Decided to press on as the shoulder is still improving. Left the Premier Inn in good time, survived cycling along the A511 and rejoined NCR 63. This took us into Burton on a great cycle track which went over the River Trent. We then followed the 63 through the town centre which involved lots of junctions, pedestrian crossings and side streets. By the time we joined NCR 54 Nigel was pretty tired and not overjoyed by the sight of another canal!
We had already agreed that we might be having a bit of a walk at this stage but thankfully there was a good tarmac cycle track on an old railway line next to the tow path. Thank you Sustrans!
We then left the canal and for about a mile rode along a cycle track on the A38. Slightly terrifying as the lorries thundered past and we had a good dose of pollution. Fortunately the 54 soon went left and we headed north on quiet roads and this continued after joining NCR 68. A nice ride, gradually gaining height.
After lunch it was hillier and we were quite tired but got to Ashbourne in good time. Now off to the pub which is about 3 steps from our B and B!
Nigel says we haven’t included his joke about today having gone for a Burton and having been sent to Coventry a day or so ago. Are you surprised?
We are not Suprised just Impressed with your determination to keep going! Sounds like today was a good day look forward to seeing you tomorrow XA&F
Very much looking forward to seeing you both in Buxton. Hoping the wind is on our backs on the Tissington Trail
Your friendly webmaster is getting surprisingly protective and mother-hen-ish about this whole enterprise, and has taken to tracking your activity quite closely (nothing creepy about that, oh no). 6.15pm, photo uploaded in preparation for a blog entry – great, they’re still compos mentis! The photo was taken in Etwall [1], halfway between Burton and Ashbourne, just before noon – great, they’re making good progress! And terrible wordplay… great, the shoulder must definitely be getting better! And you’ve just crossed the 53rd parallel, fine northward progress. Wonderful stuff, and enjoy the glorious Peak District scenery for the next couple of days.
[1] Got to love GPS tagging of photos.
Many thanks Jonathan – good to know you’re keeping tabs on us. Not sure about the compos mentis bit.
Nigel and Debbie Hamilton
Make easy work of pedalling to Leamington
On to Nuneaton
With no sign of being beaten
Then to Burton
And one thing’s certain
Despite an injured shoulder
They pedalled braver and bolder
Through Ashbourne they go
With little sign of woe
Along the towpath and the railway track
There is nothing they lack
In determination and guts
No ifs, no buts
Surely nothing will stop them henceforth
As they pedal further and further north.
Many thanks for this wonderful verse Stephen. The poet laureate had better watch her back.
In Yorkshire with no WiFi, hate to think what Nick would have to say about that! Well done both, your efforts are awesome. I wish you smooth tracks, clean air and uplifting scenery. And painkillers xxx
Thank you very much for your message Caroline! You have got us summed up well and we have a good supply of painkillers if needed. Nigel & Debbie
Can we have a bruise picture please
No – it’s X-rated!