Made it!!
We had finally made it to within miles of the finishing line this morning, when we woke bright & breezy in St Austell Station. Yet another 6.50 start to the morning for no apparent reason.
Breakfast was provided at the normal time of 7.30, however shortly after, Bob announced that the start time was going to move back from 9am to 10am. This was mainly a ploy to allow Bob to get out on his bike, to get a few more miles on the speedometer, so that he can make the magic 1,000 miles.
As were staying overnight again tonight before departing, we didn’t need to pack up entirely, so it was a case of getting ready for the final 55 miles………
Today’s final legs riders were the original 14 plus Owen Pates & Dave Etheridge who had driven (or been driven) all the way down to join us for the last leg.
We left the station after the normal calls of ‘need my glove, where’s my bike’, and lots of curious children watching who had come for the Cornish version of Junior Citizen, and headed straight up a rather large hill out of St Austell.
It should be noted at this point that Danny last night had been fined for various wrong doings, and been presented with a new riding outfit for the final day. As was appropriate this consisted of a pair of very small pink cycling shorts, topped of with a very slimming light blue top with a suitable motif on the front. Pictures will be available very shortly………
Fair to say that progress in the morning was slow, mainly doe to the number of hills, up, short down, then up again, etc. No major casualties at this point and amazingly no punctures! Most would agree that the first 20 miles this morning were nothing but painful & slow.
20 odd miles in we came to the start of some fairly major roadworks on the A30, near Cambourne, so while Kev and the drivers checked the route ahead. The sight of numerous lycra clad sweating cyclists probably did nothing enhance the reputation of the venue, but we appreciated it…… Finally, we left to follow the slight detour alongside the roadworks although at this point our first serious collision occurred. Leaving the main road through a set of road cones, the group of six that was going through navigated them safely, all except Simon who was on the end. The resounding thud as Simon rode straight into a very large 4 ft cone, could be heard all around, and the slight ouch as he then bounced into the arnco barrier. Luckily after picking himself up and straightening out the bike, he was ok and so was the bike, although we are sure there might be a little bruise or two later….
The 2nd stage through to the lunch stop was a better ride, and we all managed to pick up a little bit of speed, however it was another 18-20 miles before we got to lunch at Marizion beach (a mile prior to Penzance). The last of our ‘Princess’s’ lunch’s was laid out, and we had quite a few visitors who had come down to see us in the final miles (or to check we were actually cycling).
We aimed to finish at 3pm at Lands end, and it was soon realised that that might stretch by a few minutes, as the final riders left about 2.15 for the final 13 miles. Danny had by this time decided that he was not going to be seen in his pink cycling shorts at Lands End, so he changed into something slightly more normal
A few last climbs lay before us out of Penzance, with a fairly steep one just a mile after lunch (why are they always after lunch????), and we were soon coasting (eventually) towards Sennen cove, a mile short of lands End. Bob wanted a final head count – understandable as losing a person wouldn’t have enhanced his career!, and after a quick pre celebratory drink in the car park (apple juice – what else) we all set off en masse for the finishing line.
Fair to say, that moments later as we rounded the last few bends and we could see the finish before us, as well as a group of people who we hoped were there for us (always embarrassing if they aren’t!) we were all greatly relived to have finally made it and we all rolled together towards the line. Bobs dream of all crossing simultaneously was slightly difficult (you try getting 15 bikes across the width of a single road – doesn’t work), but about 3.21 we all crossed the line at Lands End.
After a fantastic welcome by friends, our support team who have all been fantastic, and various onlookers who just thought it was polite to clap, we finally moved from blocking the entrance to lands end, and wheeled our way round through the visitors to the famous signpost on the other side. After having been told off for getting Cava on the signpost (Bobs fault), various photo’s ensued, and please take a look at the flickr gallery via the website www.heroes4heroes.co.uk to see our record of the past two weeks.
341 hours after leaving John O’ Groat’s, numerous tyres and inner tubes later (in Toby’s case whole bikes), lost bags, pouring rain, burning sun and everything else that the two weeks had thrown at us, finally saw us arriving at our destination, with over £22,000 already given via just giving, and the balance of our sponsorship, and other final totals still to come in.
We will post a further blog later, but as you can imagine we are all now back at St Austell enjoying Julian’s Bar B Que (Although we think he ought to tell his wife next time he takes it- especially when she wanted it), and a few drinks to round it off..
Please take time to have a look at the website, and the links to twitter, facebook & flickr – just click on www.heroes4heroes.co.uk , and follow the links from the front page! (Top left)
Now to the food and drink………………..
Friday 18 June 2010
Thursday 17 June 2010
Day 15 – Thursday – June 17th
55 miles to go !!
Last night was spent at one of the Fire Fighters Charity Centre at Harcombe House, Devon. We were lucky enough to all have a bed for the night in one of the recuperation bungalows, so a good nights sleep was had by all….. following the evening meal (which was around eight o’clock by the time we got there, most adjourned to the bar for a drink and to nurse our aches.
Karoke was the flavour of the night for the clients on site, and never one to be outdone Bob led the way with a classic rendition of ‘If you want to be in my gang’. A few others managed to string a few syllables together, but the award for best performance must go to Tatie for what can only be described as a show stopping performance……
Everyone had wandered back up to their bungalow just after 11pm, in preparation for the next day.
The next morning saw breakfast in the main house, and Tatie relieving the night before. Afterwards, the now common sight of people tinkering and repairing bikes could be seen in the forecourt ready for the 9am off (With the obligatory photo's first. A big mention to Phil 'Filthy' Adams, whose repair skills have been seen morning day and night......
New tyres on for various members, new tubes in and we were just about ready for the off!
As ever Laonies bike felt the need for new tubes, one at Chiudleigh and then one at the side of the road. Andy also had a puncture, and Bob just couldn't leave ASDA without a quick tube change, having also managed at one point to mash his gears into a shadow of their former selves
Today was 78 - 80 miles, with two ASDA stops - One in Plymouth and one at St Austell.
We split into two groups today, A group of 4 who were going to undertake the scenic route (Gav, Jon, Toby & Pete), with the remainder going for the speed ride down the A38. Brave souls :)
34 miles to ASDA ensued down the busy A 38 dual carriageway, and fair to say that today was a hard ride. Navigation was easy (one road pretty much) but the hills were something else.......
On arriving at plymouth, a quick set up of the gazebo and tables by Smithy and the crew, was quickly followed by the arrival of Plymouth's Pump and Turntable ladder. Bobs day was made when they put the TL up in the car park of ASDA (Will, we have the registration for you)
Smithy & Clive, along with Taity, Sim & Princess did an absolutely stirling job giving out information, leaflets and collecting along with the Plymouth crews & Simon Wonnacot (formerly Oxfordshire - now based down in Plymouth). A big thank you to all of them.
The cyclists came and went over an hour or so, having had a lunch at ASDA put on by the store, and then were off to St Austell, with a stop scheduled at friends of Josies at their shop (Coast Country), just off the A38. Fantastic to see a good luck message, and a wealth of snacks, scones, etc which made the day a lot more bearable.......
Meanwhile, further down south of the A38, the rebels on the scenic route were making good progress having managed to achieve Jons dream of a cream tea in Devon, were heading through Plymouth, and out the other side to catch the Torpoint chain ferry. From here a ride of about 20 miles took them to just above Looe (Fair few hills in between). However disaster struck at the bottom of the hill (about 4 miles out, when Tobys cleat disintegrated and he could no longer pedal up hills. Unfortunately in the fact that with them carrying everything else, spare tyre, tubes, gas inflator, cables, etc - the only thing not being carried was spare cleats or pedals!!
Having finally made it into Looe, having walked every up hill in the first part of Cornwall, and then out the other side, (Gav & John had gone ahead at this point) Toby was reunited with his new set of cleats from the lorry, having been rescued by Clive and his Dad George who lives just outside St Austell.
Whilst operation 'Rescue Toby' was underway, the main group were battling the hills (Who said Scotland was hard!), and finally wending their way down into St Austell to ASDA about a mile from our end at St Austell. yet again the support crew were doing a sterling job, and were out spreading the campaign message, and collecting.
A grand total of £724.59 was raised at the two ASDA's, a fantastic result and all of us would like to say thanks to ASDA and the crews for supporting us all in collecting it.
Last night was spent at one of the Fire Fighters Charity Centre at Harcombe House, Devon. We were lucky enough to all have a bed for the night in one of the recuperation bungalows, so a good nights sleep was had by all….. following the evening meal (which was around eight o’clock by the time we got there, most adjourned to the bar for a drink and to nurse our aches.
Karoke was the flavour of the night for the clients on site, and never one to be outdone Bob led the way with a classic rendition of ‘If you want to be in my gang’. A few others managed to string a few syllables together, but the award for best performance must go to Tatie for what can only be described as a show stopping performance……
Everyone had wandered back up to their bungalow just after 11pm, in preparation for the next day.
The next morning saw breakfast in the main house, and Tatie relieving the night before. Afterwards, the now common sight of people tinkering and repairing bikes could be seen in the forecourt ready for the 9am off (With the obligatory photo's first. A big mention to Phil 'Filthy' Adams, whose repair skills have been seen morning day and night......
New tyres on for various members, new tubes in and we were just about ready for the off!
As ever Laonies bike felt the need for new tubes, one at Chiudleigh and then one at the side of the road. Andy also had a puncture, and Bob just couldn't leave ASDA without a quick tube change, having also managed at one point to mash his gears into a shadow of their former selves
Today was 78 - 80 miles, with two ASDA stops - One in Plymouth and one at St Austell.
We split into two groups today, A group of 4 who were going to undertake the scenic route (Gav, Jon, Toby & Pete), with the remainder going for the speed ride down the A38. Brave souls :)
34 miles to ASDA ensued down the busy A 38 dual carriageway, and fair to say that today was a hard ride. Navigation was easy (one road pretty much) but the hills were something else.......
On arriving at plymouth, a quick set up of the gazebo and tables by Smithy and the crew, was quickly followed by the arrival of Plymouth's Pump and Turntable ladder. Bobs day was made when they put the TL up in the car park of ASDA (Will, we have the registration for you)
Smithy & Clive, along with Taity, Sim & Princess did an absolutely stirling job giving out information, leaflets and collecting along with the Plymouth crews & Simon Wonnacot (formerly Oxfordshire - now based down in Plymouth). A big thank you to all of them.
The cyclists came and went over an hour or so, having had a lunch at ASDA put on by the store, and then were off to St Austell, with a stop scheduled at friends of Josies at their shop (Coast Country), just off the A38. Fantastic to see a good luck message, and a wealth of snacks, scones, etc which made the day a lot more bearable.......
Meanwhile, further down south of the A38, the rebels on the scenic route were making good progress having managed to achieve Jons dream of a cream tea in Devon, were heading through Plymouth, and out the other side to catch the Torpoint chain ferry. From here a ride of about 20 miles took them to just above Looe (Fair few hills in between). However disaster struck at the bottom of the hill (about 4 miles out, when Tobys cleat disintegrated and he could no longer pedal up hills. Unfortunately in the fact that with them carrying everything else, spare tyre, tubes, gas inflator, cables, etc - the only thing not being carried was spare cleats or pedals!!
