And that's a wrap!

I've made it! The last few miles from
Constantine were tough going, more psychological than physical I think. my legs felt like blocks of lead! There is a hill coming out of Gweek that I had to push my bike up the last time I tried. This time I pedalled all the way non-stop which cheered me up and gave me energy for the last stretch home.

Thankfully, I made it home just as the rain started. It was an amazing feeling to come cycling through the gate where Ma n Pa were waiting with big hugs and a glass of vino!

This trip for me has been marked by the abundance of high points and lack of low points. There are a number of things that I will remember for a long time: sleeping on the beach at Seaton; Tom and Emily's wedding; the night at Polly and Dan's; Dartmoor; Pensilva; and the visit from T and B; plus all the beautiful scenery that I had no idea existed between here and Bristol.

Low points include (being at the bottom of) some steep hills. That is all.

There have been a few things that have not happened on this trip that I was warned to expect:
- Slugs did not crawl into my mouth.
- I was not threatened at gunpoint by farmers, land owners or highway men.
- I did not get mauled by badgers, cows or (my favourite) cats.
- No hoodies mugged or hugged me.
- I was not washed away by high tides.

All in all I've had a fantastic adventure and would recommend it to anyone who has a little free time on their hands.

Many people have asked me why I chose to do this, myself included. This year, three people who are very dear to me have been, and are still, battling cancer. Their struggles have really made me think about how fragile our lives are and how things can come and knock you sideways from completely out of the blue. They have also shown me that it is possible to meet these obstacles and challenges head on and in a positive way. Katie, Claire and Helen have inspired me.

If you have enjoyed reading about my
trip, please think about making a small (or massive!) donation to a cancer charity in your area.

Thanks for reading.

Michael