to Ender - 1971) Respect. Nice easy roll out. First comfort break was one for the horticulturalists - wild lupins by the roadside. The last vestiges of summer. We were waived the toll to cross the Manchester Ship Canal - up and over another steel bridge built many moons ago. Fine British engineering, a bit like British Leyland - Leyland being a town passed by on route. Preston observed in the distance from our efforts up one climb. On to grim Northern towns - Leigh, Atherton, Westhoughton. Adidas attire and attack dogs (Stafordshire Bull Terriers we think) - small and aggressive. Seemingly the must have accessory to walk to Betfred or off-licence. Middle class sentiment abounds. Main street white washed windows and vacant stores, seems like nobody ain't gonna settle down here no more, they're closing down the textile mill across the railroad tracks, foreman says these jobs are going boys and they ain't coming back, to my hometown...." - Springsteen (approx). Fitting followed the M6 for a few hours. Stopped for photo at canal lock gates - lovely. Strange when you climb for two minutes to water. Up and down thereafter with punctures interrupting progress so we rolled in to "Whalley" around 2-30 to feast at Bern and Mike's Mobile Diner. Viewed the Ribble Valley Viaduct in the distace - majestic. John asked the inevitable question as we tried to locate our lunchtime rendezvous. (Where's Whalley?) 40 mph achieved on the long down hill. Post lunch meant the fells and some monster climbs but beautiful moorland scenery enhanced by a low sun which kept us company most of the afternoon - photos and punctures dominated the ride but the views compensated. Puncture stop saw us witness bantams and ducks housebreaking in search of food whilst John chatted up an ageing tabby. Over Burn Moor (three big climbs) and in to High Bentham which was kicking as all the locals were picking up their take-aways. The last push for home - Ingleton. We docked at two B&Bs at 7-15. Total journey time 10hrs 30mins including stops. Simon adorns Nick's grundies and T shirt and Mike's shorts - kit left at Premier Inn. Dinner at Mason's Arms - huge steak pies enjoyed by the team and Nick nods off - lack of recovery drink the culprit apparently. Technicals - four punctures: (Ian, Simon x 2, Mike) and one wheel spindle defective.
Mileage today: 82. Total mileage to date - 526.
Day 8 - 10th Sept.
Back to the usual relaxed start, so we rolled out of Ingleton around 9:30am with a reported 80 miles ahead. Pleasant start as we skirted round the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. We met and passed several times a bunch of fellow End to Enders raising money for Help for Heroes. They passed us too as the Secteur had the only puncture of the day. It really is the Jonah machine, eating tubes and tyres, not too mention other technicals. John experienced several emotional enlargements at the prospect of the trout in one of the many rivers that we crossed. We rode with our fellow End to Enders down one long hill, in formation, at some considerable speed! Weather threatened and the team were forever donning rain jackets, only to remove them soon after. A few testing climbs were tackled in the morning. Lunch was in a cyclist friendly boozer; The Shepherds Inn in Langwathby. It is on the C2C route, so we impressed the locals whom assumed we were C2Cers. The afternoon saw more rolling fields and picturesque river crossings. The team split, unplanned, 10 miles out of Carlisle and went separate ways to the Premier Inn, but both endured the ride through Carlisle city centre. A town best avoided was the consensus. Another Premier Inn experience for dinner - mmm...lovely.
Back to the usual relaxed start, so we rolled out of Ingleton around 9:30am with a reported 80 miles ahead. Pleasant start as we skirted round the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. We met and passed several times a bunch of fellow End to Enders raising money for Help for Heroes. They passed us too as the Secteur had the only puncture of the day. It really is the Jonah machine, eating tubes and tyres, not too mention other technicals. John experienced several emotional enlargements at the prospect of the trout in one of the many rivers that we crossed. We rode with our fellow End to Enders down one long hill, in formation, at some considerable speed! Weather threatened and the team were forever donning rain jackets, only to remove them soon after. A few testing climbs were tackled in the morning. Lunch was in a cyclist friendly boozer; The Shepherds Inn in Langwathby. It is on the C2C route, so we impressed the locals whom assumed we were C2Cers. The afternoon saw more rolling fields and picturesque river crossings. The team split, unplanned, 10 miles out of Carlisle and went separate ways to the Premier Inn, but both endured the ride through Carlisle city centre. A town best avoided was the consensus. Another Premier Inn experience for dinner - mmm...lovely.
