tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81915265577352079522024-03-14T09:21:41.091+00:00Latest from the Extreme Cellists!The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-2484721596637614362014-08-20T23:33:00.002+01:002014-08-20T23:33:54.059+01:00Bordering on Madness no more!...and there we go, another challenge is completed!<br />
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But there's a bit more to tell first. To begin with, as regular blog readers will know, one aspect of Bordering on Madness was that we decided to have a curry on each of the six nights of the tour. Last night we were treated to a home-cooked one by an old friend, Mary, who lives locally in Carlisle. A wonderful way to spend our final night on tour!<br />
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I promised there would be some comparison of the curries we ate... obviously the home-cooked one was the best, so it's not fair to compare that with those from the five other establishments we patronised, but of the other five the favourites were Shaheen's in Durham (rated best by Jeremy and Clare), and the Stanwix Tandoori in Carlisle (rated best by James - a particularly good Lamb Dansak). Well done to both places, and thanks to the other restaurants we visited too!<br />
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Today involved us going home - but only after we stopped off in Blackpool. As well as a trip to the Central Pier for some fun and busking, we had a chance to take one or two artistic photos, and get ideas for future challenges...<br />
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Bordering on Madness wasn't a sponsored event, but with some intermittent busking we still managed to raise over £300 (£304.97, to be precise) for <a href="http://www.aspire.org.uk/">Aspire</a>, and are pleased to continue our association with this fantastic spinal cord injury charity.<br />
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Finally, a special "thank you" to everyone who helped this happen... particularly to all at Chester Cathedral, the Castle Keep in Newcastle, Hexham Abbey, Lanercost Priory, the Twice Brewed Inn, Carlisle Cathedral, Tullie House, Urban Adventure Carlisle, and the "Hands across the Border" project in Gretna - as well as everyone who supported us or donated to Aspire.<br />
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We will be back - keep in touch with <a href="http://www.extremecello.com/">our web site</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/extremecello">our Facebook site</a> or Twitter (@ExtremeCello) to see announcements as we make them!The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-993027801810623302014-08-19T19:00:00.001+01:002014-08-20T22:57:00.482+01:00The end of the wallAnother fantastic day, and a varied and different one from what had gone before!<br />
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We spent the morning in Carlisle, playing at four different locations close to Hadrian's Wall itself. We started outside the cathedral - reprising our location from the end of the Cathedral Roof Tour in 2006! After this we were given permission to play three pieces inside the cathedral as well - meaning we had now finally played in, or on, all 42 Anglican cathedrals in England!</div>
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We were also joined here by Rick Kemp, bass player with the legendary folk/rock group Steeleye Span, who saw us playing outside, followed us in, and suggested we join them on part of their upcoming tour! Watch this space...</div>
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After this we played in the nearby Tullie House gardens, and then outside the Castle - we were not given permission to play inside unfortunately. However, this was rather fortuitous as we happened across a small adventure playground just outside, and James had a go at ascending a climbing wall with his cello (see below). Many thanks to Mike Gair and all at <a href="http://www.urban-adventure.co.uk/">Urban Adventure Carlisle</a> for allowing this to happen!</div>
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After a spot of lunch we decided to head up over the proper border, and made our way to Gretna Green. After playing at the famous blacksmith's, we went see a wonderful project on the actual border: the <a href="http://handsacrosstheborder.co.uk/">"Hands across the border" campaign</a> which is promoting UK unity ahead of the Scottish referendum in September. In only five weeks, they have already manage to build a massive cairn by asking volunteers to add a stone at a time, right by the River Sark (the border itself). Of course we played at the cairn, giving another outing to our "Bordering on Madness" medley amongst others. </div>
