Newcastle United

It was inevitable that Newcastle would be a bit of a let down after my experience at Sunderland. I had been told in previous correspondence that the squad would be away in Hamburg so there would be no one around. Nevertheless a PR guy came down and showed me into the ground which is a very impressive stadium. He signed my shirt and I was soon on my way. On the way to the club I crossed the Tyne Bridge which some of you will remember from the Great North Run. On the way back I went over the magnificent new Millennium Foot Bridge which actually opened to let a boat though while I was there. I had now reached my furthest point north and turning south I encountered a very strong head wind. But I staggered my way back to Durham to stay with Eunice's cousin Glyn and Jean Carter. 1000 miles completed and probably the best day I have had.

Sunderland

Sunderland was not on my original itinerary, but as I have made good progress and Ian and Viv Duncan are fans so I decided to go and have a look at the Stadium of Light about 20 miles on from Hartlepool. I started to regret the choice when first another spoke broke then within a couple of minutes my GPS packed up again. After a bit of wandering around the city centre I saw the stadium and went to the main reception. It was full of security and I was told to go to the PR department as they were having a graduation ceremony in the stadium.

The reception for this is in a separate building so I cycled over there. The lady in reception was very friendly and said that Niall Quinn was in his office and she would ask if he would sign my shirt! The reply came back that he would come down and meet me in a few minutes. I was offered a cup of coffee while I waited. In fact, I had two! Then Niall came in and was really nice and applauded my efforts. We had photos taken and before he was called away by a phone call he gave me a £50note which he said was on behalf of Sunderland Football Club. I was stunned but I think I thanked him! Before I left I borrowed a paper clip to reset my GPS. As I cycled away I was quite emotional to think that 'the big man' had been so kind and friendly to little old me.

Hartlepool United

I set off the 12 miles to Hartlepool with a little trepidation in my heart. I was dressed in my cycling gear and you may have heard that they hung a monkey in Hartlepool believing it to be a spy! I may have looked a little inhuman myself! I need not have worried; they were very kind and welcomed me in. The manager Danny Wilson came and signed my shirt and I had my photo taken with him. He is really a nice guy. I went to the pitch and took a photo of HUFC..... no.!.... the letters were in blue not black and white. I then set off north to Sunderland.

Middlesbrough

I had intended to stop near Northallerton for the night but I got no response from the B&B I tried. I passed a church with a poster outside “This Church Is Prayer Conditioned”, and I thought to myself that I was prayer conditioned by all the thoughts and prayers of friends back home! That's the best fitness one could have.

The weather was good and a strong breeze at my tail helped me to gain ground quickly. I made a spur of the moment decision to push on and see what hotel I found. I didn't find one and ended up at the Middlesbrough Stadium 76 miles away. Contrary to the letter I had received they were very friendly. When they found I was doing it for MS they gave me a signed pennant. Signed my shirt and took of on a quick tour of the ground. I had photos taken and ended up sitting in the changing room with my shirt hanging on a peg with my pennant. The lady on reception found details of a hotel nearby. Unfortunately they were fully booked but they gave me the number for a pub who did rooms. This is pretty basic but has a dry warm room to sleep which is all I want. Just up the road was a fantastic Chinese buffet restaurant. You could eat all you could for £6.50! It had a fabulous selection and you could keep going back for more up to 7.30pm. I resisted the temptation to make a pig of myself!

Leeds United

It comes to something when I come to the evening and can't remember where I stayed the night before. Wherever it was, it was only 11 miles from Leeds and I arrived quickly with Billy Bremner standing proudly outside. This was a reminder of the glory days of the sixties and seventies when Revies boys kicked their way to many victories.

At Reception I met Stix Lockwood who I had corresponded with. His wife also has MS diagnosed 2 years ago. I had my picture taken with him and my shirt signed by one of the directors then went to security who showed me to the pitch side. He said that he had been to Hereford about 10 years ago following Doncaster. I got all my photos but still left with no memento from the club.

Barnsley

I have often been told when I have been asked where I was going next 'they are a funny lot over there'! This was said of Barnsley and it was quite true. I went to reception and the glass window opened half way and I was asked what I wanted. I explained that I had written to Michael McIndoe the ex Hereford player about my challenge. She said she would get my shirt signed and I poked it through the half opened window. I was told to go to gate 1 and I could take a photo of the stadium but don't go on the pitch. The ground staff didn't want to talk either so I used the toilet, picked up my shirt and left. Making my way to Wakefield I arrived at St Pierre Hotel for the night.

