Update on preparations.....

Weather in Toronto area is 6-8 degrees C. and after a sunny, mild period has become overcast and rainy---very similar to the English weather I shall soon be encountering. Good conditions to train in and test the efficacy of the waterproof cape, trousers and boots. Am trying to push for 10 miles per day, but frequently fall back to only 5 miles due to time pressures. Have taken the "jogger" out with me several times loaded up with 25lbs to replicate the pushing power required. The neighbours are probably curious and may be thinking that 'yours faithfully' has assumed a new fatherhood role!! Have discovered that my arms need a little extra muscle, especially when sailing directly into a strong wind.
Google Maps have been indispensable to the walk planning process along with A1tourism.com which lists (literally) thousands of affordable bed and breakfasts at under 25 pounds--$45.Cdn.(single). The exchange rate is currently in my favour, with sterling at its lowest/cheapest in 20 years. Hopefully this advance effort, plotting map locations of possible overnights, will save energy and tired legs in a strange town at the end of a rainy day.
Have purchased the air ticket, one way only, as I am not sure of the walk completion return date. Surprised to learn that ticket taxes almost (at a 79% rate) cost as much as the actual transportation.

Trillium Health Centre has always been there for me
and I am giving 110% to Trillium as they prepare
to meet the tsunami of aging boomers
with weak hearts and broken bones.
Donate Now.

Showing off the jogger....

Another element in the planning process now accomplished. Was worried about the negative and cumulative

Almost identical but NOT the actual jogger that I used.

impact of a 20-30lb pack carried for 6 months on a back prone to dodgy discs. Actually this 'baby' has been languishing in my shed after being abandoned/found/rescued from a local snow bank last winter. Felt the freeby acquisition was a positive omen and that I should put the project into a "go" mode. Weight of 'jogger' 20lbs, front wheel can be fixed, or swivel. Note good stowage capacity down below for provisions etc. Tires are pneumatic. Very light to push, with ample room for two small hold-alls.
Not included are handle bar warmers! but the top bar does have TWO built in beer/(or tea) cup holders. It has occurred to me that I could be the target of attention of police patrols, child protection branch, should I be forced to spend the night in a bus shelter, or other choice location when have I have refused "to pay the b...., and chosen to sleep in a ditch" (thanks Daryl M.)

Walk the walk....

"This happy breed of men, this little world,
This precious stone set in the silver sea,
Which serves it in the office of a wall,
Or as a moat defensive to a house,
Against the envy of less happier lands.....
This blessed plot, this earth, this realm, this England".
Bill Shakespeare.

• A walk, (leg power only, except for river ferries) around the coastline of England and Wales, setting out from Bournemouth on the south coast, 15^th. February 2010
• Follow the coast, anti clock-wise, using the nearest practical road to the coast.
• Target 20-25 kms. per day, 6 days a week. 7 months duration.
• Arrive back in Bournemouth approximately 1^st. October 2010.
• Accommodation: bed & breakfasts, guest houses, youth hostels and occasional (warm) nights on the beach, or in a sea shelter!