The VC’s blog: JoGLE Day 14: Bodmin to Land’s End

1625, September 8th 2011, mission accomplished. It was an early start for me. We arrived at Bodmin late yesterday, ate late and had energy for little else but bed. So I set the alarm for 0500, to get the Day 13 blog written and posted before our departure. Conditions were miserable as we prepared to …

The VC’s blog: JoGLE Day 13: Exeter to Bodmin

What a day, the toughest of the trip. Departure from Exeter was a bit un-coordinated. Alan was out first, having opted to go straight along the A30. He was followed on the same route by Steve and Neville (someone told Neville there were no traffic lights on the A30). The boldest choice was made by …

JoGLE Day 11: Bourton-on-the-Water to Shepton Mallett

Chris R, Alan and David W were off first. The other eight of us planned to leave together. It did not quite work out that way. We got lost in Bourton-on-the Water. If you know Bourton, you will know that takes some doing. The map enthusiasts wanted to go one way, the Garmin enthusiasts another. …

The VC’s blog: JoGLE Day 10: Sutton Bonington to Bourton-on-the-Water

The second dire day for Scottish football on this trip; a late penalty for the Czech Republic means Scotland miss out yet again on a major tournament. Last night we ate at The Plough in Normanton and were joined by several spouses (Susan, Duncan and Nick). Although Chris J’s choice of dessert was puzzling (everyone …

The VC’s blog: JoGLE Day 9: Retford to Sutton Bonington

What a special day. We knew in advance large numbers has signed up for the Retford leg and Community Ride from University Park and many more for the BBQ. But we were not prepared for the welcome we received at Sutton Bonington. To see so many family members, friends, colleagues and University supporters cheering us …

The VC’s blog: JoGLE Day 2: Helmsdale to Inverness

We left Helmsdale around 0815, straight on to the A9 for Inverness. As in the west of Scotland, there is one road in and out. This is the first time I have been on the A9 and it is absolutely delightful. It hugs the coast all the way down to Golspie, via Brora and other …