Day Five: Familiar Faces

Post date: 18-Aug-2010 16:51:02

Long Itchington to Spalding. 80 miles in 5 hr 30

Cold start with a little sunshine later in the day.

Market Harborough for morning tea plus a sandwich for Brad.

Paul is back to what passes for normal so please stop the Get Well cards.

On to Uppingham, where they met up with Brad's parents, Jim and Janet, and Paul's mate Rob for lunch in The Vaults.

Liver and bacon and mash for both lads.

The steep hill past Eyebrook Reservoir tested their mettle en route to Stamford but the threat of rain spurred them on to Spalding by 5.30pm. Their luck held; as they rode into the drive at tonight's B&B [staying in a fantastic family room on second floor]. The garage door was remotely opened and they cycled in just as the heavens opened!

Jackie, The *Rope Walk's hostess, having saved them from an early shower not only provided tea, chocolate cake and a chat but also a map of recommended eateries in the town - where they're presumably stocking up on calories for the last leg of the odyssey as I type. Meanwhile my son, Adam and I enjoyed a pleasant evening with Barbara and Nick before the excitement of The Grand Finale at Cromer Pier tomorrow. I refer of course to the Crab Dressing contest and Fun Run (I'm sure Brad and Paul will enjoy both events before a welcome shower and plate of pasta at Incleborough House in East Runton).

The ride there from the pier will give them the chance to 'warm down'!

If you're in Cromer around 4 pm this Thursday do come and wave .............and watch the Fun Run too.

SNACKS Brad 4 apricots Paul 0

*Rope Walk - there is still a rope walk but no longer a rope making industry in Spalding.