Certainly today was not as taxing as the first few days. It does make me wonder whether it is because I am getting more cycling fit as I go, or whether it is the course, or perhaps a combination of the two.The forecast looked dodgy weather wise. Mixed weather reports ranged from just plain awful to maybe not so bad. It appeared to me that we were on the fringe of a rainy pattern over most of Wales and parts of Western England. It had been drizzling but by the time we left Chepstow it had stopped. It was certainly cooler than the previous days.

After climbing out of Chepstow, we rode along the Wye Valley which was majestic and a wonderful ride. We stopped for a while to appreciate the splendour of Tintern Abbey before heading towards Monmouth.

The group today consisted of Yakka’s x 2, Alan, Helen, Colin and for some time Joyce.

We stopped at The Black Swan for lunch which proved to be a hoot. Having been turned away by the pub at the previous village due to the sewing class that was being held (!), we knocked on the front door of this one to see if they were open. They were very friendly and welcoming but did not want us sitting in the bar area as the locals may get upset if their favourite and usual seat was not available!

Ian went to check out the locals and decided that the two already in residence were perhaps drinking formaldehyde given their lack of movement and acknowledgement!

I only had soup for lunch and subsequently made a mental note to eat more substantially at lunch as I spent the rest of the day hungry.

We travelled through Tyberton (38.5m), Moccas (41.5m) and Brewardine (43.7). Soon thereafter we crossed over the River Wye heading towards Staunton on Wye (46.2).

The day was not over taxing hill wise although some managed to remind my tired quads that they have room for improvement with strengthening.

Final destination today was Weobley where we are staying at a wonderful quirky B &B The Gables. Weobley is known for its Tudor black and white heritage houses, as is the home we are in complete with four poster bed.

We left Weobley this morning not sure what the weather would be doing, but the temperature was certainly cooler than the previous week. It was 7 degrees C. Long fingered gloves and skull cap came out but still in short knicks. Today was a continual day of undulations but nothing too taxing.

Villages travelled through included Luntley (4.1m), Pembridge (5.9m), Staunton on Arrow (8.2m), Lingen (13.7m), Birtley (15.0m) arriving in the lovely little village of Brampton Bryan (17.2m). This was our first stop of the morning as this village has a pretty church with an amazingly trimmed hedge.

Next villages included Bucknell (18.9m), Bedstone (20.5m), Hopton Castle (22.2m), Twitchen (23.0m), Purslow (24.5m), arriving in Wentnor around 12 noon, just in time for a bite of lunch at the local pub.

Great bacon and cheese panini and the best ever hot chocolate was enjoyed along with a break of just over one hour during which time the rest of the gang rolled in.

Upon leaving there were 7 of us but after only 5 miles of hillier terrain 3 remained (including Alan). We waited at the top of the rise before turning off towards Westcott. After around 10 minutes we were actually quite concerned as we did not believe that we could possibly have pulled that much of a gap.

We ummed and aahed for a bit and I offered to ride back to check out the state of play. The boys felt that they must have taken a wrong turn and said it could be pointless if that was the case. So we rode on, although I felt a bit guilty.

The afternoon riding was generally easier than the morning and our average picked up. We headed to Pontesbury ( 43.3m) and then Montford Bridge (50.7m), where we again crossed the River Severn.

We turned towards Mytton and Fitz before arriving at accomodation at Bomere Heath.

This joint is owned by a Lord and Lady. The Lord came out and introduced himself and then proceeded to reel off a list of “house rules” telling us that cyclists were on their last legs with him as he had previously had bad experiences. He felt the need to elaborate about some female cyclist who had fallen asleep on her bed with wet cycling clothes…allegedly resulting in him throwing out £200 worth of linen.

What a shame Tony and I were staying elsewhere that night! Poor old Alan had to fess up though that he was a guest there and would comply!

Our hotel was a number of miles up the road at Burlton Inn in Burlton. Great room and no house rules! The gang came up for tea and we also got to meet Ian’s son who had ridden with him from Leominster today.

Day 8: Bomere Heath to Acton Bridge: Tony’s get up and go, got up and went!

We had a later start today due to our accomodation having an 8.30 am breakfast. Tony had a bad night, suffering from gastro badly and not getting much sleep. Tony had no breakfast and left complete with a roll of toilet paper in his backpack!  In the van we headed back to Bomere Heath passing Jane who had taken the opportunity of leaving early. Alan, Helen and Joyce had also hit the road and were some miles ahead.

Colin, Tony and myself worked as a group, going at Tony’s pace, which was considerably slower than previous days.

On the bikes we then headed back towards our previous nights accomodation travelling through Merrington (1.4m), Northwood (10.5m), Bettesfield (11.8). At Bettesfield we crossed the Shropshire Union Canal. We stopped to take photographs and have a chat to a couple of guys on one of the canals.

Stopping at the Malpas general store (21.1m)I picked up some Imodium as Tony had already eaten 4 today and also having stopped in a paddock on the way. With the cafe closed on Sundays we made the decision to press ahead.

The morning ride was very easy which was definitely beneficial for Tony.

The afternoon was a little lumpier but very easy.