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After this we moved on to the end of Hadrian's Wall itself, at Bowness-on-Solway. We played in a promenade constructed to mark the end of the Wall (see below), before going down onto the beach and playing "Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside" an enjoining a beer that had been bought at Lanercost yesterday. A most serene and glorious way to end the main part of this year's challenge. </div>
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And so, we have reached the end of the wall and the "Bordering on Madness" escapade itself. But we haven't quite finished this year's tour... check back here tomorrow to see what further ventures await us!<br />
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Highlight of the day: Enjoying a beer on the beach at Bowness-on-Solway, looking at the sun over the Scottish hills to the west. </div>
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Quote of the day: "It would be great if you could come and play on our tour" - Rick Kemp of Steeleye Span. </div>
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The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-459820591240075622014-08-18T18:57:00.001+01:002014-08-20T22:53:12.445+01:00The high point (literally, at least!)Today started with a slightly more leisurely breakfast - possibly necessary after last night continued after the now customary curry to a bar where we participated in bingo for the first time in our lives!<br />
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However, who we got onto the cello activities, the first was an absolutely glorious one. Playing in the 12th century Lanercost Priory, we had a much larger audience than we hade dared hope for, and we gave a performance lasting about 40 minutes. The fantastic setting and acoustic made this one of the highlights of the trip to date. Many thanks to all at Lanercost for making this happen!</div>
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After a coffee, we set off for Haltwhistle - the central point of Britain. We played for a while in the central square (below), before grabbing our lunch and heading off to Hadrian's Wall once again.</div>
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Our walking today consisted of a stretch of a few miles to the west of Housesteads fort. It was spectacular scenery, and included a significant amount of climbs and descents, sometimes fairly steep. We played at the highest point of the whole of Hadrian's Wall - at 385m not the highest place we've played certainly, but it still felt like enough of an effort today!</div>
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After this we visited the wonderful Twice Brewed inn to play a bit more (and to sup a local pint!); once again we were bowled over by the generous welcome we received. Now we've returned to Carlisle, and will shortly be heading out for yet another curry!</div>
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Tomorrow we will play at various places in and around Carlisle in the morning, getting as close to the Wall as we are allowed... and in the afternoon we hope to cover the remaining distance of the Wall (not on foot!) and play at the western end of it.</div>
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Highlight of the day: a joint one - playing at Lanercost Priory, and also playing at the trig point at th" top of the route. In both places we had surprisingly large, appreciative and generous audiences.</div>
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Quote of the day: "I've got some matches in the car!" - a passer-by when seeing this construction (below)...</div>
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The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-73799767471957998002014-08-17T19:20:00.001+01:002014-08-20T22:54:02.232+01:00Hexham and beyondDay 3, and we bade farewell to Durham (where we had stayed the last two nights) and travelled the 45 minutes to Hexham - close to Hadrian's Wall and home to a wonderful abbey, where we had arranged to play before, during and after their main Sunday morning service.<br />
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We enjoyed a very warm welcome from the fabulous people of Hexham, who seemed to appreciate our playing immensely (and were very generous in their giving towards our charity, Aspire). At the end of the service we also played on the ancient gallery steps (see above) and in the 7th century crypt (below) - this was quite a squeeze!</div>
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After a spot of lunch we found the path of Hadrian's Wall itself, and gave ourselves a brisk 8.5 mile walk between Chester's Roman fort and the Brocolitia fort to the west. </div>
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It has to be said, it was easy to forget how difficult it could be walking with a cello uphill into a strong wind - and how easy it is doing the opposite! The cello acts as a sail somewhat, which can be used to our advantage at times, but is certainly a hindrance at others. </div>