Having finally made it into Looe, having walked every up hill in the first part of Cornwall, and then out the other side, (Gav & John had gone ahead at this point) Toby was reunited with his new set of cleats from the lorry, having been rescued by Clive and his Dad George who lives just outside St Austell.
Whilst operation 'Rescue Toby' was underway, the main group were battling the hills (Who said Scotland was hard!), and finally wending their way down into St Austell to ASDA about a mile from our end at St Austell. yet again the support crew were doing a sterling job, and were out spreading the campaign message, and collecting.
A grand total of £724.59 was raised at the two ASDA's, a fantastic result and all of us would like to say thanks to ASDA and the crews for supporting us all in collecting it.
We all finally rolled into St Austell Station around 6pm, to be met by various friends. Our new CFO Dave Etheridge had also arrived, having already met up with Toby & Pete at the roadside whilst they were attempting repairs to Pete's pedal, in preparation for joining us on the last leg of the journey to Lands End
After an hour of ablutions and generally staggering around the station in a haze of tiredness, dinner was served, and a proper meal of real fresh Cornish Pasties , kindly provided by Clive's Dad (Thank you George!), along with chips, beans & gravy was just what we needed to round the day off and recover.
A few drinks down the road to wash it all down, along with the obligatory last court hearing, finished us all off, and needless to say , the climb back up the hill was longer than the one down it earlier!
All in bed by midnight, (after a little feast on the leftovers!) ready for the final day!!!
55 miles to go..........!
Wednesday 16 June 2010
Day 14 – Wednesday – June 16th
The longest hundred miles
After a good nights sleep at Trowbridge – (No fire calls – no disturbance!) we were once more getting ready to get on the road again this morning. A big thank you to all the station personnel at Trowbridge for making us so welcome – It was much appreciated!
After a lot of planning & adjustment the night before to the route, to ray and lessen our time on some of the busier routes, Bob and Kev (Orville) imparted the new simplified route to us. Simplified is not a word most of us would have used, and after having written the route down on various arms, and thighs (Danny has a very interesting set of route instructions on his upper thigh), we then proceeded to see how quickly we could get lost.
Just to keep the repair theme going, Laonie decided to have a puncture as we left – it was fine when she wheeled it out 5 minutes later, and then flat as a pancake. Finally on the road for around 9.15 after another photo shoot, and on the road towards Somerset.
Pete’s first puncture of the trip had to happen sometime, and mid way up a nice big hill was where it was. Having spent 10 minutes trying to get the tyre off, losing the tyre levers in the grass and after much general frustration, Julian finally rescued him and the rear wheel from the Dep’s bike was soon on the rear of Pete’s……
First brief stop was at the Haynes Motor museum, at around the 30 mile mark. Thanks to Danny’s connections we were invited in for free, and offered tea. Those of us settling in, could see Bob getting twitchy and ready to go, and atthe end of the day we could see why! Onwards and upwards, (literally), back out on to the Somerset hills.
Fair to say today, was a hard slog for everyone, and finally after some brilliant down hill sections and some very long hard slogs back up again, the next stop today was for lunch at the 57 mile mark at a farm shop type / café just outside Chard. By this point it was pretty warm and getting warmer still, but after a fairly short lunch, we were off for the final push at around 2.30, of around 43 miles to the Fire Fighters Charity Centre at Chudleigh.
After several long climbs, we were on the A38 which has to be the fastest flowing road so far (except for through Birmingham City Centre!), and a fast 10 miles or so ensued. Finally we came to Exeter, and fair to say confusing was just one of the words to describe it. The plan to head simply to the south and pick up a back road to Harcombe rather than take the fairly well signed A28 seemed good in principle, but several variations were undertaken. Several groups went quite a way in towards the city centre, and ended up battling almost stationary traffic on the way out.
Finally after lots of phone directions, and meeting up with Kev, everyone made their way in through some of Devon’s smallest villages, but not before having to tackle what seems to be the longest and most gruelling hill in history. Several of us chose to walk a bit – purely as we were on the point of around 95 miles and it wasn’t going to happen. A few sturdy souls made it all the way – Big cheer for Josie who made it, and a small one for Pete & Toby who stopped, took their shoes off, and walked most of it in their socks!
Finally we were all at Harcombe house by just after 7pm, and we are all pleased to say we had a cracking hot dinner of Chilli & rice followed by Mincemeat sponge & custard!
Everyone is feeling the distance today a little – some more than most, but we are almost there!! We have bungalows to sleep in tonight courtesy of the Centre, and everyone has a bed to sleep in! Hurrah!
After a good nights sleep at Trowbridge – (No fire calls – no disturbance!) we were once more getting ready to get on the road again this morning. A big thank you to all the station personnel at Trowbridge for making us so welcome – It was much appreciated!
After a lot of planning & adjustment the night before to the route, to ray and lessen our time on some of the busier routes, Bob and Kev (Orville) imparted the new simplified route to us. Simplified is not a word most of us would have used, and after having written the route down on various arms, and thighs (Danny has a very interesting set of route instructions on his upper thigh), we then proceeded to see how quickly we could get lost.
Just to keep the repair theme going, Laonie decided to have a puncture as we left – it was fine when she wheeled it out 5 minutes later, and then flat as a pancake. Finally on the road for around 9.15 after another photo shoot, and on the road towards Somerset.
Pete’s first puncture of the trip had to happen sometime, and mid way up a nice big hill was where it was. Having spent 10 minutes trying to get the tyre off, losing the tyre levers in the grass and after much general frustration, Julian finally rescued him and the rear wheel from the Dep’s bike was soon on the rear of Pete’s……
First brief stop was at the Haynes Motor museum, at around the 30 mile mark. Thanks to Danny’s connections we were invited in for free, and offered tea. Those of us settling in, could see Bob getting twitchy and ready to go, and atthe end of the day we could see why! Onwards and upwards, (literally), back out on to the Somerset hills.
Fair to say today, was a hard slog for everyone, and finally after some brilliant down hill sections and some very long hard slogs back up again, the next stop today was for lunch at the 57 mile mark at a farm shop type / café just outside Chard. By this point it was pretty warm and getting warmer still, but after a fairly short lunch, we were off for the final push at around 2.30, of around 43 miles to the Fire Fighters Charity Centre at Chudleigh.
After several long climbs, we were on the A38 which has to be the fastest flowing road so far (except for through Birmingham City Centre!), and a fast 10 miles or so ensued. Finally we came to Exeter, and fair to say confusing was just one of the words to describe it. The plan to head simply to the south and pick up a back road to Harcombe rather than take the fairly well signed A28 seemed good in principle, but several variations were undertaken. Several groups went quite a way in towards the city centre, and ended up battling almost stationary traffic on the way out.
Finally after lots of phone directions, and meeting up with Kev, everyone made their way in through some of Devon’s smallest villages, but not before having to tackle what seems to be the longest and most gruelling hill in history. Several of us chose to walk a bit – purely as we were on the point of around 95 miles and it wasn’t going to happen. A few sturdy souls made it all the way – Big cheer for Josie who made it, and a small one for Pete & Toby who stopped, took their shoes off, and walked most of it in their socks!
Finally we were all at Harcombe house by just after 7pm, and we are all pleased to say we had a cracking hot dinner of Chilli & rice followed by Mincemeat sponge & custard!
Everyone is feeling the distance today a little – some more than most, but we are almost there!! We have bungalows to sleep in tonight courtesy of the Centre, and everyone has a bed to sleep in! Hurrah!
Tuesday 15 June 2010
Day 13 – Tuesday – June 15th
We came, we saw, we left!
72 miles from Kidlington to Trowbridge
Fair to say, today was a hard day both physically and mentally. First having been home and seen how the other half live, and then having to leave it all behind again to get back on the bike. Also funny how little aches become big aches after having chilled out! Pleased to see Danny and his poorly knee (we know its just attention seeking really) back on the start line! After a round of paracetamol and various lotions and potions we were ready for the off, until………..
The start of the day wouldn’t be complete without the first of our breakages and Laonie played her trump card and had both a kinked tyre & a puncture. All before we had even turned a wheel!
Kev Dell suffered several indignities as numerous people have seen the pictures of him dressed as Orville on his bike and agreed…….
Today we acquired new drivers in the form of Clive Durbin and Chris Smith, obviously they have hard acts to follow but the initial signs are good!
We left Kidlington just after 9 with a great send off by HQ again – thank you all, and set off for Witney, through Hanborough & Bladon. We arrived in fantastically good time (To much lucozade sport!) and after having cycled round the entrance to Marriott’s walk thinking that was where we doing it, but finally using our initiative, we got to the market square in Witney to meet up with the Risk reduction team, Army and Witney crews for their road show.
Fantastic to see everyone there, a big thanks to Witney for their support and a good hour was spent meeting some of our sponsors and supporters as well as getting the safety message out there…. Great to see Mike from County Textile Services, and Catherine from Watermeadow Medical who came down to see us – thank you for all your support! We hope you can see that it is real and we are actually suffering for our art.
The team would also like to say a big thanks to Nathan, who although unable to be on the ride with us as still undergoing treatment for his motorbike last year – BIG THANKS NATHAN, and for all the work behind the scenes you have done and are doing!
We were joined by the day by Steve Dutton from HQ, who joined us on the way to Witney – We were heartened to hear that it was not just us having our trials & tribulations – No-one had told him we were back to leaving from Kidlington instead of Slade, so he had gone all the way there first – Thanks for coming though Steve – great to have your support.
Those of you with good eyesight will have seen Toby staggering out of the pharmacy in Witney with a large bag full of pharmaceuticals to see him through the rest of the week, back to his car to go back to Bampton to find his bike again.
After watching Bob give another interview, we all saddled up and weaved our way off the pavement back onto the road to head for Burford for our last photo shoot of the hour……
Onwards to Burford, having picked up Dino, Jon & Gav at Witney (they cycled there last night), and a stop at the station for yet another photo! What was amazing in Burford was people clapping as we left the station and turned into the main street to go up to the A40 roundabout. Amazing! Big thanks to Phil and his extended family!
Next casualty of the day was Pete who tried to change gear turning onto the main street of Burford, and managed to bend his chain. Phil ‘Grizzly’ Adams to the rescue again in a lay-by on the A361
We finally started to head out of the county, leaving our risk reduction team carrying on the safety message, whilst we headed into Gloucestershire to Lechlade, and then on to Highworth, round Swindon, and onto Lyneham through Wooton Bassett.
Allegedly, Toby joined us at Lechlade (although not all off us saw him join) – rumour has it that a slightly odd person was seen languishing with a bike on a bench in Lechlade, looking like a tramp. Toby is currently competing in James Corden’s ‘Back the Beard’ competition for the world cup, as well as the world’s scruffiest tramp…….
