The Four Points Challenge - the Rawhide Ride!

Review Time - Thursday 3rd July

2008-07-03T17:33:00.017+01:00

I can't believe that this time last week, Thursday afternoon, I was about to arrive at Wigan (maybe I was already there!) ... whatever, it was absolutely pouring down with the wet stuff ... AGAIN! I had just ridden from Scotland to Wigan whilst barely using the motorways at all; a long cherished desire.

This is almost the last of the Blog entries, although, when the sums are all done, I will give the total of funds raised. At the moment, we are at various stages of collecting ... if you still plan to contribute, please do so, either on-line to www.justgiving.com/thefourpointschallenge or directly via me by cheque (please make payable to 'The Jennifer Trust')! If you've already supported my Challenge, then THANK YOU very much ...

I hope you enjoy a taste of scenes from various points around the UK. Firstly, the Four Points!

SOUTH - Lizard Point

EAST - Lowestoft Ness

NORTH - Dunnet Head

WEST - Ardnamurchan Point

Richard certainly had the essence of what the tour was like, but I fear I gave the impression that I had been permanently sunk without trace under perpetual torrential downpourings! In actual fact, it was mostly a case of 'what a shame I can't really get the maximum benefit from this glorious scenery'. But that's the U.K. for you. Only on the first and last days did it remain absolutely dry! Naturally, if I had really wanted totally dry weather, then I could have gone to Italy, France, Africa ... but it can / does rain even in all those places.

(... now where could this be? ... how about the border crossing on the A68 before Jedburgh and Edinburgh?)

Monday saw me at Woodfield School launching forth about the trip with a hastily cobbled Powerpoint in their morning assembly. This is the school in Plymouth where Amanda (Mum to Baby Alex) worked with my wife for many years. 'Twas another opportunity to share the awareness message about SMA that I could not miss.

(Just after Inverness, climbing over Struie Hill to Bonar Bridge)

Most of the time since then has been occupied with cleaning one exceptionally dirty machine ... yes, it really HAS taken that long to get it back to something like 'decent'!

(Approaching Wick ... I think it is the village of Dunbeath ... unless anyone knows any better!)

(A scene so typical of Wester Ross ... I had never been to this area ... it made a great impact ...)

This afternoon, I've just completed a Review / Summary of the trip, especially for those amongst you who like to know the facts and figures. Perhaps you'd like to have a look? For those who do NOT wear anoraks all the time, move swiftly onwards!

(the evocative Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge)

9th to 28th June 2008: Review

The Charity: The Jennifer Trust for Spinal Muscular Atrophy
The Challenge: to ride to the four points (N, S, E and W) of the UK mainland
The Bike: Honda CBR 1100 X3 Super Blackbird.
The Rider: Michael Shelmerdine
The Dates: Thursday 19th – Saturday 28th June, 2008

(a reflective Loch Eil near Fort William)

Travel data:

Total mileage covered 2610 mls
Total fuel used: 241.9 ltr / 53.16 gall
Total cost of fuel used: £290-90
Unit fuel cost: £1-20 /ltr. / £5-47 / gall
Ave. Economy: 10.79 m/ltr / 49.10 mpg.

Tank Capacity: 23 ltr / 5.05 gall
Range (to 2 ltrs reserve): 226.6 mls

(clouds over Ben Nevis)

Route Segment Details:

Thursday 19th June: Plymouth - Lizard Point - Plymouth / 218 mls
Friday 20th June: Plymouth - Ipswich / 329 mls
Saturday 21st June: Ipswich - Durham / 355 mls
Sunday 22nd June: Durham - Inverness / 361 mls
Monday 23rd June: Inverness - Scourie / 242 mls
Tuesday 24th June: Scourie - Fort William / 271 mls
Wednesday 25th June: Fort William - Crianlarich / 211 mls
Thursday 26th June: Crianlarich - Wigan / 280 mls
Friday 27th June: rest day at Wigan / 0 mls
Saturday 28th June: Wigan - Plymouth / 343 mls

Total mileage: 2610

(Hacking down through mid Wales: south of Newtown, I think)

(The Reception Committee ... Alan and Amanda took my breath away with a personalised Tankard by which to remember my Challenge ... I hardly need any reminders of such a FABULOUS experience, but THANK YOU so much!)

(Three days of hard work to remove so much caked-on muck ... I would never make a profit doing this professionally)

(... NOW that's what it should look like!)

Thursday 26th June 2008

2008-06-28T22:17:00.000+01:00

Michael says ... to Pam who edited it!

Set off in wrong direction (north) thanks to... yes you guessed it Sat Nav! Soon got sorted and it worked a dream through Glasgow.