We caught up to Alan, Helen and Joyce early afternoon and rode together stopping to enjoy the view of Beeston Castle which is built on a very prominent, rocky crag. Further around the vista revealed a prominent castle turret built in more modern times, also doubling as the film set for the movie Robin Hood.

We then followed the Chesire Cycleway crossing over a canal and passing through another Tiverton, having passed through the Tiverton near Dartmoor last week.

We stopped for a rest at The Shady Oak adjacent to a canal. Tony managed to have a gel and some lemonade for his first nourishment for the day.

We headed off with rain threatening and we actually stopped to put our rain jackets on, but they did not last long with only about 10 minutes of light drizzle being experienced.

We past through Tarporley (34.8m) and Utkinton (37.0) climbing steeply out of the village. We then descended steeply having a chat to a couple of guys acting as stewards in an equestrian event. “Sorry about the cricket!”.  Heard that a few times recently.

We rode through Delamere Forest which was very green and shady.

At 42.2m we rode through Hatchmere and Crowton (44.7m) arriving at Acton Bridge, crossing the Mersey Canal and climbing through the woods. We arrived at our accomodation at the Holly Bush at around 2.30pm.

Phil rocked up shortly thereafter and found out that Ian and Graham had an accident with each others bikes resulting in some cuts and grazes.

Got wet today for the first time in over two weeks in the UK. Had to happen I guess and it could have been worse. We experienced two downpours that were stinging but they did not last that long and then the sun came out. Bit like Melbourne really!

Today was scheduled as a longer day of 59.5 miles including a tougher afternoon. Six of us set off together and I was determined that this group should stick together. I felt a debt of gratitude to Colin for the support and encouragement he gave Tony the previous day. We also had Joyce who had just discovered she actually had a third chain ring.

We left our overnight accommodation in Acton Bridge heading through Comberbach (2.7m) and Budworth (4.0m) stopping to take a couple of photos of some lovely little homes. Alan was leading as he said he knew this area very well and we were happy to let him navigate us.

We passed an  “ice cream farm” pondering the choice of phrase but being very fond of ice cream thought that perhaps we too could have “ice cream farms” in Tasmania!

At 9.1 mile we passed through High Legh and crossed the M56. At Broomedge we rode under the Bridgewater Canal which I also thought curious.

We rode though Warburton ( 12.9 m) riding towards the toll boom gates to cross the Manchester Ship Canal. It costs 25 pence for cars to cross but free for bikes. More photos on the canal bridge. Apparently the canal was hand constructed to allow ships to transport goods from the land locked Manchester out to sea.

Enjoying the easy riding we rode through Hollins Green (14.1m), Glazebrook (15.7m), and Culcheth (18.5 m).

The traffic situation changed considerably at this point and was to be experienced for the next 15 miles or so.

Glazebury was at 19.7m and we stopped at Bents Garden Centre (20.3m). This would have to be the hugest garden centre I have ever seen. After negotiating the considerable Christmas card section we found the so called cafeteria which had amazing food and about 3 different seating areas. I did not see 1 plant….I guess one would need to take their compass and venture deeper into the heart of the complex.

After crossing another canal we passed through Leigh (21.5m) and a bit further on an industrial park which in one spot promoted the first zero energy use industrial park complete with wind turbines and solar panels.

Somewhere in this mix I failed to decleat quickly as Alan came to a blinding stop and I was too close to his rear wheel. Over I went with some small grazes and sore hip and thumb. Guess that will be a bit stiffer tomorrow.

Hindley is quite a busy centre which we passed through at the 25.0 mile mark, followed by Aspull (29.6m), Haigh (30.3 m), Blackrod (31.8m), stopping at Rivington (34.8m) for lunch at the Church Hall. Very quaint with lots of customers and their dogs.

Tougher afternoon with 2.2 mile of climbing straight after lunch with cold legs. The climb was made more entertaining by the painting of names on the road cheering on cyclists from a recent road race. The closest to my name was “Go Sheila!”. Guess that would have to suffice.

It was very satisfying to reach the top not feeling too pained! That would come tomorrow! The moors at the top were very open with scraggy looking sheep just cruising around wherever. Think the hill is known as Winter Hill.

A nice decent to Belmont (38.3m) through the village and past the reservoir.

The road then climbed and descended to Tockholes (43.1m) by which time we had our rain jackets on and had experienced a sharp, solid and stinging downfall of rain.

We turned into a Council housing estate which revealed a number of houses where it appeared the occupants were not particularly house proud.

At 46.6 m we rode through Pleasington before arriving at the outer part of Blackburn. More ups and downs including an unanticipated climb through and out of Clayton-le-dale (54.4) just to finish the legs off. Silly me decided to challenge Tony on these hills catching up to him with some capacity left in the legs. He was obviously feeling heaps better as he just put his foot down and owned the hill! .

Thunder claps were sounding in the not too far distance and we were keen to get to our accomodation before the next downpour.

We were all very pleased to arrive at The Shireburn Arms Hotel in Hurst Green ( 59.5 m).

