An early start at 7.30am was needed as we were told that we needed to be in Bedzin at 2pm for our rendez-vous with the mayor of the town. Little did we know what lay in store.

Cycling wise, this was to be an ‘easy’ day with just the 100km to be covered, and having been met by our driver for the day Stasiek (again supplied by KONE Poland) away we went. It was great that the wind once again was in our favour, and we made good time, finally arriving on the outskirts of the town of Bytom where we had lunch, before being met by the Mayor of Bedzin’s police escort who then proceeded to lead us (lights flashing) the remaining 15km to the meet point. There we were greeted by an army of photographers and film crews who were there to watch us arrive, meet the mayor, sign the town flag, before finally setting off on the final kilometre with the mayor and about 20 other cyclists for the town palace which is now used as a museum. Once there we we greeted with a trumpet fanfare (Bedzin town anthem celebrating its 650th nniversary as a town) as well as all of the aforementioned press and media.

The team were greeted by the town dignitaries as well as by more of Les’ cousins before being whisked away to a press conference which had been set up in the foyer of the museum. Words of welcome (as well as gifts) from the mayor were followed by a short speech by Les (in Polish) as well as by all the other members of the team. Questions followed, before the majority of the team went to have interviews or photographs taken with the assembled crowd. The proceedings finally finished 2 hours later and the team arrived at their hotel (courtesy of the town of Bedzin) at 4pm, and the comfort of a cold beer.

In the evening the team enjoyed the hospitality of Les’ cousin Zosia who laid on some great food (the beetroot soup was a particular favourite) and some great company. Unfortunately by 10pm, the team were exhausted and retired back to their beds for an early night, but not before seeing the report of TVP Katowice television.

It has been a surreal day, and oh yes, the mileage was a ’short’ 60 miles.

 You can see photos of them cycling with the mayor and the  reception in Bedzin under the “In the press links” to the right 

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