Dingwall - Helmsdale

    The weather was brilliant today for the 64 miles from Dingwall to Helmsdale.

Once again it was raining through breakfast only to clear-up as they loaded their bikes and continued sunny throughout the day.

    The journey started  alongside the Cromarty Firth followed by a steady climb through Easter Ross and on to the uplands with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and forest plantations.

Dornoch Firth

    They had as enjoyable descent into Dornoch Firth as they headed to Bonar Bridge for their lunch.

First Signpost for John O'Groats

    After lunch they cycled along the shore-line of the North Sea. The weather now was glorious enabling superb views of the coastline.

    Mid afternoon saw the bikers at Brora where they found some excellent tea & scones smothered with homemade jam....

The Seaside near Brora

    The highlight of the day had been the contrasting scenery of morning with mountains and valleys compared with the afternoons Sunderland coastline and beaches with rolling plains behind.

    The problem of the day had been Chris's cycle. One of the gear change cables had broken and after some skilful adjustments Chris was able to continue using just 3 gears carefully selected.

    The accommodation problems highlighted yesterday were quickly resolved when a bungalow in Helmsdale was made available to the team - at a small price I may add!

    This evening found them reporting back from The Belgrave Arms where they were being lavished with excellent Scottish fare...again!

    Tomorrow they plan to complete their journey of 55 miles to John O'Groats by 3.00. After completing the formalities they will travel on to Thurso where they are booked in for 2 nights to relax and do so leisurely sightseeing. They also plan a trip from Scrabser to the Orkneys.

To be continued....