Hills are like childbirth because you forget just how painful it is until you go back for another dose! Today was damn hard. Well I thought it was! A lot less miles were completed and about 1450 metres total ascent is not as significant as some other days. Nevertheless I thought it was hard! The rain stayed away but it was cold. We also had a strong headwind for most of the ride to add to the challenge.

We left our Hurst Green accomodation with our now regular travelling group full of chat. We headed to Waddington (5.9m) climbing into the Forest of Bowland. Reasonably treeless and open moors with a history of hunting according to our local guide Alan.

We kept climbing reaching the top of the climb at the 8.9m mark. We then past through Newton-in-Bowland (11.1 m) climbing further to Slaidburn (12.9m).

We continued climbing crossing into North Yorkshire. After crossing the river we climbed further to reach High Bentham (25.0m) where we stopped for lunch.

After a decent lunch break with yummy food we climbed out of town and then descended into Ingleton.

We passed under a very historic looking viaduct.

After Thorton-in-Londsdale (29.3m) we climbed over the hill and continued along the broad river valley. At the farmhouse we had to stop to open and close a gate with the road then climbing steeply.

This was a tough ride to the top of this section of the Yorkshire Dales. The road is noted as “Quiet Lane” and that it was! I think I saw 2 cars moving in this section which is fortunate as I did not want to meet one on the narrow and steep sections.

This climb hurt. My legs burned and my back was starting to cramp up probably due to positioning and how tight I was gripping the bike.

After reaching the top and waiting for the the others Tony and I froze. It was icy cold. But the views were great. The hill tops are barren and denuded of vegetation as they are below the snow line. The sheep graze wherever, not being constrained by fencing.

Once we regrouped the descent commenced and we were very slow and careful, particularly given our EPOs earlier words of advice noting the death of a cyclist who descended too fast and crashed into a gate. The view of the green valley that came into view was stunning, and a contrast to what we had viewed from the top.

The descent was steep and scary and we allowed good gaps between each rider. In several spots there are closed gates including one just after a steep turn. The waterfall at the 36.7m mark is certainly worth stopping to admire.

We continued to descend into Dent (39.3m) but chose to walk our bikes on the rough cobbles through the quaint and pretty village.

After a shower we went for a wander around this delightful little town which has a history of knitting. I purchased a woollen red hat. Apparently in the 18th century both men and women knitted, often whislt walking to the fields. Their output of hand knitted gloves and socks was enormous, providing an important supplementary income.

We also checked out the local 12th Century church of St Andrews, where you can still see Norman features in the tower, the nave and the arched doorway.

Tea was a hoot as we celebrated Ian’s 66th birthday with a cake that Bike Adventures purchased. Jane thought that she should have a birthday too so we could share cake with her, despite her birthday being in June. The subsequent conversations that ensued were just plain funny as Jane vehemently continued with her somewhat serious protestations. I must remember to keep my eyes out for anti-sarcasm tablets.

Tomorrow sounds like it is going to be crucifying for me personally. Will see. I will do my best. If that is not good enough then I will just have to walk that bit of nasty hill.

I had an aim of riding LEJOG without getting off my bike and walking. Today we had what our EPO regards as the toughest climb of our LEJOG route climbing from Cowgill, up past Dent Railway Station to the top of the 3.2mile climb. Dent Station is the highest railway station in the United Kingdom.

As we departed Dent today I was nervous and said to myself that I needed to make safe and sensible decisions today. Since the age of 9 I have coped with exercise induced asthma. As a kid I was wrapped in cotton wool by my parents who actively encouraged my non activity. I rebelled as a teenager and ended up doing track and field running, cross country running, hockey and table tennis.

I progressed to bush walking and caving and enlisted with the Australian Army Reserve so I could earn enough money to buy my wind surfer. My chain smoking parents were horrified.

I “forgot” to tell the Australian Defence Force about my asthma but got caught out when exposed to tear gas. Tear gas is a great asthma trigger!!

I am also stubborn and expect a lot from myself. I worked hard for 2 years to overcome a knee reconstruction and I don’t like to be told I cannot do something.

I wanted to beat this hill but knew I needed to listen to my body. I was doing quite well up the hill and had conquered the hair pin bends but my lungs just would not comply and the cold and moist air along with extreme physical exertion just sent them into broncho spasm. I was all alone (as Tony was a few hundred yards ahead) and the others were at least a similar gap back, and this was not the time or place to collapse…so the inner and more sensible voice eventually won telling me to stop and I got off the bike and walked around 150 yards.

However, I was gutted and bitterly disappointed! I worked hard to get my breathing calmer and more relaxed along with extra ventolin and rode the rest of the climb and met Tony at the top which is 535 m / 1750 feet.

The rest of the days ride was much easier and just rolled along and I treated it as a recovery ride.

At the 11.8m mark we crossed into Cumbria, followed by Outgill (15.3m), Nateby (18.9m) and Kirkby Stephen (19.9). We stopped for some welcome morning tea here.

Other towns and villages included Soulby (22.5m), Burrels (29.2m), Appleby-in-Westmoreland (30.1m), Long Marton (33.7m), Newbiggin (38.2m), Culgaith (40.4m), Langwathby (44.1m), Great Salkeld ( 47.3m) and Lazonby (49.2m).

