The days cycling from our hotel in Tintern did not start well. My knee was very sore and we were both tired from the previous days efforts.

To add to the problem Ruth had only got one small cup of tea at breakfast and no one had come back to offer any more drinks or toast. Bad way to start...

Half a mile from the hotel we crossed the Wye and immediately had a massive climb out of the valley on steep narrow roads with high hedges either side. After grinding our way up for a good 15 mins, we had to get off and push the remainder of the hill to the top. The following miles were mainly down hill but were uncomfortable and a bit of a struggle.

When we next reached civilisation we pulled in to a shop to buy some painkillers and adjust the bike. From this point on the cycling was a joy. Fast flowing and scenic. We followed the river Wye through to Ross, chased flocks of female pheasants down the country lanes of the Wye Valley Way, and skirted around Hereford, eventually stopping for some food and coffee in Leominster where the Tandem drew a lot of attention.

The weather had so far been kind to us, with no need to reach for the waterproofs. As we sat having coffee under cover, a shower passed over and the clouds lightened. We finished our drinks and started once again on into Shropshire and Home. We got a mile outside Leominister and the heavens opened, the roads turned to rivers and our light shower proof jackets were quickly overcome. We pulled in under a tree to get the waterproofs out of the bag. In typical style, by the time we had got our coats out of the panniers and on, the rain stopped...

The miles passed smoothly through Ludlow, and beyond the Shropshire skies cleared, bringing sunshine to welcome us back and to make the most of the fantastic views from our high road. Back through Much Wenlock was a fast downhill ride to Buildwas, followed by our final obstacle of the day Buildwas Bank. It was a long boring climb, but not difficult and we knew the pub was waiting at the end. The road from Horsehay through Lawley to Wellington delivered us swiftly to the door of the pub where we came up with this silly idea. One pint of Hobsons' Best celebrated the first 350miles complete and saw us home for curry, Later... With Jools Holland and night in our own bed.

Grandma and Granddad We had begun to wonder at the lack of news but your pint of Hobson's and a curry completely reassures us about your morale.

Sep 15, 2010

Dad Keep at it you two. Don't let a little niggle or two in the knees bother you! Did you manage to cut the grass when you got home last night? And don't get drinking too much of that nasty beer. So it's onward and upward now, and nil desperandum - as they say. Watch what you're doing, both of you, and continue to have fun. Love Dad

Sep 15, 2010

Rachel Welcome home guys (even if its only for one night!). You are both doing really well and I am very proud of my big sister and BIL. Remember - when you are having a hard day just think...'YOU CAN DO IT!!' XX

Sep 15, 2010

Naomi Wow guys, you're doing so well! Been thinking of you pedalling away. No pain, no gain!! Bet it must've been quite difficult to leave home and comfort of your own bed again the next day. Lots of love and pedal harder vibes! Xxx

Sep 16, 2010