Rotherham United

With some of the hills around here you can imagine the little boy going off to get his loaf of Hovis although he would probably look like a little chav today! It is about 7 miles to Rotherham from Sheffield but they are miles apart when it comes to hospitality. When I arrived at Rotherham I asked for Mark Hitchens, the liaison officer. He greeted me warmly and after a coffee he presented me with a signed pencil drawing of their longest serving player. Rotherham are in administration and have been docked 10 points but Mark showed that some things money just can't buy - friendship. I hope they soon get over the current financial difficulties. Photos were taken and I was told that I would be on their website later today and also in a match programme soon.

Tony Butterworth Cycles

The bike was beginning to feel very sick and the wobble on the back wheel was so pronounced that I had disconnected the back brake several days ago. At least two more spokes had broken and the wheel would not turn freely any longer. When I saw a big bike shop outside Sheffield United called J James my spirits lifted. When I went in I found them very unhelpful. They were stockists of my Trek bike but couldn't possibly look at my bike until tomorrow. I thanked them politely but left seething. If this was Jesse James they should be outlawed! Just up the road from Wednesday I found another bike shop - Tony Butterworth Cycles. There I met the proprietor Chris Faulkner. He was very friendly and when I explained my circumstances he immediately took my bike in for repair. He spent about an hour putting in spokes, straightening my wheel, adjusting my brakes and generally cleaning it up. He also made me a cup of coffee! When I went to pay he refused any payment at all. I thanked him and shook his hand. If ever you are in Hillsborough go and buy a bike from Chris and forget about going to Sheffield Wednesday!

Sheffield United & Wednesday

This has been a strange day down at mill! I left the best all round B&B of the trip this morning which was Boon Hill Farm. They were really friendly and gave me a donation as well as being the cheapest. Their son is captain of Cambridge hockey team this year. Anyway I started out with the wet weather gear on again. The terrain is very hilly around Sheffield and I had a lot of trouble with the tram tracks and nearly came to grief. The road surface here is diabolical and as I descended into the city my GPS bracket snapped and it bounced down the road!! A bus and a car avoided running over it and amazingly it still worked! I arrived and left Sheffield United within 10 minutes. Sheffield Wednesday is only about 5 miles away and I was in and out of there within 10 minutes as well. The only difference between the two was that my shirt was signed by a receptionist at United and a security guy at Wednesday!

Tuesday I think

Not sure what day of the week it is except it is Sheffield day. Have completed 823 miles and been to 28 clubs, plus 1 ground under construction and 1 ground being demolished. Been to 3 cricket clubs and 1 dedicated rugby club although several are multi venues. Generally the League 2 clubs have been much more welcoming than Premier with the exception of Spurs. Best welcome has been from Torquay, Barnet and Wycombe. Off to breakfast now.

Mansfield Town

About 15 miles north of Nottingham is Mansfield. The wind was behind now and it was much easier pedalling. After stopping for a bite to eat at a garage I arrived at Mansfield on time. They greeted me warmly and said they had been following my progress on my blog and produced a printed copy. The Youth Team coach who had lost his car keys spent time with me and signed my shirt. We then went and had our photo taken by a grounds man. I was given a cup of coffee when in came the assistant manager. He also signed my shirt. After promising to send them a photo and keep in touch I then set off for my B&B 10 miles north

Notts County

Just over the river Trent within a mile is Notts County. The gulf between the clubs is immense. The County players were training on the pitch as they can't find another pitch. I was presented with another football signed by the players. Had a long chat about clubs and football before it was time to move on to Mansfield

Nottingham Forest

The 35 miles to Nottingham were a struggle with my head down against the wind. Arrived at Forest at 12.15. It took a while to find reception but had a nice chat with a guy in hospitality who raises money for Whizz Kids. He directed me to reception, they were very pleasant and told me to go and find a player. A couple came out from lunch and were happy to sign my shirt. It turned out to be assistant manager Dave Kerslake when I asked in reception.

Lincoln City

After a slightly later breakfast I left for the short trip to Sincil Bank and arrived shortly after 8.30. I recieved a warm welcome and was told they had come in yesterday to meet me. I apologised but they were happy. They presented me with a signed football and pennant. They took my photo and hope to put it in their programme soon. Said goodbye and off I set west to Nottingham into an incredibly strong wind coming from the south west

Grimsby

There was a 40th birthday party at the pub last night. I ate and went to bed. I soon went to sleep while watching Match of the Day. This morning I set off the alarm when I went to the loo and the landlord had to get up and turn it off. He hadn't got to bed until 1.30am! As I had breakfast the rain poured down so I left kitted out in full wet weather gear. The sun soon came out. Then it was head down for the 40miles to Grimsby. I thought I would never say it but the highlight of the day was lunch in McDonalds.