On through Highworth and around Swindon without a break and headed for the lunch stop at Lyneham at the 49 mile mark.
Whilst on the way, several of the group stopped at the memorial in Wootton Basset to pay respects for all the soldiers lost through the current conflicts, or brought back for treatment in the UK.
Lunch was on the side of the road at Lyneham, and Princess’s homemade sandwiches went down a treat. We also met up with Clive’s son who is a RAF pilot at Lyneham, and no time was lost in a bit of banter with Bob and his map.(Thanks Bob – but you had to be there)
We moved on from there for the final push through to Trowbridge, but for once despite a few niggles, we all felt that we were finally getting the hang of this cycling lark, and could have done a few more…..
A brief stop at the Foresters Arms in Melksham ensued as the weather was getting warmer, and it is very important to keep hydrated…
The final push into Trowbridge was uneventful, except for poor Phil (Grizzly) who had to detour via the bike shop to get a new bottom bracket fitted as his had a nasty knack. Only half the group knew what he was on about, but it sounded nasty…….
We arrived at Trowbridge around 4.30 at the station, and after having a few stretches in the yard, we finally got into a meal laid on by Princess of Pork stroganoff or stir fry – Fantastic!
It should be noted that our industrious JOGLE leader (due to his age) has had to book into a nearby hotel to get his beauty sleep - leading from the front – Well done bob. He also managed to find a very complimentary person at the hotel who commented on what a lovely van he was driving J
Tomorrow is our long haul – around 95 miles, although with the inevitable Perry tour of the coast looming is likely to top 100! Who will survive………..
72 miles from Kidlington to Trowbridge
Fair to say, today was a hard day both physically and mentally. First having been home and seen how the other half live, and then having to leave it all behind again to get back on the bike. Also funny how little aches become big aches after having chilled out! Pleased to see Danny and his poorly knee (we know its just attention seeking really) back on the start line! After a round of paracetamol and various lotions and potions we were ready for the off, until………..
The start of the day wouldn’t be complete without the first of our breakages and Laonie played her trump card and had both a kinked tyre & a puncture. All before we had even turned a wheel!
Kev Dell suffered several indignities as numerous people have seen the pictures of him dressed as Orville on his bike and agreed…….
Today we acquired new drivers in the form of Clive Durbin and Chris Smith, obviously they have hard acts to follow but the initial signs are good!
We left Kidlington just after 9 with a great send off by HQ again – thank you all, and set off for Witney, through Hanborough & Bladon. We arrived in fantastically good time (To much lucozade sport!) and after having cycled round the entrance to Marriott’s walk thinking that was where we doing it, but finally using our initiative, we got to the market square in Witney to meet up with the Risk reduction team, Army and Witney crews for their road show.
Fantastic to see everyone there, a big thanks to Witney for their support and a good hour was spent meeting some of our sponsors and supporters as well as getting the safety message out there…. Great to see Mike from County Textile Services, and Catherine from Watermeadow Medical who came down to see us – thank you for all your support! We hope you can see that it is real and we are actually suffering for our art.
The team would also like to say a big thanks to Nathan, who although unable to be on the ride with us as still undergoing treatment for his motorbike last year – BIG THANKS NATHAN, and for all the work behind the scenes you have done and are doing!
We were joined by the day by Steve Dutton from HQ, who joined us on the way to Witney – We were heartened to hear that it was not just us having our trials & tribulations – No-one had told him we were back to leaving from Kidlington instead of Slade, so he had gone all the way there first – Thanks for coming though Steve – great to have your support.
Those of you with good eyesight will have seen Toby staggering out of the pharmacy in Witney with a large bag full of pharmaceuticals to see him through the rest of the week, back to his car to go back to Bampton to find his bike again.
After watching Bob give another interview, we all saddled up and weaved our way off the pavement back onto the road to head for Burford for our last photo shoot of the hour……
Onwards to Burford, having picked up Dino, Jon & Gav at Witney (they cycled there last night), and a stop at the station for yet another photo! What was amazing in Burford was people clapping as we left the station and turned into the main street to go up to the A40 roundabout. Amazing! Big thanks to Phil and his extended family!
Next casualty of the day was Pete who tried to change gear turning onto the main street of Burford, and managed to bend his chain. Phil ‘Grizzly’ Adams to the rescue again in a lay-by on the A361
We finally started to head out of the county, leaving our risk reduction team carrying on the safety message, whilst we headed into Gloucestershire to Lechlade, and then on to Highworth, round Swindon, and onto Lyneham through Wooton Bassett.
Allegedly, Toby joined us at Lechlade (although not all off us saw him join) – rumour has it that a slightly odd person was seen languishing with a bike on a bench in Lechlade, looking like a tramp. Toby is currently competing in James Corden’s ‘Back the Beard’ competition for the world cup, as well as the world’s scruffiest tramp…….
On through Highworth and around Swindon without a break and headed for the lunch stop at Lyneham at the 49 mile mark.
Whilst on the way, several of the group stopped at the memorial in Wootton Basset to pay respects for all the soldiers lost through the current conflicts, or brought back for treatment in the UK.
Lunch was on the side of the road at Lyneham, and Princess’s homemade sandwiches went down a treat. We also met up with Clive’s son who is a RAF pilot at Lyneham, and no time was lost in a bit of banter with Bob and his map.(Thanks Bob – but you had to be there)
We moved on from there for the final push through to Trowbridge, but for once despite a few niggles, we all felt that we were finally getting the hang of this cycling lark, and could have done a few more…..
A brief stop at the Foresters Arms in Melksham ensued as the weather was getting warmer, and it is very important to keep hydrated…
The final push into Trowbridge was uneventful, except for poor Phil (Grizzly) who had to detour via the bike shop to get a new bottom bracket fitted as his had a nasty knack. Only half the group knew what he was on about, but it sounded nasty…….
We arrived at Trowbridge around 4.30 at the station, and after having a few stretches in the yard, we finally got into a meal laid on by Princess of Pork stroganoff or stir fry – Fantastic!
It should be noted that our industrious JOGLE leader (due to his age) has had to book into a nearby hotel to get his beauty sleep - leading from the front – Well done bob. He also managed to find a very complimentary person at the hotel who commented on what a lovely van he was driving J
Tomorrow is our long haul – around 95 miles, although with the inevitable Perry tour of the coast looming is likely to top 100! Who will survive………..
Day 12 – Monday – June 14th
The day we came home to leave again
Monday the 14th and we leave the comfort of Redditch, to make our way to our own beds for 12 hours, via Banbury and Kidlington
Last night saw lots of repairs going on, and more tyre changes than at a formula one race. Rumour has it that Julian got a lot of funny looks when he asked for so many tyres in the shop, so thanks to Jules for standing aimlessly in the shop on our behalf……….
To pass away the evening, Danny & Simon felt that the number of misdemeanours that had occurred warranted another court session, and this was duly held. Unfortunately the worst offender was absent (brief return home), so his cases will be heard in due course when he returns.
A big thanks yet again to the watch at Redditch who made us so welcome, although rumour has it they had our leftovers of Princess’s cooking so it wasn’t all one way………
The usual routine followed in the morning, with another monster breakfast to set us up for the day, and then the daily pack of the van, and sorting of the bikes (again)
We set off after another (yes another) photo shoot - another one for the collection Will! Back up to the roundabout and then the run for Banbury back on to our home patch.
The plan was to make it to Banbury for 12’ish, and then onto Kidlington for 2pm – This went a little awry but not by much.
A quick stop in Stratford ensued, for a little bit of culture, although it would appear that nothing opens in Stratford before midday….. strange.
We did however get to see the memorial stone, set in the walled area by the river in Stratford, to our four colleagues killed at Atherton upon Stour. Having cycled past Alcester and Stratford, it brought it home to several how close to us it all was………..
Leaving Stratford, with time pressing against us, we kept up the pace on the long road to Banbury (the A422), (except Josie and Toby who tried to knock on her grandma’s door in Stratford to use the loo – (but she wasn’t inJ)
Eventually we all got to the pleasure that is Sunrising Hill (near Tysoe). Most managed to make it up it in one piece and stay on the bikes but as Laonie pointed out – it was actually faster to walk than cycle.... ! To compound the shame of those that got off and walked, Sim and Andy were there at the top of the hill, capturing the pain on our faces – (photos will be on flickr later)
After that – nothing could beat us however as we saw the signs for places we had actually hear of, we all managed to eventually to roll in to Banbury. The Tillson brothers led the way, followed some time later by the last stragglers who enjoyed Sunrising Hill so much we contemplated doing it again! The piece de resistance was the final three of Pete, Owen & Laonie who followed Owens cries of ‘I know where I’m going’ and brought us in from the complete opposite direction to which everyone was looking us for us J
It was fantastic to see everyone there, friends, family and colleagues along with the watch from Banbury, Major Brown & colleagues from the Army, & the risk reduction team, and the welcome was fantastic. A few photo’s later, and a chat with everyone ensued, before we suddenly realised we needed to be on our way to get to Kidlington.
The final 17 miles were fairly enjoyable, and we were spurred on by the sight of Josie’s dad who had left work and had a cracking ‘good luck’ sign at the sign on the road which brought a smile to all our faces – Thanks Josie’s Dad!
We met up at the side of the road by the Jolly Boatman to ensure that we actually had everyone – formed a crocodile and held hands so that Bob could count us……., and then cycled the last 2 miles into Kidlington together so that it looked like he was still in control.
A fantastic sight to see everyone as we arrived on the forecourt – thankfully no-one was injured as we all tried to stop and dismount gracefully without falling over. Thanks to everyone for coming to see us – it was a fantastic welcome.
Once the lorry had gone back to pick up Gareth (Bob’s mate who had come to ride from Banbury to Kidlington with us, had a breakdown and not one of us had seen him as we rode past – Oops – Sorry Gareth but we all appreciate the effort!), we were able to unload our bags, or in Laonie’s case form a human chain to get them all off, and finally make a quick dash for home for a few hours rest.
Lots of people asked us about the actual ride and how it was going – it’s fair to say that no-one of us (well except Super Bob!) knew quite what to expect and everyone has some ache, pain or actual moment. As we have progressed down the country, we have all picked up something or other –except in Toby’s case – where he has had everything!
A few brave souls carried on cycling (cant get enough now) and carried on to Witney & Carterton, to pick up the ride in the morning, but for most of us home and a bath beckoned!
Monday the 14th and we leave the comfort of Redditch, to make our way to our own beds for 12 hours, via Banbury and Kidlington
Last night saw lots of repairs going on, and more tyre changes than at a formula one race. Rumour has it that Julian got a lot of funny looks when he asked for so many tyres in the shop, so thanks to Jules for standing aimlessly in the shop on our behalf……….
To pass away the evening, Danny & Simon felt that the number of misdemeanours that had occurred warranted another court session, and this was duly held. Unfortunately the worst offender was absent (brief return home), so his cases will be heard in due course when he returns.