The day from Kirkby Stephen was damp with rain experienced for the majority of the rest of the days route. We opted to not stop for lunch but just to roll along steadily.

We were glad to arrive at Armathwaite, having ridden 55.1 miles and climbing nearly 1200 metres.

Today was a contrast to yesterday morning. Easy! From our overnight accommodation in Armathwaite we continued alongside the valley, crossing the railway and climbing steeply with our stiff and cold muscles protesting the prematurity of use!

At 7.1m we rode through Wetheral with the road descending out of town and continuing alongside the river.

At 9.0 m we arrived at Warwick Bridge then 9.3m Little Corby, turning left at River Irthing.

In quick succession Newby East (10.0m) and Low Crosby ( 12.2m) we were enjoying our very relaxed and casual riding style today. I think the imminence of the following day being a rest day put us into holiday mode a day early. At times I found the pace too slow and had to exercise some patience.

From about 13.7 miles signage started to signify our impending border crossing into Scotland and we were all genuinely excited by this prospect. EPO Steve had forewarned us that there would be no “welcome to Scotland” sign which I think probably disappointed us as we were keen to be photographed at such a sign.

We travelled along a small section of cinder cycle path which was a narrow tract of dirt between grass. Tony bolted ahead at this point enjoying the rougher ride.

After passing through some woods we arrived at Longtown (21.9m) where we stopped for morning tea at a cafe. All except electric Jane, Rev Peter and Aussie Graham stopped here.

There was also a bike shop in Longtown on the outskirts so our group checked it out and Tony and I stocked up on protein bars, gels and bike cleaning products.

We rode over the River Esk where I could see a couple of fly fisherman wading through the shallow waters.

At the 25.2m mark we crossed the River Sark which denotes the Scottish border. Obligatory photos ensued and I must say the Scottish farmers make it difficult to have a pee here. Fences with barbed wire and plenty of stinging nettle!

Chapel Knowe (28.1m) was next, followed by Eaglesfield (33.7m) and then the wonderfully named Ecclefechan (36.5m), famous as the birth place of poet Robert Carslyle. We were getting peckish again but there was no obviously open and enticing eating place.

We saw Triathlete Phil in the support van just out of the village so stopped and had a bar and banana there before heading off again towards Lockerbie.

The pace picked up at this point with Tony and Alan leading and we dropped Colin and Joyce. The boys were in a no waiting mood at each intersection and I did feel a bit guilty as I knew Colin would be disappointed with us.

The boys then undertook an 8 mile time trial. The pace was fast. Very fast as we zipped along the highway. I did wonder how long this sudden burst was planned for as my recovery ride turned into a non recovery effort. The miles were ticking by very quickly here. Helen said she did not mind if I left her and went up behind the boys.

I told her I would stay knowing that my presence behind Tony would make him go up yet another level due to his competitive nature.

Helen and I were both relieved when the time trial came to an end turning off the highway.

For the last 10 mile the pace was again very cruisey and easy enjoying the Scottish country side that was increasingly aesthetically pleasing.

At 59.9 miles we arrived at our accomodation in Moffat, “Bridge House” which is a delightful B & B owned by an equally lovely lady. Our room was above and beyond expectation with a lovely bay window and four poster bed. Weeks worth of dirty washing was done and dried for £10 within only 2 hours of our arrival.

A few of us went for a wander into Moffat village where we sampled a piece of the renowned Moffat toffee.

Tea was at Claudio’s, a local Italian restaurant. Highly recommended. The waitress there was memorable for her strong Scottish tongue! She also told us what a lovely couple Rev Peter and electric Jane were (they had arrived earlier at a different table). That brought a response from our table she could not have envisaged or even understood.

After our first and only rest day scheduled for our LEJOG Tour de UK, we were ready and keen to roll this morning. The weather had improved overnight and we were blessed with a bit of blue sky and sun. The air was very crisp around 7 degrees.We undertook an initial 7 mile climb out of Moffat and what a beautiful climb! Unlike the English who like to put the most direct route up a hill and toss in a few hair pins for good measure, this Scottish climb is gentle and goes on and up gently for the 7 mile providing the cyclist with brilliant views of the Tweedsmuir Hills.

We also passed the source of the River Tweed marked with a headstone…where was the water??

At the top of the climb (7.8m) we entered the Scottish Borders region and then gently descended into Tweedsmuir (15.7m). You pass the Crook Inn which is a crappy looking establishment begging you with signage to support them…but they were not open! We later learned they are closed permanently. No wonder.

The ride for the rest of the day was very easy with gentle rolling undulations. The road condition generally was great with smooth bitumen (including salmon coloured). There were a few sections of very rough bitumen that makes you think about have to pee!

We passed through Broughton (24.0m) crossing into South Lanarkshire at the 27.2m mark. Next town as Biggar where we stopped for the obligatory cappuccino and choice delicacy! Triathlete Phil, on Sag wagon duty again, having drawn the short straw again, suggested very nicely that perhaps we could slow down a bit, otherwise we would get to our accomodation too early. No problem at all with such great riding weather.