Grimsby Town was all locked up so I had lunch and set off back to Lincoln 38 miles away. I wish Grimsby had been promoted last year! The trip to Lincoln was hard against the wind. But I arrived just before 5pm. The owners of the B&B didn't arrive home till 6pm. After a shower I went into town for food and ended up in church! New Life church had about 100 in the congregation mostly students and the worship session was great! Then the preacher spoke about Rahab and making a new start. That reminded me that I was half way now having done 760 miles. So I start again tomorrow on the 2nd half of my challenge.

Boston v. Hereford

This is my 2nd attempt to write this after I deleted the first one. After going to the social club for a couple of drinks I met the team bus to get my clean gear from home. I was given a large mug of red wine by Joan and chatted to the directors. I had my photo take by Bulls News in the ground and I'm sure you will find a report on the game on there (http://bullsnews.blogspot.com/). We drew 1-1 and nearly won it near the end. They did an announcement about me at half time and I got a few donations while getting my coffee. I also had to collect a signed football from John Blackwell before I left. This I put on the coach with my dirty clothes. I had to cycle 12 miles to my digs for the night. So had to set off in the dark for the first time. I thought I had got lost at one stage as I saw a sign for Holland Fen then saw a warning sign saying Gilders then I realised it was a sign warning of low flying Gliders!

Boston United

The landlady at the Aragan B&B is a really nice German lady who came from Herford in Germany. I had a really good breakfast and on paying the landlady donated 7 pounds of her fee to MS. I left soon after 8.30 and made rapid progress. A combination of flat fen land and a strong tail wind enabled me to arrive in Boston at about 11am. I met club secretary John Blackwell and he have me a ticket and a programme. The rain was tipping down when I got there and I got very wet. I put the bike in the home end and left for a cafe and fish and chips to await the game.

Peterborough United

A pattern of pain is the order of each day. It takes about 10 miles to get rid of the stiffness in the leg muscles. Then for 20 miles I feel fine and pedal along well. Then my backside gets a bit sore from hitting numerous potholes and rough surfaces. From 40 miles, my hands go numb and I have to start swinging my arm round to get the feeling back. From 60 miles on, everything hurts. When I come to a small hill the power in the legs I had at the start has dissipated and I have to get into a low gear to wobble my way to the top. When I stop for more than a few minutes my legs seem to scream at me and I feel a little sick until I warm up again so I tend to try and keep going until I get to the destination.

I arrived at Peterborough United in good time today. A combination of tail wind and flatter terrain being the best explanation. Phil Adlam met me and took me into the ground. He said that most people have left but he went off to try and catch Keith Alexander. I wandered around the pitch and talked to the groundsman. His son had had a kidney transplant and football people had raised most of the appeal money. Phil returned with a signed programme from Keith Alexander from the recent Posh game against Everton. Phil took my photo and I set off for my B&B just around the corner. If the London hotel was posh this is definitely not! A small room with single bed and wash basin with a tiny telly on top of a wardrobe. Still the warm bed is all I want. I have arranged my whole trip around tomorrow when Boston play the Bulls. I hope I get there in time and don't get a puncture!

Northampton Town

Mursley, where I stayed last night was the west side of MK whereas I needed to go north east. The apartment I stayed in was ideal. It is self contained and had a kitchen including a washing machine so I washed my gear and Mr Baxter put them in his drier. I had to get my own breakfast but the food was all there. I finished breakfast by 7.15am and set off on the 24 miles to Northampton. The weather was dull, dry and windy. Generally it was behind me but swirled alarmingly at times. I arrived at Northampton Town in double quick time. At reception a lady greeted me. I thanked her for the tickets they had sent and asked if I could take some photos and have my shirt signed. She invited me over to the training ground to see if the manager was available. I was asked in to meet John Gorman who greeted me and introduced me to the players. He signed my shirt. We chatted until he was called away by his mobile ringing. I took my photos and said bye. With over 40 miles to go I got my head down.

