So there's been a bit of a delay in posting. Apologies, but it's been unavoidable. More on that shortly.
Blairgowrie
The journey up from Peebles was frustratingly long as I got lost in Edinburgh's hideous one way system and maze of roundabouts. I cut out all scenic detours once I'd made it over the Firth Bridge to catch up on lost time. Arriving late, I headed into Dundee to catch up with an old friend (thanks for the Pizza Emma).
Alford (Well almost)
The next morning (Sunday) I had a very enjoyable breakfast at my B&B with a lovely couple, Peter and Veronica Butler, who donated £10 to the cause. As I left for the 80 mile trip over the mountains to Alford the heavens opened for the first time, and through the course of the day covered me in rain, sleet, hail and snow. At about 20:45, with 2 miles left to go my bike suddenly stopped (pothole) on a fast downhill section. Unfortunately, I didn't. I have quite vivid memories of hitting the ground face first and being covered in blood. As I went into a state of panic a car thankfully pulled up and the driver called an ambulance and took excellent care of me. The next four hours were quite scary as I was scanned, monitored, stitched and plastered. I spent that night and all of Monday being cared for by the marvellous staff at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. The final list of injuries includes two fractured wrists, a broken right elbow, a gash on my forehead which needed five stitches, a shiner of a black eye and cost me the skin on both my knees. I'm more than gutted but far from defeated. I had three days left and had covered over 800 miles. As I lay in the hospital bed on Monday contemplating how soon I could get back to the ride I was delighted when the driver of the car that came to my rescue paid me a visit. Laura, to whom I owe a huge debt of thanks, very kindly brought me the remnants of my glasses and Lance Armstrong's biography. Later that evening the legendary Rosie came to the rescue and helped me back to London today. I'd also like to pass on huge thanks to my Mum for all her support throughout and everyone who's been sending messages and sponsoring me - you've helped me up some evil hills.
So, for the time being the project is on ice. I'm naturally disappointed that I won't be finishing tomorrow, but really proud of the progress I made - I genuinely surprised myself. There's a few titbits still to upload and quite a lot of photos which I'll put up over the next few weeks, so watch this space.
Dictated by George, typed by Rosie
xxx
