tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1784131652375184802024-02-18T18:25:37.369-08:00By tandem to John O'GroatsJamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-16982303819564137372015-08-13T13:17:00.001-07:002015-09-04T08:52:43.154-07:00(Tuba) history is madeWe don't <em>actually</em> know whether Jamie is the first person with Down's Syndrome to ride a tandem from Land's End to John O' Groats and then play the tuba, but we are going to go out on a limb and claim that he is.
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Here is the proof.
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZIY0XcL9J_s" width="560"></iframe>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-26341106841235512192015-08-10T15:06:00.000-07:002015-08-18T00:49:32.559-07:00Tandem and Tuba Official Prize-GivingThe results are in. It turns out cycling the length of the country doesn't happen all by itself, and I think it's time to admit that we had a lot of help along the way. Big round of applause please...<br />
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<b>Gold Awards for cycling the WHOLE way on the SAME saddle</b></h3>
<b>Jamie Carstairs</b> (the man himself, tandem engine and tuba player)<br />
<b>Markus Dell</b> (cousin, filmmaker extraordinaire, did it on a mountain bike)<br />
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<b>Gold Awards for cycling the WHOLE way (on various saddles)</b></h3>
<b>Joe Carstairs</b> (little-but-much-taller brother, did it in his sleep, 99% on the same bike)<br />
<b>Harry Carstairs</b> (big brother, probably annoyed everyone by singing the whole way)<br />
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<b>Silver Awards for cycling HALF of the way</b></h3>
<b>Mungo Carstairs</b> (dad, the mastermind behind it all, chief navigator and blogger)<br />
<b>Sarah Carstairs</b> (mum, source of common sense, kept show on the road with supreme organisational skills)<br />
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<b>Bronze Awards for cycling SOME of the way</b></h3>
5 days: cousin <b>Oliver Dell</b><br />
3 days: <b>Nelson</b><br />
1.5 days: <b>Lidia, Habib</b> and <b>Uncle Jamie</b><br />
1 day: <b>Uncle Richard</b><br />
And half a day: <b>Katie, Annette,</b> <b>Joe (Stanger) </b>and<b> Susy</b><br />
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<b>Best Aunties Ever</b></h3>
<b>Katie Hill</b> and <b>Susy Carstairs</b>, both of whom kept us going with never ending enthusiasm and some very tasty cooking.<br />
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<b>Five Star Hotels</b></h3>
The awards for hospitality go to...<br />
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Relatives <b>David and Judith</b> for a comfortable night on our way down to Land's End. Included enough beef to keep us cycling for a week and a laundry service.<br />
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<b>John and Helen</b> for lasagne, beds, and an expert local guide. We'd have been very lost in Liverpool without John cycling in front.<br />
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<b>Christine</b> for putting us up and feeding the hordes with a delicious casserole in Edinburgh.<br />
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<b>Very Special Mentions</b></h3>
<b>Oliver Haas</b> for designing our logo and poster... <b>Granny and Grandpa</b> who showed their support from start to finish... <b>Izzy</b> who cheered us on for three days despite the pouring rain at Taunton... <b>Pat and Adrian</b> who waved us off into the Lake District... <b>Nana</b> who met us in Dalwhinnie... the <b>Todd family</b> for a cheer at John O'Groats... <b>Oz</b> for cooking up the tastiest chicken ever... <b>Amy and Malcom</b> for appearing in St Briavels with ALL of our favourite curries...<b>Callum</b> for feeding our cat (yet again) while we were away...<br />
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<b>The Baking Prizes</b></h3>
Best motivational chocolate cake -<b> Louise Ritchie</b> and her girls<br />
Most delicious flapjacks - threeway tie between <b>Penny, Esme and Susy!</b><br />
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<b>Commendable Cups of Tea</b></h3>
No adventure would be possible without a good brew now and again! Due credit goes to...<br />
<b>Jan and Oliver Haas</b><br />
<b>Colin and Katrina</b> at their Morangie B&B in Tain<br />
<b>Bruce and Dorothy Field </b><br />
and the man who gave us some hot water (it's the thought that counts)
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...and simply EVERYONE who spared us a moment by waving a flag, tooting a horn, donating to the YMPA, watching the videos and even just reading this blog. Thank you to every single person who made our journey from Land's End to John O'Groats a reality, a pleasure, and a success.<br />
