To view our daily log of our ride go down to bottom of the page and click on older posts

We would like to thank Cath & Joannie for sponsoring us again on our justgiving page it's easy and totally secure. www.justgiving.co.uk/terrypyper and click on Donate now. A Big Thank you Kevin/Terry

We would like to thank Cathryn Remmington and all at Excalibur Communications for raising money from a non uniform day and sponsoring us on our justgiving page it's easy and totally secure. www.justgiving.co.uk/terrypyper and click on Donate now. Thank you Kevin/Terry

We would like to thank Anna & David Martin for sponsoring us on our justgiving page it's easy and totally secure. www.justgiving.co.uk/terrypyper and click on Donate now. Thank you Kevin/Terry

Kevin & Terry would like to say a special thanks to our support crew Lesley & Hazel for coming along and supporting us on our End to End trip which made our trip a lot easier. You were both fantastic x x.

Anyone wishing to see some of the photos of our end to end trip, go back through the older post as some days have now had photos added with more to follow so keep checking.

We would like to thank Gary Johnson for sponsoring us on our justgiving page it's easy and totally secure. www.justgiving.co.uk/terrypyper and click on Donate now. Thank you Kevin/Terry

We would like to thank Trevor Edwards for sponsoring us on our justgiving page its easy and totally secure. www.justgiving.co.uk/terrypyper and click on Donate now. Thank you Kevin/Terry

Day 14 Saturday 8th August 2009

A glorious day dawned over the campsite in Par, Cornwall. Trouble getting the boys up this morning? No way. They were both up early and raring to go and actually left on time for the first time since day 1, after receiving a visit from Ken and Doreen who waved them off, together with several members of the campsite. The girls got on with the packing up, watched by their neighbour, who was obviously totally mesmerised by the rapid dismantling of the tent. Then it was a quick pit stop at the local Tesco store to get lunch and the chase was on. The boys were steaming along and managed to break their record and got a mammoth 37 miles before the girls caught them! Quick refuelling of boys then it was off to Penzance for lunch.
Meanwhile, there had been lots of phone calls from family members to say they were on the way. The boys were cycling furiously with the end in sight. At one point it looked like they would arrive at Lands End before everyone else! Then a phone call was received from one family who were heading in the wrong direction! (Moral: never trust a sat nav!!! )
Lunch took place in the Penzance Harbour car park where the boys were met by family members then it was off for the final lap.
Lost family were now back on track, heading in the right direction but quite a long way behind. All was well in the end. An enforced pit stop was required at Sennen while said family got themselves into Lands End, then the girls set off in the car which was bedecked in Cancer Research UK balloons. They drove over the finish line, parked (for free) and then raced to the line to cheer in Kevin and Terry at the end of their amazing journey. There was champagne, medals and balloons for the boys and lots of people appeared from the Lands End complex to cheer them in and applaud their achievement. Then followed the inevitable posing for photographs, medals, flowers and chocs for the girls and a fantastic picnic/barbecue organised by Lesley (Mum) in glorious sunshine overlooking the English Channel. A better spot could not have been found.
Mileage Bikes 950.1 miles Car 1085 miles.
And so we come to the end of End to End July 09. We met lots of people on the way, heard many stories about the suffering that cancer causes, had lots of laughs and worked our way, as a team, and through wind, rain, hills, mountains, valleys, sore knees, heat, traffic and broken bikes. A truly memorable experience for us all. Many thanks to everyone who has followed our journey, contributed to the cancer fund, kept us going with their comments and the amazing welcome that we received in Lands End.
And the final words of End to End should be about Terry and Kevin. Well done boys on completing your amazing adventure. If there were more people like you in the world it would be a far better place. Congratulations! When's the next adventure?

We would like to thank Peter Nash for sponsoring us on our justgiving page its easy and totally secure. www.justgiving.co.uk/terrypyper and click on Donate now. Thank you Kevin/Terry