Mileage today: 70.
Tour Beer List:
- Timothy Taylor - Landlord
- Youngs - Ordinary
- Greene King - IPA
- Old Speckled Hen
- Greene King - Abbot
- Tribute
- Wychwood
- Scarecrow
- Old Appledore (Bideford Brewery)
- Otter
- Sharpes - Doombar
- Butcombe
- Bath Ales
- Gem bitter
(best as at day 4 - Tuesday 6th) - Felinfoel
- HPA
- Marstons - Burton bitter
- Butty Bach - Wye Valley Brewery
- Hobsons - Town Crier
- Copper Dragon
- Golden Pippen
- Jennings - Cumberland Ale
- Black Sheep Brewery
- Golden Sheep
- Thwaites Original
Day 9 - 11th Sept.
Premier Inn breakfast and out fettling the bikes. Simon scored a freebie Tour Of Britain apron as the tour support crew were staying at the hotel - Bern was awarded this prestigious item by way of marking his departure for London and the home made energy bars that were enjoyed by all. Bern dissappointed to be leaving but kindly working remotely for the team, researching hotels which appear less available as we go North. Thanks mate! Damp start and the team roll on to Scotland at Gretna. Inevitable stop for photos to mark this milestone. Flat and rolling roads with a good tailwind but the rain closed in and we rode 45 miles or more in wet and windy conditions. Mike scores some grub and the team perform gymnastics in the van while mixing kit changes and eating - we left a veritable bomb site as we rode off. Ian declines to tackle the second leg of the day. A wet but thankfully short ride ride to Lanark and delightful accommodation in the Cartland Bridge Hotel. Early arrival too at 5:15. The team relax over beer and a quality dinner and contemplate the day ahead which promised gale force winds and heavy rain as of this morning's forecast - Hurricane Irene passing though it apparently. However, latest info suggests we may be spared. Real ale research has been stymied by the abundance of keg beers - expected but still frustrating. Technicals - punctures: 3 Simon, Ian and Nick.
Premier Inn breakfast and out fettling the bikes. Simon scored a freebie Tour Of Britain apron as the tour support crew were staying at the hotel - Bern was awarded this prestigious item by way of marking his departure for London and the home made energy bars that were enjoyed by all. Bern dissappointed to be leaving but kindly working remotely for the team, researching hotels which appear less available as we go North. Thanks mate! Damp start and the team roll on to Scotland at Gretna. Inevitable stop for photos to mark this milestone. Flat and rolling roads with a good tailwind but the rain closed in and we rode 45 miles or more in wet and windy conditions. Mike scores some grub and the team perform gymnastics in the van while mixing kit changes and eating - we left a veritable bomb site as we rode off. Ian declines to tackle the second leg of the day. A wet but thankfully short ride ride to Lanark and delightful accommodation in the Cartland Bridge Hotel. Early arrival too at 5:15. The team relax over beer and a quality dinner and contemplate the day ahead which promised gale force winds and heavy rain as of this morning's forecast - Hurricane Irene passing though it apparently. However, latest info suggests we may be spared. Real ale research has been stymied by the abundance of keg beers - expected but still frustrating. Technicals - punctures: 3 Simon, Ian and Nick.
Mileage today: 72. Total mileage to date - 675.
Day 10 - 12th Sept.
Left Lanark in OKish weather and we cruised along with a good breeze behind us. However, the rainbow on the left 30 mins in to the ride, heralded heavy weather. Half an hour later "and the rain came down" (the name of a very good song by Steve Earle) and to make matters worse so did the wind - care of Hurricane Katia. Despite increasingly treacherous conditions we limped to the Falcon pub in Stirling where we removed wet clothing and were treated to tea by the landlord, John. We chatted to the other customers who were impressed at our efforts and suggested that we were mad to venture further. Many were so impressed by our insanity that they kindly donated to our selected charities - restoring our belief in human kindness. We saddled up feigning bravado but knowing that the ride if actually possible was going to be very tough. We struggled up to Stirling Castle but the omens were not good - John tumbles through a combination of wind and pedal release complications. Debris from trees lay everwhere and branches were falling around us. We venture further and make walking pace speed cycling in to the wind (and rain). We make the main road and attempt to progress but the wind threatens to push us in to the busy traffic. The path is suggested as a safer option. Mike pushes on and makes 20 yards before being blown sideways and the team decides enough is enough. Ian breezes in to view and the boys shout for assistance. Bikes are loaded and we ride "en transit" to the hotel 30 miles beyond the point of surrender. We try to talk up our progress but the team are all disappointed as today's goal was not achieved. Much debate over dinner but no real outcome as the high winds look to be with us until well in to tomorrow. Paul is on weather watch first thing in the morning and the plan is to return to Stirling to recommence the journey. Technicals - one puncture Mike. Other issues : general malaise amongst the crew - tomorrow will be better...