MK Dons

It is nearly 40miles to MK Dons but the thought of escaping the M25 and London spurred me on. The penguin getting back to his proper environment sprang to mind! The strong wind sometimes helped and sometimes hindered but after stopping for a sandwich near Leighton Buzzard I arrived at the National Hockey Stadium at about 3pm. I found the press officer upstairs and we waited for the local press photographer to arrive. The Press Officer had to take a call from manager Martin Allen while we waited. I thought how young he was them realised how old I was! They presented me with a signed shirt and we had photos taken by the model cows. After a cup of coffee I made my way to my stay in Mursley. My GPS got confused by new building work but I found my way to a fabulous self contained apartment for the night.

Watford

What a contrast a Premiership club is. You have trouble getting past the receptionist then when she is convinced by my plea she can find no one who is interested. No money making opportunity I suggest. I did get into the ground and had my picture taken by the groundsman. He was very good and offered me a cup of coffee in his office. The young receptionist signed my shirt.

Barnet

After another early breakfast at 6.30 in the plush Moran Crown where waiters hovered I was glad to get going without succumbing to giving a tip! The wind today was very blustery and I never knew which way it was blowing. Barnet was only 9 miles away and I arrived early for my 9.30 appointment with Jane and Guiliano Grazioli. He is injured and has scored against Hereford but what a nice guy! He has a young child so he said he could be here a lot earlier as the babe had got him up! Jane took our photos on the pitch although she kept sinking in the turf because of her high heels! They presented me with a signed pennant and covering letter. Their webmaster took some details for the Barnet website so have a look at what they said. The Arsenal reserves had played there last might and they had left named water bottles in the dugout so I got one. So I did get something from them after all. I also got a couple of Lucozade bags for energy. Then off I set for Watford. I did muse as I went what a nice friendly club Barnet was but I still would like 3 points next time we play them!

Arsenal

It started to rain as I left Spurs and I soon had to don all my waterproof gear. Through not the most scenic parts of London I sped in increasingly heavy rain until I spotted the old Highbury festooned in scaffolding. I asked where the new stadium was and a passing lady directed me. The sight of to Emirates Stadium was stunning even in a downpour. I cycled over the new bridge to the magnificent stadium but after pleading my case I still didn't manage to get into the ground. A little deflated I trudged the 10 miles back to the hotel. More spokes had broken in the last couple of days so I decided to replace them and do a bit of maintenance before I packed in for the day.

I did 41 miles today to take me over 500 miles so far. I have been to 17 clubs so still a lot to go. I phoned Barnet and asked if I could come at 9 in the morning but they said that a player would meet me and could not get there until 9.30 so we arranged to meet then. Guliano Grazioli will be the player. After a wash I went to Wetherspoons for supper.

Tottenham Hotspur

I arrived at Spurs at 12 but had told Peter Secchi the PR manager earlier I would not be there until at least 1pm. So I went to a little cafe over the road while they looked after my bike at the gate. I had roast lamb and three veg for £3.80. At 1pm I went back to White Hart Lane just as Peter arrived. We greeted one another and he presented me with a signed football from the team. He promised to post it home to save me carrying it now. Then we went pitch side for some photos. He asked me to email a photo so they can put an article in their programme in December. I had a really good time but it was time to move on to the Arsenal.

West Ham

The walk though the Woolwich Tunnel was certainly a more pleasant experience than the Blackwall. An elderly Indian gentleman showed me the way to West Ham. I passed the Docklands airport and saw the Dome. I arrived at West Ham and went to reception and said that Martin Cearns had something for me. They eventually found a package for me which was a signed photograph of the team. A couple of security guards showed me to the pitch and took photos. They suggested I call in on Leyton Orient as it was on the way to Spurs. It took about half an hour to get to the Orient.

There was only one person in the club shop and the reception was locked so he couldn't show me the pitch side. I took some photos outside and moved on to Spurs.