From Biggar we headed in a more westerly direction, crossing the famed River Clyde at the 33.7m mark. Straight through Thankerton (34.1m) continuing our ride following a winding road across moorland.

Carmichael was reached at 38.8m with a steeper pinch of a hill at 41.5m.

We passed through a sad looking estate at Lesmahagow then through town climbing out of town past the cemetery.

I did laugh at the next couple of villages. They sounded ever so welcoming. Boghead (50.8m) followed shortly by a sign to Deadwaters.

Sandford was our final village before Strathaven (55.1m).

Strathaven is an interesting little town. We went for a walk to check out possible eating for tea. We counted 4 Indian and 2 Chinese restaurants, a couple of pubs and that was about it!

It was with great trepidation that we headed out onto our bikes today. Never before have I taken such interest in meteorology and the forecasts. I did not particularly like what I was hearing or seeing, but I could see some potential promise in the afternoon. Gale winds were forecast of up to 60 to 70 mph.We were not even sure if Bike Adventures would let us ride, fully understanding and accepting that safety is number one. However it was determined that given much of our day would be on cycle paths negotiating Glasgow some relief from the gale winds would be provided.

So we left Strathaven and were quickly soaked. We followed undulating roads for around 9.0 miles at which time there were two short but very steep declines, the second one looking quite hairy with green on the road and a thickness of loose bitumen. I chose to walk my bike down the worst 10 metres or so, as I was nervous.

From there we continued heading towards Hamilton until we hit the cycle path alongside the River Clyde which we followed right through Glasgow.

It was on this path that we crossed a small wooden bridge and my bike just slid away from underneath me, dumping me unceremoniously shoulder first onto the ground. Pain in my right shoulder and a few other spots. After pulling myself together we proceeded only to have Alan incur puncture number two on his front tyre.

During that quite lengthy stoppage I started shivering with cold and Tony and Helen made the decision to get me moving again to warm up with body heat generated by physical activity.

We met Royal John (replacing EPO Steve who was heading off to the USA for a ride) along the way who stood in the middle of the path, pouring rain, like some secret serviceman. Where he had come from we were not sure! I have named him Royal John as he worked on the Queens Flight for many years.

We also had Graham with us for the first time. He normally rode with Rev Peter but Electric Jane put that one to bed for the day. Graham does not like any stop in the rain unless he needs to pee.

Glasgow has some interesting looking buildings but we could not be bothered stopping in the rain for photographs. There were an extraordinary number of joggers out and about in the rain as well as the Liberal Democrat conference. We passed a huge number of police as we passed the front entrance to where the conference was being held.

We were following the Loch Lomond bike path for ever and found it easier to look for those signs rather than read our clues in the wet.

Working our way out of Glasgow we followed the canal which was nice. We did not stop for lunch but instead paused briefly along the canal and shared a fruit cake broken up roughly that I had purchased in Strathaven.

At Bowling Basin we found some loos so stopped to admire the water in all its white cap glory.

We ended up in Dumbarton at 37.9 miles, Renton 41.0 miles, Alexandria 42.1 miles and Balloch 43.9 where we reached the shores of the beautiful Loch Lomond.

We rode around the western aspects of Loch Lomond reaching our accomodation at 54.6 miles, which was fantastic as it was on the banks of the Loch with great views of the Trossachs and Ben Lomond.

It even had a spa bath to soak my new batch of bruises I am collecting.

The weather was again not ideal but the mizzle, drizzle, rain, wind, gale like gusts, sunshine was very cyclic…about every 5 minutes or so.I could have spent more time at Loch Lomond. Our view over the Loch was very serene and peaceful, but northward we must move to reach our ultimate goal.

From our accomodation we continued to cycle alongside Loch Lomond, in clear view of Ben Lomond and The Trossachs.

Arriving at Tarbet (6.4m), the road leaves Loch Lomond and continues through open woods.

We arrived at Arrochar (8.0m), at the head of Loch Long. The road leaves Loch Long and climbs a wooded valley for over 7 miles. We were very pleased to arrive at the top with the aptly names “Rest and be thankful pass”. I was very thankful despite the 4.7 degrees Celsius temperature.

Due to the cold we were not keen to remain at the top of the pass for long so continued riding now with a long descent down to the shores of Loch Fynne. On the descent we were stopped by road works for about 5 minutes and we quickly got cold again. I squatted behind a car to reduce the gusty cold headwind. We rode past Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and I could smell them. I so like oysters!

At 30.3 miles we arrived in Inverary, having just passed Inverary Castle on our right, a multi turreted mock Gothic Palace which is the family home of the powerful Campbell Clan who have been the Dukes of Argyll since 1701. There is a sign out promoting a coffee shop but thought they may not appreciate 6 Lycra clad middle aged, wet and dirty cyclists in their cafe.

So we lobbed up at another cafe just half a mile on, greeted by a lone bag pipe player. Think he was there for the hoards of tourist buses seemingly full of “old people”. Note to myself: they look very bored, do your own thing!