A big thanks yet again to the watch at Redditch who made us so welcome, although rumour has it they had our leftovers of Princess’s cooking so it wasn’t all one way………
The usual routine followed in the morning, with another monster breakfast to set us up for the day, and then the daily pack of the van, and sorting of the bikes (again)
We set off after another (yes another) photo shoot - another one for the collection Will! Back up to the roundabout and then the run for Banbury back on to our home patch.
The plan was to make it to Banbury for 12’ish, and then onto Kidlington for 2pm – This went a little awry but not by much.
A quick stop in Stratford ensued, for a little bit of culture, although it would appear that nothing opens in Stratford before midday….. strange.
We did however get to see the memorial stone, set in the walled area by the river in Stratford, to our four colleagues killed at Atherton upon Stour. Having cycled past Alcester and Stratford, it brought it home to several how close to us it all was………..
Leaving Stratford, with time pressing against us, we kept up the pace on the long road to Banbury (the A422), (except Josie and Toby who tried to knock on her grandma’s door in Stratford to use the loo – (but she wasn’t inJ)
Eventually we all got to the pleasure that is Sunrising Hill (near Tysoe). Most managed to make it up it in one piece and stay on the bikes but as Laonie pointed out – it was actually faster to walk than cycle.... ! To compound the shame of those that got off and walked, Sim and Andy were there at the top of the hill, capturing the pain on our faces – (photos will be on flickr later)
After that – nothing could beat us however as we saw the signs for places we had actually hear of, we all managed to eventually to roll in to Banbury. The Tillson brothers led the way, followed some time later by the last stragglers who enjoyed Sunrising Hill so much we contemplated doing it again! The piece de resistance was the final three of Pete, Owen & Laonie who followed Owens cries of ‘I know where I’m going’ and brought us in from the complete opposite direction to which everyone was looking us for us J
It was fantastic to see everyone there, friends, family and colleagues along with the watch from Banbury, Major Brown & colleagues from the Army, & the risk reduction team, and the welcome was fantastic. A few photo’s later, and a chat with everyone ensued, before we suddenly realised we needed to be on our way to get to Kidlington.
The final 17 miles were fairly enjoyable, and we were spurred on by the sight of Josie’s dad who had left work and had a cracking ‘good luck’ sign at the sign on the road which brought a smile to all our faces – Thanks Josie’s Dad!
We met up at the side of the road by the Jolly Boatman to ensure that we actually had everyone – formed a crocodile and held hands so that Bob could count us……., and then cycled the last 2 miles into Kidlington together so that it looked like he was still in control.
A fantastic sight to see everyone as we arrived on the forecourt – thankfully no-one was injured as we all tried to stop and dismount gracefully without falling over. Thanks to everyone for coming to see us – it was a fantastic welcome.
Once the lorry had gone back to pick up Gareth (Bob’s mate who had come to ride from Banbury to Kidlington with us, had a breakdown and not one of us had seen him as we rode past – Oops – Sorry Gareth but we all appreciate the effort!), we were able to unload our bags, or in Laonie’s case form a human chain to get them all off, and finally make a quick dash for home for a few hours rest.
Lots of people asked us about the actual ride and how it was going – it’s fair to say that no-one of us (well except Super Bob!) knew quite what to expect and everyone has some ache, pain or actual moment. As we have progressed down the country, we have all picked up something or other –except in Toby’s case – where he has had everything!
A few brave souls carried on cycling (cant get enough now) and carried on to Witney & Carterton, to pick up the ride in the morning, but for most of us home and a bath beckoned!
Sunday 13 June 2010
Day 11 - Sunday - June 13th
Poignancy comes to the ride
Follow where we have been with Gavs Garmin !- Click on the link http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36774671
Today's ride was a short ride!!! 62 miles........only! Little bit of a lie in for the team today, breakie at 8.30, a comfortable nights sleep had by all in Staffordshire's Conference room, and an early night for most of the team.
Bit of a rush to pack up and go on our way to The National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas. Once all arrived safe including Rosie and yet another puncture (6th), We met up with Major Dougie Brown and SSGT Lee Davis from Abingdon Station (Dalton Barracks) as well as Dino's family paying him a surprise visit arranged by our lovely Princess. Also to met us was Arther and Julie Jordan as our official paparazzi. We're still not sure who has the biggest lens!
Most of us didn't know what to expect but all we can is it was emotional. We visited the Fire and Rescue Service Memorial first and laid a wreath and held a 2 minute silence, having our army colleagues in with us was poignant and very moving.
We then moved on to look at the other memorials and finally ended up at the wall of remembrance which remembers all of those killed on active duty in the armed forces since the 2nd world war. The fact that everyone of us especially our army colleagues knew one or more names on the walls, which moved most of us to tears and brought our aches and pains into perspective and reminded us why we were undertaking our epic journey.
On a lighter note, we rounded off our visit with lunch in the car park with our guests, far to say the star's of lunch were Dino's daughters who made Tea and served food fantastically. They clearly don't take after their father! :-)
We left the Arboretum at 1.30 feeling rather full for the final 37 miles of the day. The route took us through the delights of Birmingham city centre through to Redditch Fire Station. far to say this route was more challenging although short and several near misses were narrowly avoided. At this point it was still dry however as The Coffee Club (Laonie, Josie, Danny, Simon and new member Owen) hit the city center a storm approached and they were forced to take shelter in the nearest Starbucks (Other coffee establishments are also available in the Bullring!!)As there penance for having Grande Cappacino the entire contents of the lake district were dumped on their group along the A4421 all the way to Redditch.
As all the others had arrived some days (minutes) earlier, Toby, Jon and Pete commandeered the Comms van to go back out on the route to support (laugh) at a very wet but still smiling coffee club. All had made it finally to station by 6.15. Hot showers ensued except for Laonie who has a training need in how to make the shower hot.
By this time we were being looked after by Jon Laight (ex Banbury wholetime) who is the on duty watch manager and Princess was putting the finishing touches to tonight's extravaganza of Chicken Korma and Sheppard's pie followed by Fruit salad and Ice cream. Now the coffee club are back it has stopped raining and all is well with the world.
Plan for the evening is a bit of footie and a bit of washing and then off to dream land.
We're looking forward to getting to Banbury and Kidlington to see everyone tomorrow and to get lots of sympathy for our aches, pains and Danny's knee.
Statistics if your interested,
Follow where we have been with Gavs Garmin !- Click on the link http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36774671
Today's ride was a short ride!!! 62 miles........only! Little bit of a lie in for the team today, breakie at 8.30, a comfortable nights sleep had by all in Staffordshire's Conference room, and an early night for most of the team.
Bit of a rush to pack up and go on our way to The National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas. Once all arrived safe including Rosie and yet another puncture (6th), We met up with Major Dougie Brown and SSGT Lee Davis from Abingdon Station (Dalton Barracks) as well as Dino's family paying him a surprise visit arranged by our lovely Princess. Also to met us was Arther and Julie Jordan as our official paparazzi. We're still not sure who has the biggest lens!
Most of us didn't know what to expect but all we can is it was emotional. We visited the Fire and Rescue Service Memorial first and laid a wreath and held a 2 minute silence, having our army colleagues in with us was poignant and very moving.
We then moved on to look at the other memorials and finally ended up at the wall of remembrance which remembers all of those killed on active duty in the armed forces since the 2nd world war. The fact that everyone of us especially our army colleagues knew one or more names on the walls, which moved most of us to tears and brought our aches and pains into perspective and reminded us why we were undertaking our epic journey.
On a lighter note, we rounded off our visit with lunch in the car park with our guests, far to say the star's of lunch were Dino's daughters who made Tea and served food fantastically. They clearly don't take after their father! :-)
We left the Arboretum at 1.30 feeling rather full for the final 37 miles of the day. The route took us through the delights of Birmingham city centre through to Redditch Fire Station. far to say this route was more challenging although short and several near misses were narrowly avoided. At this point it was still dry however as The Coffee Club (Laonie, Josie, Danny, Simon and new member Owen) hit the city center a storm approached and they were forced to take shelter in the nearest Starbucks (Other coffee establishments are also available in the Bullring!!)As there penance for having Grande Cappacino the entire contents of the lake district were dumped on their group along the A4421 all the way to Redditch.
As all the others had arrived some days (minutes) earlier, Toby, Jon and Pete commandeered the Comms van to go back out on the route to support (laugh) at a very wet but still smiling coffee club. All had made it finally to station by 6.15. Hot showers ensued except for Laonie who has a training need in how to make the shower hot.
By this time we were being looked after by Jon Laight (ex Banbury wholetime) who is the on duty watch manager and Princess was putting the finishing touches to tonight's extravaganza of Chicken Korma and Sheppard's pie followed by Fruit salad and Ice cream. Now the coffee club are back it has stopped raining and all is well with the world.
Plan for the evening is a bit of footie and a bit of washing and then off to dream land.
We're looking forward to getting to Banbury and Kidlington to see everyone tomorrow and to get lots of sympathy for our aches, pains and Danny's knee.
Statistics if your interested,
- Sore knees - Pete, Laonie and Phil
- Very very sore knees - Danny
- Collision with car - Dino.
- Falling off bike - Pete, Josie, Laonie &Toby
- Attempting to cycle on motorway (Bob & Rosie)
- Fastest motorbike - Kev
- Blisters in places you wouldn't want them - Dino & Andy
- Most bikes broken or re built - Toby
- 22 punctures to date, Rosie in the lead with 6, No punctures for Pete, Toby, Simon, Dino, Danny, Mike.
- Best Chef - Princess.
Following the Ride...
With over half the ride completed, don't forget that as well as reading the blog you can also follow the ride on...
Flickr - now over 200 pictures to view!
Twitter - updated regularly with some amusing little snippets
Facebook - our Facebook Group and Discussion Board
...and you can access the complete list of Gav's Garmin activities with the following link:
http://connect.garmin.com/explore?owner=gbr14723
Last but not least, don't forget to sponsor the team using the links below! Your donation, however small, would be greatly appreciated!
Flickr - now over 200 pictures to view!
Twitter - updated regularly with some amusing little snippets
Facebook - our Facebook Group and Discussion Board
...and you can access the complete list of Gav's Garmin activities with the following link:
http://connect.garmin.com/explore?owner=gbr14723
Last but not least, don't forget to sponsor the team using the links below! Your donation, however small, would be greatly appreciated!
Saturday 12 June 2010
Links to where we have been
You will see if you have a look at each day of the blog that we have added the weblink to the information from Gavin Tilsons Garmin unit (Bit of tech that tells him how far, how fast, etc)
From this you can see the exact route we took, and for real fun how Gav did, how high he climbed, the speed etc.
The link is at the top of each day - just click on it and you will see it
For example todays is at http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36496601
The H4H Team
From this you can see the exact route we took, and for real fun how Gav did, how high he climbed, the speed etc.
The link is at the top of each day - just click on it and you will see it
For example todays is at http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36496601
The H4H Team
Day 10 - Preston to Stone - 12th June
Many miles, punctures and Bar-B-Que.