Day 13 Friday 7th August 2009

Day started started just like any other day boys were due to set off at 8:30 hahahaha! It was a struggle today, one couldn't get out until 8 although he did visit a little room at 5 and so is counting that time! They were finally ready at 9:20. Girls packed up and set off at 10:40 and unfortunately listened to Doris and went the scenic route. Caught the boys at 30 miles (car had done 38) So had lunch at Lifton Farm Shop and had a argument about whether we were still in Devon or had crossed the border into Cornwall. Even the waitress couldn't help us! Turns out we were still in Devon and crossed at 2:08. Today was had lots of hills and the sun was shinning. Girls waited at Darley Ford and asked 2 very nice ladies on horses to give the boys a message as they went up the hill, as yet the boys had not come down the hill. The message was tell them to get a move on. Message was delivered and the boys arrived at 3:20, refuel for the boys and on to the next 10 mile stop. These hills were also a struggle. We asked a nice man if we could park in the hall car park while waiting for the boys. Another refuel then off to the campsite. Amazing views and tent started to go up, not quite up when Terry arrived quickly followed by Kev and Ken who had gone out to meet the boys and escort them into camp. After a shower and a change we had to rearrange the car so we could all fit in it and off we went to supper at Ken and Doreen's and what a supper it was. Everyone was stuffed and didn't want to leave. Many Thanks to Ken and Doreen you don't know how happy you made our last night. Off to bed now for everyone to get ready for our big day tomorrow we are planning to get to Land's End at about 2 and are really looking forward to seeing everyone.
Mileage bikes 75.5 total 898.2
car 81 total 1029
Tonight we are sponsored by the Ellis Family.
Kev would like to say a big thank you to Paul at the Redwing Website for putting us back in the news.

Day 12 Thursday 6th August 2009

Boys left at 9:35 again!!! Girls packed away and said goodbye to our lovely neighbours Nikki and Gordon, Donna and Steve, Shannon, Katie and Jessica thanks for your donation and hope you had a lovely day with the witch at Wookey Hole. Girls set off on their wild goose chase for energy powder stuff. About 2 miles for the campsite met a couple of horses and slowed down and heard a rattle on the roof, someone had left a water bottle on the roof, that's 3 things now Terry. Tried to find a bike shop with said powdery stuff but couldn't and as it was getting late decided to give it up and catch the boys. On route passed through Glastonbury and it rained, boys were taking shelter at this point in a bus stop as their wet weather gear was in the car as Mark told them the weather going to be fine! (We were really glad we hadn't checked the weather!) Finally caught them up at Asda Supercentre Taunton where they had been patiently waiting for ages sheltering from the rain (well that's what they said!) Talked to a lovely man from Asda who offered to lock the bikes safety in the staff quarters. We had a lovely lunch then boys set off again girls followed and stopped 10 miles they didn't see the boys as they left Taunton but as yesterday this isn't unusual, they got lost again. Ask Kev about the vicar. Quick refuel and off again this time girls heading for campsite via supermarket. Just loading the car and a phone rings someone had a puncture. Quick turn around to assist, problem was Kev had gone in front and didn't hear Terry shout that he had a puncture so Kev was miles ahead before he noticed Terry wasn't behind him. Quick wheel change and they both set off, girls headed for site this time. Boys arrived at 5:30.
Mileage bikes 66.3 miles total 822.7 miles
Car 94 miles total 948 miles.
Tonight we are sponsored by Clare for 'Hairy'

Day 11 Wednesday 5th August 2009

Boys decided they were going to leave at 9am but guess what? It was more like 9:30. The girls left at 11am. We are all knackered, we need more hours in the day. Left Cuckoo's Corner and we were waved off by a very nice couple who had made us feel very welcome. Girls very tempted to go left as they exited the campsite to visit Mrs Twaddle. Made a quick Tesco stop to get lunch and then the chase was on. Boys by now had a 2 hour head start. Girls had a fabulous drive into Gloucester, through the Forest of Dean and they were caught at 32 miles equalling their record! Boys re-fuelled and one rather excited wasp took a liking to one of the boys, guess which one! It was hilariously funny watching this cyclist prancing up the road in his cleats!! There are no words to describe this picture. (But the camera was out, Shhhhh!)
Everyone proceeded through the Wye Valley, Tintern Abbey was spectacular and one poor chap was lucky not to suffer a heart attack when Terry was cycling by him and shouted BOO! Both of them struggled to stay on their bikes with laughter. Passed Chepstow race course and on to the old Severn Bridge. Boys stopped half way and took in the view, girls waited on the English border for photo shoot. Fuel break for everyone at Costa! More wasp antics. On to Bristol we all went. Girls stopped at 10 miles met a nice young man from Mutley, Plymouth had a lovely chat until the boys arrived. Another refuel for boys then off to the campsite girls got temporarily misplaced in Bristol but nothing to serious, it was actually the right road. As girls neared campsite their attention was caught by posters advertising Wessex beer festival and as a result they flew right past the campsite. Text boys directions and as the girls were registering they had a phone to say the boys were still in Bristol as they had definetly been distracted by their perfect woman, (blonde and on a bike). Girls had sorted out camp and were just about to leave and had left a message with Jack, our lovely 6year old neighbour who was very interested in the bikes as he had had a new one for his birthday. The message was, "the girls have dropped off the tent and gone home to Devon !!!" Unfortunately the message wasn't delivered as the girls had hoped as they hadn't quite got in the car before the boys arrived at 6:30.
Today's mileage Kev's bike 76.7 miles total 756.4 (Terry had done 4 more miles as he went the scenic route caused by taking the wrong route.
car 74 miles total 854 miles
Tonight we are sponsored by Skirmish Paintball Exeter.