Left Lanark in OKish weather and we cruised along with a good breeze behind us. However, the rainbow on the left 30 mins in to the ride, heralded heavy weather. Half an hour later "and the rain came down" (the name of a very good song by Steve Earle) and to make matters worse so did the wind - care of Hurricane Katia. Despite increasingly treacherous conditions we limped to the Falcon pub in Stirling where we removed wet clothing and were treated to tea by the landlord, John. We chatted to the other customers who were impressed at our efforts and suggested that we were mad to venture further. Many were so impressed by our insanity that they kindly donated to our selected charities - restoring our belief in human kindness. We saddled up feigning bravado but knowing that the ride if actually possible was going to be very tough. We struggled up to Stirling Castle but the omens were not good - John tumbles through a combination of wind and pedal release complications. Debris from trees lay everwhere and branches were falling around us. We venture further and make walking pace speed cycling in to the wind (and rain). We make the main road and attempt to progress but the wind threatens to push us in to the busy traffic. The path is suggested as a safer option. Mike pushes on and makes 20 yards before being blown sideways and the team decides enough is enough. Ian breezes in to view and the boys shout for assistance. Bikes are loaded and we ride "en transit" to the hotel 30 miles beyond the point of surrender. We try to talk up our progress but the team are all disappointed as today's goal was not achieved. Much debate over dinner but no real outcome as the high winds look to be with us until well in to tomorrow. Paul is on weather watch first thing in the morning and the plan is to return to Stirling to recommence the journey. Technicals - one puncture Mike. Other issues : general malaise amongst the crew - tomorrow will be better...
Mileage: 50. Total mileage to date - 725.
Day 11 - 13th Sept.
Paul, up with the Lark, did not wake the rest of the team (ed: yes he did, he texted all of us at 06:30am) as the wind was still strong. The chaps enjoyed a few welcome extra minutes in bed. The signs were good though as the white horses on Lock Earn had left us by the time we assembled for breakfast. Bikes were fettled and the team clambered in to the van hopeful of a better day than the frustration of the day before....The start was stymied as there was a diesel spill between Stirling and Callander, so the drive to yesterday's point of abandonment was extended by half an hour. We were set down on the A84, just beyond Stirling, and immediately met by strong winds and rain yet again. However we moved cautiously forward, but the police denied us access along the main road to Callander. We diverted and tracked the main road and made it back to the A84. We made good time despite the rain and snacked in a lovely deli come cafe in Callander. Googling confirmed it to be called the "Deli Ecosse". Great carrot cake which was enjoyed by all. Go to www.deliecosse.co.uk for details of their comestibles and other fine products for sale. We stopped for a photo of the flooded river plain of The Teith. Callander was a lovely town and achieved prominence as the setting for the long running TV show "Dr. Finlay's Casebook" . We pushed on amidst constant drizzle - water soaking in to every item of clothing. We took the Sustrans cycle route and emerged just short of our overnight stop at Lochearnhead. "Push on" was the call and we rumbled along another 20 miles to Crianlarich. Ian was waiting and we clambered aboard cold and wet but relieved to be back on course. Mike rode all day with no leggings or overshoes, peddling away at high cadence to keep warm - 'big hand' to the wiry yet surprisingly robust builder from Essex - Waterstone Land and New Homes is the name and timely construction at a fair price is the game.....it says here. Beers over dinner and plans afoot. Up at 6am and 100 miles tomorrow - subject to the weather. Not a great many miles today but very acceptable in the conditions. Technicals - none. Can you believe it, not a single puncture....Other issues - John declares that he is not using his effete handlebar satchel - the times they are a changing. A good sign maybe?