Leaving Inverary having consumed a bowl of soup and large cappuccino, I immediately regretted that level of liquid consumption as I was far too full for the immediate 7 mile climb. The Scots seem to like 7 mile climbs as this was our third in only a couple of days.

After reaching the top of the climb (37.9 miles), the road descends and continues undulating in woods along the shore of Loch Awe.

Loch Awe is one of the longest freshwater lochs in Scotland, stretching 25 miles across a glen in the south west highlands.

We also past the abandoned Kilchirn Castle, dwarfed by Ben Cruachan.

We arrived at our accomodation at Brander Lodge Hotel at the 52.9 mile mark, having just passed the Cruachan Power Station.

Just down the road is the Pass of Brander where Robert the Bruce fought the Clan MacDougal in 1308. Our route goes past there first thing in the morning on the way to Fort William.

Tony has just checked his Garmin and the temperature range today was between 4 and 10 No wonder we were cold at times. The average was 6 degrees!

I was never, ever an Abba fan so why on earth did that silly song get stuck in my head as we left Bridge of Awe? Kind of annoying! Tried swapping it with Tom Cochrane’s “Life is a highway”, as that seemed more appropriate on the A road today. Today was cruisy! Easy 50 miles in much improved weather conditions. It did drizzle a little but I did not get wet. I upgraded my knicks to my 8 degree and under long Assos pants to ensure warmth.

From Bridge of Awe we rode through Taynuilt (2.9 miles) with the road gently undulating to Connel (9.7 miles). There was a fairly strong headwind at this point and I took my turn at the lead for a mile or so. I am not strong in the wind. It frustrated me.

We then crossed over the large iron bridge that passes over the estuary and we really got blown about by side gusts. I was thankful that it was one way traffic only.

We then rode through Benderloch (12.8 miles), past the Scottish Sea Life centre and then crossed over onto the cycle path. Great path. We stopped to admire and photograph the deserted island castle Streaker. I understand that many do not get to see this castle due to weather conditions but we had a clear and unimpeded view today.

We had arranged with new boss Royal John to stop at the nearby cafe overlooking this castle but our route instructions seemed to include a “steep hill” which we somehow avoided by continuing on the flat bike path. We made the decision not to go climbing any hills in search of this elusive cafe and to proceed to the next town.

A highlight of the morning cycle path was the section that goes through a heavily wooded forest. We saw two red squirrels which were very pretty little creatures, but much shyer than the grey squirrels in Hyde Park, so no photos today.

We rode through Duror at 31.0 miles hoping to find a cafe but alas there were none. Royal John found us here deep in conversation and we told him we could head to Kentallen for lunch. He kindly drove ahead to ensure the local food venue there was open, which it was.

We had a great lunch on the shore of Loch Linnhe. Fantastic views.

We took it even easier in the afternoon so that we would not arrive too early into Fort William. We enjoyed the loch views. We also passed over a bridge crossing that provided spectacular views of Glencoe which is renowned for its beauty and savage history when the Campbell Clan killed 38 of the MacDonald clan in 1692.

North Ballachulish is reached at 37.6 miles and Onich at 39.3 miles, both hugging the shores of Loch Linnhe.

Fort William signaled the end of riding for the day (50.1 miles). Brilliant mountainous setting, Fort William must be the capital of bush walking stores! Certainly there were lots of walkers with backpacks around as Fort William marks one end of the Great Glen.

The Great Glen forms a scenic route from Inverness on the Scottish East Coast to Fort William on the west. The glacial Rift Valley was created when the landmass split and moved 400 million years ago. There are a series of four lochs including the famous Loch Ness, Loch Lochy, Loch Linnhe and Loch Oiche. They are interlinked by the Caledonian Canal, built by Thomas Telford, and has been used as a shipping channel since 1822.

Today we saw about four separate rainbows. I guess that is one advantage of drizzle followed by sunshine. Certainly we enjoyed seeing them.

Upon leaving Fort William this morning we were fortunate to be stopped at the Caledonian Canal’s Neptune Staircase to witness that lock working. There are eight locks here and the lock worker told me that it would take them one hour and twenty minutes to get the fishing boat through all 8 locks, rising the water level a total of 21 metres. We were all genuinely fascinated by this engineering feat.

We then headed towards Gairlochy with the road undulating through the valley providing glimpses of Ben Nevis back over Fort William. More rainbows.

We stopped at the top of a climb at around the 10 mile mark as Alan sustained his fourth puncture on his front tyre. Bad luck but this time the tyre was replaced as well. It provided me with a good opportunity to rest my lungs which were suffering in the cold and damp air after the previous climb.

We stopped to look at the Commando Memorial (11.8 mile) on the site of a World War II commando training camp site.

At the 23.8 mile mark we again crossed the Caledonian Canal and passed though Invergarry (26.0 mile).

At the 28.7 mile mark we turned off the road immediately before the bridge over the Caledonian Canal to follow the canal tow path. The first section was quite muddy after recent rain and a bit rough. The path then improved as we progressed towards Fort Augustus.

At one point in this path we rested and located what appeared to be a small snake. Apparently it is a slo worm, a legless lizard.