Day 10 Tuesday 4th August 2009

Woohoo double figures today!!! Got up at 7 that was the biggest challenge of the day for everyone. Poached egg on TOAST, yes we did have toast! It was delicious. Boys left at 9:15 girls packed up, tent was wet and everything had got heavier!!!! Just as they packed the car Aled, from the campsite, came over to ask if we where staying another night. We had a chat and Hazel showed him the map on the bonnet and explained what the boys had done, his face was a picture. Good Luck Aled with your first sleepover make sure you sleep. Girls left at 10:50 and took the scenic route as Doris had lost her bearings. Chase was on( the boys know about this so today they rang twice to warn us about speed cameras! Like we ever break the limit, they can only go 16 mph at best and they keep saying about all this head wind slowing them down , the girls have nothing to worry about!) During one of the camera warning phone calls heard all about a cyclist in red who has been cycling from Germany to Ireland and was now cycling back home to Germany. Caught the boys at 28 miles, quick pit stop at 29 miles just outside Shrewsbury. After 37 miles had lunch stop at Dorrington. Sent the boys on their way and the girls quickly overtook them. Passed a cafe called The Copper Kettle so they stopped for coffee hid car against the fence, not hidden well enough, as when they went past Terry spotted the car and waved, so much for an action shot! Caught the boys up and went in search of doughnuts. Girls went on ahead and arrived at Cuckoo's Corner Campsite at 3:50 would have got there sooner but were so busy reading the fish and chip sign they shot right past campsite entrance. Boys arrived at 5:40. All is well but everyone is tired. Campsite has a donkey called Tilly and a Pony called Barney. Girls were visited by 2 hot chicks one was called Henrietta (photos to follow, as Terry was hoping for a hot chick tonight!)

Guess what we had for supper? You got it fish n chips.

Mileage bikes 78.1 total 679.7

car 80 total 780

Tonight we are sponsored by Print & Signs

Day 9 Monday 3rd August 2009

The boys left at 8:30 and only had 22 miles to Aunty Barbara's so the girls hurriedly packed up and left camp an hour behind them unfortunetly they were to quick and the girls didn't catch the little gits up!! (As you can see it is becoming competative as to how far they can get before they are caught but the girls are on to them!) Girls did the office work and made contact with Jane from the Liverpool Echo. Boys arrived at Aunty Barbara's at 10:05 with the girls weren't far behind at 10:30. Time for cup of tea and sandwiches, thanks Aunty Barb. Quote of the day from Joseph "Grandad, why are you wearing funny clothes and whats that pointy bit." Kevin was speech less the first time on this trip. Then everyone headed off to the cemetery to visit Winnie's grave, flowers laid, photos taken, goodbyes said and then back on the road. Girls made a detour to LFC and just as they parked the car the boys rang to say they were on their way back to have their photo taken at the ground. When Terry arrived he was missing his white gloves on closer investigation it was discovered that they had been left on the roof of the car not next to the grave like he thought. Lesley had to turn around and head back to the cemetery to find the lost articles in the road. We all headed into town to meet with Gareth the Echo photographer. He took lots of photos and even made the boys pose beside the statue of Edward VII. Then they boarded 'The Ferry Across The Mersey' and Lesley headed off in the car through the Birkenhead tunnel to met them at the otherside. Lunch at Home! Set off for the second leg on the way the girld found an Asda and stocked up for supper. Girls thought they were chasing the boys and then sitting at a set of traffic lights the boys appear from a completely different direction, they took a wrong turning! We all plodded on and entered our 3rd country Welsh Wales at 4:05. Then we stopped at a garden centre for a yum yum break back on the road and off to the campsite down an amazing road called the horseshoe pass, another very long and high climbing hill, the boys didn't like it as they had to climb 1200ft. Girls thought it was lovely such beautiful views. Arrived at campsite at 6:05 followed by the boys at 7:00. Girls put the tent up and then had to move it as Kev's pod was on a ants nest, they did think about leaving it there but thought they had better move it, even tried praying but it didn't move on it's own. Supper and bed for everyone, really missing Evelyn and her amazing B&B.
Mileage bikes 67.7 total 601.6
car 74 total 700
Tonight we are sponsored by Prints & Signs.