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We played a couple of times along the way - even though on one occasion the only audience was some local cattle...</div>
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Now we've moved onto a new base in Carlisle where we will stay until Wednesday - but we'll be exploring far and wide. Tomorrow we play at Lanercost Priory at 10.30am, and will then cover some sections of the wall to the east of there for the rest of the day. First, however, we're about to go for our fourth curry in as many days - yes, this has become part of the challenge and we'll let you know which our favourite was at the end!</div>
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Highlight of the day: Playing in the 7th century crypt at Hexham Abbey. </div>
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Quote of the day: "You're mad!" - the first thing that was said to us by a woman sitting on a stile somewhere... (compare and contrast with yesterday's QOTD!)</div>
The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-72016831903068971332014-08-16T21:29:00.001+01:002014-08-20T22:54:20.838+01:00A bracing North East welcome!Today was all about the Newcastle region as we started Hadrian's wall and did a few other bits and pieces in the region!<br />
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After a hearty breakfast we decided to stop off at the Angel of the North to give our customary morning performance of Bach's "Wachet Auf". As you will see from the following picture, James decided the Angel itself might play the tune:</div>
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Following this we headed to the coast - Tynemouth is not actually on Hadrian's Wall, but we wanted to play on the beach anyway! After a spot of Mendelssohn we were heading off the beach when a café owner asked if we could come back this evening for a gig, after another musician had let him down! So we said yes, of course...</div>
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Then onto Wallsend - the actual start (or end) of Hadrian's Wall. We didn't pay to go into the museum, so gave our performance of "Wonderwall" at the nearest spot in the adjacent car park!</div>
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After a bit of lunch we then went to play on the roof of the Castle Keep in Newcastle. It was rather blustery, resulting in some music stand carnage (see picture below)! After nearly getting frozen to death we went down and played in the Great Hall instead - a fantastic acoustic. </div>
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A bit of busking by the Tyne (oh, we do like to be beside the quayside...) and a look round the wonderful Sage in Gateshead followed - many thanks to the wonderful employee who gave us a private guided tour! Then back to Tynemouth for our gig... which involved us playing in the middle of King Edward's Bay, playing for a group of kayakers who had just arrived into shore, whilst fish was being barbecued to our left! A lovely way to spend a sunny (if chilly) Saturday evening!</div>
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Tomorrow we're playing for the morning service at Hexham Abbey (10am) and then possibly elsewhere in Hexham, before joining the wall a few miles north of there in the afternoon. </div>
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Highlight of the day: playing for the kayakers at King Edward's Bay in the evening. </div>
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Quote of the day: "You're mint!" Lifeguard on the beach at Tynemouth after hearing about our venture!</div>
The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-50052271897900255432014-08-15T23:51:00.001+01:002014-08-20T22:54:39.733+01:00We're under way!The end of day 1 - today we did the Chester leg of the trip, which involved us playing at the top of the Cathedral twice, as well as some other places!<br />
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We started by ascending the 240-odd tower steps, and playing (in the drizzle) while the 10am cathedral tour came round. It was good to get some of our old repertoire in the open again - not least "Up on the roof" by The Drifters, which we last played in 2006!</div>
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After this we did a whistlestop tour of a few places in Chester - including the city walls, the Roman amphitheatre, and a bandstand by the river Dee. After this we returned to the cathedral to play in the refectory dying lunchtime, before dashing up the tower for a second time to entertain another tour party!</div>
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It was then time to set off up north - a 3.5 hour drive to Durham, where we are staying tonight. We've been out for a curry with some old friends, and tomorrow will be doing the following;</div>
