This is their first and one of their only 100+km days. They will have to be feeling reasonably refreshed
and be snacked up with lucozade and energy bars if they intend to complete it within the 8 hrs they have allowed themselves.
They will follow the A38 for a third consecutive day, this time taking them past Tewkesbury, Kempsey
and Worcester.
Tewkesbury stands between the Cotswolds and Malvern Hills - famous for it's spring water of the same
name - and lies on the Rivers Avon and Severn. It stems from medieval times and the vast majority of its buildings are timber
frame. Its history tells of the famous War of the Roses between the houses of York and Lancaster, back in the late 15th
century. The Baptist Chapel is also thought to be the oldest in Britain. Nearer the present day, Tewkesbury Council have combined
forces with the Gloucester Council to provide funding for implementing a range of cycle routes spanning Gloucestershire and
even into Wales.
38 km into the trek, they depart Tewkesbury, entering and leaving Kempsey and finally entering
Worcester. Very little can be said about this part of the country, apart from the fact that the famous Worcestershire Sauce
hails from here.
Thomas and Andrena then begin to follow the A449 and A442, passing Kidderminster. It was always said
that this was a long, arduous day and believe it or not, they are still only 60 km into the journey. It has a sizeable population,
pushing 60,000. It has been subject to a recent £60m redevelopment plan which has transformed the entire town centre. Other
attractions include the town railway station and museum, Rose Theatre and Brinton Park.
Next town is Bridgnorth, after which is Madeley. Madeley is a tranquil setting bordering Cheshire
and Shropshire. What attractions are really only capable of catering for its local residents, of which there are few. Local
shops, public houses and small resaurants build up what is a quiet town centre.
Once Madeley has been departed, there is only another 6 km or so before reaching their destination
for the day, Telford.