Arrived safely in Wigan at about 5pm. The bike and gear are drying out in Stu's shed. The rain there is so bad the drains flooding Stu's road. Just the night for a birthday barbeque for Alice!! YES!

Michael says he has taken the rain all round with him. It is dry in the NW of Scotland now he has left. He is due to bring the rain back home to Plymouth. Great!

Friday's Update: 27.06.08

2008-06-27T18:04:00.007+01:00

Its now Friday 27th June; a rest day by any other name. Its been great to view the pics I've taken when downloaded onto Son Stuart's computer at Wigan, where I am spending a couple of nights. Its strange NOT to be on the road, covering the miles as per each of the last 8 days!

I think the theme of the week has to have been the (often) appalling weather; have a careful look at Durham Cathedral and spot the blob of rain on the lens! There has not been one completely dry day since Mark and I went to Lizard Point. Even today is 'showers', although not like the heavyweight rain of yesterday. Did I tell you that Stuart cooked a full BBQ for 15 of us last night? ... outside in waterproofs, he was, holding an umbrella and cooking all the goodies whilst the BBQ cover hissed as the rain drops landed. True dedication ... food was good too!

I'm trying to load a few pics to break the monotony of my writing; oh, hasn't Richard done a sterling piece of work. Many thanks Son ... and also to Pam for providing bulleted points from our numerous telephone conversations. A great job, very well done to both of you. I had great fun reading all the latest when I logged on this morning.

Eilean Donan Castle: starting point for the Jacobite Rebellion - Bonnie Prince Charlie's grand march South.

Day 10, the last day, tomorrow, Saturday 28th June. From Wigan, back to Plymouth ... via deepest Wales, naturally ... because I can ... ! Guess what? The forecast is set for DRY (all things are comparative, methinks).

To all those who have taken the time, THANK YOU for the support, prayers, phone calls and best wishes, either directly to me or via Pam. They have meant a lot to us both. I'll be in touch again when I am safely back at home once more.

This next / last is from Gretna Green; home of Blacksmith's Weddings for the last 200 years, ... only one mile from the English border and first stop-off point for coach and horses as they crossed the border.

Michael
1700hrs / Friday 27th June

Day 5 - Wednesday 25th June - Evening Report

2008-06-26T00:00:00.002+01:00

By all accounts, today wasn't the most enjoyable of days.

Michael called Pam early whilst he was having tea in town 3 miles from his B&B so he wouldn't have to go out on the bike later:

"The weather has been atrocious. Glencoe was a big disappointment as the conditions were so bad I had to ride very slowly for safety. I did not go on to Oban. Both gloves leaked! At one point, the bumpy road made the top box wobble again but still no disaster as it sorted itself out"

There were some positives.

At breakfast, Michael talked to 2 Swedish couples about The Jennifer Trust.
A Devon couple were happy to sign Michael's validation sheet when he reached 'West' around lunchtime. He was was quite emotional and considers this quite an achievement. I agree.

Tomorrow ends in Wigan, on Granddaughter Alice's birthday. How exciting to be 3 years old and have Granddad arrive by bike!

Evening Herald Article

2008-06-25T13:27:00.002+01:00

Anyone reading this today (Wednesday 25th) who is able to get hold of a copy of it Evening Herald should be able to find Michael's article.

There are some inaccuracies but any publicity is good publicity!

Day 7 - Wesday 25th June - All Four Points successfully reached

2008-06-25T12:59:00.003+01:00

A text from Michael received today at 1257hrs:

"Just arrived at West [Ardnamurchan] point. Rather wet and windy. M"

I'm guessing that as it's so impersonal he's sent the same one to lots of us. Given that he's likely not got everyone's number, I thought I'd share that with everyone else!

Day 6 - Tuesday 24th June - Deer Reader!

2008-06-25T00:19:00.001+01:00

Today started with beautiful sunlight.

For lunch, Michael stopped at a delightful tea room called the Potting Shed. It was shortly after departing from here that he was riding along (thankfully, quite slowly at this point) and two red deer stepped crossed the road in front of him to join their three friends on the other side!
This is slightly coincidental because it was in the run-up when Michael said that he would not be passing on every-day details like changing his socks, but instead we'd post if a deer jumped over him as he rode, for example.

The afternoon's route took a recommended detour near to view the Isle of Skye from the British mainland. Sadly the Scottish rain (it "weaseled down", according to Michael when I spoke to him) didn't allow for the promised view but I can't help thinking it would still be more attractive than anything I saw today!

I spoke to Michael this evening shortly after he'd passed the Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge - 3 bronze figures in memory of Scottish Commando's who lost their lives in WWII. This is noteworthy as he had been there at the age of 12, however long ago that may be now ;-)
Whilst talking with Michael, he pulled over in order to have a clearer conversation. This was all well, until a swarm of 5000 three stone six foot long Scottish midges attacked him. He promptly moved on, having to take one of them with him on his visor.