Lunch was in Fort Augustus ( 33.5 miles). The Caledonian Canal runs through town into Loch Ness. Fort Augustus is a tourist mecca with heaps of tourist buses and camera clicking Asians. You could purchase a very small jar of supposed Loch Ness water for a mere £7. What a rip off!!

After lunch we continued with our cruisy pace hitting Invermoriston (39.9 miles). The road was increasingly undulating this afternoon.

We arrived at Urquhart Castle (50.7 miles) which looked nothing like the photos that I had seen, which disappointed me. I guess they were taken from the water aspect. We viewed the castle from the car park as they wanted £8 to enter the ruins.

We then descended into Lewiston (52.0 miles) and Drumnadrochit. After a little bit of navigational confusion we arrived at our accomodation to be greeted by the home owner Alistair, with homemade chocolate cake. This was very greatly appreciated by all and the cake did not go to waste.

I cannot believe that we are getting so close to John O Groats. Part of me is excited, but another part sad, as I have enjoyed the last three weeks so much, with a great bunch of people, lots of laughs, supported by a great Bike Adventures crew. Nevertheless, the show must go on.

Today I made the decision to leave Drumnadrochit before the rest of the gang, with just Tony in tow. My reason was because of my increasing concerns regarding my lungs and exercise induced asthma. The last few days the air has been cold and I have found that my lungs are going into tightness much more quickly.

This, combined with the fact that there was a significantly steep hill (regarded as the third hardest climb of the tour) to climb out of Drumnadrochit requiring a lot of physical exertion, in the colder part of the day, led to my solo decision. I do not like to have lots of people around me when my asthma plays up.

I ensured, as always that I had both my daily preventive and also the required doses of ventolin. Alan lent me a neck scarf to try and wear over my mouth to warm up the air I was breathing.

So I just grinded away, slowly as I could, concentrating on my breathing, keeping it as regular as I could. I found the neck scarf a little suffocating on climbing but very useful on the flatter sections. I got up the climb without issue which was the important thing! There was heaps of oil on the road making it a little slippery in a few spots.

Tony and I decided to head to Beuly to wait for the rest of the gang as it was damn cold in the drizzling rain. As the road descended it continued through open rolling hills. After we crossed River Beauly, we found a nice little cafe in town (14.8 miles) that was willing to have 2 dripping wet clients even providing paper towel to dry ourselves with. There is a nice old priory in the town, the ruins of which are worth a quick look.

With our group reformed, we continued towards Dingwall, passing through the Muir of Ord (17.3 miles), Conon bridge (20.7 miles, stopping for some coffee and goodies at a cafe in Dingwall (23.2 miles).

Upon leaving Colin discovered he had a puncture on his rear tyre so we rested longer, this time freezing our butts off.

Back on the road we climbed out of the town which continued alongside of the hill. We rode through Evanton (29.9 miles) again climbing across open fields, then descending steeply into the valley. Around this time we met another cyclist from Perth, Western Australia who was riding LEJOG on his own.

After crossing the river, the road climbed yet again steeply through the woods. Ardross is at the 36.0 mile mark and is signified by nothing at all except a sign. Nothing worth stopping for, and Colin’s pit stop would need to wait until we climbed through forest and across open moorland.

A very nice, very fast Ferrari screamed past us at this point, and boy was he moving. John caught up to us with the van asking if we had seen Rodney, Ian and Graham as they had escaped and were missing in action, somewhere!

At the 45.2 mile mark there is a viewpoint over Dornach Firth. Great views. We were enjoying our break until a tourist bus full of bored looking older folks rolled up. Not one of these tourists could crack a smile confirming the need for me to continue acting my mental age rather than that denoted on my birth certificate.

From the viewpoint the road descends steeply and follows Dornoch Firth, entering Kyle of Sutherland.

At 50.1 miles Ardgay is entered and we proceeded directly to Bonar Bridge with its modern looking bridge. Bonar Bridge is a village on the north bank of the Kyle of Sutherland.

Our accomodation was not quite ready so we enjoyed a light meal at a cafe with Rodney, Ian and Graham who had been rediscovered. They had chosen not to stop for any fuel breaks during the day and were making up for it now.

Today I rode through heaven’s gardens. The ride was quite simply the most beautiful and scenic ride that I have ever done. It was an easy ride providing ample opportunity to bask in natures glory at its best.We left Bonar Bridge with some blue sky! Rain jackets were unnecessary but some chose to wear them until fully warmed up. We followed the river out of town heading towards Lairg. At the 5.0 mile mark we crossed the river and climbed gently along the wooded valley.

We turned into Falls of Shin which are worth stopping to view. Salmon are frequently spotted jumping but not during our brief visit.

We continued along the valley by the river and turned towards Lairg (10.2 miles). Through Lairg (11.2 miles) continuing alongside the loch.

At this point the road north became a single lane track crossing flat open moorland with button like grasses and flowering heather like plants. The road then climbs up through a forestry plantation reaching Crask Inn (24.0 miles).

Royal John had recommended we all stop here as it was the last point of possible nourishment purchase for the day and he regards the place as an “institution”.