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PS. I hear that footage of possibly the first person ever to play the tuba sitting on a bench at John O'Groats is on its way to you SOON!<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-65925288227044906482015-08-09T12:11:00.000-07:002015-08-09T12:19:05.364-07:00Video 8 - Northern ScotlandThis is the penultimate video, documenting our two days of cycling between Aviemore and Helmsdale. Finally, a highland cow!<br />
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Cameraman Markus is almost back in Plymouth again. End to end, and back again in 12 hours on the train. He has plenty of footage from yesterday, and we can't wait to see the final video once he's had time to edit it.Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-44654169024093195672015-08-08T12:05:00.000-07:002015-09-04T08:53:52.432-07:00End of the RoadWe've made it. Here are the four End-to-Enders - Jamie, Joe, Harry and Markus!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcOyGIvyxm-GeE2NQ8Cl68EPmisQAqt7e_xdTe4plLxgtr6q4-aPC5cyLrJXvK40aTKvSG1DeaezBNqBQuMQ1BkeXIv-ab6A5iVOS0amaBvyMBVkiDppReNFsE3ykk_lvSmixPqC5jGDB_/s1600/new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcOyGIvyxm-GeE2NQ8Cl68EPmisQAqt7e_xdTe4plLxgtr6q4-aPC5cyLrJXvK40aTKvSG1DeaezBNqBQuMQ1BkeXIv-ab6A5iVOS0amaBvyMBVkiDppReNFsE3ykk_lvSmixPqC5jGDB_/s400/new.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And just for comparison, here's us in 2007 (Jamie, Sarah, Harry, 'hoodie' Joe)!</div>
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There's plenty more evidence coming up before we sign off the blog, but right now it's time for feet up and some fish 'n' chips!Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-36330822969084110322015-08-07T15:25:00.002-07:002015-12-05T06:26:29.195-08:00One more pin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A long but scenic day today, weaving through Alness, Invergordon, Tain (with a welcome tea break at <a href="http://morangiebandb.com/" target="_blank">Morangie B&B</a>), Dornoch and Golspie (second tea break!) before finally reaching Helmsdale at about 7:30pm - only to be surprised by Graham and Sheila (aka Granny and Grandpa) who have flown up to Inverness to see us complete the journey they cycled themselves in 1991!</div>
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We've heard the waves crash into the cliffs of Cornwall, seen the ponies wander across the hills of Dartmoor; we've been through the orchards of Somerset and passed through countless farms and forests. We've been soaked by the rain in Cheddar Gorge and battled the wind by Crosby beach. We've pedalled our way along every kind of road, from canal tow paths and disused railways to winding lanes and bustling carriageways. We've smelt the bracken of the Scottish Borders and the sea air of the Cromarty Firth. </div>
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Isn't it amazing where a bike and your own two legs can take you?</div>
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It's a blur of memories now, and all that remains is 55 miles of Northern Scotland's heather-clad hills. As Jamie likes to say, it's been an "epic journey".</div>
Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-48590450645501048162015-08-07T14:45:00.001-07:002015-08-08T22:26:39.066-07:00Video 7 - The CairngormsSaddle up for video seven, in which we venture north of our home in Perth and try some challenging highland passes on our way through Blair Atholl and Aviemore. Be warned - no food or shelter for 30km! It's worth it for the view at Loch Morlich though...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D29emZt_0F4" width="560"></iframe>Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-18757765088753508702015-08-06T15:08:00.000-07:002015-09-04T08:55:49.555-07:00Photos, Perth to CulbokieThe next video diary is almost ready, but until then here is some photo evidence!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTgrkxCZej9cQ0sPDcn3eZEYsOfn8M-e_2KLUsswjjzJDnyjMIlTG9hahuy5OblPkUIS8MVpn5LAsuZaRTXIo1uuP6v5oizaUDz2bXpTT1uV0dQXHCzBga89yBGrjrc08icX_Dq_TokFdr/s1600/P1050124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTgrkxCZej9cQ0sPDcn3eZEYsOfn8M-e_2KLUsswjjzJDnyjMIlTG9hahuy5OblPkUIS8MVpn5LAsuZaRTXIo1uuP6v5oizaUDz2bXpTT1uV0dQXHCzBga89yBGrjrc08icX_Dq_TokFdr/s400/P1050124.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Markus celebrated his 21st in Perth, where Louise brought Jamie this amazing cake!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NaZuKst3Ch9KyBLvWyKtbIqgoB0h0WY1CWGwRUPsFW5i-PuIPUXjw3UdXwj5YlhCLHhM2-WIYvLEloA0UztA9MQ4Jf03Z83Nhvp4jae_56lLs2yJxT2bL7LQlRZyhgbSnYVardKl9tL7/s1600/P1050127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NaZuKst3Ch9KyBLvWyKtbIqgoB0h0WY1CWGwRUPsFW5i-PuIPUXjw3UdXwj5YlhCLHhM2-WIYvLEloA0UztA9MQ4Jf03Z83Nhvp4jae_56lLs2yJxT2bL7LQlRZyhgbSnYVardKl9tL7/s400/P1050127.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another puncture stalls us on the way over Drumochter</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28DREE4D6ZSj7UYOHUmK_wOFMmYizX8cpYtfCMvbtEnaIdca7A5oi6XTcyPEYl2eoIkcq2fQ9zqQ_MRhf8t01usqJzmXgORvFWdlbLzhV_D-vs2EMXdIVLR-h9PjFoXW9Dnb7CNPbnmI9/s1600/P1050130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28DREE4D6ZSj7UYOHUmK_wOFMmYizX8cpYtfCMvbtEnaIdca7A5oi6XTcyPEYl2eoIkcq2fQ9zqQ_MRhf8t01usqJzmXgORvFWdlbLzhV_D-vs2EMXdIVLR-h9PjFoXW9Dnb7CNPbnmI9/s400/P1050130.