Wow how exciting. This is just a quick update to let you all know that we have finally set off and after nearly 2 years of talking about cycling from John O Groats to Lands End we aare actgually doing it.
Mick and Shaz picked us up on Saturday and around 1pm we left to go to their beautiful lodge at Loch Lomand where we stayed overnight relaxing with a couple of beers and red wine - no point training now. It has been brilliant to have them helping us and they have provided executive travel for us and the Black Pig. We have been provided with seating in the car facing each other and a table imbetween to play games on and while the time away taking our minds off what is in front of us. Great.
Today the realisation as to how far we will be going hit home. We left Loch Lomond about 20 to 10 but didn't get to John O Groats until quarter to 4. This was our first visit to John O Groats and I have to say in our opinion it is a dump. We know its iconic and all that, but really... there is nothing there,
We had a big dissapointment when we realised that the bloke with the signpost where everyone wants their picture taken had dissappeared in the time that we nipped to the toilet so we do not have an official picture.
We did however have a huge surprise in store when we were approached by our great friends Dave and Elaine who had made the trip all the way from Newcastle to wave us off and wish us luck. Incredible we were really shocked and are so grateful that we have friends who are prepared to go to such lengths to wish us well.
Anyway after several photos we were desperate to get started as the wind was blowing and it was freezing. It didn't stop us setting off grinning from ear to ear just so pleased to have started.
We set off into a head wind then called off to Dunnet Head to deviate to the actauly highest point in the UK - John O Groats isn't. We then cycled back to the main road and into Thurso where we are currently staying.
No time to add pictures yet though. We now need to shower and get some food.
So thanks to all for your well wishes and we will update you further but the adventure has now actually started and we are very very happy.
So far so good. Keep pedalling, we are with you all the way eventhough we are sat at home in the warmth drinking cups of tea, beers and red wine.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the rest of your amazing adventure. And we look forward to the next blog.
Love from The Wattsgang xxx
p.s don't forget the chaffing cream!!
Really good to see you yesterday, it was well worth the wild night camping at John O Groats. Wish we had a picture of the look on your faces when you saw us there, a bit of a surprise we think! Dave really wanted to hop on a bike and join you, I have to admit, I didn't!!!! Wouldnt mind being the back up driver though! Mind you if its anything like our experiences on the coast to coast, i may have had to take out extra insurance!
ReplyDeleteLots of Good Luck
We'll keep in touch
Love The Shearers