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- Playing at Tynemouth - not strictly on Hadrian's wall, but the nearest point on the coast;</div>
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- playing at Wallsend - where Hadrian's wall actually starts (or ends);</div>
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- playing on the roof of the Castle Keep in Newcastle - at about 2.30pm if you want to come along </div>
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- we will also be playing in various other places, as yet undetermined - but we'll tell you all about these tomorrow!</div>
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Highlight of the day: Playing "Up on the roof" again, after 8 years</div>
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Quote of the day: "I know we've been playing this arrangement for 10 years, but those two notes at the top of page 2 should actually be pizzicato" (Jeremy acknowledging a <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">mistake in his arrangement of Nessun Dorma to Clare!)</span></div>
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The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-66875698251865802422014-08-15T00:07:00.001+01:002014-08-20T22:54:53.274+01:00Here we go again!We're all now in Chester and raring to go! We warmed up this evening with a public open-air rehearsal in an open space near where James lives; given the length of time since our last challenge things were surprisingly not too rusty, and so we're looking forward to performing over the coming days in all sorts of places.<br />
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As well as our standard repertoire, we've added two new pieces for this trip: "Bordering on Madness" a medley of six hits by the '80s group Madness, and "Wonderwall" by Oasis. Obviously both have clear connections with this particular challenge, in name at least!</div>
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Our plan for tomorrow (Friday) is:</div>
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- we will play on the tower of Chester Cathedral at about 10am, for around half an hour</div>
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- we will then descend, and go and play at some other places around the city walls in Chester</div>
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- we'll go back up the Cathedral at in the early afternoon, before heading off to the north east to start Hadrian's Wall on Saturday!</div>
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No pictures from today, I'm afraid, but we'll definitely post at least one (and probably more) from each of the following days!</div>
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Highlight of the day: (reinstating an old tradition): discovering we could play our new pieces relatively well!</div>
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Quote of the day: "What free drinks would you like with that?" (Chester Indian restaurant owner when collecting our evening takeaway!)</div>
The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-25987580887732009242014-08-14T00:47:00.001+01:002014-08-14T00:48:25.240+01:00It's nearly time to start again...Well, after a gap of over two years, we're about to start another challenge. This one is perhaps less extreme in some ways - after all, it would be difficult to top running a marathon with our cellos (and before you write in, I said difficult, not impossible!) - but should be quite varied and interesting all the same!<div><br></div><div>"Bordering on Madness" begins on the English/Welsh border on Friday - specifically, on the tower of Chester Cathedral (pictured). We'll play up there - a tower we couldn't access on our 2006 Cathedral Roof Tour, but which has recently been renovated - in the morning as well as later in the day, and probably at some other places in Chester in between. After that we'll head north east, ready to start the Hadrian's Wall segment of the trip on Saturday. </div><div><br></div><div>Watch this space for daily updates of what we've done, and what we plan to do the next day! </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4l5MTGM_9pI7Ra9TQO4UIMzkhPAeGLCd4KUG60Rqw6khG_dD0XZokJm4ofc99SNfjNITwikYG0a9mNrR711kYaihyXs1Rxrr5cxcLg9o9lWY3d0j80RLJJy4Dp8NQs9T9ByrRGO4WMSw/s640/blogger-image--1667224254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4l5MTGM_9pI7Ra9TQO4UIMzkhPAeGLCd4KUG60Rqw6khG_dD0XZokJm4ofc99SNfjNITwikYG0a9mNrR711kYaihyXs1Rxrr5cxcLg9o9lWY3d0j80RLJJy4Dp8NQs9T9ByrRGO4WMSw/s640/blogger-image--1667224254.jpg"></a></div></div>The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-38786232875070431072014-07-19T17:47:00.002+01:002014-07-19T18:39:00.374+01:00Bordering on Madness!