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slochd summit felt tame after Drumochter's 1508 feet</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0iqvGWIbnNXYW6tZqHq1Z_ERwUK_tSBtSdGdMIvjL7lWfN1sYmkJAL0abXQ1OatieBshgGztF6OzM4HGfr6LNN-CFLi5505ihTrpnoLq7am92y2mwBuxoNZMIgZKLmhAHcVrWFQm8pG1/s1600/P1050128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0iqvGWIbnNXYW6tZqHq1Z_ERwUK_tSBtSdGdMIvjL7lWfN1sYmkJAL0abXQ1OatieBshgGztF6OzM4HGfr6LNN-CFLi5505ihTrpnoLq7am92y2mwBuxoNZMIgZKLmhAHcVrWFQm8pG1/s400/P1050128.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jamie takes a look at the Old Packhorse Bridge for which Carrbridge was named</td></tr>
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Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-37221394967590136322015-08-06T12:56:00.001-07:002015-08-12T05:49:31.214-07:00Beyond the Great GlenSunshine and following winds took us from Edinburgh to Perth, despite the hard slog of climbing over <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@56.1212823,-3.4612283,3834a,20y,40.85t/data=!3m1!1e3" target="_blank">Hill of Cleish</a> and up to Glenfarg. A night at home (and celebration of Markus's 21st birthday!) was followed by a hectic morning of repacking, and after a send-off from friends and well-wishers (and see tomorrow's Perthshire Advertiser!), the shortest ride of our route brought us to Blair Atholl and a very welcoming <a href="http://www.firs-blairatholl.co.uk/" target="_blank">B&B</a>.<br />
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Wednesday (day 17) brought the crossing of the Drumochter Pass - our highest point at 1500 feet, and a serious matter in bad weather, but passed safely despite a few punctures. We met a tandem en route to Land's End, on a fast 13 day schedule. Thanks to John's tip-off we bypassed the road closure near Ruthven Barracks, and had a lovely finish on the back road from Feshiebridge to Aviemore (but no osprey spotted on this occasion).<br />
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Thursday dawned wet but soon cleared up, and the climb up to Slochd Summit was accomplished. Cycle Route 7 down to Inverness took us past the <a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertydetail.htm?PropID=PL_067" target="_blank">Cairns of Clava</a>, a most interesting prehistoric site which none of us had visited before. Another long day's riding ended at <a href="http://www.nethertonfarm.co.uk/" target="_blank">Netherton Farm</a> where we were treated to a spectacular view across the Cromarty Firth, and an even more spectacular dinner prepared by Oz and Susy.<br />
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<i>Whisper it: we are quite tired</i>. We didn't manage to squeeze any rest days into our schedule, and it is taking its toll. But with only two days left, and the roadsigns showing 100 miles to go...we dare to hope and believe we are going to make it.<br />
<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-39726730708385604542015-08-06T10:23:00.003-07:002015-08-06T10:37:17.056-07:00Video 6 - the Scottish BordersFollow us as we enter home territory (Scotland!), have two beautiful days cycling through the peaceful border country, cross the Firth of Forth and make it home to Perth!<br />
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Of course, we can't stop yet. But only five days more should take us to our final destination.Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-44546954985041144342015-08-02T13:41:00.001-07:002015-08-19T02:34:28.329-07:00Home and AwayTomorrow night (Monday) we shall be at home in Perth. We have carefully designed a short ride the next day (a mere 36 miles to Blair Atholl) to allow a bit of a lie in and sort out of odd socks. If anyone wants to wave us off on Tuesday, we are aiming to set off from the North Inch (War Memorial) at 12 noon or thereby. You'd be very welcome to cycle with us for a while, in the direction of Pitcairngreen / Bankfoot / Dunkeld and points north. It looks like we shall have a mighty wind behind our backs (less good for those turning back)!<br />
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Today's route took quiet roads, through Innerleithen and up the <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/f0uZn" target="_blank">B709</a> to a lunch spot with a <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/2LbIk" target="_blank">spectacular view</a> to Edinburgh from the escarpment of the Moorfoot hills. A kilogram of Dairy Milk was added to our emergency supplies from the Coop (well it was reduced to clear).Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-91875205943014617422015-08-02T12:54:00.003-07:002015-08-02T12:54:45.567-07:00Video 5 - The Lake DistrictEpisode five of the video series follows us into and through the beautiful English Lake District. Enjoy the ride as we come within bowshot of the Scottish border. Passports not required (yet!).
