A poignant reminder of what we are commemorating on #BBBR14

Collin spotted this and dived over the road, we two less observant companions agreed it was worth the effort.

This was after a few of us had stormed a really long (i will check the Garmin, but it felt like 10k or more) straight upon which we made some fantastic time.  I was cycling at 18mph or so whilst singing most of The Wall. No effort ;-)

During this we happened across one of Frances large industrial canals. There was a car on the roof of the barge that you can (just) see in the picture.

#BBBR14 Day 2 lunch - with added Josh!

A special lunch stop. Whilst finishing off with a rather superb "back of the van" cooked apple pie and cream; Millie award winner Josh Boggi told his story and how cycling and Help For Heroes has given him something special.
Josh completed the brutal BBBR13 and was the first triple amputee to do so. Heroic.

After a talk from our Canadian cousins who have crossed the pond to ride with us.

The best day in three years of BBBR 2/n #BBBR14

Moving on another 8 miles or so we got to St Symphorien cemetery. A fascinating WWI cemetery with German and Allied men.

Its going to be centre piece of the war commemorations.

The ceremony, as always was moving.

Amongst the buried are
The first and last British casualties.
The first VC to be awarded in WWI
The first officer casualty.
The last Canadian - 9:30 or so on 11/11

The best day in three years of BBBR 3/n #BBBR14

And then finally into Mons with a police escort from Nimy Bridge and a reception in the town hall!