A cold night, but slept well. A comparative lie-in as the Steria office in Hemel was only just around the corner. The routine in the morning hasn't changed but is taking just that little bit longer. It was also raining. All packed up we were ready, that was until Rod tried to start the camper - flat battery. A very helpful campsite manager had a 'jump start' machine, so I set off so as not to be late.
On arrival, a nice cup of coffee and a bacon roll and then some photos, including a visit from John Torrie (Chief Executive Officer, Steria UK), some more photos and a visit from some of the Hemel staff (Thanks to Ian Guppy for the photos). Then it was out into the rain and very windy conditions for the comparatively short day to Hinckley. I had already decided to risk an alternative route - straight up the A5. As it runs parallel with the M1 I assumed it would be quiet and it wasn't too bad.
A minor detour into Milton Keynes to allow Rod to visit the Institute of Groundmanship head office (He's Secretary / Treasurer of the West Yorkshire branch). On the whole the drivers gave me plenty of room, in particular the Eddie Stobart driver. He allowed time to overtake when it was safe for him and me, ignoring the horns etc. from the growing queue behind him - Thanks again.
On the health front, I've decided my legs are a spent force - running on empty for most of the day. Anything resembling an uphill slope, then engage the lowest gear, switch the brain off (no comments) and churn it out. And it was on to Hinckley and another open campsite (2/2 in UK). A quick shower, something to eat, some washing of cycling kit, just in time to sit down and watch the Champions League final. All mod cons in this camper.
Last song on IPOD today : The Clash - Should I Stay or Should I go
Garmin Stats:
115.00 km / 4 hour 42 min / Av 24.48 kph / Max - 47.63 kph