Follow our route and see where we have been by the following link, taken from Gavs garmin http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36587489
Following on from the last post after dinner last night, as mentioned yesterday was Owens Birthday. In true style, Princess had duly provided a cake and to celebrate for the remainder of the evening we all shared a carton of orange juice and exchanged pleasantries . Actually Tour Guide Toby took those of us that were still awake to see the highlights of Preston, and a grand job he did too.... Luckily, the old pubwatch posters have been removed, so Toby wasnt troubled through the evening.
Preston Station had kindly given up the recreation room for us for the night, and eventually everyone made it in, and turned in for the night. Some slightly later than others........
The first risers (Bob) were up at 5am (its an old age thing we think), and eventually everyone had surfaced by 7am. Luckily for us the station had no shouts in the night so we were left to slumber through.
Breakfast was another of Princess's feasts served up in the stations mess room, and as a little teaser for later, sausages were on the breakfast menu along with the usual spread of porridge, yoghurt's, fruit, cereal, croissants, etc.
Today we probably the first more challenging day for navigating more than anything else - first out of Preston, and then down through Wigan, Warrington on the A6, and then over to Stone, finishing at Staffordshire Fire HQ.
Everyone managed to get away fairly well after 9 after another of Bobs photo shoots. First amusement of the day once Andy and Julian had got all the vans manoeuvred and set up in the rear Yard, was Bob cycling back round - saying "where are you - we are doing it around the front...........!"
A selection of England flags were duly attached to various bikes and the vehicles to show our support!
The weather today was fine, and by lunchtime the point of sunburn. A much busier day on the roads, and a lot of built up area's but the main thing has to be the number of roundabouts and traffic light encountered, and how nearly every one was red!
Lunch was to be found in the car park of a pub at 37 mile mark - Lots of comments from the riders as to why it was so close to the start as we were doing 88 miles today! Suggestions that maybe having lunch before we left the station next time, were met with suitable retorts from Princess, however we know she will discipline the drivers later :) It was up to its usual standard
The remainder of the day after lunch was fairly uneventful for most, although Rosie decided that the best thing to eke out the day would be to have a puncture every 15 miles or so, resulting in three changes in the afternoon.
Some of the groups were spotted (Well it was a hot day) in a local hostelry on the way back, however Toby & Pete had the best result of the day with a free milkshake (and the offer of any other food we wanted) from a little cafe type shop in Nantwich. Having asked what we were doing so far from home, they insisted it was on the house and couldn't have done more. We highly recommend 'Fruitini' in Nantwich!
The final 50 miles although not exceptionally hilly, had some little climbs but the heat ended up making it a bit of a slog and a long ride. However the arrival at Staffs HQ for most around 5pm, to the sight of Julian setting up the Bar-B-Que set everyone up for the evening
A few cool drinks to complete the days ride, followed by a fantastic bar-b-que ensued, and we are now ensconced watching the footie in the restaurant at Staffs. A BIG thank you to Staffs Fire & Rescue who have actually put in a TV so we can watch it tonight.
Little mention has been made so far, but we should not forget Kev 'The Lunchbox' Dell and his Honda motorbike who has been patrolling the roads for us, fixing & repairing but more importantly offering a selection of goodies from his mobile lunchbox. Never has so much food been carried on a bike :)
Not to be outdone Julian Green has also been out and about on the local roads, and can often be seen in lay-bys with his camera out.......
We are still waiting to hear how much has been pledged to have Julian's moustached removed!
Follow our route and see where we have been by the following link, taken from Gavs garmin http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36587489
Following on from the last post after dinner last night, as mentioned yesterday was Owens Birthday. In true style, Princess had duly provided a cake and to celebrate for the remainder of the evening we all shared a carton of orange juice and exchanged pleasantries . Actually Tour Guide Toby took those of us that were still awake to see the highlights of Preston, and a grand job he did too.... Luckily, the old pubwatch posters have been removed, so Toby wasnt troubled through the evening.
Preston Station had kindly given up the recreation room for us for the night, and eventually everyone made it in, and turned in for the night. Some slightly later than others........
The first risers (Bob) were up at 5am (its an old age thing we think), and eventually everyone had surfaced by 7am. Luckily for us the station had no shouts in the night so we were left to slumber through.
Breakfast was another of Princess's feasts served up in the stations mess room, and as a little teaser for later, sausages were on the breakfast menu along with the usual spread of porridge, yoghurt's, fruit, cereal, croissants, etc.
Today we probably the first more challenging day for navigating more than anything else - first out of Preston, and then down through Wigan, Warrington on the A6, and then over to Stone, finishing at Staffordshire Fire HQ.
Everyone managed to get away fairly well after 9 after another of Bobs photo shoots. First amusement of the day once Andy and Julian had got all the vans manoeuvred and set up in the rear Yard, was Bob cycling back round - saying "where are you - we are doing it around the front...........!"
A selection of England flags were duly attached to various bikes and the vehicles to show our support!
The weather today was fine, and by lunchtime the point of sunburn. A much busier day on the roads, and a lot of built up area's but the main thing has to be the number of roundabouts and traffic light encountered, and how nearly every one was red!
Lunch was to be found in the car park of a pub at 37 mile mark - Lots of comments from the riders as to why it was so close to the start as we were doing 88 miles today! Suggestions that maybe having lunch before we left the station next time, were met with suitable retorts from Princess, however we know she will discipline the drivers later :) It was up to its usual standard
The remainder of the day after lunch was fairly uneventful for most, although Rosie decided that the best thing to eke out the day would be to have a puncture every 15 miles or so, resulting in three changes in the afternoon.
Some of the groups were spotted (Well it was a hot day) in a local hostelry on the way back, however Toby & Pete had the best result of the day with a free milkshake (and the offer of any other food we wanted) from a little cafe type shop in Nantwich. Having asked what we were doing so far from home, they insisted it was on the house and couldn't have done more. We highly recommend 'Fruitini' in Nantwich!
The final 50 miles although not exceptionally hilly, had some little climbs but the heat ended up making it a bit of a slog and a long ride. However the arrival at Staffs HQ for most around 5pm, to the sight of Julian setting up the Bar-B-Que set everyone up for the evening
A few cool drinks to complete the days ride, followed by a fantastic bar-b-que ensued, and we are now ensconced watching the footie in the restaurant at Staffs. A BIG thank you to Staffs Fire & Rescue who have actually put in a TV so we can watch it tonight.
Little mention has been made so far, but we should not forget Kev 'The Lunchbox' Dell and his Honda motorbike who has been patrolling the roads for us, fixing & repairing but more importantly offering a selection of goodies from his mobile lunchbox. Never has so much food been carried on a bike :)
Not to be outdone Julian Green has also been out and about on the local roads, and can often be seen in lay-bys with his camera out.......
We are still waiting to hear how much has been pledged to have Julian's moustached removed!
Friday 11 June 2010
Day 9 - Penrith to Preston - 11th June
The day after the day before
Follow where we have been by Gavs Garmin - Click on this link - http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36496601
The first trial of the evening was the discovery by Laonie and Danny that as they had carefully put their small bags uder the stairs at Jubillee house, as it appeared to be a pile of our general bags, that it was acutally just Grahame, Nick and Petes bags, who a few minutes later promptly piled them all in the car to drive home with. Luckily - nothing important in them except Laonies life, make up and various essentials and everything of Dannys that he didnt know he had until he wanted it! In the end this was deposited at Preston station when the theft was discovered, so they have just had to go without for 24 hours :)
A big thank you to both the staff and the current guests at Jubillee house for making us some welcome, for the food and for generally having us. As a way of saying thank you, they held back the start of the quiz into which we entered two teams of four, and we are proud to say we came 1st & 2nd!!! (Well when you come from Oxford - there are expectations!)
Owen was still working out along with Gav an Phil and others until late out the back of the gym carrying out a little maintenance, however most people took around 10 15 minutes to get theirs up to speed. Not to be out done Toby, asked Owen to have a little look at his gears, and 2 1/2 hours later, it was decided the only thing that was going to sort out Toby's problem was a visit to the bike shop in the morning to lavish a good £100 pound or more on a new shifter, cable etc. It is likely that Toby will be riding the same bike when he finishes, but made up entirely of new parts................
A fairly quiet night ensued, as most got their heads down fairly promptly (after the worlds longest raffle, which again we were victorious with, and came away with a lot things we have no idea what they are).....
Back to the early starts (actually we never got away from them - funny that we are up earlier on the rest day than a ride day....)
Today was our first test of our new driving team of Andy & Will, so everyone very helpfully spent a bit of time ensuring they were suitable confused before we left them.
9 o'clock after a group photo shoot, out the front of Jubilee house, saw 12 riders heading for Shap summit, and 3 heading straight for the bike shop, 1 mile 1/2 in the opposite direction. A very enjoyable hour for Toby as his gear was stripped on the pavement in the middle of Penrith using various tools from the bike shop, with a few atmospheric 'ooh's and um's' from Owen as he got it all working again.
The weather has been very nice today, a little cool and damp as we went over Shap, and
Everyone else powered on over Shap summit (which turned out to be ok really) and eventually over an hour to hour and a half, we all passed through the lunch stop at Bolton le-sands Fire Station.
Andy Ford, ever eagle eyed for a fire station, spotted it on the main A6 and pulled in (in the great big furniture village van) and overpowered the watch manager to convince him to let him set up cafe in the drill yard. We are all sure he had no idea what he was letting himself in for.......
Around about 12 o'clock we were out of Cumbria and in to lancashire......
After the bike shop stragglers went through, lunch was quickly packed up, and sent on its way to Preston in the van to meet up with Danny and Laonie's bags.....
Will proceeded to manage to break the van (well he was driving so it must have been his fault), and after having boiled enough water to provide half of Lancashire, the rear compartment battery finally ran flat (it has done 6 days worth) but luckily the only problem this caused was the radio to turn off, and now it needs the radio code.......... Could be a long music less drive for the next couple of days :)
The first boy racers (Dino, Danny, Dino and Andy) were all in the reclining chairs at Preston station by 2.30 (good effort guys), whilst the last rolled around 4.30, having partaken of a scenic stopoff in Lancaster to enjoy the delights of Pennys Cafe.
Bob thought that he wanted more, so had a little 15 mile round trip on the bike to meet the last few in - mad man.......
A fantastic dinner by Princess and the gang at 5.30 of curried chicken, veg, meatballs, pasta, salad, followed by a vat of fruit salad.
Finally it would not be right to end this blog without mentioning the fact that it is Owens Birthday, and so a cake was duly provided, for which he will have to cough up for later....
Tonight see's us staying at Preston Fire Station, thanks to the two watches for their hospitality so far.
If anyone is worried about our physical state we are all pleased to report that the rest day seemed to work, and although we all have one way or the other we all still seem to be alive. Although Toby still seems to be consistently ill and consuing enough medication to supply the entire northwest - but he is manning up!