We would like to thank Cathryn Remmington for sponsoring us on our justgiving page its easy and totally secure. www.justgiving.co.uk/terrypyper and click on Donate Now. Thank you Kevin/Terry

Day 8 Sunday 2nd August 2009

Sad this morning, we didn't want to get up, as we had to say goodbye to Evelyn and Dunvegan Guest House. The boys left at 9:21 after a hearty breakfast and a photo shoot with Evelyn. Girls left at 10:10 and the chase was on. The boys put a special request for supper tonight, they only wanted Gammon, potatoes, carrots, egg and pineapple!! They don't want much but we aim to please! Good news from Sharon, Gerald doesn't have to go back to hospital until 2010, Yeahhhhh! The girls got on the A5074 and passed 2 cyclists (not ours, far better looking!!!) and waved, the girls have done this all the way down from JOG they have even shouted words of encouragement going up very steep hills and none of them have waved but today the 2 cyclists on the A5074 did! Girls caught the boys at 23 miles just before Carnforth. Quick stop for the girls at Tesco for lunch for the boys. Back to the chase and the girls passed the boys without even seeing them, no surprise really as they had changed their tops they were lucky really that we didn't follow 2 other cyclists as there are plenty wearing yellow jackets. Found a nice empty car park for lunch which was, ask Terry, miles away, but they did ask for somewhere nice to stop. 38 miles was the refuelling station, pasta and doughnuts. Yum! Girls didn't have anything to eat as they were still full from Evelyn's breakfast ( what a big fat lie that was!!) After waving off the boys the girls thought they would have a toilet stop and found a very nice garden centre so in they went. Found the toilets and headed for the exit but got side tracked by the coffee shop. Thought they would just have a coffee but the pavalova looked irresistable, just had to be done!! 1:25 chase back on. In Preston there was no sign of the boys. We thought they were in front but then Terry phoned and confused us although Terry said the girls confused him!! Eventually found them they were up ahead. Rang campsite they were expecting us. Left the boys not far from camp to go to Tesco's. Just before camp we met loads and loads of cyclists, they were competing in the Iron Man Challenge which involves starting at 6am, a 2 mile swim in a lake, 112 miles on a bike and 26 miles run and we thought the boys were stupid wanting to JOGLE! We met 2 cyclists, Graham and Nick, just before camp who are planning to LEJOG in the Autumn, Good Luck don't forget to let us know when you go, Terry's advise do lots of hill training. Arrived 3:20 at camp the boys where just behind as they caught us with Graham and Nick so we left them there. Tent up, dinner was as requested Terry volunteered to do the washing up so off the boys went. Meanwhile back at the tent the girls had 2 little visitors, Jade and Kelsey. Who asked could we help their mum put the tent. The girls found their mallet and wandered over to help. Mum and friend, Lyndsey and Gemma were very grateful. They had loads of midgy's as ground is still very wet where they are from the flooding.
Mileage bikes 64 miles total 533,36 miles (we are over 500)
car 65 miles total 626 miles
Tonight we are sponsored by Helen in memory of Matthew her son.

Day 7 'rest day' Saturday 1st August, 2009

What bliss! We love Evelyn, Bryan and Dunvegan Guest House. We all slept so well that no one wanted to get up this morning but breakfast called us especially as none of us had to cook it. After breakfast we started to update the blog but once again more dongle trouble. So off to the library we all went for trouble free connections. How pleased we all were that some of you spotted our deliberate mistake with yesterday's mileage this has now been corrected and normal services have been resumed. We have had a lovely day sightseeing in Windermere and Bowness. Fabulous weather, delicious food and amazing shops (including Lakeland) not enough time the day went very quickly. Today we had visitors, Bev and Tasha came to visit it was great seeing them. We even managed a Costa stop with them, no panini for the girls today only the boys, girls still stuffed from breakfast but did have enough room for a muffin. On the way into Costa we where accosted by Jill, a very nice lady, who gave us a donation. Many Thanks Jill. Walked down to the lake and we were really 'grockles'. After saying goodbye to Bev and Tasha started the walk back up the hill but luckily for the boys the girls spotted some shops that had not quite closed so a little bit of wandering meant that we could run for the bus to take us up the rest of the hill. Out to tea we went 'The Lamplighter Bar', fabulous food. Tonight dinner was on Kev , thank you. That's about it for today everyone's going to try and get an early night but we have said that for the past 7 days.
Tonight we are sponsored by 1st Stokenham Brownies and Mum (Rod looks great in our room!!)
We have wondered if mum is enjoying her 2 weeks of bike free paraphernalia. The phone and laptop always there when she wants it not having to book a time with Terry.
Today's mileage bikes 0 miles total 469.36 ( that's because bikes are locked in garage)
car 0 miles total 561.2 miles (that's because it's on Evelyn's drive)