Paul, up with the Lark, did not wake the rest of the team (ed: yes he did, he texted all of us at 06:30am) as the wind was still strong. The chaps enjoyed a few welcome extra minutes in bed. The signs were good though as the white horses on Lock Earn had left us by the time we assembled for breakfast. Bikes were fettled and the team clambered in to the van hopeful of a better day than the frustration of the day before....The start was stymied as there was a diesel spill between Stirling and Callander, so the drive to yesterday's point of abandonment was extended by half an hour. We were set down on the A84, just beyond Stirling, and immediately met by strong winds and rain yet again. However we moved cautiously forward, but the police denied us access along the main road to Callander. We diverted and tracked the main road and made it back to the A84. We made good time despite the rain and snacked in a lovely deli come cafe in Callander. Googling confirmed it to be called the "Deli Ecosse". Great carrot cake which was enjoyed by all. Go to www.deliecosse.co.uk for details of their comestibles and other fine products for sale. We stopped for a photo of the flooded river plain of The Teith. Callander was a lovely town and achieved prominence as the setting for the long running TV show "Dr. Finlay's Casebook" . We pushed on amidst constant drizzle - water soaking in to every item of clothing. We took the Sustrans cycle route and emerged just short of our overnight stop at Lochearnhead. "Push on" was the call and we rumbled along another 20 miles to Crianlarich. Ian was waiting and we clambered aboard cold and wet but relieved to be back on course. Mike rode all day with no leggings or overshoes, peddling away at high cadence to keep warm - 'big hand' to the wiry yet surprisingly robust builder from Essex - Waterstone Land and New Homes is the name and timely construction at a fair price is the game.....it says here. Beers over dinner and plans afoot. Up at 6am and 100 miles tomorrow - subject to the weather. Not a great many miles today but very acceptable in the conditions. Technicals - none. Can you believe it, not a single puncture....Other issues - John declares that he is not using his effete handlebar satchel - the times they are a changing. A good sign maybe?
Mileage today; 52. Total mileage to date - 780.
Day 12 - 14th Sept
Early start with a breakfast muster at 6:15 am. The team were in the van at 7:00 am, as planned, and we returned to the last finishing point. Mild nerves settled over the team at the prospect of a 100 mile day. The weather was predicted to be fair, but the start was beset by a heavy drizzle. Not another wet day surely! We rolled on to the A82 and climbed, and descended, amidst heavy showers and a stiff headwind that numbed fingers and toes. We played cat and mouse with two first-year students who were carrying their own gear and camping out for the whole route - brave boys. We were faster on the road, but weaker bladders and the odd photo stop meant that we were pretty evenly matched for 40 miles. The weather did improve during the day, which kept us focused on the goal. Lunch was in Fort William in a large visitor centre come shop. The team refuelled on cottage pie and took to the road again for more stunning Highland scenery. We passed alongside various Lochs, which were Loch Earn, Tulla, Nah-achlaise, Levan, Linnhe, Oich, Lochy and Ness. Great views! We diverted off road for 7 miles which brought us our only puncture of the day and it tested the tender nether regions that were 12 days and 8 hours in to a long ride. We rumbled on to Drumnadrochit and our final destination with John seemingly possessed, breaking away from the group up the Glencoe Pass. Our venue came in to view - the hotel and "Nessie Museum" combined to make an interesting overnight venue. The boys decided that a good clean of the steeds was a good idea having first shared the glory of hitting our days target of 100 miles. Nick had a bad hair day (refer to the pics) and then orders a sherry over dinner - how bizarre. Needless to say he was brought to task...The team debate the tactics for the final push - two or three days? Where to stop on the way back South. The end is in sight. Technicals - one puncture - Paul.
Early start with a breakfast muster at 6:15 am. The team were in the van at 7:00 am, as planned, and we returned to the last finishing point. Mild nerves settled over the team at the prospect of a 100 mile day. The weather was predicted to be fair, but the start was beset by a heavy drizzle. Not another wet day surely! We rolled on to the A82 and climbed, and descended, amidst heavy showers and a stiff headwind that numbed fingers and toes. We played cat and mouse with two first-year students who were carrying their own gear and camping out for the whole route - brave boys. We were faster on the road, but weaker bladders and the odd photo stop meant that we were pretty evenly matched for 40 miles. The weather did improve during the day, which kept us focused on the goal. Lunch was in Fort William in a large visitor centre come shop. The team refuelled on cottage pie and took to the road again for more stunning Highland scenery. We passed alongside various Lochs, which were Loch Earn, Tulla, Nah-achlaise, Levan, Linnhe, Oich, Lochy and Ness. Great views! We diverted off road for 7 miles which brought us our only puncture of the day and it tested the tender nether regions that were 12 days and 8 hours in to a long ride. We rumbled on to Drumnadrochit and our final destination with John seemingly possessed, breaking away from the group up the Glencoe Pass. Our venue came in to view - the hotel and "Nessie Museum" combined to make an interesting overnight venue. The boys decided that a good clean of the steeds was a good idea having first shared the glory of hitting our days target of 100 miles. Nick had a bad hair day (refer to the pics) and then orders a sherry over dinner - how bizarre. Needless to say he was brought to task...The team debate the tactics for the final push - two or three days? Where to stop on the way back South. The end is in sight. Technicals - one puncture - Paul.
