The first day of the adventure is now complete. After picking our way out of Manchester (and picking the glass out of our tyres from the street warfare of Friday night), we had a well earned breakfast in Bury.

Restocked and ready for the next section, we headed onwards to Accrington where one of the trademark characteristics of cycle touring once again made itself known; encountering random situations and becoming involved in them! This particular occasion saw me on a temporary climbing wall in the town centre hosted by a Lancashire army regiment who were there on some sort of recruitment drive. I was more than happy to have a play then gave them a donation in return.

Leaving the town saw us start the proper hills and soon we were joined by a road cyclist for a short while, who before parting also made a donation to the cause. He was trying to encourage us to tackle the infamous 'Pendle Nick', but as we could see it, and how ridiculously steep it was, we politely declined and carried on with our planned route.

Up until now, the day had been cool and dull and while not unpleasant, it was a stark contrast to the recent balmy sunshine we have been enjoying. Upon our approach to Barnoldswick the clouds parted, the skies turned blue and smiles were aplenty as the sun warmed our backs for the final part of the day.

Having settled into the quaint hostel, I am now composing thus from an equally quaint pub with a steaming bowl of soup planted in front of me. So, with that in mind, I'm signing off until tomorrow....