Sunday 28th September 2014 - The Adventure Begins

A beautiful English Autumn day saw relatives and friends gathering in Butleigh to wish a 'bon voyage' to the two intrepid cyclists. Les' grandchildren had produced a lovely banner wishing Grampy and Ian good luck and, as the clock struck 11:00, it was time to wave them off as they ascended the hill out of the village. The first of many hills, no doubt.
I have just received an email from Ian who has told me that they had excellent weather and light traffic on the three and three quarter hour journey. They even managed a visit to Shillingstone Railway Project (http://www.shillingstone-railway-project.org.uk/) in North Dorset, a restored railway station and an excellent place for lunch.
They have now arrived in Pimperne, Dorset where they are staying for the night. As I write this, they are enjoying a meal and a well deserved pint of beer (possibly more than one!) in the pub across the road. Talking of which, I think that it is time to drink their health.
61 km completed, just 1,139 km to go!
To donate to Les and Ian's charities, please visit www.justgiving.com/teams/lesian
Photos: The banner made by Les' grandchildren - I should point out that it reads 'Grampy' not 'Grumpy'; Ian and Les posing in their fetching BIBIC teashirts; Gathering in front of the banner; And they're off!