Manchester & Belfast

Spent a week in Manchester staying with Sally, Dave and baby Theo.  It was a really relaxing week, had plenty of good night's sleep and delicious home cooked meals.  Saw a bit of Manchester, all of which I liked.  Myself and 3 complete strangers caught the film Looking For Eric at the cinema, I was pleasantly surprised, it was good.  Also spent a few hours walking in the Peak District which was great.

Flew into Belfast a few days ago to catch up with Dan Toner.  It was fantastic to see the man also known as Danny Newry and to also meet Kristina for the first time.  2 quality nights later I'm back in London, preparing for the bike ride.  Tomorrow I'll pick up my bike, a Ridgeback Voyage.  It will be complete with 2 panniers, water bottle, a smaller front bag, a big heavy D Lock and a dent.  I got it for a bit of a discount with the dent, I think it adds character.  It's more of a dimple than a dent anyway, it's a beauty spot.  The big ride will start this Friday morning - riding from London to Dover first before catching a ferry across to France and then riding south west to the city of Tours for Danny and Sonia's wedding.