Recently, there has been much mention of the journey but not much of SMA and the intention to spread the word. I asked Michael about this.

The 2 German motor bikers mentioned on Day 5 were incredulous at this challenge and contact details were exchanged.
At the Potting Shed café a gentleman entered having spotted all the stickers on the bike outside, marched up to Michael and wanted to know all the details - the journey, the cause, the charity etc.
Indeed, the previous night's host (I didn't get a name - some reporter I'm going to turn out to be) was keen to host Michael in part due to her regularly looking after her grandchild.

Needless to say, I doubt many people are crossing paths with Michael and not hearing about SMA, the Jennifer Trust and the Four Points Challenge.

Continuing this theme, BBC Spotlight TV today contacted Pam asking about filming some part of Michael's ride. This may be his arrival back at Alan and Amanda's on Saturday pm. If this is the case, all visitors, banners and flags will be greatly welcomed. We'll keep you posted.

Michael is now safely in the civilisation that is Fort William and he enjoyed a pub meal earlier. He has now visited South, East and North. Tomorrow is West: Ardnamurchan Point.

Bonus Photos - Sunday's Departure

2008-06-25T00:03:00.004+01:00

A couple of photos emailed in from Bob (standing talking) and Jennie (on the bike) who Michael stayed with on Saturday night.

"Hi Pam.

I just thought I'd attach one or two photos we took the morning Michael left. The weather was lovely by then and just right for a few pictures. As you can see, I dared to climb on the terrifyingly enormous vehicle. Sitting on it stationary was quite enough.

It's been lovely weather for the last two days until about 4pm today. I just hope it's been the same in the west for Michael so he could see everything at its best. The forecast is miserable again for tomorrow. It's such a shame but it doesn't seem to dampen his enthusiasm for long.

Love Jennie."

Day 5 - Monday 23rd June - Scottish exploits

2008-06-23T23:22:00.005+01:00

For Day 5 - Inverness to Scourie via Dunnet Head (most Northerly point) - I have reports from two different people and they both paint a lovely image.

From Pam...

A great start to the day with flannelette sheets and then a hearty breakfast of Scots porridge.
A poetic moment of riding close to the elements and being able to absorb the wonderful smells: pine from the forest, sea weed from the shore, timber from a passing lorry... and smoke from a driver's open window.
During the day, Michael stumbled across some German bikers at a filling station then met them again at John O'Groats and Dunnett Head.
The drama point of the day was when the mount for the top box (storage compartment at the back above the back wheel) became wobbly. It was soon fixed.
In the evening, a delicious meal of salmon followed by strawberries and cream. How appropriate given it was the opening day of Wimbledon.

From Karen (daughter; met at The Lizard in Cornwall last Thursday), following calling him during the afternoon whilst he was riding (he has had a hands-free set which doubles as his music player)...

"Spoke to Dad this afternoon. He was high on adrenaline, life, being up in the mountains. The picture he painted of the roads, lochs, mountains were amazing and Dad seemed actually drunk on life!! This is no better described than when in the middle of telling me everything that he's been up to, I was cut of for a minute or so. Funny thing was that when I managed to 'phone him back and reconnect, he hadn't even noticed I'd been gone!!! So envious, Scotland sounds Wow!"

The 'phone issue is something Michael was aware of - that when he is riding and someone calls , the phone doesn't ring - you get connected straight through to him. If he is listening to music, it cuts out and is replaced by the caller's voice. This must have been what happened.

I think this describes that Michael is enjoying himself. No doubt he will have taken loads of pictures and as soon as he is able, we'll try and get some online.

Day 6 brings him down the West side of Scotland, staying in Fort William overnight. I know this was always going to be a favourite day. Enjoy, Dad!

Day 4 - Sunday 22nd June - Challenges!

2008-06-22T23:48:00.003+01:00

Here we go with the report from Day 4 - Durham to Inverness.

Michael trod on his glasses. This means he now looks like Jack Duckworth from Coronation Street. I've no idea what this means but hopefully all is well.

In part due to the fact that not as many garages are open in Scotland as in England on Sundays, Michael almost ran out of fuel twice.

A nasty accident caused Michael to have to take a detour quite close to his journey's end. His Sat Nav assisted but taking him by taking him back to the accident site: great! So Michael had to ring Jennie and Bob for directions. There are thoughts that perhaps a map should be take in future!

These various challenges aside, the day ended with stepping out of his wet outer clothing and being well fed.

Hopefully tomorrow's leg of the journey - Inverness to Scourie via Dunnet Head (most Northerly point) - will bring fewer challenges for our intrepid explorer out on the road so he can enjoy the wonderful Scottish countryside.

