Day 2 - Launceston to Taunton

After leaving Launceston laughing loudly we had a tremendously tough test to Taunton.
It was hot, so hot you could fry eggs on our thighs! We needed regular stops at Spar shops where my Scottish friend spotted a bargain - Buy one get one free! so 4 litres of water was purchased for £1. We spent most of the day then trying to find another Spar. We ended up drinking 8 litres of water plus 6 full bottles filled at our B&B
First mechanical after 37 miles was a puncture on TVR's back wheel. CFE discovered that TVR's weight saving measures were flawed! The 20 inch inner tube spares would not despite all efforts fit our 27 inch wheels! TVR was tempted to empty his panniers of the useless innertubes but remembered that Dangerous's son could probably use them.
We did have our first OMG or the Scottish version of OFFS as a sign for 25% uphill was spotted. Need I say more!
The weather was hot, the route testing. At one point it was asked if there had been an emergency budget overnight and the mile had been taxed or VAT applied!
We had a disappointment during the ride as we lost GOF! Not that we lost him but that he turned up at tonights B&B! Apparently he had a puncture and being behind the peloton who made a wrong turn, it was thought that he had turned correctly and became the sole breakaway. The chase was on. With TVR and CFE working as a team the attempt to catch the lone rider failed as TVR and CFE reached the digs with no sign. A few phone calls discovered that the lost rider was entering Taunton and we sent out a rescue party.
A daily mileage of 75 was attained with 1555 meters of climbing in 9 hours 10 minutes since Launceston was left this morning. 167.3 miles down- more to go tomorrow and the next day and the next day and the next day - well you get the message.
Good news regarding the elusive indian meal. We managed to get an excellent meal in Taunton in a packed restaurant.