This time (subject to audit of the GPS files) we rode 917 miles as against 935 in 2005 - must have taken a short cut.
I realised this morning I was handicapped as I carried the trip's "kitty fund purse" AND the biscuits for the whole ride .. no wonder some of the hills were a struggle!

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From Rob's handlebars
At Inverness waiting for train.
GPS audit by Jon with revised distance of 924 - I KNEW it was more, it felt like it.

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From Rob's handlebars
Transit overnight stop in Edinburgh with a pleasant couple of hours (and beers) with my cousin Andrew M before an 'end of tour' dinner sitting outside in the sunshine.
Just a 4 hour train journey to Brum and then the final leg to Stratford-upon-Avon.
AND - I did use my inner chainring, but not much.
Should have pictures posted here by Tuesday night.
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From Rob's handlebars

Final reflections

Sometimes not being able to tell which county we were in - gentle,
green, rolling countryside; patience of drivers especially the logging
lorries; genorosity of the public.
Knowing that I had cycled 924.7 miles with 16lbs of luggage and never
used the inner chain ring!

Sent from the Mercian's handlebars by Jon

Wind strength unbelievable - had to pedal down hill and was still below 10mph!
Just had a huge descent at over 44mph followed by a huge climb at 5mph.
Waiting for Rob in the first bus shelter I've seen. Had to put on waterproof trousers to try to keep warm. Had to remind myself a few times why I'm doing this and that the bowel cancer patients will endure much more.

Sent from the Mercian's handlebars by Jon