Follow where we have been by Gavs Garmin - Click on this link - http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36496601
The first trial of the evening was the discovery by Laonie and Danny that as they had carefully put their small bags uder the stairs at Jubillee house, as it appeared to be a pile of our general bags, that it was acutally just Grahame, Nick and Petes bags, who a few minutes later promptly piled them all in the car to drive home with. Luckily - nothing important in them except Laonies life, make up and various essentials and everything of Dannys that he didnt know he had until he wanted it! In the end this was deposited at Preston station when the theft was discovered, so they have just had to go without for 24 hours :)
A big thank you to both the staff and the current guests at Jubillee house for making us some welcome, for the food and for generally having us. As a way of saying thank you, they held back the start of the quiz into which we entered two teams of four, and we are proud to say we came 1st & 2nd!!! (Well when you come from Oxford - there are expectations!)
Owen was still working out along with Gav an Phil and others until late out the back of the gym carrying out a little maintenance, however most people took around 10 15 minutes to get theirs up to speed. Not to be out done Toby, asked Owen to have a little look at his gears, and 2 1/2 hours later, it was decided the only thing that was going to sort out Toby's problem was a visit to the bike shop in the morning to lavish a good £100 pound or more on a new shifter, cable etc. It is likely that Toby will be riding the same bike when he finishes, but made up entirely of new parts................
A fairly quiet night ensued, as most got their heads down fairly promptly (after the worlds longest raffle, which again we were victorious with, and came away with a lot things we have no idea what they are).....
Back to the early starts (actually we never got away from them - funny that we are up earlier on the rest day than a ride day....)
Today was our first test of our new driving team of Andy & Will, so everyone very helpfully spent a bit of time ensuring they were suitable confused before we left them.
9 o'clock after a group photo shoot, out the front of Jubilee house, saw 12 riders heading for Shap summit, and 3 heading straight for the bike shop, 1 mile 1/2 in the opposite direction. A very enjoyable hour for Toby as his gear was stripped on the pavement in the middle of Penrith using various tools from the bike shop, with a few atmospheric 'ooh's and um's' from Owen as he got it all working again.
The weather has been very nice today, a little cool and damp as we went over Shap, and
Everyone else powered on over Shap summit (which turned out to be ok really) and eventually over an hour to hour and a half, we all passed through the lunch stop at Bolton le-sands Fire Station.
Andy Ford, ever eagle eyed for a fire station, spotted it on the main A6 and pulled in (in the great big furniture village van) and overpowered the watch manager to convince him to let him set up cafe in the drill yard. We are all sure he had no idea what he was letting himself in for.......
Around about 12 o'clock we were out of Cumbria and in to lancashire......
After the bike shop stragglers went through, lunch was quickly packed up, and sent on its way to Preston in the van to meet up with Danny and Laonie's bags.....
Will proceeded to manage to break the van (well he was driving so it must have been his fault), and after having boiled enough water to provide half of Lancashire, the rear compartment battery finally ran flat (it has done 6 days worth) but luckily the only problem this caused was the radio to turn off, and now it needs the radio code.......... Could be a long music less drive for the next couple of days :)
The first boy racers (Dino, Danny, Dino and Andy) were all in the reclining chairs at Preston station by 2.30 (good effort guys), whilst the last rolled around 4.30, having partaken of a scenic stopoff in Lancaster to enjoy the delights of Pennys Cafe.
Bob thought that he wanted more, so had a little 15 mile round trip on the bike to meet the last few in - mad man.......
A fantastic dinner by Princess and the gang at 5.30 of curried chicken, veg, meatballs, pasta, salad, followed by a vat of fruit salad.
Finally it would not be right to end this blog without mentioning the fact that it is Owens Birthday, and so a cake was duly provided, for which he will have to cough up for later....
Tonight see's us staying at Preston Fire Station, thanks to the two watches for their hospitality so far.
If anyone is worried about our physical state we are all pleased to report that the rest day seemed to work, and although we all have one way or the other we all still seem to be alive. Although Toby still seems to be consistently ill and consuing enough medication to supply the entire northwest - but he is manning up!
Thursday 10 June 2010
Day 8 - Penrith (June 10th)
The Rest day (Well sort of)
After the first 5 days of riding our first (and last!) rest day was a welcome break and couldn't have come to soon. We are staying at the Jubilee House Fire Fighters Charity Centre at Penrith for both last night and tonight ready to be back on the bikes tomorrow (Friday)
Last night we took the opportunity to chill out and say farewell to our three stage one support drivers Grahame Davis, Nick Bateman & Pete Savage. All the team would like to say a massive thankyou to them all, and we look forward to seeing ass many of them as possible at Lands End at the end!
After a night in the gym at Penrith for most of us (a few took the opportunity to get away for a night to a local B&B) we were up at 6.45 as unfortunately we had to be completely clear out of the gym as it is in use in the daytime, by 8am.
Jubilee House laid on breakfast (& later lunch) for us and the remainder of the morning after sorting kit, etc saw most of us walking the mile or so into Penrith for a few essentials and a general break! Most could be seen in the cafe at one point nursing a hot drink and a general inability to move far or fast....!
Once we had returned, our new (fresh) stage 2 support drivers Andy Ford & Will Savage had arrived. Then after lunch, and more resting / washing, etc we boarded a coach (yes it was cheaper to hire a coach!) for us to go to a trip arranged by Jon Tilson (One of our cyclists) to the Jennings Brewery at Cockermouth, where they put on a brewery tour and a evening buffet for us (along with some beer sampling - it would have been impolite not to!). Obviously Cockermouth including the brewery was severely damaged during the floods last year, and we saw first hand a lot of the damage and repair work that was going on.
A big thank you to Jennings & our guides for hosting us, & to Jon for organising it. All the team made a personal donation to cover the cost of the tour guides with the balance going to the Cockermouth flood recovery fund.
We are now back at Jubilee house having repacked and tidied the van, sorted bikes, made drinks and prepared for the morning, & taking part in the quiz evening that is currently underway!
Tomorrow - another 75 miles approx down to Preston, having gone over Shap summit. Anyone that hasn't heard of it - google it. Fantastic view (from the top)................
After the first 5 days of riding our first (and last!) rest day was a welcome break and couldn't have come to soon. We are staying at the Jubilee House Fire Fighters Charity Centre at Penrith for both last night and tonight ready to be back on the bikes tomorrow (Friday)
Last night we took the opportunity to chill out and say farewell to our three stage one support drivers Grahame Davis, Nick Bateman & Pete Savage. All the team would like to say a massive thankyou to them all, and we look forward to seeing ass many of them as possible at Lands End at the end!
After a night in the gym at Penrith for most of us (a few took the opportunity to get away for a night to a local B&B) we were up at 6.45 as unfortunately we had to be completely clear out of the gym as it is in use in the daytime, by 8am.
Jubilee House laid on breakfast (& later lunch) for us and the remainder of the morning after sorting kit, etc saw most of us walking the mile or so into Penrith for a few essentials and a general break! Most could be seen in the cafe at one point nursing a hot drink and a general inability to move far or fast....!
Once we had returned, our new (fresh) stage 2 support drivers Andy Ford & Will Savage had arrived. Then after lunch, and more resting / washing, etc we boarded a coach (yes it was cheaper to hire a coach!) for us to go to a trip arranged by Jon Tilson (One of our cyclists) to the Jennings Brewery at Cockermouth, where they put on a brewery tour and a evening buffet for us (along with some beer sampling - it would have been impolite not to!). Obviously Cockermouth including the brewery was severely damaged during the floods last year, and we saw first hand a lot of the damage and repair work that was going on.
A big thank you to Jennings & our guides for hosting us, & to Jon for organising it. All the team made a personal donation to cover the cost of the tour guides with the balance going to the Cockermouth flood recovery fund.
We are now back at Jubilee house having repacked and tidied the van, sorted bikes, made drinks and prepared for the morning, & taking part in the quiz evening that is currently underway!
Tomorrow - another 75 miles approx down to Preston, having gone over Shap summit. Anyone that hasn't heard of it - google it. Fantastic view (from the top)................
Wednesday 9 June 2010
Day 7 – Wednesday – Melrose to Penrith - June 9th
The day Owen arrived
For the full map of where wehave been , etc take a look at gavs Garmin page !http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36496640
The day started with an unusual twist in the tail, with Toby being pursued by two ladies from
A full breakfast yet again was on the table by Princess, with bacon as today’s added bonus and over breakfast we compared sores and blisters. Some it must be said are suffering more than others
After the long wet miserable ride that was yesterday morning, today started slightly grey, but quickly brightened up into a fairly fine day. Within minutes the first (but only puncture of the day) occurred about 5 miles out, just to get us back in the swing of things…….
85 miles lay out ahead of us, with the A7 to
The rain held off and it actually brightened up so the next stop was Langholm around 8 miles from the Scottish border, with another spread laid on down by the river.
We all left reasonably close together for the final (and more hilly) climb to Penrith with most going to ASDA at
The first riders arrived at Penrith just after 3pm, Andy and Dino being spurred on by the fact that they are no longer able sit down any more……
The Fire Fighters Charity Centre at Penrith had the pool and Jacuzzi on for us, and slowly most that wanted to got a swim or just a chill out in the Jacuzzi…….
An excellent meal afterwards laid on by the Centre of lasagne, garlic bread and fruit salad, topped off the ride.
The time is now 8.35pm and we are all off for a bit of a group hug and to reminince and compare sores…….
Owen arrived around 3pm and has since spent most of the afternoon giving the bikes a thorough service - nice one :)
More pictures should be on the website shortly on flickr when we can get to a part of civilisation with a memory stick that works and a bit of time J – click on the link through the gallery page…
Don’t forget you can follow every live update on twitter, just look at www.twitter.com/heroesride
Tuesday 8 June 2010
Day 6 – Tuesday – Perth to Melrose - June 8th
Rain, Rain & More Rain…........
For details of where wehavebeen - click on the link to see the map, etc. - http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36496689
It’s fair to say that today has been the most challenging, not only of the ride so far, but for nearly everyone through all the months, and previous rides…
We would have all had more sleep if it hadn’t been for the king of the camp bed Danny setting a new world record for the longest time taken to put together a few bits of metal to sleep on
It was raining when the day started, and just got worse, and worse, and worse……….
85 miles in a torrent, stretched ahead of us when we assembled out the front of Perth Station, after an excellent nights kip laid on by Tayside Fire & Rescue. We set off close together after a quick photo out the front, straight into the rain.
38 miles then to the southern side of the forth bridge saw two punctures on Josie’s bike one after the other, despair and a wee little bit of frustration – Bob trying to lead Rosie astray onto the M90, and a little wrong turn…
Lunch break was set up in the grounds of a very accommodating ‘Premier Inn’ just the other side of the bridge, with people coming in between 12.30 and 1.30 with Princess, Tattie & Sim, putting on a brilliant lunch with hot tea, etc. It’s fair to say that there was everyone was feeling it as it was just massively hard work all the way.
Those that look at the pictures will be able to see an especially.