Day 3 - Saturday 21st June - Getting soaked in the East

2008-06-22T00:00:00.006+01:00

Below are photos from Day 3 (Ipswich to Durham).

The locations of note on this day were Lowestoft Ness (most Easterly point) and The Humber Bridge.

The weather was atrocious and when Michael arrived at Jon and Beth house he was happy to take off his soaking wet clothes and "drape them around just about every warm surface, hoping to ready it for the morrow".

In his words, it is "surprising what a hot shower does to revive... helped, not a little, by a couple of glasses of red and a cracking meal, thanks, Guys".
Hmm, food and drink - I'm spotting a theme here!

Day 4 brings a 321 mile journey to Inverness. Lets hope for rather dryer weather!

Day 3 - Saturday 21st June - The Departure

2008-06-21T23:53:00.003+01:00

A few photos from Rich of Michael heading off for the day post-Bacon ...

Day 2 - Friday 20th June - Pit stops and pizza

2008-06-21T00:50:00.004+01:00

The Departure was filmed by ITV Westcountry and aired twice yesterday, at 1115hrs and 1800hrs. I am assured it is on the Westcountry website at www.itvlocal.com/westcountry but I can't find! If anyone has more success, please add a comment below with instructions for us lesser mortals.
There is no sign, yet, of an article in The Evening Herald.

Day 2 started with a trip to the tyre shop to check out the puncture situation following yesterday's nail. Apparently this is done in the same way that I would look for a hole in my bicycle inner tube - immersing it in water and looking for bubbles. There weren't any, so on with the trip to Ipswich, after remembering to put his glasses on his head, not his seat...!

Pam wrote about an issue with Michael's chain but after assistance from a lorry driver and a garage in Fleet it got sorted. To me this sounds serious but as no more mention of it is made, it clearly isn't.

The night was being spent in Ipswich, staying with Step-Son Rich and Michael enjoyed a shower, a humongous pizza and Old Speckled Hen. Anyone who knows Michael will appreciate that this meant the day ended well...

I have no pictures to show but as Michael points out, it wasn't the prettiest of days.
The Car Park that is the M25 at 1630hrs on a Friday isn't exactly the most fun as the World and his Uncle finish head home for the weekend but Michael successfully navigated his 66 mile stretch of it being thankful for his narrow vehicle.
Continuing the theme of "I'm glad that's now over", there were a few rain showers, although they weren't nearly as bad as were forecast.

Day 3 starts with a trip to Lowestoft Ness (the most Easterly Point) and ends in Durham, staying with Beth & Jon.
Highlights will be a ride over the Humber Bridge over which Michael has never travelled and the best that Yorkshire has to offer although "speaking as a good Lancashire Lad, that does rather hurt to say!".
This is instead of the A1 / A1M as the GPS recommends proving that technology does have it's limitations.

The weather is set to continue being pretty soggy - below is the forecast from BBC website for York - but it's a factor about which Michael apparently has no control (what??? C'mon Dad) but being back up North, he's not allowed to be soft so head down; get on with it.

I am hearing rumours that there is scrumptious smell of Bacon Butties for breakfast (Rich sounds like a perfect host!) so I'll end it there.

Day 1 - Thursday 18th June - According to Michael

2008-06-19T23:10:00.007+01:00

This is how this is going to work...
Each evening, Dad - I should really try and write 'Michael' here as this is most likely how he is known to you, the reader - is going to 'phone Pam and they will chat. From this, Pam will email me bullet points of any key moments of the day. From this, I will write a blog entry, complete with some attempts at witty anecdotes. I will also include any 'photos that I may have received, from whatever sources.

Today was a little different as Michael - please appreciate that it's really odd for me to call him this though; anyway, I digress - was at home so sent me the bullet points himself instead of writing his own post: thanks a lot! Only kidding, I appreciate how it's been a long day and there's much to do tomorrow (a little more than planned perhaps - keep reading!).

So, here goes (more photos, from Michael's camera at the bottom).

Michael firstly wanted to point out that as well as the Evening Herald photographer taking some photos this morning, he held a 'phone interview with a Herald reporter. Naturally, as soon as the article is printed I will endeavour to get it up here.

As we left it this morning, Vikki and I had to head to work just as the Westcountry film crew arrived thus the content of the interviews is as much of a surprise to me as it will be to you but I have been reliably informed that this should be aired on Westcountry Television on Friday 20th June at 1100hrs and 1800hrs.
If you miss it or would like to see it again, head to www.itvlocal.com/westcountry.

Thank you to both the Evening Herald and Westcountry for their much-needed assistance in raising the awareness of SMA.

Michael successfully arrived at The Lizard Point (most Southerly point) and was met by daughter Karen. I have no details, but I think the plan was for Cornish Pasties for lunch.