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Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-2334991981995521452015-08-01T14:10:00.001-07:002015-08-29T00:24:25.526-07:00Ettrick Valley via TibetTandem and Tuba are officially in Scotland!<br />
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The Lake District seemed to whizz by in a blur of misty crags with Jamie powering up the hills. Dropping down into the borders, we were glad to be away from the queues of caravans and amazed to find the entire length of England behind us.</div>
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Each day I seem to find myself thinking "today is the nicest day yet". But today was <i>surely</i> the nicest day yet. A cooling breeze helped ease us up deserted roads through wide open country and swathes of green forest. We even had a <a href="http://www.samyeling.org/" target="_blank">Buddhist temple</a> to stop at for lunch.</div>
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A sudden downpour threatened to ruin the fun, but we soon arrived at our yurt in the Ettrick valley. This cosy, glorified tent in the middle of nowhere makes a change at least! (Thankfully it's too cold for the midges.)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgEXB5qZvgRNGdkhHq5H9UdRGmxi1XIA9Hi1DwwSD-gXikP-473EIzUoe5EbuyoUMndh2wnpt5J-EE5__hyTzir7UhMoSfDTN6qoTRHD_aikHZMWg8aHLj5yFEFbxubQuJKP4cixSBZ7p/s1600/P1050110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgEXB5qZvgRNGdkhHq5H9UdRGmxi1XIA9Hi1DwwSD-gXikP-473EIzUoe5EbuyoUMndh2wnpt5J-EE5__hyTzir7UhMoSfDTN6qoTRHD_aikHZMWg8aHLj5yFEFbxubQuJKP4cixSBZ7p/s400/P1050110.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snacks at the end of Thirlmere, Lake District</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh21Nu-5zAiKPyOTgtkIVOViM7Wj-9MGqe-RTdHEZdwMvjsOE0HOVgF5yAkh1Nn5Am555GQUrUuim8FNZgUSNwDHSEPC7G9YJlGzF9DZcSSg5d4vYJ9Fmoxd_AyqWyc-6-2CFhsUjq5MUbk/s1600/emptyScotland1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh21Nu-5zAiKPyOTgtkIVOViM7Wj-9MGqe-RTdHEZdwMvjsOE0HOVgF5yAkh1Nn5Am555GQUrUuim8FNZgUSNwDHSEPC7G9YJlGzF9DZcSSg5d4vYJ9Fmoxd_AyqWyc-6-2CFhsUjq5MUbk/s400/emptyScotland1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Empty Scotland</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-14657465080141654152015-08-01T01:36:00.001-07:002015-08-01T11:32:31.991-07:00Video 4 - LancashireThe next instalment of the video diary. Watch to see us cruising over the Mersey to say goodbye to the Welsh borders!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1P_h2ISxWtY" width="560"></iframe>Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-83781367307413501592015-07-30T14:53:00.002-07:002015-08-16T03:11:17.628-07:00We come to the mountainsYesterday (day 10) was perhaps the most urban of our whole route, as we progressed through Southport to Preston before reaching the Lancaster Canal towpath northwards - very beautiful, but quite slow going on grass. We were further held up by a most enormous ice cream which Jamie took the best part of an hour to enjoy. He is not a lad who believes in rushing anything.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7nfxDXTHiCOSZcrQUqvHf0fM0hbhtwI3jveidpFRFfkMPE4FGI7IuQiWWg447Jc0TKo62-j6zXoYFHrt8AntxgTALpYGZ3oiYY2AX3gInTJT0av85nnF7bhzR5p-ENP0Xf7-HrnRCaaU/s1600/P1050105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7nfxDXTHiCOSZcrQUqvHf0fM0hbhtwI3jveidpFRFfkMPE4FGI7IuQiWWg447Jc0TKo62-j6zXoYFHrt8AntxgTALpYGZ3oiYY2AX3gInTJT0av85nnF7bhzR5p-ENP0Xf7-HrnRCaaU/s320/P1050105.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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We took to the road for a quick burst of speed to finish, with Harry and Jamie on tandem racing Jamie's other uncle (also Jamie!) who has joined us for a couple of days. A luxury night in a lovely <a href="http://www.themillatcondergreen.co.uk/" target="_blank">canalside inn</a> and an excellent dinner felt like a suitable way to celebrate the half way point.<br />