I was the first to enter the building and I did wonder if perhaps they were not open today as all the lights were turned off. I called out and no response. I had inadvertently let a dog in when I entered, and after some time a lady wandered out wanting to know how many of us were turning up and what we were after. ” Whatever you have to offer will be gratefully purchased” I told her.

Well out came a plunger of coffee and simply the best cake I have ever eaten with apple and black currant in it. We stayed for the good part of an hour also meeting a couple of other ‘end to enders’ and 3 Flemish guys on motor bikes doing the Tour of Scotland.

Only a few mile down the road from Crask we were riding through a magnificent valley when we heard a noise which made no sense. Before we really comprehended what was happening we were buzzed, at extraordinary low altitude by what we assume was a British Airforce fighter plane on a very low altitude mission. The noise as it flew over was incredible, as was the sight of its monster rear jets and how it veered through the valley like something out of Star Wars. Wow!!

Altmaharra ( 31.8 miles) looked pretty dead after that entertainment.

We continued through undulating forest and open moorland, crossing over the river and following the shores of Loch Loyal.

We arrived at Tongue after a steep descent in misty rain which soon cleared. Tongue is located on a shallow sea loch, with great views of Ben Hope and Ben Loyal.

Tony and I then walked up to Castle Varrich offering wonderful panoramic views of the inlet out to the heads into the Atlantic Ocean. The castle is an old square tower on a hill on the east side of the Kyle, believed to be the residence of Karl Hundason, who made an effort to conquer Scotland on the death of Malcolm II. The walls are around 1.4 metres thick.

Tomorrow will be bitter sweet. Our goal will be reached marking the end of a wonderful journey and holiday with a great bunch of people. Mixed emotions!!

The last day! Three weeks ago this day seemed so far away with a mountain of work in between the start at Lands End and the finale at John O’Groats.With a heavier heart we set off from beautiful Tongue. The Kyle of Tongue was very inviting at the top of the climb out of the village. It was high tide and the shallow Inlet looked serene.

We had climbed Varrich castle hill the previous night after our bike riding for the day had ended and there it stood perched on the edge of the cliff as it has for centuries.

At 2.9 miles we reached Coldbackie and rode through. The road was undulating across open moorland. There was a climb up to Bettyhill (13.0 miles). Some of our group rested on the hill up but I do not like to stop on hills. I find it too hard to get going again so rode on and found some public toilets at the top. I managed to get in and out before the bus of disengaged German tourists lined up.

The route continued up and down arriving at Strathie (22.5 miles) and Mevlich ( 25.7 miles). More hills and more hills and a few more.

Our final county was entered at 29.4 miles, Caithness. Reay is at 32.0 miles and we also went past the Dounreay Nucleur Power Station – with 5 nucleur reactors, it is currently being decomissioned, but that wont finish until 2036, and it will be a brownfield site by 2336. Makes you wonder about the dangers.

We reached the most northerly town on the British mainland Thurso, and old Norse port at 43.5 miles. There are great views towards the Orkney Islands. This is where we were taking a break to allow the riders to consolidate as we wanted to all finish together. It was a tough morning ride as it was quite lumpy.

Nice little bakery in the mall area. As we left, there was a lone bagpiper playing and again I felt melancholy. It was like a lament! I tossed one pound into his hat and was surprised that he could say “Thankyou” and keep the bagpipe noise continuous.

We hit Castletown at 48.8 miles and Dunnetnat 52.0 miles. Easy riding, cool down mode.

Our final climb was to Dunnet Head (56.7 miles) which is mainland Britain’s most northerly point offering more views of the Orkney Islands. Well worth the detour. There are the remnants of fortifications constructed during World War II to protect the naval base as Scapa Flow (Orkneys).

Tony, Helen, Alan and myself waited for Rodney and Ian to arrive so that we could ride with them. I think they were pleased. I tried to gee Ian up a bit as he told me his legs were very tired. Helen left our group and shot off to try and catch up with the others who had not waited at Dunnet Head.

At 64.5 miles we went through Mey passing the front gates to The Prince of Wales owned Castle of Mey, previously owned by the Queen Mother. If not riding with a group I would like to have paid a visit.

Knowing that Tony and I being the stronger two riders could march ahead and probably catch those who had not waited I decided there was more to be gained by supporting others. I was so pleased to see that Colin and Joyce waited on the John O Groats outskirts with Helen and Jane, with Peter waiting on the roadside a little further up the road and then finally Graham at the pub!!

Peter, at 80 years, having raised over £10,000 for his charities, led us in to be greeted by Phil and John with champagne and the obligatory photos.

I am proud of me! At 51 I rode around 1050 miles, climbed over 18,200 metres and sat on my saddle for just over 85 hours. I climbed hills I never thought I could. I met a wonderful bunch of like minded people including an amazing 80 year old retired Minister Peter Langford ( a member of our team to complete LEJOG) who made me think a lot and made me realise that I can do whatever I set my mind to.

In the words of the Monty Python stage show Spamelot that we watched in London a few nights before our epic journey started ” find your grail” ! This was my grail and it is the start of a new passion to do similar rides.

Bring on France 2015: Dover to the Med!!