17 Jun 2016: The kindness of strangers

One of the most interesting aspects of the ride so far has been the friendly and kind reception I’ve had from everyone I’ve met and chatted to. A good example today: the Cyclestreets route I was trying to follow led me through a ford across a stream…

… and eventually into the garden of a beautiful 17th century farmhouse.

The owner was a little surprised, but happy to put me on the right road. (I won’t give her name or show the photo I took, because I didn’t think to ask her permission.)

Before I went on my way, she made me a wonderful lunch and we chatted about the farm (with sheep and horses), her son who also cycles long distances, and my charity appeal to which she was very sympathetic.

That sort of kind hospitality is a tremendous source of encouragment.