Mainly just because they could, Michael and Mark subsequently headed around the coast to Land's End (the most Southwesterly point?).
This led to some unexpected excitement as Michael promptly picked up an unwanted hitchhiker: a nail in his tyre.
Thankfully, the tyre remained inflated for the return to Plymouth but this has led to a change of plan for tomorrow - an early-morning trip to Protyre to get it checked out before departing for Ipswich.

Don't forget that if you would like to know where Michael is at any point, you can follow his progress here.

Any comments are most welcome, whether they be with any suggestions for the blog, to ask any questions or just to say "Hi" to Michael.

Hopefully the professionally taken version of this will be in the Evening Herald soon

Westcountry Television

Amanda being interviewed

The Lizard Point (most Southerly point)

The Infamous Nail

Land's End

Day 1 - Thursday 19th June - The Departure

2008-06-19T10:54:00.008+01:00

Vikki and I made a surprise entrance at Dunraven Drive to find Dad (aka Michael / the Rawhide Rider), Pam and Day 1 riding buddy Mark sat having a very leisurely chat.
No last minute rushing around - this is a Shelmerdine we're talking about!

The heavy rain of last night had departed and we arrived at Amanda and Alan's house under mixed skies.
Shortly afterwards, so did the Evening Herald photographer (complete with the longest lens ever) and he positioned Dad in a multitude of positions of varying laidback-ness.
Soon afterwards, Amanda and Alan were invited to join in and they brought a beautiful picture of Alex. The poignancy that today, the 19th June 2008, would have been Alex's first birthday should not be overlooked.

Next followed a healthy pause whilst the Westcountry film crew made their way to the venue.
Due to work committments, Vikki and I had to head off so we mocked up a departure photo during which time crew arrived (probably to their puzzlement).

Tonight an update will follow, hopefully with more photos of lunch with Karen at the Lizard.

(click on any of the photos below to see an enlarged version)

Hint: Take the lens cap off first

Information Update 18.06.08: recent developments

2008-06-18T10:09:00.007+01:00

My last day before the start of The Four Points Challenge - the Rawhide Ride! I can't believe we're nearly there; its been a long time coming.

The Farewell Supporters Club(!) assemble outside the home of Amanda and Alan for the Send-Off at 1000hrs Thursday, 19th June. You will read elsewhere in the Blog that this date would have been Alex's first birthday; I'm sure many will be saddened by the poignancy of this fact.

For those who don't know, the address is:

24 Newcastle Gardens

Whitleigh

Plymouth

PL5 4EZ

If you are free, it would be good to see you there.

Daughter Karen and her husband Tony are going to be at the Lizard to welcome me as I arrive. That'll be Bacon Butties to the fore there, then! I think this is the reason Mark is joining me for this first day's run ... good to have you along, Buddy.

Thanks to Steve for a very successful photo shoot last Saturday. He took some shots here at home, then up on the Moors outside Plymouth at Roborough. The Jennifer Trust wanted some images to see just how darned good looking I can be (I obviously failed there) ... and what does this bike that he's riding actually look like when its ready for the 'off'.

I am logging my progress around the UK with stamps I'm collecting from every petrol station etc as I go. After all, you Guys need to know that I'm not just parked around the corner, somewhere, for a few days ... !

Petrol Tanker Drivers' Strike ... or not: talking of petrol stations, of course, brings me to a huge sigh of relief I gave to read / hear / watch that the second 4-day Drivers' strike, planned to start this Friday, has been called off. I really didn't need to have to spend half my time wondering just where the next tank-full of petrol was going to come from. BIG relief. Thanks God, that's the answer to a prayer.

Again, thanks to all of you: family, friends, (ex-) work colleagues, and sponsors for all the support I've had recently. Keep it up. Keep in touch. Pray for fine weather, clear roads ... and FUN !

Information Update 11.06.08: recent developments

2008-06-11T10:39:00.005+01:00

Just a day short of ONE WEEK before I go! I know its not the best time to have my computer upgraded, but needs must. It will be out of action late Wed 11th and Thursday 12th.

Plans and preparations go well: Denmans have matched GT Motorcycles (Mike was already providing petrol right up to Inverness; thanks, Mike) with fuel all the way down the West coast (thanks, Jayne). Two Wheel Technics have completed a full service of the bike (thanks, Rod).

Latest information? Protyre have just joined the various sponsors with nice new rubber for the back of the bike (thanks, Richard). I promise not to wear it out, Richard ... yeah, right!

All my accommodation is falling into place: at Scourie, the extreme N-W of Scotland, I spoke to Mrs MacDonald regarding B & B for Monday the 23rd. Not only has she a vacancy, but there will be no charge ... her contribution to the Event. Thank you Mrs M.