Charlton

The hotel I am staying in is rather too posh for me. I was feeling a bit queasy this morning but still had a full breakfast to get my monies worth. The restaurant opened at 6.30am so I had a early breakfast, changed and left at 7.35 to beat the traffic. I still feel like a penguin and just as alien in the London environment! There were a lot more penguins on wheels (cyclists) - I got into Central London easily then made a BIG mistake. My GPS took me into the Blackwall Tunnel - It was scary as I was hooted at by a construction lorry. I had no where to go except keep pedalling. I nearly left a little parcel like Paula Radcliff did when running the marathon! Soon got to Charlton and had my shirt signed and a photo of the ground before returning under the Thames a much more relaxing way - a pedestrian tunnel near Woolwich Ferry

Fulham and Chelsea

Once I had negotiated the hills around Wycombe I set off down the A40 towards London. I am either getting fitter or there was a tail wind but I zoomed down the road. I stopped briefly at Gerrards Cross Church centre. I had been shown round it in the summer when Eunice and I and two of my sons had stayed with Paul and Janet Cassell. It is a magnificent new church centre and is very vibrant with about 150 mothers and toddlers there this morning. Travelling on I soon got onto the dual carriageway and was dragged along by fear or the back draft of passing lorries! Soon I was inside the M25 and onto the London streets. Arriving at Fulham I went to reception and asked if I could take a picture in the ground and my shirt signed. The young lady obliged and I was soon on my way again to Chelsea which is just down the road. As I arrived the heavens opened and I dived for cover under the massive stadium. After finding reception I pleaded my case. At first the response was negative but as I explained what I was doing the other receptionist who had been listening said she would make a phone call to someone higher. She got a positive reply so invited me to the lift. We went to a floor above the pitch level and entered a room where there was a stadium tour going on. She took me to a box overlooking the pitch and I took some photos. There nearby, guarded by security was the Premiership Trophy. I cheekily asked for a photo of me with it and she obliged! Back in reception she signed my shirt just as Peter Kenyon passed though. We exchanged smiles!

With only 5 miles to go to my hotel I took on the challenge of the London traffic with gusto. I soon found bus lanes very useful on a bike and passed Mercedes and Rolls with a smirk on my face as they were stuck in traffic. Finding the hotel I decided to carry on up the road to MS National Centre to check it was the right one as it looked a bit posh! I went in and was greeted. The chap who is transferring my website sponsorship to the Hereford branch came to see me and he invited of for a coffee. Just then I heard a shout and was embraced by our MS nurse Del. She had been down in London for a meeting with Caron Furnival, who I had met during the recruitment process of the MS nurse. Photos were taken and off I went for coffee and Del set off for home. I booked in at the Crown Moran at my own expense and after showering went down the road to Wetherspoons for dinner which was a lot cheaper! This evening I had another chat with Malcolm Boyden on BBC Hereford and Worcester and a special report on the FA replay from Keith Hall it was still 0-0 last I heard. Come on you Bulls!

Wycombe Wanderers

I enjoyed my stay with Harold and Marion, but it was too brief. I think I'm a bit like the emperor penguins as I have the urge to get trekking across the arctic every morning, in my case, the open road. After porridge and poached egg I said bye and set off just before 8. Progress on this chilly day was good and I arrived just after 10am. The GPS fixed by a lad in Halfords worked well. Wycombe gave me a fantastic welcome. Club secretary Keith Allen greeted me and got me a cup of coffee. We went though to his office and met Matt the Wanderers web master. He did a little interview to put on the website and after another cup of coffee, a signed ball arrived from the training ground. Keith asked if I was coming to the game vs. Hereford on New Years day and I said I was, so he organised 2 tickets for me! I am open to offers for the second ticket! After a presentation and photos on the pitch over an hour had elapsed so I started to make a move. Thanks Wycombe for your welcome!

Portsmouth and Reading

After a wet night the day started dull and damp. After Breakfast I set off at 8am and popped round the corner to Fratton Park. No one was around so I took some photos and left. Setting off through the rush hour traffic of Portsmouth I found the A3 them turned off up a B road to Hambledon. This village has the oldest cricket club in the world founded around 1720. Took some photos and moved on.

I arrived at the Madejski stadium, Reading just after 2pm as the rain poured down. I found reception and asked if I could take some photos in the ground and could someone sign my shirt? The lady was very helpful and said she would get a player to sign it. She took me for a tour of the pitch and I took some photos. I was then made a coffee while I waited to have my shirt signed. John Madejski himself smiled at of as he went to his office! Eventually the Reading captain was free and the shirt was taken through for him to sign. I didn't mind waiting as it was nice and warm inside when it was pouring outside. I soon left and popped into the town centre for a spare tube just in case. I phoned Harold Holmgren (and got directions as the GPS still was not working). Only a mile away so soon arrived. After dinner Marion took me down to Halfords to look at my Tom-Tom. They soon fixed it much to my relief. I didn't fancy navigating London without it.