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Extreme Cellists will be undertaking their next venture in August 2014 - called Bordering on Madness, it will involve them covering the route of Hadrian's Wall (the ancient boundary between England and Scotland), playing at various places on or close to the Wall, between 16 and 20 August. During the event this blog will be updated daily, so come back then to see pictures of (and stories about) our exploits! The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-63931214935019071552010-08-07T07:45:00.001+01:002010-08-08T00:44:17.639+01:00Day 14: Grosmont to Robin Hood's Bay<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRglDY2Gv50Z8UUl5PbOB-EhyKuCFK_Ap3MQ4iiYgDACe9ZZY2zavYP1qkS5swVXgE-UE4WFgHv-DJKuoivfOWvz71aFlYU6iN-PU-vhS1smr3pGoZuW1axcnwoYa9j5zad1StldFCbRY/s1600/photo-752450.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRglDY2Gv50Z8UUl5PbOB-EhyKuCFK_Ap3MQ4iiYgDACe9ZZY2zavYP1qkS5swVXgE-UE4WFgHv-DJKuoivfOWvz71aFlYU6iN-PU-vhS1smr3pGoZuW1axcnwoYa9j5zad1StldFCbRY/s320/photo-752450.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502555987301826290" border="0" /></a></p>Wow, what a day, and what a trip overall. I don't know how to describe it really, as the mix of emotions is pretty incredible, and even though I'm writing this the following morning, we're still buzzing. <p>We were joined for the final 15.5 miles by three more friends - Laura, Alistair (13) and Robert (11), the third time on the walk we've been joined by kids, and each time it's given us a welcome boost. Thanks to all who've joined us along the way! </p><p>The morning comprised mainly climbing and falling, but to a much lesser degree than we've had before, and the decent weather made it very pleasant. We found a woodland natural cavern (pictured) where we played, and gave a few walkers a surprise (hopefully a nice one!).</p><p>After a lot of crossing of fields, we finally found ourselves at the cliff top, and began the three mile coastal walk to Robin Hood's Bay. As we got closer the excitement built, and as we eventually entered the town all thoughts of aching feet were expunged by a quite wonderful welcome. People were clapping and cheering us all the way down to the beach, including some fellow walkers, but others who had just heard about us from friends or people they had met. It was fantastic!</p><p>Of course we dipped our feet in the sea, to mark the cross-country route being finalised, and threw our west-coast pebbles into the North Sea too. Thereupon we found a "seat" (well, a bit of brick jetty) just by the beach to play, and gave a concert lasting the best part of an hour (joined for some pieces by Alistair on the violin). This went down very well and the cheery crowd gave generously to help boost our total. </p><p>When we finally departed (having done a brief interview and played on Radio 5Live), we went off to Whitby to celebrate with fish and chips and collapse into bed. </p><p>And so, there we are. Some stats for you about the trip:</p><p>Distance walked - 193.8 miles<br />Locations performed at - 38<br />Pieces performed - 24<br />Time spent walking - 74 hours 28 minutes<br />Average walking speed - 2.6mph<br />Calories consumed - ???!!!<br />Money raised - £4,500 and counting...</p><p>Just a final thank you to some people. Ashley, Chris, Rachel for acting as Sherpas throughout, and Mary, Helen, Paul and Jo for doing it part of the way each; Angela for driving so fantastically to ensure our overnight stuff was always where we needed it when we needed it; and of course to everyone who's donated - I know the charities really appreciate it, as do we. And also to you, the blog readers - I've even constantly surprised by the number if people who've told me they've been following us - it makes it all worthwhile, as there have been several days when typing a blog entry was the last thing I wanted to do after a long walk!</p><p>Quote of the day: "Last one there's a viola player!"</p>The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-53705037305255796452010-08-06T20:21:00.000+01:002010-08-06T20:25:12.433+01:00...and we're there!<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju80tAZrgn0yCsQ9A0gRu6L7agY54AkTqri_SO9Waers6IIsP4AVfya6o6-4OH4VpfxHDvBYOmC1_Ae6wpzlo41BIIngzc-M1JTed38IPwEqkbJxqQfFyMaW7OaGmzqicjUHOnNhMC5aY/s1600/photo-712436.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju80tAZrgn0yCsQ9A0gRu6L7agY54AkTqri_SO9Waers6IIsP4AVfya6o6-4OH4VpfxHDvBYOmC1_Ae6wpzlo41BIIngzc-M1JTed38IPwEqkbJxqQfFyMaW7OaGmzqicjUHOnNhMC5aY/s320/photo-712436.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502380153341013586" /></a></p>We have finished! All successfully! A wonderful final day, crowned by a great entrance to, and performance in, Robin Hood's Bay, was completed earlier... more details to follow later, but we need to eat now!The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-2044956483922822712010-08-05T18:20:00.001+01:002010-08-08T00:44:50.870+01:00Day 13: Blakey to Grosmont<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYqwvzIBRDTIKlUxhNKGwPPCIqQbGyPk0Skh_Rqs0lTu8AP_q_yGPEtIQjN_7fK-XkXlfeqDayI_rp6GBIXBhHDdd2pnYrgyAVKC1VYDgOlKwtAeAV0vJINOJzuCFXx_dBz8aR1kwB8tg/s1600/photo-729823.