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Today we enjoyed glorious sunshine, albeit with a bit of a head wind. We continued by the Lune Estuary (egret?), then back on the canal path (now hard and fast going), through Lancaster over the aqueduct, before meeting friends Pat and Adrian at Beetham for lunch, slightly delayed by a couple of punctures.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqrRuChuMxRIeINheGBmp9gaMx_hMzo1agqabeUVlgjd6vKOClRbgeT7eLFDBFQPueEOvSEK10KtzBf01KGzYNelvhKBrtTwdh6oO-E3bntYUovczhhBIXhXigb4Rur7c3KHUz9p2_O8Kk/s1600/P1050108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqrRuChuMxRIeINheGBmp9gaMx_hMzo1agqabeUVlgjd6vKOClRbgeT7eLFDBFQPueEOvSEK10KtzBf01KGzYNelvhKBrtTwdh6oO-E3bntYUovczhhBIXhXigb4Rur7c3KHUz9p2_O8Kk/s320/P1050108.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The afternoon brought a lovely ride up the <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/uggbW" target="_blank">Lyth Valley</a> (another corner of England I had never heard of), and so to Lake Windermere and Ambleside Youth Hostel. Dinner of pasta and tomato sauce was eaten by the lakeside with a beautiful sunset for backdrop, and swans for company.<br />
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The high hills rise before us, and the next few days will see some hard work. I hope we are up to it.<br />
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<table align="CENTER" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr><td><i>Great things are done when men and mountains meet;</i></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td><i>This is not done by jostling in the street.</i></td></tr>
<tr><td align="right"><i>- William Blake</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-41603871105076079572015-07-29T03:08:00.002-07:002015-07-30T14:16:49.248-07:00Video 3 - The Heart of EnglandJoin us through Avon, Gloucestershire, Monmouthshire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Cheshire... Remember your raincoat!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NoZzoqDAPew" width="560"></iframe>Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-60560408317733810312015-07-29T00:36:00.002-07:002015-07-29T00:36:39.539-07:00InitiativeWith ironic timing, the night before we set off, we caught a bit of the act of a certain popular Scottish comedian on TV. He made a joke at the expense of the <a href="http://www.creativescotland.com/funding/funding-programmes/targeted-funding/youth-music-initiative" target="_blank">Youth Music Initiative</a>, something on the lines of<br />
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<i>"My Mum's a crack addict, my Dad's an alky, but I've got a xylophone, so that's sorted."</i><br />
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The poor man is obviously hopelessly misinformed and doesn't know what he's talking about. Come on Kevin, you would never start a beginner straight in on tuned percussion.<br />
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We hope we're showing a bit of initiative with our bike ride, but don't forget that the real heroes are the teachers who work year in and year out with their pupils. If we can do even a little bit to help another child to experience the self-confidence, discipline, comradeship and excitement that learning music can bring, we'll be more than happy.<br />
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<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-43151411915582609162015-07-28T14:45:00.003-07:002015-08-16T02:55:07.031-07:00Across the Mersey <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello from Formby. </div>
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Look how far we've gone now!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAt7V-v9k6sTVCmBl0nsRUtokW6CkM8O94wYl3VZbKs2lDGwAZolrqJGo43YF0Py5t-Ye5hT1u3n-_ZKTSn1te7NXuPTWDZ0MQ-rI4FLjpqMhcXjRMSlFMYWMO4xDJTrtCaljYB49Juzwq/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAt7V-v9k6sTVCmBl0nsRUtokW6CkM8O94wYl3VZbKs2lDGwAZolrqJGo43YF0Py5t-Ye5hT1u3n-_ZKTSn1te7NXuPTWDZ0MQ-rI4FLjpqMhcXjRMSlFMYWMO4xDJTrtCaljYB49Juzwq/s400/map.jpg" width="388" /></a></div>
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<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Mum and Dad keep
bickering about who gets to cycle, or who gets to drive the car, I
think us boys will have to set up a strict rota for them to follow.