Southampton FC

The New Forest looks beautiful today with a few autumn leaves shining in the sunlight. I passed though Lyndhurst and soon arrived at Southampton. The signs for the stadium were sparse but after a couple of wrong turns and asking pedestrians the way, I arrived at 12.30. Ahead of schedule, I circle the ground and took some photos. With no official to greet me an old friend was an able replacement. Martin Stephens arrived soon after. Martin was originally from Carey and his father still lives there. We greeted one another. Martin said that Marjorie and their son Andrew were on the way after church. He had a picnic prepared of hot chocolate and tomato soup to follow. I greeted Marjorie and Andrew and we all sat in the car and caught up with each other. Soon an hour had passed and I needed to move on. As I got kitted up again Marjorie noticed my rear wheel was slack. I pumped it up and it seemed ok so we said farewell and off I went. After a couple of miles I checked the tyre and it was soft again! I pumped it up again and went another mile before it was evident I could go no further. Stopping at a garage I unloaded all the kit and removed the rear wheel. I put in the tube I bought yesterday but it wouldn't inflate at all. The valve didn't work! I put the old tube back in and went into the garage where I had seen a canister of emergency car tyre foam. The connection was wrong but I cut that off and rammed the plastic hose over the cycle valve. Turning the knob it inflated the tyre but the tyre hadn't seated properly in the rim around the valve. So I deflated it and tried again. This time it was much better and seemed to hold although I didn't dare blow it up as hard as before. Reloading, I made a dash for it to try and beat the gathering gloom. But with 17 miles still to go I was soon in the dark. Without GPS it took a while to find my digs in Waverley Road, Southsea but I arrived about 5.45. The weather is deteriorating but it’s not far to Fratton Park in the morning.

Thoughts from the bike

Why is it that maps are flat but the roads I ride on have big hills? Why does the wind always blow in your face? Cycle paths are dreadful. They are covered in branches, broken glass and debris. If you do brave them you get smacked in the mouth by briars and branches. I'll take my chances on the road with articulated lorries! Why can some people jump in a tub of custard to raise money and I have to cycle 1500 miles? Do people understand how hard it is to cycle 70 miles with so much weight? I have cycled over 340 miles now which is over a fifth of the whole route. I have only been to 7 clubs. Enough of the moaning. I am enjoying it in a funny sort of way. So many people are praying for me I feel so many people backing me. More sponsorship would be nice though!

AFC Bournmouth

The morning dawned crisp and clear. The view from Colin and Ann's dining room as I had breakfast was stunning. The food was good as well. After saying my goodbyes I set off to Bournmouth and quickly arrived. The Fitness First Stadium is new and impressive. I waited half an hour until Liz Finney the general manager arrived. She had had to travel half an hour to meet me! She had a signed framed team photo for me but she said she would post it home. I took a few photos in the stadium and a couple of Liz. I thanked her for taking the time to come and meet me. I then started off towards Southampton but My GPS wouldn't start again! A couple of minutes down the road I had a phone call from Viv in Manchester. BBC radio Greater Manchester wanted to do an interview. A few minutes later they rang and I did a 5 minute chat about my trip. Old hat to me now!

The road to nowhere

Was it George Washington who said. ' I cannot tell a lie,' I could say that I have travelled 100 miles today. which is true but not all of it has been on my bike! After persuading the landlady to have breakfast at 7am I was ready to go at 7.45am. checking my bike I decided to pump up the rear type a little but before I could get any air in the tyre the valve came off in my hand! I took all the luggage off and turned the bike over on the pavement. On removing the wheel I discovered that 2 spokes had broken. Fortunately there was a bike shop at the end of the street but it did not open until 9.30am I tried to attach them again but it was useless. The one tube I had carried with me to Scotland was too big but the other fitted. i would have to wait for the shop to open. I knocked on the door.of the hotel to let me in to wash my hands. They got me another cup of coffee and sympathised with me but I wondered if they thought I could have had breakfast later. The shop opened and they were very helpful. Replacing several spokes,he advised I took some more with me. I eventually hit the road at 10.20am. I phoned Colin and Ann and Steve and Ann and we arranged that I would be picked up at dark wherever that was. The weather was good and A light tail breeze. I passed though Exeter and on to Honiton. There I turned off down the road to Dorchester. This road is like the big dipper! After the first prolonged climb I stopped at the Windmill garage for lunch of Coke and sandwiches. A very good looking lady was very interested in my ride and we chatted as I ate. She then donated some money to MS which really lifted my spirits. I continued up and down steep hills all afternoon. Steve then rang me and said he was on his way to meet up. When we met I had just complete 60 miles. Therefore I need to miss out a few miles to stay on track with the schedule. We enjoyed a good evening meal and I prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