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYqwvzIBRDTIKlUxhNKGwPPCIqQbGyPk0Skh_Rqs0lTu8AP_q_yGPEtIQjN_7fK-XkXlfeqDayI_rp6GBIXBhHDdd2pnYrgyAVKC1VYDgOlKwtAeAV0vJINOJzuCFXx_dBz8aR1kwB8tg/s320/photo-729823.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501981652078300450" border="0" /></a></p>Nearly there. Just one day (and fifteen and a half miles) to go. The end is in sight!<p>But, of course, we had today's walk to negotiate to get to this stage. In truth it was a relatively straightforward day - in comparison to yesterday, anyway - and the 13.5 miles were mostly along a gentle overall decline, across a mixture of roads, farm tracks and footpaths. </p><p>Aching limbs and joints following yesterday's marathon meant that speeds were varied, but an overall walking speed of around 3mph showed that we have obviously got into a good rhythm by now. The only surprise walking-wise was that we got a good rain shower at about midday - the first time our waterproofs had to come out since day seven, last Friday. </p><p>A much nicer surprise this morning was finding out that Stephen Fry had tweeted about us - and made a substantial donation himself. This led to quite a few others donating, and by early afternoon we had comfortably passed the £4,000 mark in overall donations received. At the time of writing we've not had phone reception for a few hours so we don't know if this has gone up since then... but we'll keep you informed!</p><p>After lunch in Glaisdale we played at the beautiful Beggar's Bridge, had the only (short) steep climb of the day, before a gentle descent through Egton Bridge into Grosmont. We played for a short time by the steam railway (see picture) before finishing for the day. Just one to go now... all being well we'll have finished it this time tomorrow!</p><p>Quote of the day: "Don't overdo the vibrato! xxx" (from Stephen Fry)</p>The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-86782168227543953632010-08-05T10:05:00.001+01:002010-08-08T00:49:43.491+01:00Blakey Ridge: The morning after the day beforeIt's fair to say we all found yesterday rather tough. Aching feet, aching backs, sore joints and muscles, and overall exhaustion were very much the order of the day (or evening). <p>I thought it worth adding this extra blog this morning, though, just to say a few things. First, we're all feeling somewhat refreshed this morning, albeit with a slightly lesser spring in our step than some mornings over the last two weeks. This was due in no small part to the wonderful hospitality of the Lion Inn, where the food was delicious and plentiful, the beer wide-ranging, and the bathrooms actually had baths (hallelujah!). </p><p>Second, we discovered last night that we'd been mentioned on radio 2 on Tuesday evening. That's the kind of boost that is very welcome at this stage of the trip!</p><p>Third, Jeremy and James played cricket with a cello last night...</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXdIrdB_xsbdm9q59gon1hbKadiX64sYcm7PBpzv2UqMPf9g8U1Xa97nfXgcqBgMDQigFhe_0xVlKyVM6rkwfqG_Oiq1vionMqFSVGeD0vBQ6Bya-J2PYJdiX3h9wodK7P4ZVaWhDvipM/s1600/IMG_0191%5B1%5D"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXdIrdB_xsbdm9q59gon1hbKadiX64sYcm7PBpzv2UqMPf9g8U1Xa97nfXgcqBgMDQigFhe_0xVlKyVM6rkwfqG_Oiq1vionMqFSVGeD0vBQ6Bya-J2PYJdiX3h9wodK7P4ZVaWhDvipM/s400/IMG_0191%5B1%5D" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502819184754281154" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipPVM4HYFr0X7CRhkGg3bBLeKIgPdE1A6KKP4xo_-UlBGTJ_R3mGEXoCrRJ082RUk_LTp3Bafdu1EVQ4qxSIxyjFkYw_eE09T9813rHfNGsTTbmctekPTdDFz7ncF_B68njnWy_ICDR4E/s1600/IMG_0184%5B1%5D"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipPVM4HYFr0X7CRhkGg3bBLeKIgPdE1A6KKP4xo_-UlBGTJ_R3mGEXoCrRJ082RUk_LTp3Bafdu1EVQ4qxSIxyjFkYw_eE09T9813rHfNGsTTbmctekPTdDFz7ncF_B68njnWy_ICDR4E/s400/IMG_0184%5B1%5D" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502819191794842818" border="0" /></a></p><p><br /></p>The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-75388905406569852722010-08-04T19:01:00.000+01:002010-08-04T20:43:30.240+01:00Day 12: Osmotherley to Blakey<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM_ixwswsXtGUk4aBlNJLAcACx4upYiBCs34JFofWKd7yDEz9akq5dBIgqNiMmWsNWuYb4ZPMsGhgAwQyIex3uardA7T1QU1pdMEEYfPPc-veQcn-bQQ-v-x9mmgUsyk82rvlWcGmV8gU/s1600/photo-710241.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM_ixwswsXtGUk4aBlNJLAcACx4upYiBCs34JFofWKd7yDEz9akq5dBIgqNiMmWsNWuYb4ZPMsGhgAwQyIex3uardA7T1QU1pdMEEYfPPc-veQcn-bQQ-v-x9mmgUsyk82rvlWcGmV8gU/s320/photo-710241.