Day 1 - Done - Cycle routes and wind

Well the first day is done 97 miles in the bag 400 to go. The day started early at 6.00 as we met at the Abicare office for the start. Even at that time we had people to wave us of which was a great way to start. All smiles as we left but would they last?

We have done the first 35 miles in our training rides so new the terrain well and kept up a good pace. We had planned to be at the Bradford on Avon office at 9.45 but we arrived early at 9.10 so decided to go for Bacon rolls and Coffee so off to Bath's Bakery. When we go to the office we were met by a number of smiley people and it really helped.

Then it was off into uncharted territory. We joined the canal path heading for Bath. At the start the path was very bumpy, muddy and with lots of stones. For Jason's bike it was no problem but for the two road bikes we were asking for a puncture. Fate smiled on us and we got through the first part without incident and then the cycle path improved and just after Bath we joined the old railway line for Bristol. The path was fantastic and so using cycle path's we travelled 14 miles on flat and car less roads. If you are in the area and fancy a cycle I highly recommend it.

A few miles later as 66 for the day we stopped for lunch at the Swan in Tockington. Due to the good pace we had made we got there ahead of schedule allowing us to have a leisurely lunch.

We were only a few miles from the old Severn Bridge and we were soon their. The wind had been our constant companion throughout the day but trees and hedgerow had minimised its effect. The bridge was a different kettle of fish. A south westerly hit us side on with full force and it was a struggle to keep a straight line.

Then we were in Wales and almost immediately we began to climb. Nothing to steep but long and constant until we reached the top and stopped for a break with some Alpacas.

Then we had a long descent into Usk. Our support vehicle clocked us at 40 miles per hour. The support vehicle is being driven by Sandra and Martin and they have been fantastic. Arranging office visits, tweeting (#abicare500) and carrying all manner of stuff including a stash of Toffees and Jelly Babies.

The wind then had one last trick to play by blowing directly into our faces making life particularly hard between Usk and Little Mill. Then we were on the last leg and arrived at the Pontypool office to another enthusiastic reception, Thank you.

Day 1 done. Tomorrow we are off to Swindon via Hereford.