Mark, biking-buddy, is hoping to join me for Day One. That's the run to Lizard Point and back to Plymouth. Thanks, Mark, it will be good to have the company. Daughter Karen, and husband Tony, will greet us down there for photos and stuff. Again, thanks Guys.

My Transit Verification Form (posh title, huh) is now ready and waiting! I will be asking for all petrol stations etc. to authenticate my progress with signatures and company stamps on the form. It should be quite a Collector's Piece at the end.

Here's hoping the press will give this event the coverage needed, to tell as many people as possible about Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and what can be done about supporting The Jennifer Trust in some way.

Son Richard will be helping Pam with updates to the Blog each day. Watch my progress ... and thanks for being interested!

Amanda and Alan, here's thinking of you.

Roll on, Thursday, June 19th!

Michael

Information Update 27.05.08: recent developments

2008-05-27T15:09:00.009+01:00

Amanda and I had an interesting time this morning when Jane Atwill, BBC Radio Devon, came to interview us about the Challenge. This was for a slot which we hope will bring the whole SMA subject a bit closer to more of Jo / Josephine Public! We both felt it went quite well; it turned out that the most worrying part was for Jane ... I suggested a photoshoot with her sitting astride the bike. I can't see what the problem was, but she looked nervous ... !

The bike is now adorned with Sponsors' stickers (thanks to GT Motorcycles, Denmans and Two-Wheel Technics) and assorted logos from, amongst others, the Jennifer Trust. We all hope it will help to publicise SMA to as many people as possible.

I have now completed my mail shot to all the family, friends, ex colleagues and everyone else that I can think of. MANY THANKS to so many of you that have already responded with your Best Wishes and/or Financial help for the Trust. It is truly appreciated. Keep up the good work!

New Logo

2008-05-22T15:14:00.005+01:00

I am excited to announce the latest development for The Four Points Challenge - the Rawhide Ride!

This logo, designed specifically to add a splash of colour to my very BLACK bike will be on each side of the fairing.
I'm still looking for ideas for a design to add to the screen. Please post any suggestions, or comments on this logo, as a comment below.

Thanks, as before, to Richard for his help with this.

This couldn't have been done without ...

2008-05-18T14:48:00.008+01:00

... the enormous help and encouragement of my Son, Richard. Many thanks to you, Rich. Anyone who knows me is bound to agree that building this Blog for 'The Four Points Challenge - the Rawhide Ride' would have been way beyond me. Amanda and Alan are every bit as thrilled as I am with what you have enabled.

... the advice and, also, the encouragement that Wendy Bray has given. She has been a constant source of ideas over a number of topics with which I've been involved. As an experienced, free-lance journalist, she has many fingers in many pies (!). Thank you, Wendy.

... Phil Wills! It was when I was searching for the precise locations of the Four Points that I found Phil's website, with the fabulously atmospheric images he took at the four locations. My thanks to Phil, for being so willing for me to use his work at no cost to me. Check out his link for more of his work.

... all the Sponsors that have enabled me to have a go at this Challenge. Find out more about who helped me, below.

Michael

Sponsor Profile - GT Motorcycles

2008-05-18T09:38:00.026+01:00

GT Motorcycles have kindly agreed to sponsor my Four Points Challenge - the Rawhide Ride! Their sponsorship is coming in the form of a £100 gift towards petrol. I have made contact with the GT Motorcycles' PR Manager; Robert Clegg. He says:

"GT Motorcycles is a long established Westcountry motorcycle dealer. The company was started in 1978 by Mike Grainger and his original business partner Peter Tribble, now retired. From small beginnings the company has grown through several phases to become one of the largest motorcycle dealerships in the South West of England. With shops in St Austell, Torbay and Plymouth, nine major motorcycle franchises and a new headquarters opened last year, GT Motorcycles is well worth a visit.

"This summer Mike is celebrating thirty years in business and he's planning a party. If it's anything like the one he threw last September for the new Plymouth store's opening it will knock your socks off. For those who missed it: there was a free to enter win-a-bike competition, celebrity guests including James Toseland, Chris Walker and Mick Grant, entertainment and refreshments. Oh and not to forget a big display of new and used motorcycles with all the necessary clothing and accessories we motorcyclists need".

This sponsorship got me thinking: how much will £100 of petrol take me in regards to the route ... ?

£100 in sponsorship at the current rate (for THIS week, at least!) of £1-08 per litre will buy 92.59 litres or 20.35 gallons of fuel.

The average economy of my Blackbird over its 18000 miles has been about 42 mpg, hence GT Motorcycles are fueling me for more than 850 miles ... that's (almost) to Inverness on Day 4 of the Challenge. Wow, THANK YOU GT Motorcycles!

