Helmsdale to John O'Groats

    Bill, Chris and Phil successfully completed their journey at 4.00 pm today!

    Congratulations lads! Well done!

    The days started as usual about 9.00 am. It was another fine start to the day as they enjoyed the early morning views riding by the coast on the A9 heading north.

    However the 'sting in the tail ' of the journey awaited them!

    For the next 8 - 10 miles they climbed steadily, a string of long ascents to be quickly followed by steep descents taking them back to sea level followed by yet another ascent taking them even higher. As they pressed on upwards passing  many 'lorry escape lanes' that painted pictures of past difficulties experienced by the regular travelers of this route.

    Lunch time found the trio over the worst part and in Wick having acquired a new gear change cable they repaired Chris's cycle.

    Spending time at the signpost for the official photographer and personal shots they reflected on their success and achievement.

    They had all thoroughly enjoyed covering the 1015 miles from Lands End. They had met some wonderful people who had gone out of their way to help them with their journey and been stunned by the marvelous scenery the British Isles has to offer. They had enjoyed excellent food and hospitality not to mention a broader appreciation of the beers and ales of the British Isles!

    They reflected on how luckily they had been with the weather. The crosswinds of the last few miles had been tiring. Head winds such as these for a significant proportion of the journey would have made completion doubtful. They had also missed the extreme weather that almost everyone else managed to enjoy at some point over the last fortnight. They also very carefully steered clear of our nationwide fuel crises.

    Their machines had served them well. A few punctures, one broken cable and a bracket in 3000 miles was pretty good!

    So on to Thurso for the next 2 evenings. They quickly covered the 20 featureless miles exposed and swept clear of trees and hedges by ravaging Atlantic storms.

    So this is the last of the daily reports. Any details missed on the daily reports from the team will be added over the next few days after their return to Liverpool. Chris will be able to email the many photos he has taken with his digital camera and these will also be added to the daily reports to complete the record.