After lunch, people left in smaller numbers to go through Edinburgh city centre rather than taking the particularly hazardous bypass. Toby & Pete found another cycle path to wander along, and then could be seen staggering along slipping on the cobbles through the city centre.
Several found themselves together and ended up riding up the Royal Mile with Tour Guide Bob, to the Castle. No-one managed to ride it down though………
A few more discerning lady riders (Laonie & Josie) managed to get a little ‘latte’ in the city centre with Danny & Simon to make the journey worthwhile. The lack of anywhere to put any shopping bags was a bit of a hindrance though………….. and then to cap it all Laonie had two punctures of her own whilst in the City as well.
From Edinburgh the A7 lead most out straight into the countryside (although some decided to find their own alternative), and a tea rest stop was put on at the roadside at around the 60 mile mark.
Julian’s comment of (its just past the museum, about a mile, lead to false hopes’ – 3-4 miles would have been more accurate, but all was well in the end. A long ride then finished off the day, although the rain finally eased around 4pm.
In the meantime Pete S and his lorry along with Taity & Sim finally made it to ASDA at Galashiels for around 4pm, having been delayed due to the weather. Unfortunately the pump from the local station had been and gone by this point, and ASDA were not fully aware that we were coming, so Pete S, Taity & Sim held their own on the forecourt of ASDA and raised a very impressive £258.84 in under two hours. Those that made it back to Galashiels before 5.30 stopped at ASDA to meet up with Pete & his team.
Everyone was finally back at the SYHA at Melrose by 8pm eventually to a fantastic hot meal of Spaghetti Bolognese / Haggis / Rice Pudding & Éclairs by Princess.
A night of bike maintenance is planned by lead mechanic Nick, who spent the day dreaming of degreaser, tea towels and bike lubricant………
To be continued………….
For details of where wehavebeen - click on the link to see the map, etc. - http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36496689
It’s fair to say that today has been the most challenging, not only of the ride so far, but for nearly everyone through all the months, and previous rides…
We would have all had more sleep if it hadn’t been for the king of the camp bed Danny setting a new world record for the longest time taken to put together a few bits of metal to sleep on
It was raining when the day started, and just got worse, and worse, and worse……….
85 miles in a torrent, stretched ahead of us when we assembled out the front of Perth Station, after an excellent nights kip laid on by Tayside Fire & Rescue. We set off close together after a quick photo out the front, straight into the rain.
38 miles then to the southern side of the forth bridge saw two punctures on Josie’s bike one after the other, despair and a wee little bit of frustration – Bob trying to lead Rosie astray onto the M90, and a little wrong turn…
Lunch break was set up in the grounds of a very accommodating ‘Premier Inn’ just the other side of the bridge, with people coming in between 12.30 and 1.30 with Princess, Tattie & Sim, putting on a brilliant lunch with hot tea, etc. It’s fair to say that there was everyone was feeling it as it was just massively hard work all the way.
Those that look at the pictures will be able to see an especially.
After lunch, people left in smaller numbers to go through Edinburgh city centre rather than taking the particularly hazardous bypass. Toby & Pete found another cycle path to wander along, and then could be seen staggering along slipping on the cobbles through the city centre.
Several found themselves together and ended up riding up the Royal Mile with Tour Guide Bob, to the Castle. No-one managed to ride it down though………
A few more discerning lady riders (Laonie & Josie) managed to get a little ‘latte’ in the city centre with Danny & Simon to make the journey worthwhile. The lack of anywhere to put any shopping bags was a bit of a hindrance though………….. and then to cap it all Laonie had two punctures of her own whilst in the City as well.
From Edinburgh the A7 lead most out straight into the countryside (although some decided to find their own alternative), and a tea rest stop was put on at the roadside at around the 60 mile mark.
Julian’s comment of (its just past the museum, about a mile, lead to false hopes’ – 3-4 miles would have been more accurate, but all was well in the end. A long ride then finished off the day, although the rain finally eased around 4pm.
In the meantime Pete S and his lorry along with Taity & Sim finally made it to ASDA at Galashiels for around 4pm, having been delayed due to the weather. Unfortunately the pump from the local station had been and gone by this point, and ASDA were not fully aware that we were coming, so Pete S, Taity & Sim held their own on the forecourt of ASDA and raised a very impressive £258.84 in under two hours. Those that made it back to Galashiels before 5.30 stopped at ASDA to meet up with Pete & his team.
Everyone was finally back at the SYHA at Melrose by 8pm eventually to a fantastic hot meal of Spaghetti Bolognese / Haggis / Rice Pudding & Éclairs by Princess.
A night of bike maintenance is planned by lead mechanic Nick, who spent the day dreaming of degreaser, tea towels and bike lubricant………
To be continued………….
Monday 7 June 2010
Day 5 – Monday – Aviemore to Perth - June 7th
Toby the Destroyer
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/36496736
To see where we have been today, click on the link below to go to Gavs Garmin page and map for all the details
Another slightly overcast but not bad day in the Cairngorms, having stayed overnight at the Scottish YHA at Aviemore (nice place!)
Morning saw the first celebration of Toby’s 29th Birthday (Still a baby at 29!)
Breakfast at 7.30 was a huge spread of porridge, fruit, toast, boiled eggs, yoghurts, croissants and as much as you can eat – Fantastic start !!
A few poorly people for today, Gav feeling a little under par & Toby apparently suffering from tonsillitis!
Packing started in earnest with a 9.00 start planned, to get away to crack on with the 84 miles down to Perth, in groups of 2 or 4 as before.
The day started uneventfully for the first 4 ½ miles with Pete & Toby starting off to get the ride underway. Having hit the A9, the sounds of Toby’s spoke snapping resounded around the cairngorms.
This was the start of a day of disaster for Toby, who they over a period of time managed to break not only his own back wheel, but then after having the spare bike (remember this is the Deps bike) then proceeded to mash the rear wheel and derailleur into a heap of tangled metal within the space of around 800 metres, having promptly fallen off it!
So following this extensive amount of damage (by one person) Team mechanic (Nick) had a splendid day between various bike shops but true to form managed to repair the first bike at the lunch stop in a lay-by, and spent the remainder of the day sorting out the second bike.
Obviously this will have hampered Toby’s career progression path, but that’s a price we are willing to pay J
After 45 miles, another fantastic lunch was served in a lay-by on the A9, by Princess and the team, with the gazebo up and a full buffet served.
From here, our trusty support team moved on to ASDA at Perth with the fantastic ‘Fi’ & ‘Joyce’ providing both food and a fantastic welcome as the team arrived over the next hour. All apart from Pete & Toby who having decided to take a slightly scenic route arrived last having taken the fantastic ‘route 77’ which led through hedges, ditches & various council estates.
A grand total of £425 was raised at Perth with support with the local station (who inevitably picked up a call soon after arriving). A big thank you to the people of Perthshire!
Finally arrived at the station at Perth around 6.00pm to serious hospitality to the guys at Perth.
Birthday for Toby at 8pm – banners, cake, the full works, with a full meal of gammon, egg haggis (Yes - real haggis!) and all the trimmings
Finished off the night with a birthday drink, and then endured an agonising hour watching Danny trying to assemble a simple camp bed. Interesting to note that Sim & Tattie got theirs up in seconds, and our vivacious Training Centre Instructor was still at it over 30 minutes later…………
Sunday 6 June 2010
Day 4 - Sunday - Carbisdale to Aviemore - 6th June
The morning after the ride before!
Todays Activity data includng map can be found here - http://connect.garmin.com/activity/35902957 - Just click on the link to see where we have been
Day two of the actual ride, as always kicked off with a cracking breakfast, as always provided by our cracking army cooking team!
Fair to say there were a few sore points being attended to before the day began
As the Youth Hostel was inland by about 14 miles, the ride had finished the night before just off the A9, so it was back in the minibuses and the vans to get to the start, leaving at 9am... well 3 minutes past after Danny realised he had left his phone behind upstairs as we were about to leave!
64 miles to go today, effectively all the way down the A9, leaving in pairs.
Riders got away by 10am, having travelled down to the start, with Grahame & Princess making their move straight off to get provisions....., as well as saying goodby to Arthur & Gordon who were takign the MPV's back to Bucks - stopping at the Fire Fightes Charity Penrith therapy Centre on the way down!
A cracking days cycling ensued, despite the weather being grey all day, with lots of cloud and patchy rain. First part of the day was fairly uneventful, with all riders making it it in great time and fairly close together to the lunch stop at about 12.30 in an off road parking area.
The support team had built up the army tent, and by the time we got there got hot drinkgs & soup and full buffet lunch out on the table - Fantastic! Yet agin the sight of Pete S & Grahame out on the main A9 watching out for us in high-vis, holding up their cameras as we came in, slowed no end of others down :)
Bob decided that part of the mission was to break the last ride's record of three punctures throughout the whole ride by having two himself with a mile or so! (and before lunch).
After lunch, everyone set off agin in two's and tackled the second part of the day (on a full stomach). the second part of the day involved some beastly climbs with some up to 3 miles long!
Overall on the day we climbed over 800 metres, over some very long slogs. However there were some cracking downhills!
Finally we all rolled into Avimore around 4pm. Fair to say, there was a few more smiling faces, having covered around 64 miles!
Having settled into the youth hostel at Aviemore, we had yet again another cracking meal laid on by Pricess and Crew served up in the dining room, followed by some entertainment laid on by Danny & Simon who clearly had nothing else to think about as they rode along.
Nearly 150 miles in, 80+ miles tomorrow...................
Todays Activity data includng map can be found here - http://connect.garmin.com/activity/35902957 - Just click on the link to see where we have been
Day two of the actual ride, as always kicked off with a cracking breakfast, as always provided by our cracking army cooking team!
Fair to say there were a few sore points being attended to before the day began
As the Youth Hostel was inland by about 14 miles, the ride had finished the night before just off the A9, so it was back in the minibuses and the vans to get to the start, leaving at 9am... well 3 minutes past after Danny realised he had left his phone behind upstairs as we were about to leave!
64 miles to go today, effectively all the way down the A9, leaving in pairs.
Riders got away by 10am, having travelled down to the start, with Grahame & Princess making their move straight off to get provisions....., as well as saying goodby to Arthur & Gordon who were takign the MPV's back to Bucks - stopping at the Fire Fightes Charity Penrith therapy Centre on the way down!
A cracking days cycling ensued, despite the weather being grey all day, with lots of cloud and patchy rain. First part of the day was fairly uneventful, with all riders making it it in great time and fairly close together to the lunch stop at about 12.30 in an off road parking area.
The support team had built up the army tent, and by the time we got there got hot drinkgs & soup and full buffet lunch out on the table - Fantastic! Yet agin the sight of Pete S & Grahame out on the main A9 watching out for us in high-vis, holding up their cameras as we came in, slowed no end of others down :)
Bob decided that part of the mission was to break the last ride's record of three punctures throughout the whole ride by having two himself with a mile or so! (and before lunch).
After lunch, everyone set off agin in two's and tackled the second part of the day (on a full stomach). the second part of the day involved some beastly climbs with some up to 3 miles long!