Mileage today - 102. Total miles - 881.
Day 13 - 15th Sept.
Another big day ahead - 90 miles from Drumnadrochit. The weather looks to be good (finally) and set to last the day. After much faffing we roll out, but immediately hit as testing a climb as any in Devon or Cornwall. We roll along enjoying the weather and scenery, but not the timber transporters that pay us little regard. Fellow LEJOGERS pass us heading south and we reconnect with the van supporting the Hope For Heroes crew we met ten days back. A quick lunch in Lairg and we push on further 30 miles to make a dent in the final day. We pass The Crask Inn, possibly the most remote pub, standing alone amidst miles of heather. We make a note to pop in on the way back. We finish the sprint along Loch Naver in bright evening sunshine - possibly the best ride of the trip. We jump in the van and enjoy a quick beer at The Crask Inn, which was as quirky as expected. Dinner was enjoyed adjacent to the Hope For Heroes team who were staying in Lairg for the night. Nick morphs into Elvis according to John. The White cycling jacket half open and dark glasses might be the reason. Technicals - none.
Mileage today - 91. Total mileage to date - 970.
Day 14 - 16th Sept.
Final day. Differing B& B experiences in Lairg - John and Paul experience Mrs Grumpy's hospitality whereas the rest of the team enjoy a relaxed welcome and a breakfast made with fresh eggs from the chooks in the coop located at the end of the garden. The team returns to last night's finish and roll lazily alongside the River Naver. We reach the North Sea and turn right. Oh dear, 3 hours of descents and climbs in to 30 mph gusts. The team was not happy and we lost Paul again, a victim of tendonitis - as diagnosed by the psuedo quacks of the team. Can you have psuedo quacks? We push on to Thurso and lunch at our hotel. 45 miles down and 20 to go. We saddle up again and grit the proverbial teeth. The run to John O' Groats was fast, but increasingly wet. We made good time and reached our destination, in driving rain, at around 5:20. We finished as we started.....John O'Groats was er...underwhelming. We took the obligatory pictures, picked up two other stranded End To Enders, and returned to Thurso. We decanted to the local bistro and imbibed accordingly having made contact with respective other halves. We will relive memories in times to come, but the moments are so many that all are struggling to recall both highs and lows. A good reason to meet again with another goal......The talk is of France or the Med. Technicals - none.
Final day. Differing B& B experiences in Lairg - John and Paul experience Mrs Grumpy's hospitality whereas the rest of the team enjoy a relaxed welcome and a breakfast made with fresh eggs from the chooks in the coop located at the end of the garden. The team returns to last night's finish and roll lazily alongside the River Naver. We reach the North Sea and turn right. Oh dear, 3 hours of descents and climbs in to 30 mph gusts. The team was not happy and we lost Paul again, a victim of tendonitis - as diagnosed by the psuedo quacks of the team. Can you have psuedo quacks? We push on to Thurso and lunch at our hotel. 45 miles down and 20 to go. We saddle up again and grit the proverbial teeth. The run to John O' Groats was fast, but increasingly wet. We made good time and reached our destination, in driving rain, at around 5:20. We finished as we started.....John O'Groats was er...underwhelming. We took the obligatory pictures, picked up two other stranded End To Enders, and returned to Thurso. We decanted to the local bistro and imbibed accordingly having made contact with respective other halves. We will relive memories in times to come, but the moments are so many that all are struggling to recall both highs and lows. A good reason to meet again with another goal......The talk is of France or the Med. Technicals - none.
Mileage today: 65. Total - 1037 and done!! So long and thanks for all the fish.