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501642696134435874" /></a></p>Well, we always knew today was going to be tough: long, lots of climbing and descending, and a real test of endurance. It is with an air of relief that I can report we all survived the 20 mile trek with no major problems. <p>The route started with a decent uphill, then downhill, then long uphill stretch. Fortunately the forecast rain did not materialise, and we were blessed for most of the day with "middling" (or "ideal for walking") temperatures, and virtually no rain at all (for the fifth day in a row, no waterproofs were needed!). <p>After another downhill stretch, we found ourselves 7 miles in at the Lord Stones Café, where we not only played, but had some industrial strength tea and incredible black pudding sandwiches to perk us up.<p>There followed three peaks in quick succession, each with steep 100m (or so) ascents and descents. On the third of these, we found a rather spectacular crag, where we played Mendelssohn's "Lift Thine Eyes" (pictured).<p>After lunch, a further climb was followed by about 9 miles of relatively flat walking, much of it along a dismantled railway track. Although this was easy in some respects, it was certainly wearing on the feet, and it was a huge relief when after about three hours, the Lion Inn at Blakey Ridge came into view. <p>So that's the most difficult day over: 165 miles completed, just two more days and 27 miles to go. The end is getting closer...<p>Quote of the day: "We saw you ahead of us: it was like a ghost moving through the fields!"The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-8702527005848875362010-08-03T15:46:00.000+01:002010-08-03T16:15:17.419+01:00Day 11: Danby Wiske to Osmotherley<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjykhLSekrxmvwUuBdwf5kjVbrK3GSOsPn8CXJyIk2WdggHWVn_Qp-NQWKYY48hxiRsRn8ClYrGO7VyH1CYtD_iSbxxy9_U635Ho6Rg6jXpL3hrMayY6ss10O8Fb2YDldlcqvUnVesJJl8/s1600/photo-717420.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjykhLSekrxmvwUuBdwf5kjVbrK3GSOsPn8CXJyIk2WdggHWVn_Qp-NQWKYY48hxiRsRn8ClYrGO7VyH1CYtD_iSbxxy9_U635Ho6Rg6jXpL3hrMayY6ss10O8Fb2YDldlcqvUnVesJJl8/s320/photo-717420.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501202492623417426" /></a></p>As expected, this was somewhat easier than yesterday: mostly very flat, with only a sharp climb at the end to give the muscles a good workout. Just 12 miles in total, and ten of those were completed before lunch. The most notable aspect of that stretch was having to dodge traffic to cross the busy A19 (all six lanes!). <p>The said meal was had at Ingleby Cross, where we played a couple of hymns around the war memorial (pictured). The following ascent into Osmotherley was a nice reminder of how to go up hills before the more tricky 20 miles of up and down tomorrow...<p>A fairly short blog entry today, then, but that reflects a fairly uneventful day's walking. Expect more tomorrow - as long as we're fit to type after that leg!<p>Quote of the day: (an elderly woman to James) "You may be tall and thin, but you've got great legs!"The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-69093455181268889522010-08-02T17:47:00.000+01:002010-08-02T17:53:46.996+01:00Day 10: Richmond to Danby Wiske<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDQoAdlIrL64WD8o2gtpquS1NOSXwRiZYfgFhed3BJe3LuFj3UV89kd-Hpkm293YCg7TiMcY0kewXwPAPiJFng76UeuHsTrl0Tgah3bOE03X-mzOpsVgE2LhBYfEyyfuuHeEOBq4AF3U/s1600/photo-726997.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDQoAdlIrL64WD8o2gtpquS1NOSXwRiZYfgFhed3BJe3LuFj3UV89kd-Hpkm293YCg7TiMcY0kewXwPAPiJFng76UeuHsTrl0Tgah3bOE03X-mzOpsVgE2LhBYfEyyfuuHeEOBq4AF3U/s320/photo-726997.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500856793493520130" /></a></p>Ok, I have a couple of admissions to make. First, I had confused the mileages of today's and tomorrow's stages, and rather than the 12 miles I was expecting, it should have been 14 (and in fact ended up closer to 15). The fact that tomorrow's walk should now be no more than 12 is some consolation, but the psychological difference between 12 and 15 miles is quite significant. <p>Second, despite today's walk being remarkably flat (and, if I'm being honest, largely dull), my back is starting to ache more and more. I guess that's what carrying a cello for 10 days and 134 miles will do for you. I'm going to try to fit a waist strap tomorrow to see if that helps. <p>Anyway, so what of today's walk? As I already mentioned, there was not much in the way of gradient change throughout, but it was not without features. For one thing, we crossed under the A1 this morning - and decided to play Nessun Dorma to celebrate this feat of engineering and the noise it produces. <p>Later, we stopped in the village of Bolton-on-Swale and played at the church by the tomb of Henry Jenkins, who reportedly lived to the grand old age of 169. We celebrated this fact by playing a whole three verses of "The Day Thou Gavest". <p>And so we arrived in the village of Danby Wiske at about 4.30, planning to have a takeaway pizza this evening (the pub doesn't do evening meals), and play later while contemplating tomorrow's (shorter) leg of the walk!