Boots and Pedals - Bob Higgs

Boots and Pedals is a fascinating account of four journeys. Three on foot and one on two wheels. This is a book that will appeal not only to experienced walkers and cyclists but also to anyone who can enjoy reading of the beauty, diversity and challenges of both weather and terrain that Great Britain has to offer. The first adventure in 2000 was a five day expedition to the Cairngorms, 86km and 6 of the highest mountains in the UK. Next, in 2003 a coast to coast route across Scotland from Inverie on the west to Montrose on the east, twelve days and 281km. In 2004 the Cape Wrath Trail, from Fort William to Cape Wrath, thirteen days and 329km. By 2015, a degenerative eye condition had brought the premature end to both Bob's hill walking and solo cycling. In 2016 he purchased "The Beast", a splendid bright yellow tandem. To celebrate his 70th birthday in 2017 with four amazing friends to pilot the tandem in turn, he completed a unique journey from Cornwall to Inverness. The 2401km route took him through the West Country, around the Cotswolds to the Peak District, N. Yorkshire Moors, the Lake District, Galloway, Isle of Arran, Kintyre, Western Highlands, Isle of Skye, Outer Hebrides, N.W. Highlands, Durness and the north coast to Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of mainland UK. Then south through the Flow Country and the Black Isle to Inverness. 29 days cycling and 11 ferry crossings. The narratives are in the form of daily logs recounting each day's journey, and pondering, sometimes, the knowledge that the day's experiences have given him. His writing displays the passion and enthusiasm with which he undertook these adventures, and his observations and gentle humour are a constant incentive to continue travelling the roads, tracks and hills beside him.