Lyndsey, Rob and Louise asked about the route. The nearest to London we get is not very close as we are coming down the west side of England. This is where we're heading for each night.
Sunday - Wigan
Monday - Llangollen
Tuesday - Moreton On Lugg
Wednesday - Bradstock
Thursday - Nomansland (yes we really mean it, this is not a typo)
Friday - Par
Saturday - Our Beds!!

We would like to thank Kevin Heelan for sponsoring us on our justgiving page its easy and totally secure. www.justgiving.co.uk/terrypyper and click on Donate Now. Thank you Kevin/Terry

Day 6 Friday 31st July 2009

Bed and Breakfast here we come! The boys left the camp site at 9.00 and the girls packed the tent in super quick time but were delayed by visitors wishing us well. Hamish gave the boys a pot of honey for energy and the girls free electricity. Today's chase began. Meanwhile we were on the hunt for a portable whirly gig and had checked the website and knew where they were. We put the postcode into Doris (Sat Nav) and expected to see 6 miles but nearly had kittens when we saw 38 miles and an hour travel time!! Then remembered that Dumfries didn't have any and we were calling into Carlisle. The boys rang to say that they were already at Gretna Gateway. Met there and had lunch (another panini for the girls, 3 in a row). The girls were going to stay and shop but we realised that the border was close by. So everyone headed off to England. Photo shoot on the border and the boys had the girls running backwards and forwards from England to Scotland!! Boys left at 1:20pm and girls returned to the shops. Got as far as the Tourist Information, Lesley even got inside the door, then the phone rang they needed a quick map check, sat nav didn't have the new road listed. Girls dashed off to the boys and finally returned to shops again and this time made it into the shops and had a whale of a time. Then girls headed to Gretna Green, had thought about marrying the boys off but couldn't find anyone willing!! Girls headed for the boys and on route found a whirly gig and refuelled. Caught the boys at 59miles all was well and soon had boys refuelled as well. Girls went ahead and met the boys at 69 miles just outside Penrith. After receiving orders set out for B&B. Girls pulled in at Aira Force Waterfalls and guess what stood in the rain, again, for an action shot! Got the shot and some funny looks from being bent down behind a stone wall. Unfortunately the shot included a fast moving taxi. Girls arrived first at 6:40 having driven up a long winding road, Kirstone Pass, it was still raining but B&B amazing just like home! Evelyn and Bryan made us very welcome. Unpacked the car awaiting boys arrival they got to us at 7:45 wet but in good spirits. Quick shower and turn around for boys then out for dinner at The Lighthouse, Terry treated us all, go Terry.
Today's mileage bike 91.7 miles total 469.36 miles
car 95 miles total 561.2 miles
Tonight we are sponsored by 1st Stokenham Brownies.