In the end, Dad did the first 50 miles through cold rain showers to
the Mersey Ferry, then Mum did the last 15 miles from Liverpool in
the sunshine with beautiful seaside views over to North Wales. I
guess that gives him the bragging rights but she got a nicer cycle.
As for Jamie, he just sat on his tandem and pedalled from 9am till
7pm without a complaint (apart from “I'm starving” shortly before
we arrived at a plate of delicious Lasagne cooked by our friends John
and Helen).</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-UJJleeFHGrQ4BSAZjsi_XLYIBpbG5IGAWyRvmdHlHK3fwJjJrtpQYfaqIL2Hr7szWHau_FXinRkUmMqotEnzAKF39PSitL-RLIvlimUUSsPA7v78yGp2EtQPt_3H0Q6OLuq362Q4j8x/s1600/P1050100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-UJJleeFHGrQ4BSAZjsi_XLYIBpbG5IGAWyRvmdHlHK3fwJjJrtpQYfaqIL2Hr7szWHau_FXinRkUmMqotEnzAKF39PSitL-RLIvlimUUSsPA7v78yGp2EtQPt_3H0Q6OLuq362Q4j8x/s1600/P1050100.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying a little boat ride across the river</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdTv1akKIHJkZmBboFDRqRGS3WMf9TYiSiiTHHPxDIKSFkvi3wVi_nZ7xggz-62QH9QOqBiuPQD-VoDK-w_sz3GTA9rXLjbBnrhr4DEW0c_vrBc1pbB6cwe_KpFkRY19tuwBPQ8EFq4zYb/s1600/P1050102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdTv1akKIHJkZmBboFDRqRGS3WMf9TYiSiiTHHPxDIKSFkvi3wVi_nZ7xggz-62QH9QOqBiuPQD-VoDK-w_sz3GTA9rXLjbBnrhr4DEW0c_vrBc1pbB6cwe_KpFkRY19tuwBPQ8EFq4zYb/s400/P1050102.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jamie takes a break by the beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Markus is currently slaving away in front of a laptop with bleary eyes... if he stays awake long enough there should be a new video for you in the morning!</div>
Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-38371600413391450792015-07-26T14:08:00.000-07:002015-08-01T00:06:40.478-07:00Middle aged spreadWell, you certainly know what the weather is doing when you're on a bicycle.<br />
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After Friday's downpours, Saturday dawned bright and fresh, and our ride down the Strawberry Line to Clevedon felt effortless. After a picnic rendezvous at Severn Beach, with a view of the new(er) Severn Bridge, we rode (now with Sarah's sister Katie for company) through a field (not sure why), then on to and over the old bridge. We had about two miles in Wales, then left Chepstow for Gloucestershire and the road up to St Briavels, and its extraordinary <a href="http://www.yha.org.uk/hostel/st-briavels" target="_blank">Youth Hostel</a> housed in a 13th century castle. In fact they were hosting a mediaeval themed banquet that evening, but we had our own feast, as friends Amy and Malcolm arrived from Cardiff with vast quantities of delicious curry. I had thought we might lose weight on the journey, but so far it seems to be heading in the other direction. Our bedroom was in the East Tower up a steep spiral stair. If the castle ghosts were noisy in the night, we were too fast asleep to hear them.<br />
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Sunday reverted to drizzle, not as heavy as Friday's, but enough to leave the cyclists pretty wet by the time they reached Leominster. The video unfortunately missed the moment Sarah was drenched by a passing car, surely worth £250 to one of Jamie's favourite TV programmes. One week accomplished! Legs and backsides are starting to toughen up, now we need to make sure the bikes are not neglected, and keep brakes, gears and chains in good order. A longer day in prospect tomorrow, but - fingers crossed - dry.<br />
<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-69363188142364628122015-07-26T13:45:00.001-07:002015-07-27T00:00:51.360-07:00A Week on the RoadIt's 9pm, and after some pizza for dinner in <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Leominster,+Herefordshire+HR6/@52.2300632,-2.7480905,7z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x48702352cc0a39ad:0x843d74dfaa6cf887">Leominster</a> team Tandem and Tuba are all just about ready for their beds. It's been another wet day to round off a busy week on the bikes. Here are the official statistics:<br />
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Miles cycled so far - 305 (Almost one third of the way to John o'Groats)</div>
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Time taken - 6 days, 7 hours</div>
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Average speed - 2.0 mph (Sounds pretty unimpressive when you put it like that)</div>
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Feet ascended - 12,303 (42% of the way up Everest)</div>