Torquay United

That was wet! But at least it wasn't cold. Had a good night at Steve and Ann's. Steve cooked a good breakfast and we left for Crewkerne before 8am. The bike was stored at John and Pat Stuffins. It was raining on the journey over but dried as we arrived. Said my farewells and left at 8.45am. A 4 mile climb out of Crewkerne was an omen for the day. Descended into Chard then a steep climb out. The brief sunshine disappeared and it soon was pouring down. The rain penetrated nearly everything! At Honiton the A30 levels out and I began to make progress at last. I got to Exeter at 1pm to some relief.

Joining the A38 was a bit scary with thundering 3 lane traffic and spray with on hard shoulder to cycle on. After I was abused by a lorry drivers horn. I decided to get off and push the bike up the long hill until after the road divided onto The A380. Returning to the saddle I soon had a bread roll thrown at me! It missed but I was at a low ebb by now and wondered whether it was all worth it. Kept getting a engaged tone when I tried to ring Torquay, then my GPS died because of the wet!

Then it all changed, Torquay rang me and I said I would be there by 4pm. I arrived on time to a warm welcome. The receptionist got me a cup of coffee and said that 2 players would be here soon. Chairman Chris Roberts came down and greeted me. They had a signed football for me and tomorrow's programme. Adam Murray and Jordan Robertson arrived and we had our photographs taken in the ground by a Torquay sign which was from HMS Torquay the WW2 ship which helped sink the Bismark. Said our goodbyes and with instructions to my hotel ringing in my ears I promptly got lost. After a ride along the sea front I was directed to the right place around 5pm cold but content.

Yeovil Town

The A37 is a very hilly road not suitable for old cyclists but after a few stops for food and rests I arrived at Yeovil just before 4pm. The welcome there was very good. Photos were taken inside the ground and the Press Officer and I went to search for the manager Russell Slade. Eventually we found him back in reception where he signed my shirt and posed for photos. Very good PR which could have been taught to other clubs! My phone rang several times when I was there. One from my brother Steve to arrange to pick me up, and the other from John Stuffins - Andrew's brother who lives near Crewkerne. We arranged to meet up so I cycled on the extra 9 miles and met Steve there. We dropped the bike at John and Pat's. After a coffee some apple cake and a chat we made the half hour journey back to Steve and Ann's home in Gillingham arriving after 7pm, very tired and stiff.

Bristol Rovers

The day started off well with a hearty breakfast and £5 towards MS from Kate Price at Church Farm B&B. A fabulous place! I set off at 8am and made steady progress down the A 420. The first land mark of my trip passed at FOLLY where I completed the 1st 100 miles. Aptly named place? Bristol is in a hole and I descended into it arriving at Bristol Rovers at 10am and leaving at 10.15am. The welcome was muted and I look forward to the Bulls hammering them next season! I noticed a sign on the stadium exit which said. 'Please leave quietly'! They can't win very often. Anyway, I eventually managed to cycle out of the hole and made my way up the A37 towards Shepton Mallet and Yeovil.

The Press

You may have heard me on Hereford and Worcester last night with Malcolm Boyden. He gave me a good chance to talk about my trip and they are going to do other interviews with me the next couple of Tuesdays. It was about 8.10pm this week. It seems to have done some good because I have had some new sponsors. Thank you Marie and Susan as well as the ones I already know. You are all stars! I am doing other things on radio in Wycombe and Manchester in the coming days. I'm sure you will all keep my feet on the ground!

Swindon Town FC

I didn't realise how steep the climb would be out of Cheltenham but it got me warmed up! I made steady progress into a strong head wind and after calling the club about 1 hour before I arrived at Swindon Town at 11.45am Sarah Mildehall met me and invited me into the ground. She was the same height as Debbie (Price) and just as friendly. She took my photo in the stadium and reception. Then we chatted about my trip. I said I would to let her know how I get on. I had a phone call from Boston while I was there. John Blackwell said I would be made welcome, do a tour of the pitch when Hereford United are there and they are putting something in the programme on the day. Brilliant! Said farewell to Sarah and started off towards Bristol at about 12.15pm. On the outskirts of Swindon I had another phone call. A lady from Wycombe Wanderers asked if I was happy to do a thing for the press when I get there. Of course they could, I said!