Day 5 Thursday 30th July 2009

Started the day with 2 broken bikes but after lots of ringing around last night we managed to locate the 2 replacement bits. The only problem was they were at different bike shops. Terry had broken his campagnola centaur ultra shift ergo lever this could be repaired by Merlin Cycles in Chorley. Kevin's bike had broken his left hand gear shifter mechanism, his new bit was at Dales in Glasgow!! The boys got up at 6am to leave for Chorley, they should have got up at 5:30 but all was very quiet at 6 so Lesley had to ring Kev from one pod to the other to give him his early morning call. We must also say that Kevin didn't get to sleep last night as the neighbours in the next tent were partying until the wee small hours, mind you, us country folk all fell asleep as soon as our heads hit the pillow some even before that! The girls had a lie in, a monster one, first they were getting out at 8.00 but this passed by with no action, they didn't get out of bed until 8:15! Then they got on with the house work and the office work. They made contact with a very nice lady from the Liverpool Echo. The boys had a Costa stop for breakfast (the girls were still working hard at this point!), luckily for the girls Catrine Campsite is next to a coffee shop so they had brunch. Great coffee and a panini. They also met the 2 pigs , Baby and Jonny and the 2 resident reindeer Comet and Cupid. Back to the tent to finish the house work, they packed up as much of the tent as they could, still no sign of the boys. The campsite and tents quickly became shanty town with lines of washing everywhere. Well not quite lines, chairs, beds and guy ropes were the order of the day in the absence of a washing line! Once the chores had been don it was time for pudding, the girls returned to the coffee shop. There was far too much to choose from but after lots of deliberation they finally decided on a 'Big daddy': Chocolate ice-cream, caramel fudge ice-cream, vanilla ice-cream, whipped cream, warm chocolate brownie, chocolate sauce and chopped nuts - wait until you see the picture! Enormous is not the word! Delicious, however, is! Our intrepid travellers returned at 5.30pm. Apparently they had had a terrible day! Yeah, do you believe them? They had been sight-seeing to Chorley and Glasgow, had two Costa coffee stops (which included breakfast and lunch), went shopping for totally unnecessary accessories and put 400 plus miles on the clock! Call that terrible?!!! It was a quick pasta supper and then the boys were finally off at 5.50. It was a quick packing away of camp then the girls were off at 6.20pm. Time to play catch up! That bit was easy, 7.59 miles down the road and there they were, another puncture. This time it was Kevin's turn. Pretty serious though, as the support crew had to provide a new tyre as well as a nail file for the wheel rim!!! (They didn't pack one of them in there saddle bag!) Arrived at the camp site just before 8.00 and were greated by June and Roger in the absence of our landlord Hamish. Quick guided tour and then it was tent construction yet again. We na noo why this camp site was called Glen Midge - there were millions of them and the girls were under attack within minutes of arriving. The tent went up more quickly but several tent pegs were bent because of the stoney ground. Boys arrived at 9.35. The site was lovely, there was a large barn with a table and chairs, fridge, washing machine and sink. Very civilised. We had a snack, did our chores and finally went to bed just after midnight.
We would like to thank Amy (Squirrel)for sponsoring us for tonight and also our landlady at Catrine House who let us stay on the camp site for most of the day while the boys had their day out!
Many thanks Kevin Heelan for your donation - good on you mate!!!
Mileage bikes 42.2 today total 377.66 miles
car 42.4 total 466.2 miles
puncture tally Kevin 1-Terry 3

Day 4 Wednesday 29th July 2009

Everyone had a wonderful nights sleep in a bed all except Kev, he was obviously missing his camp bed and the midges!! Boys left at 9:25 still raining but with good spirits and kitted out in wet weather gear. We packed car, getting better and quicker,Had a lovely chat with the own of By The Way who thought our boys had done really well to get this far in all that weather. Sorted out the laundry, load in tumble dryer didn't completly dry and the las tload in the washing machine decided to keep half of the water in so we still have not done much laundry. Girls left 10:30 with 2 bags of soggy washing. We caught up with them on the banks of Loch Lomond everything was alright so then we left to head off to check the ferry. The girls flew past the Loch Lomond visitors centre, screeched to a halt, did a 'hand braketurn' and called into the centre just as the boys pulled in the other entrance, perfect photo oportunity. Spotted man in kilt girls attacked him for photo, very obliging, lovely picture, coach driver entertained us with stories then said "did you get the bloke on my bus?"and wondered away then returned with man with lovely long beard and dressed in full Scottish traditional costume. These buses contained American, Austrailian and South African heads of Clans. Girls headed to Kilcreggan fro the ferry fabulous drive beautiful scenery, girls got a lovely rest (had delicious paninis in 'The Terrace on the Water Front' shhhhhhh don't tell them! Boys arrived about 2:30 for lunch with the first puncture of the trip caused by a pot hole. Terry gave 3 cute little pigs a lesson on how to mend a puncture. Kevin had trouble with his bag of nuts! Boys caught the 3:30 ferry for Gouroch, while waiting for the ferry Hazel got told off by Ann and Ann who thought the boys are heroes and it was disgusting that they were camping sweet talking just sorted them out Hazel told them that the cyclists were being spoilt rotten she was happy after that. The girls went the long way round. It's been a very long day and 3 punctures later they arrived at the campsite at 9:40pm so another late supper .
Today's mileage bikes 95.6miles total 335.46miles and climbed 11085 feet, 21213 calories burnt
car 141 total 424 miles
Tonight we are sponsored by Bayfield B & B at Torcross, Thanks Jackie and Clive.
Still unable to upload pictures if all else fails we will add them when we return, enjoying reading comments keep them coming. Night Night we are all off to bed:)

