the bikes are loaded on the Barretts van ready for the off at 6am, and 15 cyclists are raring to go (are we folks?) – departing Ashford at 8.30 am. The journey to Lucerne will be long – but easier than the 12 cyclists tackling the Gotthard Pass.

The final practice ride took place last Saturday ably led by Mike Nee, aka the finest connaisseur of every hill in east Kent – thanks for the recent rides Mike.

We hear the weather is cool and wet in Lucerne so home from home for us then.

We’re very much looking forward to all being together again in Lucerne tomorrow ready for the off on Sunday morning. Good luck to those tackling the Gotthard Pass tomorrow.

There are few polite words in the dictionary to describe how you feel at the end of a day like that. The sjy turned black, the thunder clapped, rain fell as if someone was emptying a bath. Drops the size of bullets bounced wildly off the road. We entered Switzerland after lunch and then the wind got up: right in our faces and at a strength that was bending trees. My cycle computer registered 130 miles. And then we have to get up tomorrow morning at 5.30 and do it again – and more. Over the Gotthard Pass.

The mood however is upbeat. Everyone made it. No one looks at the end of their reserves yet. One more exceptionally hard day and then we are joined by 15 fresh riders in Lucerne.

Falling asleep at the wheel. Monza a nightmare of traffic lights and lorries and roundabouts. Continued stopping has slowed us down. 40 miles to go and one big climb. Now sitting eating braed and cheese in a factory car park. The polizi turned up to check us out (no wonder) but ended wanting to be photographed with Andrew’s Harley.

Thanks to everyone who made cakes and flapjack – rocket fuel. The delight of opening the wrapping and finding all that tasty goodness. 125 miles so today. Long and flat with more lorries. Then up to 1750ft before dropping into Bellinzona. So this evening we should be in Switzerland. Europe is zipping by.