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Number of punctures - 5</div>
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Pasties eaten - 19 (a good 15,000 calories)</div>
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Ice creams eaten - 0</div>
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Wildlife - 1 albino ferret, 3 squashed hedgehogs, 5 dead badgers, 4 <strike>ostriches</strike> rhea, a peregrine falcon, heron, and lots of ducks</div>
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And here are a few pictures:</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB_NhO8yNoOg37zMZkIjQKsiuL-j-auS97QZU9V0erik5QhQR_hpUvQ1Ans9hQeMA0wK_7z2-P_HUBZ9WGM3fKTkdV0zEUg1VHTGB9Smrws7WYCXhFyOIOr9KHkSZQmcPJmzrmkErigCtt/s1600/P1050073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB_NhO8yNoOg37zMZkIjQKsiuL-j-auS97QZU9V0erik5QhQR_hpUvQ1Ans9hQeMA0wK_7z2-P_HUBZ9WGM3fKTkdV0zEUg1VHTGB9Smrws7WYCXhFyOIOr9KHkSZQmcPJmzrmkErigCtt/s400/P1050073.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jamie celebrates reaching Tintagel on day 2</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju2EH8ZcNewEunMfDf7Hkf7o4pYf0KdBWYXVE6pBrVpUGz8q_29KUbagEPAnM_7i1p2lS-0N6LpQbAPHYnomDKGYWPvyTRfKUJAxtSjH2W9ki52P3p923opHCM4nsGOhs0BCmR3eoy11f1/s1600/P1050080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju2EH8ZcNewEunMfDf7Hkf7o4pYf0KdBWYXVE6pBrVpUGz8q_29KUbagEPAnM_7i1p2lS-0N6LpQbAPHYnomDKGYWPvyTRfKUJAxtSjH2W9ki52P3p923opHCM4nsGOhs0BCmR3eoy11f1/s400/P1050080.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stopping for coffee (read: lots of biscuits and bananas) on our way to Okehampton, day 3.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpkCfqQ16ius_aCps7Rk7QPt7mYxn61-q_eukdK2d0wgIQ2C65H-YAe7Li9fZUb-JTjRgPrfeUFL-LeR2MM_5Hn8Lg5jcMC_7RIW7Yre-dNIfTecrpL2Nm9L5nWEWkolh2yTqot4b_D8N/s1600/P1050086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpkCfqQ16ius_aCps7Rk7QPt7mYxn61-q_eukdK2d0wgIQ2C65H-YAe7Li9fZUb-JTjRgPrfeUFL-LeR2MM_5Hn8Lg5jcMC_7RIW7Yre-dNIfTecrpL2Nm9L5nWEWkolh2yTqot4b_D8N/s400/P1050086.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Markus, the cameraman, getting some shots at the edge of Dartmoor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglC5NCPpRbakzzlOSER_Y87Pe5QOlEuPyPlfgJbyCJbVtG9KSJU0sUP5XN0wHkaAiIa0RbOBRLbuJI5rnAb-aZ2GTxI3jhbwBgEcd8cLvcQtC9CRWwnTbeIsIoe9s45fHvcRvaVapIFSin/s1600/P1050094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglC5NCPpRbakzzlOSER_Y87Pe5QOlEuPyPlfgJbyCJbVtG9KSJU0sUP5XN0wHkaAiIa0RbOBRLbuJI5rnAb-aZ2GTxI3jhbwBgEcd8cLvcQtC9CRWwnTbeIsIoe9s45fHvcRvaVapIFSin/s400/P1050094.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The team are joined by Aunty Katie and grandparents Graham and Sheila for lunch by the Severn Estuary, day 6.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-89053658965757569632015-07-25T14:42:00.001-07:002015-08-16T04:11:27.118-07:00Video 2 - DevonVideo #2 in which Joe narrates our progress through the hilly West Country.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yH-C3yuloco" width="560"></iframe>Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-56464186221055156822015-07-24T22:52:00.000-07:002015-08-02T22:49:14.234-07:00Level crossingNo wifi, so just a brief update for yesterday from Cheddar Youth Hostel.<br />
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It rained. A lot. Jamie's uncle Richard kept us company from Taunton. We made it across the Somerset Levels. We saw a train at a level crossing. We got very wet and muddy but no-one complained. Well done team! Terrific bolognese, well done Katie and Izzy.<br />
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Onward and upward!!Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-1952586128056062572015-07-23T12:32:00.001-07:002015-08-19T08:01:03.369-07:00Well in to ZummerzetOr, Wellington, Somerset.<br />
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The tandem is restored thanks to the superbly helpful Matt at <a href="http://www.okecycles.co.uk/" target="_blank">Okehampton Cycles</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0zH16iHdnfdArS3K27mOB54jfhBcANxxVVnCVcT-g_jpkexYc8vTFOYPOcs-ZX8Nf-RYz8ikbr_Pw5rVqR5tH4wbYWxFpA9gwe2tfFpguq-z-eiUmSzaDib07kJF_HxwuY9cpxh8gXtV/s1600/20150723_092707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0zH16iHdnfdArS3K27mOB54jfhBcANxxVVnCVcT-g_jpkexYc8vTFOYPOcs-ZX8Nf-RYz8ikbr_Pw5rVqR5tH4wbYWxFpA9gwe2tfFpguq-z-eiUmSzaDib07kJF_HxwuY9cpxh8gXtV/s320/20150723_092707.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We said goodbye to our friends Lidia, Habib and Nelson, who had nobly cycled with us for the first three days. A long and quite hilly route today, and various body parts are getting sore. We are ready for tomorrow's short flat route and a longer rest to recover. But for tonight, the luxury of white sheets and a comfortable bed in a lovely <a href="http://www.theoldvicarage-rockwellgreen.co.uk/" target="_blank">B&B in Rockwell Green</a>.Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-50664466281563489782015-07-23T00:23:00.002-07:002015-07-23T08:57:37.833-07:00Cornwall - Video Number 1!<br />