Stopped for lunch in a busy pub just south or the M4 and had a lovely Shepherds Pie. Not sure if I should have stopped as my legs seized up! Anyway, I made the 20 mile journey to the B and B in Corsham feeling like pedalling in treacle with a ball and chain around my ankle. I still arrived at 3.15pm at a magnificent place and a self contained room. A cup of coffee soon revived me.

Cheltenham Town FC

It all nearly finished before it had started! James made me a fabulous breakfast at around 7.15am. Then I thought it would be a good idea to have my photo taken outside the house. This we did with me posing like Tarzan. When we went to in back in the house we found that the door was closed and locked! Inside was James’ key, my bike, and my phone! James had his phone, so he rang his flat mate Ceri. He was at his girlfriends but had no key. The others - Sam and Chris - had gone back to Essex for a schoolfriends funeral, who had been killed in a car crash. We knocked on neighbours doors but no reply. In desperation I kept lookout while James shinned over a couple of walls to the back garden. After about 5 minutes he appeared at the front door and let me in. Phew what a relief!

Left at 8.30am and nipped round the corner to Cheltenham Town. Met a Joan-like lady there and she took me into the stadium and I took a few photos. The lady took my photo and signed my shirt. I left for Swindon soon after 9am.

The Journey Begins!

I left home at 2pm to come down to James' flat in Cheltenham so that I can ease myself into the challenge with a little 33 mile trip. I also made a mistake with my itinerary as I thought Bristol Rovers still had their home ground in Bath. They have moved back in Bristol so it's added at least 30 miles to the trip. So student accommodation tonight. Just eating beans and baked potato now. Off early tomorrow to Cheltenham Town then Swindon before stopping in Corsham.

Training run to Cheltenham

With only 6 days to go I thought it might be a good idea to see how far I could stagger along on my bike. I set off at 7.45am and headed for Cheltenham. To my amazement it went remarkable well and I arrived at the Robins just after 10am. I persuaded a lady in the club shop to come and take my photo and told her I would be back next Wednesday. I then popped around the corner to see if my son James was at home. He rents a room with other student friends in Cheltenham but he was at university in Cirecester so I started to make my way back towards home. The return journey was a fair bit harder as I was beginning to tire and a head wind had pick up. I still only lost about 10 minutes on my scheduled return time so can't complain. I always have to climb a steep hill to get back to the farm so I stopped off at the Cottage of Content for a pint of Butty Bach before summoning the energy to get home. The 'Cottage' are backing me enthusiasticaly and getting quite a few of their customers to sponsor me.

League 2 is better than Premiership

Following on from Hereford United's hatrick in the Soccer AM crossbar challenge and the marvellous win at Swindon yesterday I agree with Tim Lovejoy that Hereford are the best team in the world! Added to this is the response to my letter I have had from the clubs I intend to visit on my cycle challenge.

League 2 clubs have been generally enthusiastic and welcoming. I have been given managers mobile numbers and asked to join them at training grounds etc. But the same cannot be said for the Premiership clubs. Of the clubs that have even bothered to reply only Everton, West Ham, Man City and Arsenal have offered me a welcome. I do understand the demands that are put on clubs, as one North East Club has said, ' We receive on average 200 request a week from charities'. Surely someone from the management team or an injured player could spend a few minutes having a photo taken outside their stadium.

Hence my headline, LEAGUE 2 is better than the Premiership!

The winning team

Thanks to the Hereford Times for allowing me to publish this photo of me with Graham Turner the Hereford United manager surrounded by players Rob Purdie, Wayne Brown, Tamika Mkandiware and Andy Williams.

GT has been a tremendous help and support as I have contacted other football clubs. He has written to every club endorsing my efforts. I have been allowed to put posters up around the ground at Edgar Street advertising my ride and hope to do a collection in the stadium on Dec 9th when I return for the home match with TorquayUnited.

Bromyard Assembly

John Pitt and I are taking the assembly at Bromyard school on Thursday to raise the awareness of MS and promote a fundraising project getting young people involved in money making schemes for the MS Society. I am talking about my fundraising activities including backtotheleague. Beccy and Chris introduced us and talked about the teams they want to get together. I am sure they will do well!

BBC H&W Interview

Did a interview with Andrew Easton on the radio on Wednesday from the studio in Hereford. It was the Pie and a Pint slot. They normally have celebrities on it so don't low why they asked me! Promoted the cycle ride so I hope I'll get some response but have had nothing yet!