Early start …someone didn’t even have time to finish their breakfast.
Support team gathers (Thunderbirds – TB1,2 & 3) for final prep.
Crikey, Paul how can you smile at 06:00hrs???
And we’re off. Next stop Canterbury.
Wait a minute, are those our bikes?!
Hello Linda and Niamh – come to see Bill off? Where is our pint sized hero? Has he got his jersey yet?
Bill still not to be found but here’s Ann A raring to go. Team North are keen.
Whereas SOME PEOPLE are drinking coffee. #slackers
Errrr …Martin, I’m not sure you understand the term “tagging” and if you do, then it’s way too much.
That’s right Sheila, we need to make sure everyone has signed their life away. 🤣 #paperworkinorder
And then FINALLY faffing over we can head to the Cathedral.
Morning Suzannah.
Oh it’s you again Martin.
What’s that?
TO MARTYRDOM?
Really?
Lead the way…
Hmmm.
Those are impressive daggers.
This is where Thomas Beckett was murdered. Apparently.
I guess it’s good to take a moment to reflect.
Beckett was buried here until Henry VIII removed him …thats Henry VIII for you. 😉
Watch out Martin …look behind you!
Canon Emma leads us in prayer.
What’s special for her are these stained glass windows depicting ordinary people in extraordinary scenes because their prayers have been answered.
A Little more history from our guide, Bobbie.
When St Augustine (+40 monks) came to Canterbury to convert “heathen” he found that King Ethelbert already had a Christian wife. Thousands came to faith in Kent and so the King built Canterbury Cathedral, now the head of the Anglican Church worldwide.
There’s loads of great stuff here… feet sticking out of graves, Black Princes and more. But we’ll have to leave you to visit yourself. It’s a great place!
Official photos of our incredible cyclists and fab support team…
Thousands came in Pilgrimage in ancient days. I guess We’re also on pilgrimage. #philosophical
Now pay attention 007 for the final briefing.
Got him…at least from behind. Here’s our pint sized hero, Bill.
And they’re off!
PEDAL PEDAL…
PEDAL PEDAL
It’s HOT HOT HOT. But our cyclists are working hard and two hours later, somewhere near Sittingbourne we’ve found a spot to “Sit your bottom” … but we have found a little shade. 😎
Ahhh LOVELY!
And they trickle in.
Woo Hoo you made it Olivia.
Just relax Dave 😉
Post A level Kana, looking relaxed considering she was press-ganged into this cycling ‘holiday’ by her dad. 🤣
Time to move on again.
PEDAL PEDAL
Through the garden of England. 🌳🍏🍎
But oh NO!
#puncture
Number 1
All hands…
But these guys are clicking the miles.
Then it’s all aboard the skylark …aka Gravesend-Tilbury Ferry.
A few groups have time to enjoy the scenery.
Still smiling even with all the heat and pain. Laura has put her back out -OUCH!
Last 15 miles.
You can do it!
Support team – hold your noses and don your snorkels we’re going UNDER the Thames.
And that’s the Dartford Tunnel …unless your name is Paul Sillet and you go to the Blackwall Tunnel! 🤣
But we’re all waiting for you at end stop.
Look at Lil’s lightbulb smile.
The “old guy” is at the front. Hurry up Ian!!!
Here’s another view of this lane…
Hmmm.
MEANWHILE
Our amazing support team are also working hard lighting bags and kit in the heat.
Not too happy …just kidding. I asked then to look like they were really suffering. 😩
WOO HOO Kana!
And Harry.
And Heath
Now to those protein shakes.
So which is better, chocolate & mint or banana & mango? #torq
There’s no clear verdict. Make up your own mind from photo evidence.
And then…
Poor Laura, had to be rescued. #sciatica #severepain
😥
More arrivals…
It sure is HOT!
There defo wasn’t enough coffee!
Well done Tiff – full of paracetamol and managed to struggle on. #nastycold
Andi and Mark bringing up the rear.
#relief
Everyone made it safe and sound. A happy leader.
Time to replenish the calories…
Suki’s slot
The humans have been quite well behaved today.
Good job.
BUT
I have one complaint.
And it’s SERIOUS.
Why is it THEY get homemade cake and flapjacks?
And all I get…
Is this dry stick?!?!
#cruel
Labrador’s love cake! It’s too cruel.
BUT
I live in hope, because tomorrow is another day …and I’ve seen what’s packed in the van!
PS. Laura will be rejoining tomorrow. ☺️