Alison and Alison and the art of re-tyrement

Distance 60.1 miles Ascent 1684 metres Midge report: no bites. The possibilities are that both Smidge and Jungle Juice work, we are cycling too fast for them to catch and bites us, unfavourable weather conditions or they don’t find me attractive. Happy with any of these alternatives. Will continue with the investigation. Our bed for…

Distance 39.4 miles Ascent 715 metres A relaxed ride in sunny weather through the glorious Scottish countryside. We are in midge country. Jungle juice v Smidge. Yesterday decided to do a controlled trial. Jungle juice one side of the body and Smidge on the other. Result no bites. The 16mph winds may have been more…

Distance 57.33 miles Ascent 974.8 metres

A rest day with no cycling. Walking 8 miles The promise of a laundrette fell through as two machines were broken. First job of the day was to catch up on the washing. I have previous experience of drying facilities but have to admire John’s new airing cupboard technique. Hang wet clothes in wardrobe, put…

Distance 83 miles Ascent 1928 metres Radu our guide says if it is not on Strava it didn’t happen. No one believes my Strava statistics. My top speed yesterday was recorded as 52 miles/hour. It is on Strava so it did happen. There is a general belief that my Strava is inaccurate. Tosh of course.…

Distance 62.1 miles Ascent 1461.5 metres Time for bed. We have an 80 mile ride tomorrow. Good night

Distance 42.6 miles Ascent 1404.5 metres A hilly day through beautiful scenery. Perfect end to the day.

Distance 71 miles Ascent 1609.6 metres Arrive at our hotel in Garstang which is closing at the end of the month. It will be flattened and rebuilt as a Care Home. Camping could be the answer for the next tour. At the hotel just before the rain started. It is due to rain heavily tomorrow…

Distance 56.9 miles Ascent 759 metres No television in the bar and the one in my room not working so watched first half of the big match on my phone. More exhausting than the cycle ride but what a result. Fantastic achievement for the Lionesses and a merry evening meal for us. The next ride…

Distance 46.4 miles Ascent 1095 metres Today took us through the pretty towns of Bewdley and Much Wenlock. Time to look round the town followed by team dinner at our hotel. A good day.