Overall on the day we climbed over 800 metres, over some very long slogs. However there were some cracking downhills!
Finally we all rolled into Avimore around 4pm. Fair to say, there was a few more smiling faces, having covered around 64 miles!
Having settled into the youth hostel at Aviemore, we had yet again another cracking meal laid on by Pricess and Crew served up in the dining room, followed by some entertainment laid on by Danny & Simon who clearly had nothing else to think about as they rode along.
Nearly 150 miles in, 80+ miles tomorrow...................
Day 3 - John O Groat's to Carbisdale - 5th June
The day of reckoning arrives
See all where we have been and all Gavs Data at http://connect.garmin.com/activity/35902982 Just click on the link!
We left the youth hostel at Melrose after yet another huge hearty breakfast, and arrived amongst the madding throngs at John O Groats for around 10am, after a fairly uneventful start to the day!
The weather was fantastic, with the fog lifting as we arrived and sun shining. Even a set of Bagpipes played as we arrived!
A frenetic period of activity ensued to get all the bikes and riders ready for the photo shoot at 10.00 before the big off at 10.30. Just to make the start slightly more eventful, after having got everyones bikes sorted, tyres pumped up, etc with noone stood nearby Johns tyre suffered what can only be a 'major blowout', which resulted in the first of what is likely to be many punctures :)
(Officially this was not on the ride so it doesnt count :)
A big thanks at this point to Laonie's parents who had come all the way up to see us off :) - Fantastic!
After the pictures at the post, with a moments silence for those who had fallen by the wayside since the ride was suggested, everyone got lined up at the start for the all important big start.
The plan of all riding together for the first leg of the day as part of the big start, was foiled co-incidentally by the JOGLE leader who having had all the time in the world to prepare for it, decided as soon as the start was announced by Simon saying 'Bob lead the way', that he was going to break the mould and shot off at a rate of knots due to a pressing need to use the loo!
Lunch was at Dunbeath about 38 miles from the start with our first field meal from Princess and the gang. During lunch, Pete Savage got straight into road safety mode and managed to pass the message to a lady who just happened to have parked up. In the end she paid a pound to get away (Result!)
Having finished lunch, which handily was at the botom of a hill, 13 cyclists departed will full stomachs and water bottles only to have to tackle the rest of the afternoon! To make the experience truly realistic, it then proceeded to pour down for around 20 minutes to soak everyone.
To enhance the road safety message, unwittingly, our intrpid support team spread out along the route to support the cyclists, however managed to reduce the speed of hundreds of motorists by using one of the vans to video from. The sight of a van with people in hi-vis with a camera, on the top of a hill, follwed by a very visibly motorcyclist in full hi vis sat just next to it, encouraged hundreds to slow down (and brake!).
During this time Pete had managed to make his way (slowly) up from london, and had arrived in the middle of nowhere to join the group.
By the time the group arrived, 84 miles had been knocked off of the total, and a cracking start to the event! All riders were in between 5& 6pm, and its fair to say that some had had a hard day but ridden though to the very end!
Accomodation for the night was Carbisdale Castle, and very reminiscent of Hogwarts itself. A proper Scottish Castle, converted in to a youth hostel! Dinner was taken with everyone else in the dining room after a lot of hard work carrying bags a very long way and up and down towers (Well sort of) until everyone was in their rooms.......
A quick trip to the nearby local (took in some of the most impressive views across the river) and a bit local folk music was partaken of, before the trip back to find our beds.......!
See all where we have been and all Gavs Data at http://connect.garmin.com/activity/35902982 Just click on the link!
We left the youth hostel at Melrose after yet another huge hearty breakfast, and arrived amongst the madding throngs at John O Groats for around 10am, after a fairly uneventful start to the day!
The weather was fantastic, with the fog lifting as we arrived and sun shining. Even a set of Bagpipes played as we arrived!
A frenetic period of activity ensued to get all the bikes and riders ready for the photo shoot at 10.00 before the big off at 10.30. Just to make the start slightly more eventful, after having got everyones bikes sorted, tyres pumped up, etc with noone stood nearby Johns tyre suffered what can only be a 'major blowout', which resulted in the first of what is likely to be many punctures :)
(Officially this was not on the ride so it doesnt count :)
A big thanks at this point to Laonie's parents who had come all the way up to see us off :) - Fantastic!
After the pictures at the post, with a moments silence for those who had fallen by the wayside since the ride was suggested, everyone got lined up at the start for the all important big start.
The plan of all riding together for the first leg of the day as part of the big start, was foiled co-incidentally by the JOGLE leader who having had all the time in the world to prepare for it, decided as soon as the start was announced by Simon saying 'Bob lead the way', that he was going to break the mould and shot off at a rate of knots due to a pressing need to use the loo!
Lunch was at Dunbeath about 38 miles from the start with our first field meal from Princess and the gang. During lunch, Pete Savage got straight into road safety mode and managed to pass the message to a lady who just happened to have parked up. In the end she paid a pound to get away (Result!)
Having finished lunch, which handily was at the botom of a hill, 13 cyclists departed will full stomachs and water bottles only to have to tackle the rest of the afternoon! To make the experience truly realistic, it then proceeded to pour down for around 20 minutes to soak everyone.
To enhance the road safety message, unwittingly, our intrpid support team spread out along the route to support the cyclists, however managed to reduce the speed of hundreds of motorists by using one of the vans to video from. The sight of a van with people in hi-vis with a camera, on the top of a hill, follwed by a very visibly motorcyclist in full hi vis sat just next to it, encouraged hundreds to slow down (and brake!).
During this time Pete had managed to make his way (slowly) up from london, and had arrived in the middle of nowhere to join the group.
By the time the group arrived, 84 miles had been knocked off of the total, and a cracking start to the event! All riders were in between 5& 6pm, and its fair to say that some had had a hard day but ridden though to the very end!
Accomodation for the night was Carbisdale Castle, and very reminiscent of Hogwarts itself. A proper Scottish Castle, converted in to a youth hostel! Dinner was taken with everyone else in the dining room after a lot of hard work carrying bags a very long way and up and down towers (Well sort of) until everyone was in their rooms.......
A quick trip to the nearby local (took in some of the most impressive views across the river) and a bit local folk music was partaken of, before the trip back to find our beds.......!
Hook Norton!
The H4H Team just want to say a big well done to Hook Norton Station who won the Station of the year in the national Sprit of Fire, beating Swindon (Wiltshire), Broughton (Bucks) & Cumbria (Cockermouth).
Well done lads !
Well done lads !
Day 2 - (Trip up Melrose to Helmsdale) - 4th June
Day started with breakfast at 7.00, and the first meal prepared by Princess our resident 'diamond' chef and her team. And what a chef. Full english, porridge, yoghurt, fruit , etc. By far the best meal, and the start of good things to come.
Our two intrepid furniture delivery drivers, by this time had managed to deliver a three piece sofa and a footstool, and got on the road and missed the whole event..... in order to get on ahead
At this point our intrepid leader after months of planning, was able to brief the team of the nearest petrol station location which was ASDA. This clear direction then resulted in Toby & Phil driving an MPV around the car park three times for some unknown reason.
Finally found a fuel station and managed to clog up the whole station & town (a real traffic jam as no-one could get into the fuel station off of the road, by virtue of the fact that there appeared to be only one card to pay with, but all was sorted in the end
Having finally left the town we left and progressed in a roundabout route to Helmsdale! (picking up Gav from inverness on the way).
Spirits were high on the way with good weather, being enjoyed by all and a set of fantastic views as we got further north
Arrived at Helmsdale to yet another wonderful meal prepared by our no 1 chef and crew of spaghetti bolognese & sweet & sour.
Perperations for the day ahead at John o'Groats ensued, and then finally to bed!
Our two intrepid furniture delivery drivers, by this time had managed to deliver a three piece sofa and a footstool, and got on the road and missed the whole event..... in order to get on ahead
At this point our intrepid leader after months of planning, was able to brief the team of the nearest petrol station location which was ASDA. This clear direction then resulted in Toby & Phil driving an MPV around the car park three times for some unknown reason.
Finally found a fuel station and managed to clog up the whole station & town (a real traffic jam as no-one could get into the fuel station off of the road, by virtue of the fact that there appeared to be only one card to pay with, but all was sorted in the end
Having finally left the town we left and progressed in a roundabout route to Helmsdale! (picking up Gav from inverness on the way).
Spirits were high on the way with good weather, being enjoyed by all and a set of fantastic views as we got further north
Arrived at Helmsdale to yet another wonderful meal prepared by our no 1 chef and crew of spaghetti bolognese & sweet & sour.
Perperations for the day ahead at John o'Groats ensued, and then finally to bed!
Day One - Leaving Oxfordshire - June 3rd
First away were the most keen of the bunch - Gordoan and Arthur in the Furniture Village Monster truck (mainly beacuase of the requirement for most frequent rest stops!) getting away at 7.45! A splendid 56 miles an hour all the way
After giving the head start to the senior members of the group, 3/4 left HQ in the Bucks PCV and Comms Van getting away at around 9!
Last but not least were the 'Witney Stragglers' who ran out of steam by the time they had got to Chipping Norton (Grand total of 17 miles). After a rest stop, and bacon butties the journey continues with several stops on the way up to Melrose at about 3.30.
Our intrepid motorcyclist was the most enthusiastic making his way up at a sedate 70 mph all the way :), and encouraging all passing motorists to slow down to the limit, due to his uncanny likeness to a police officer
To carry on with the acclimatising, food and refreshment was the order of the day. Scots hospitality was the order of the day, with Danny being offered a high chair to assist with help.
The youth hostel at Melrose was the first stop of the tour, and got off to the most intriguing of starts with Jon trying to share a bed with Julian. This was swiftly dealt with and normal service resumed.
A new record was set by Arthur Jordan with a new of 137db snoring over a sustained period.
At this point, still working his way up north was Gavin on the overnight sleeper.......
team building exercise followed, including
After giving the head start to the senior members of the group, 3/4 left HQ in the Bucks PCV and Comms Van getting away at around 9!
Last but not least were the 'Witney Stragglers' who ran out of steam by the time they had got to Chipping Norton (Grand total of 17 miles). After a rest stop, and bacon butties the journey continues with several stops on the way up to Melrose at about 3.30.
Our intrepid motorcyclist was the most enthusiastic making his way up at a sedate 70 mph all the way :), and encouraging all passing motorists to slow down to the limit, due to his uncanny likeness to a police officer
To carry on with the acclimatising, food and refreshment was the order of the day. Scots hospitality was the order of the day, with Danny being offered a high chair to assist with help.
The youth hostel at Melrose was the first stop of the tour, and got off to the most intriguing of starts with Jon trying to share a bed with Julian. This was swiftly dealt with and normal service resumed.
A new record was set by Arthur Jordan with a new of 137db snoring over a sustained period.
At this point, still working his way up north was Gavin on the overnight sleeper.......
team building exercise followed, including
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