Last Entry in this category, 'UK Preparation'.
The day of departure has arrived after living in oily overalls for what seems like a couple of years. Probably it has been a couple of years.
Preparation is done, luggage is loaded, trial runs undertaken.

Final configuration is here:

and here:

The last run round the block yesterday.

Today we start tentatively. Very tentatively. A toe-in-the-water trip to Calais for our first overnight stop.
Plenty of time - minimum stress - not far to ride.

Dover here we come!

So, a rundown of the final week with thanks to all who made it a great send-off.

To all at the family fairwell and trip conference on Monday.
A London event on Tuesday by the Scott Polar Research Institute made a nice break from all the oily rags.
Thanks for all the good wishes on Wednesday at one of the biggest reunion clubs going, The TV Network Club.
A couple of beers with old-time Wimbledon Club members on Thursday, who I think gave a vote of approval for my bike's preparation.
And a brilliant breakfast send-off on Friday by the Crystal Palace Early-morning swimmers, complete with a very slick and appropriate music and visuals accompaniment.

After five days of that, and no work to speak of, this last manic weekend in the garage was a weekend not to remember. Spanners spun and flashed, oil gushed and panic reigned.

Now we hope all is calm On The Road (again).