Day 3 Tuesday 28th July 2009

Thinking of Niall. Hope the operation goes well today.
Bit of a delay this morning due to bike fixing but the girls had a lie in until 7. Boys went to Fort William. First bike shop closed, second bike shop very unhelpful but it was third time lucky bike fixed in no time. News of six young men who left with tandem. The back wheel fell apart and they were trying to get it fixed at the unhelpful shop. The boys had a fry up and we had toast!
They phoned at 9.50 to say all was well and they would be 30 minutes but at 10.40 we were still waiting for them!
While in Fort William there was a slight incident with a Reliance coach being hit by a bicycle on a car roof! Who was that we wonder?! Boys eventually left at 11.40 and the workers had to take the tent down in the pouring rain!
It has been very cold and very wet today. Waited at a waterfall for about half an hour to take a photo of cyclists so everyone ended up soaked. Met German Scouts in Fort William and Danish Scouts are staying here with us.
Rode up Glencoe Summit at 1142 metres in the driving rain.
Arrived in By The Way Hostel at about 7 and got on with supper and unpacking. Boys arrived at 8.27pm cold, wet but somehow still smiling. It's been a challenging day but completed in style. Hostel is fab. No tent! Beds made with duvets. Kitchen to cook supper in with all equipment needed. Tonight we are sponsored by Lansdale Building Contractors.
Mileage: Bikes today 75.3 miles making a total of 239.86 miles
Car today 78 miles making a total of 283 miles.
We are a quarter of the way. And all is well!! Goodnight!

Day 2 Monday 27th July 2009

Sorry for delay. Now have a good signal but still not good enough for pictures. The boys left Dornoch at 7.50 after staying at a really beautiful campsite. We had to go to the office to get our JOGLE forms signed and met a lady who told us about Niall. 14 months old and having an operation tomorrow. We wish him well.
Said goodbye to Reena and Harold - the dogs wanted to come with us! Then they were ready for the off in a super, upgraded car with leg room for passenger! What a luxury.
Then the girls headed for Eddington to sort out the connector on the gas bottle. Soon sorted and went the scenic route to Inverness for re-fuelling and ended up way ahead of the boys so had to go back for them. Had a snack at Beauly and a couple came out to see us after having read the webpage address and kindly gave us a donation. Thanks Roger and Sue.
Found a fantastic quote "never tell a woman that something is impossible to do especially when she is in the middle of sorting it out!" Ask Kev about the gloves!!
Met the boys for lunch Urquhart Castle right on the banks of Loch Ness. We had lovely chat with two young people, Catherine and Ian, thanks for the donation Mum and Dad! Went through Fort Augustus for a photo shoot and saw Nessie and baby beside the canal. Arrived at Faichemard Farm Camp Site at Invergarry. What a lovely spot! Part of the site all to ourselves. Bit of a small space for the tent but managed to squeeze it in, just. Terry's bedroom was full of ferns!!!! Not Cotton or Brittain! Managed to get the tent up and go shopping before the boys returned. Torrential rain. Slight problem with bike Terry was too polite and moved away from the path of some people and didn't notice something poking out of the wall and it broke his nut! (Can't remember the name of it!).
Miles so far: Bikes today - 84.3 miles making a total of 164.56 miles
Car today - 106 miles making a total of 205 miles