Sponsor Profile - Two Wheel Technics

2008-05-18T09:31:00.013+01:00

Rod Hole at Two Wheel Technics, has offered to give my bike a full 20,000ml service before the Challenge starts. He's always looked after my bikes whilst I've been in Plymouth but, even so, I am most grateful ... that'll be a BIG THANK YOU to the Man, what a Gent!

I've had lots of info from Rod about his business and his involvement with bikes over the years. This is what he had to say:

Rod cut his teeth with performance bikes many years ago(!) with the Gloucestershire Road Racing Club, racing a Suzuki RGV 250 2-stroke V-twin with some success. He gained a Novice award with the Club for successful newcomers.

His best memories, however, are of a Honda RC30 from the HRC stable that he still wishes he had bought from his sponsor. This machine was the Full Monty, a £30000, ex BSB bike which, in Rod's hands, gained him the Newcomer title in the 750 class. He was almost drooling when he recalled all the special parts on that machine! It managed a 120mph lap of the Isle of Man TT course.

Rod has worked full-time for 16 years in the Bike trade. In 2000, he started his own business, based at Holly Court, Parkway Industrial Estate, near Marsh Mill in Plymouth (tel. 01752 251999). He covers a wide variety of machine types. Routine Maintenance, Accident Repair, MOT testing and Performance Tuning all fall under the umbrella of this very modest,
capable technician.

Sponsor Profile - Denmans Insurance Consultants

2008-05-16T11:58:00.008+01:00

Denmans are a local family business established 40 years ago. They arrange cover for individuals in respect of their motor, buildings, contents, travel and liability insurance.

Call in to their office on Mutley Plain during normal office hours.

Denmans Insurance Consultants - 'NOT just a voice at the end of the phone '

Denmans will be kindly sponsoring my ride with more petrol money. I'll give an update with more information when further details are known. THANK YOU to Jayne and all the staff at Denmans.

The Route (as at 11th June)

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1) Thurs 19: Plymouth to Liskeard, Bodmin, Redruth, Helston, ‘South’ (Lizard Point), Helston, Penryn, Truro, St Austell, Liskeard, Plymouth
166 mls / 3 hr 20 min

2) Fri 20: Plymouth to Exeter, A303, M3, M25, Chelmsford, Colchester, Ipswich
331 mls / 6 hr 40 min

3) Sat 21: Ipswich to Lowestoft, ‘East’ (Lowestoft Ness), Norwich, King’s Lynn, Lincoln, York, Thirsk, Stockton-on-Tees, Durham
353 mls / 7 hr 10min

4) Sun 22: Durham to Corbridge, Jedburgh, Edinburgh, Perth, Blairgowrie, Balmoral, Braemar, Ballater, Inverness
321 mls / 6 hr 30 min

5) Mon 23: Inverness to Tain, Helmsdale, Dunbeath, Wick, John O’Groats, ‘North’ (Dunnet Head), Thurso, Tongue, Durness, Scourie
209 mls / 4 hr 15 min

6) Tues 24: Scourie to Ullapool, Braemore, Garve, Achnasheen, Kinlochewe, Shieldaig, Kishorn, Lochcarron, Strathcarron, Shiel Bridge, Invergarry, Fort William
224 mls / 4 hr 30 min

7) Wed 25: Fort William to Kinlocheil, Garvan, Ardgour, Strontian, Salen, Kilchoan, 'West’ (Ardnamurchan Point), Kilchoan, Salen,Lochailort, Glenfinnan, Fort William, Connel, Tyndrum, Crianlarich
240 mls / 4 hr 50 min

8) Thurs 26: Crianlarich to Loch Lomond, Glasgow, Abington, Gretna, Carlisle, Penrith, Kendal, Carnforth, Preston, Wigan
281 mls / 5 hr 40 min

9) Fri 27: Rest Day (!) at Wigan
0 mls / 0 hr 00 min

10) Sat 28: Wigan to Chester, Welshpool, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Brecon, Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff, Newport, Bristol, Taunton, Exeter, Plymouth
352 mls / 7 hr 10 min

TOTALS: 2475 mls / 50 hr 05 min

Mainland Britain - the Extremes

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South
Lizard Point, Cornwall
Lat 49° 57' 37.6" N
Long 05° 12' 23.4" W

East
Lowestoft Ness, Suffolk
Lat 52° 28' 53.0" N
Long 01° 45' 44.5" E

North
Dunnet Head, Caithness
Lat 58° 40' 14.7" N
Long 03° 22' 34.5" W

West
Ardnamurchan Point, Argyll
Lat 56° 43' 37.3" N
Long 06° 13' 32.8" W

All photos courtesy of Phil Wills Photography

Map courtesy of Google Earth

Baby Alex

2008-05-16T10:02:00.008+01:00

Alex was born 19th June 2007. Amanda and Alan were delighted that their family was now complete, with a little brother to join Dan. No parents could have been more thrilled. They spoiled him with love; baby Alex felt the sand on a day trip to Looe, and he enjoyed Paignton!