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Jamie's cousin Markus has not only been slogging up the steep hills of Cornwall with us - he's also been making the time to capture it all on camera and produce this great 3 minute film documenting the first county of our journey. Hit play and enjoy the ride!</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qT8wNT4TMA4" width="560"></iframe>Harry Carstairshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17355485112899665897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-17512010735415320672015-07-22T13:44:00.000-07:002015-08-16T03:20:27.672-07:00...beep...beep...beep......beep...beep...<br />
This is the Tandem and Tuba Explorer resuming contact with planet Earth...we are on course and outbound from Cornwall, with a full payload of still and video images, and memories, awaiting upload when we can get organised...<br />
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We set off on Monday in thick mist from (we think) Land's End, and arrived fairly damp at Newlyn for a coffee stop. The first sight to greet us in the gallery café was...a tuba! This had to be a sign. A sunny (but hilly) afternoon took us to Perranporth Youth Hostel, in a spectacular clifftop location overlooking the surfers' beach.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue sky and a drying wind at Perranporth</td></tr>
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Tuesday was sunnier - and hillier. After a lunch break when hammocks were slung and swung in, a weary but determined band of cyclists continued, to arrive at Tintagel Youth Hostel (brake or go over the cliff) in an even more dramatic setting, only enhanced by a peregrine falcon hovering motionless in the gale just over the car park. Some of us enjoyed an atmospheric walk to Tintagel Castle in the dusk at 10pm, a nightjar calling from the undergrowth.<br />
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Today (Wednesday) was the hilliest yet, but didn't quite feel it. Just maybe we are starting to get into the swing of it. The narrow country lanes of Cornwall gave way to broader views in Devon, with a beautiful downhill run to Egloskerry. The tandem suffered on the off-road (read: no road) stretch of Cycle Route 27 on the edge of Dartmoor, but was able to make it to Okehampton Youth Hostel thanks to the long stretch of converted railway line to finish. Repair or replacement of bent derailleur will be needed tomorrow. Tonight we celebrated Harry's 20th birthday with lasagne, chocolate cake and cider!Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178413165237518480.post-19696721603715605912015-07-19T14:42:00.000-07:002015-07-19T14:53:28.419-07:00Here we go!Think global, act local - and bike national?<br />
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Tomorrow morning we drive for the last time for 3 weeks - the ten miles from Penzance Youth Hostel to Land's End - and then start cycling. The forecast is good, and we are really looking forward to getting started. We are also delighted that our fundraising has just passed £3,000. Thanks once again to all contributors; every bit counts and makes a difference.<br />
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OK, it's not quite true about not driving for 3 weeks. Mum and Dad will take turns to drive the 'support car', but we non-drivers (Jamie, Joe, Harry and Markus) are planning to cycle every mile of the route.<br />
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We have collected cousin / nephew Markus from Plymouth, who comes with an impressive collection of film equipment. All being well, he will be posting a video diary of our progress. Watch this space!<br />
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This Friday's Perthshire Advertiser features a photo of Jamie, tuba and tandem. Here we are yesterday morning about to set off from home...<br />
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Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17207626451605065617noreply@blogger.com2