Day 1 Sunday 26th July 2009

Up with the lark this morning. The boys set off at 7:20am we waved them off, weather overcast and a strong head wind. The girls returned to strike camp, unfortunately it didn't matter that the boys were not with us we still struggled to get everything in the car. We finally left to catch the boys 8:55am they had motored on, we caught them up at 28miles just as the first spot of rain arrived so waterproofs on and drink bottles swapped. Even more rain, then on to Berriedale, 43miles now, guess what even more rain fell from the sky, we boiled the kettle for their cup-a-soup stop and got soaking wet, freezing cold, we still hadn't had any breakfast and they promised us a summer holiday, call this a summer holiday!!! We were told to find somewhere dry like a cafe so off we set. At 63 miles we arrive at Brora, we were still looking for a cafe still no sign of one, saw a distillery which luckly for the boys was closed!! Then we found a car park with a pub and waited and half an hour later they arrived rain had almost stopped so they didn't want to stop for long so tuna pasta for one and spicy chicken pasta for the other, then off again, now only about 20 miles to Dornoch. We caught them up and had a photo shoot at Dunrobin Castle by now the rain was back. But as we got nearer to Dornoch the sun broke through the cloud and literally as we got out of the car to pay at the campsite it was glorious sunshine. At the pitch blowing a gale but the sun still shone. Wrestled with tent quite a lot, it is bigger that us, what a laugh and a pretty good workout to boot!! As tent wrestling was in progress, one happy camper commented on our vehicle and wanted to know who Terry was? We said Who?! Our Knight in shining armour came to the rescue in the shape of Graham from Sterling who has left the wife at home working and he's camping with the children, who helped with tent wrestling until the boys arrived at just before 3pm with a smile on their face. Day 1 riding over, dry out began. Fabulous neighbours, Reena and Harold have very kindly leant us their portable washing line to dry cycling gear. We are at Dornoch Caravan and Camping Park, The Links. Amazing scenery, the sea one side, a light aircraft airfield another side, golf course on the 3rd side and golf club house the other. Tonight we are sponsored by Richard Carter, Painter and Decorator, Thank you very much.
P.S. After the best hot chocolate in world, made especially after hours at the Castle Hotel, Dornoch we met a couple of Brownies from Motherwell, walking past our tent who gave us a donation in our box they were Stephanie and Danielle with Mum Dorothy and their friend Lisa. Nice to meet you girls, put your Devon Star on your sash.

The day before the day

Yesterday Lindsey (Caithness C.C) came to visit and very kindly sponsored us and gave us guiders a county badge. We met 2 locals in Wick Tesco who where about to embark on a 110mile sponsored cycle ride they kindly sponsored us so good luck Arthur Bruce and Willie MacDonald. This morning after breakfast we went out to see Bob off while we where waiting we met a chap who arrived from Land's End via three peaks, he carried his bike up Ben Nevis! Then we met 'the 2 fridge boy' aka James and Marcus who are on a gap year and walking to Land's End, camping all the way, pulling a fridge each on wheels and hoping to be home for Christmas. Next 5 bikes including a tandem left they hope to get to LE on the same day as us they definitely need luck with them as one of the party is 20 years old and not done any training!! Then 2 walkers approached us, Henk and Di and asked us to take their photos they had left LE 120 days ago and walked all the way they have about 10 days left of their holiday and then they return to Oz. All this and we completed our forms to join the LEJOG club all before 11am. We would also like to wish a happy holiday to the Lady and Gentleman from Manchester/Cheshire who also put some money in our pot. Next to leave was Bob on his tractor and escorted up the road by Kevin and Terry on their bikes. Then we thought we'd send the boys shopping so into Wick they went on a 'magical mystery tour' they wanted new beds, like ours, the beds are so comfy (thanks Keith!). They also went to Tesco and got tea and tried to sort out our gas problem the bottle and the cooker don't match so we only have one stove, great for washing up, only one pot suppers!! While watching the 20 riders arrive from bike adventures we where approached by a nice Scotish lady who also sponsored us. Then home for tea, one pot supper, delicious as us girls didn't have any lunch as the boys took so long shopping. Then preparation for tomorrow drinks mixed and packing stuff. Will it all go into the car!!! It will now we have got rid of the boys!! We are having problems uploading pictures today we will keeping but don't count your chickens!!!
Tonight we are sponsored by Skirmish-paintballexeter, Many thanks its been a beautiful day. See you tomorrow.

John O'Groats

We have arrived not enough juice to run pictures will charge tomorrow and show you. Tonight at John O'Groats we are sponsored by Mr Acton. We found tractor Dave from Devon, he's nextdoor. Dave leaves tomorrow and arrives at Land's End the day before us, there are lots setting out tomorrow. It's now 10:40pm and still daylight, Terry can't sleep cause it's too light he needs a sleeping mask!! See you tomorrow. Night Night but not here!!

Still travelling(literally)

Lovely nights sleep, thanks Mandy. Even better breakfast as we didn't have to cook or wash up!! Just arrived in Scotland should be at John O'Groats late this afternoon. We have a date with Caithness County Commissioner for swapsies. Feel free to keep us entertained with news from home just leave us a comment!

We're Off !!

We would like to thank Vinyl Creations for the superb artwork on our car, it has turned many heads on our journey to Carlisle. Tonight we are living in style staying at a reasonably priced inn thanks to Mandy Luscombe and her family, before we start the camping tomorrow. We are heading out to John O'Groats first thing but it'll take most of the day. It's 9:53pm bedtime, night, night!