And so the ride has been completed and thankfully both the bike and
body survived! There were no mishaps on the way apart from setting off
in the wrong direction at the very start quickly rectified after about
100 metres.
Getting out of London was a bit of a scare what
with the traffic and me being something of a novice riding on the roads
but again thankfully I made it although I still have the smell and
taste of diesel from huge lorries roaring past me somewhat too closely
at times.
A few thank-yous. To my support team during the
course of the ride being my good friend David Garrett who not only
drove the van with some essentials such as first-aid and bike repair
kits but who also provided great company. To Kevin Brandrick of Otis
Vehicle Hire and the Premier Inns who sponsored the van and
accommodation respectively. To Geoff Snape who played a huge role in
making this bike ride possible and to the Chairman and Board of West
Bromwich Albion FC for kindly allowing the bucket collection prior to
the start of the game against Birmingham City. To the former players
of West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City along with the volunteers
from Birmingham St. Mary’s Hospice who gave their time to act as bucket
collectors at the game. The reception I received from both sets of
supporters during my ride around the pitch was very warm and will stay
with me forever.
Finally to each and every one of you who have
given so generously in your donations for the benefit of the
Birmingham St. Mary’s Hospice and Cancer Research UK on their behalf I
thank you all most sincerely.
