Days 7 and 8: John O'Groats to home. The first train at Wick didn't turn up yesterday, so the train company provided a minibus to Inverness. £197.40 later I'm at the station, and my wallet did stay closed. (everyone knows that already). The rest of the trains were all on time, Scot Rail and East Coast trains have been brilliant.
Its too early to say if I would do it again. I have been both ways now. My wrists are sore, I had two pairs of shorts on the last day, popping pain killers with eccles cakes in front of Scotlands Constabulary at Golspie. Fatter tyres, at least 2 more gears, and another 12 days would make it enjoyable, on quiet roads but I have been fortunate with the weather.
I've met some lovely people along the way. One couple from Bristol give me £20 without thinking about it and they were on their 15 year late honeymoon going to JoG's! Guys give up their training rides to stay with me at Penrith. Most people couldn't believe what I was doing. One older chap from Burton upon Trent was riding for his father in law, I'm not sure he'll ever get there as he was finding it so difficult. Another guy riding a 125cc scooter with a large rucksack was supporting his 16 year son on his own Lejog trip after finishing school.
The support from friends, family and the people you meet on the way kept me going, mile after mile. This is a beautiful country. Thank you all for believing in me, and thank you Allison for everything you do. XXX.