Attentive staff at Derriford Hospital spotted something seriously wrong early in January 2008. Their worst fears were confirmed when Alex was diagnosed with Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy. He died, quietly, on 25th January.

Welcome to my blog

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For some time, I have wanted to ride to the four extremes of the UK mainland on my motorbike ... now I am going to do so ... AND make this into a charity event.

Baby Alex died of Spinal Muscular Atrophy in January. My goal is to raise funds for The Jennifer Trust. This will help to finance research into a cure for this genetic disorder. It will also raise much-needed public awareness.

Please browse through my blog for more information. You may find it a help to search via the Post Archive on the right; there's lots of info near the end of this list! I hope you will also feel able to sponsor me online?

Baby Alex and The Jennifer Trust for Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Alex was born 19th June 2007. Amanda and Alan were delighted that their family was now complete, with a little brother to join Dan. No parents could have been more thrilled. They spoiled him with love; baby Alex felt the sand on a day trip to Looe, and he enjoyed Paignton!

Attentive staff at Derriford Hospital spotted something seriously wrong early in January 2008. Their worst fears were confirmed when Alex was diagnosed with Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy. He died, quietly, on 25th January.

There are four main types of SMA, three of which affect babies and children. Type 1 SMA kills more babies than any other genetic condition. The average life expectancy of a Type 1 SMA baby is six months. There is no cure … yet.

The Jennifer Trust for Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a registered charity (No 1106815). It funds cutting edge research into SMA, whilst also providing a network of support, information and friendship for the thousands of families and individuals living with SMA.

What it's all about

Who? At 59 years old, I have time on my hands … I’ve retired from a life of teaching and administration. I love travelling, particularly by Motorbike, and there are many parts of the UK that I have still never seen.

What? I have a plan … to ride my motorcycle, a Honda Blackbird, around the UK on a 2400 miles tour to visit the extreme North, South, East and West points of the UK Mainland.

Why? My wife recently retired from teaching at Woodfield Primary School in Whitleigh, Plymouth. She had a Parent Helper, Amanda, with whom she worked for several years. Amanda gave birth to Baby Alex last year. He was diagnosed with a severe form of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) just after Christmas and died on 25th January this year. Everyone that knew the family was totally gutted. Now I want to meet this Challenge and raise some funds at the same time.

SMA? Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a genetic neuromuscular condition that causes muscle wasting and weakness. 1 in 40 of us (up to 1.5 million people in the UK) carries the gene that causes SMA. Three of the four main types of SMA affect babies and children. Type 1 SMA kills more babies than any other genetic condition; the average life expectancy of a Type 1 baby is 6 months …

Where? According to Latitude and Longitude readings (not the local Tourist Offices!), the Four Points at the extreme edges of the UK, in the order I will visit them are:
South - Lizard Point, Cornwall
East - Lowestoft Ness, Suffolk
North - Dunnet Head, Caithness
West - Ardnamurchan Point, Argyll

When? Since I am riding to commemorate the life of Alex, I am starting my run from Plymouth on Thursday, 19th June, the day that would have been Alex’s 1st Birthday. I will finish in Plymouth on Saturday, 28th June.

Success? Yes, I reckon I will manage it! I completed the End-to-End run (from Land’s End to John O’Groats) in 2001 and raised some funds for Cystic Fibrosis. On that occasion, I covered the 851 miles during the daylight hours of one day, 16hrs 55mins in the saddle … but that’s another story!

Your Help? The Jennifer Trust for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (Registered Charity 1106815) carries the motto ‘Help for Today, Hope for Tomorrow’. The organization funds cutting edge research as well as providing a network of support, information and friendship for the thousands of families and individuals living with SMA. There is currently no cure. Please SPONSOR ME.

How? Pay online: go to www.justgiving.com/thefourpointschallenge

… and THANK YOU for being prepared to help!

Justgiving

My online sponsorship is being handled by http://www.justgiving.com/
Here's a brief introduction to the Just Giving website.

It's where you can easily and securely sign up to donate money to any of hundreds of charities. If you are able to sponsor me ... and PLEASE do! ... you can also (and, if you're a UK taxpayer, perhaps you should!) allow the government to contribute via Gift Aid. Doing this means the charity will receive a total of just under £12 for every £10 you personally donate via the secure online payment method.

A fact from the website:
In 7 years, 5,301,908 people have helped raise £280,743,197 for 4,974 charities using Justgiving.

Now that I've wheted your appetite ...
... please visit MY SPONSORSHIP PAGE