<p>Quote of the day: "At first I thought that was an ironing board you were carrying - turns out it's only a cello!"The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-80745633052297067312010-08-01T18:29:00.005+01:002010-08-01T18:45:39.129+01:00Day 9: Reeth to Richmond<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkv3wprn7s_PPV5S7I1VYV0SVWTjagHrBrmW1BdfVNKGTKDG0zDSchZ9OaQqiqKRx62vQ6DvtfNbEV2vNVrcgjZcXqz1f-m6lAPrQPyhFB_ElznHZR_sZaq4mxVPXP2ZwfCejcaq5GlU0/s1600/Richmond.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkv3wprn7s_PPV5S7I1VYV0SVWTjagHrBrmW1BdfVNKGTKDG0zDSchZ9OaQqiqKRx62vQ6DvtfNbEV2vNVrcgjZcXqz1f-m6lAPrQPyhFB_ElznHZR_sZaq4mxVPXP2ZwfCejcaq5GlU0/s400/Richmond.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500498322092827346" border="0" /></a>A quite easy day today - just ten and a half miles, and the terrain not too difficult either, with just a couple of shortish steep climbs. For this reason, we set off later than we had on other days - in fact we started by playing, once again, on the village green at Reeth, with a surprisingly large audience for 9.30 on a Sunday morning!<br /><br />The walk itself was straightforward enough - one of the highlights being when we met a fellow Sheffield Wednesday fan on the way so stopped to give him a rendition of "Hi Ho Sheffield Wednesday" on the cellos... which went down very well! Later on the walk we also gave our first performance of "Sheep May Safely Graze" while some, erm, cows grazed in front of us. In fact, there were some sheep only a few yards away, but we don't have anything to do with cows in our repertoire.<br /><br />On arriving at Richmond we played a 30 minute or so set in the town square (pictured), joined for much of it by Donald Smith as a fourth cellist - he (and his wife Shirley) had been instrumental in our performance at Sedbergh earlier on in the summer. We were also joined by our latest co-walker, Joanne, who will be walking with us from here to the end at Robin Hood's Bay, as Clare's brother Paul departs from our company tomorrow morning.<br /><br />So here we are - 119 miles in, five days to go, and it feels as if the end is in sight. Two more relatively easy days are followed by a very tough one on Wednesday, but we won't think about that quite yet...<br /><br />Quote of the day: "I rushed my toast to come out and hear you this morning!"The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-36671274523305307712010-07-31T18:34:00.000+01:002010-08-01T12:00:33.324+01:00Day 8: Keld to Reeth<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTLqmHgAPzs1xlfRiiqqL8HiG6Bc5vuMy0E5CSdRH9CbAEGgz-nWIZfs4RFAc0y-wPoj7g2DhfhiBC8qwtPDKhOP7rv6dxNcEmyLxnxwLpz8eC2OfdPv0VzY3ammOrzLMSDdFrCcQ0Gas/s1600/photo-733325.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTLqmHgAPzs1xlfRiiqqL8HiG6Bc5vuMy0E5CSdRH9CbAEGgz-nWIZfs4RFAc0y-wPoj7g2DhfhiBC8qwtPDKhOP7rv6dxNcEmyLxnxwLpz8eC2OfdPv0VzY3ammOrzLMSDdFrCcQ0Gas/s320/photo-733325.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500394678875676370" /></a></p>A much gentler day today: 12 miles along the River Swale in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. In fact, we covered a significant part of Swaledale today (and will walk though much of the rest tomorrow), and apart from a single very light shower, we had great weather to do so. <p>This was the alternative version of the route, one that Wainwright recommends as a change to the hill climbs of earlier in the week - and we are all very glad we did it this way. The trees that line the river complement the lush green hillsides perfectly, and the sound of running water through the stony river really added to it. As seen in the picture, we also found a place to play in the middle of the river - or at least at the mouth of Barney Beck as it departs from the Swale. <p>Another landmark passed today was the 100 mile mark - we have now completed just over 108 of them, and are still largely in good health (barring the occasional dodgy ankle or blistered heel) and spirit!<p>On arriving in Reeth (a beautiful village - the so-called "capital of Swaledale") we played outside an ice cream parlour for about half an hour and attracted a good audience - hopefully our rendition of "O Sole Mio" attracted people to the idea of ice cream, rather than leaving them disappointed that they didn't sell Cornettos!<p>Apologies, by the way, for the lack of updates to our location today - I have had no phone reception since the middle of yesterday (Friday), so unless I strike lucky with wi-fi thus evening you won't be reading this until a good way through Sunday anyway!<p>Quote of the day: "I think that cello's going to have to sit on the loo overnight" (due to lack of room in the B&B)The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-976276674682640472010-07-30T18:16:00.000+01:002010-07-30T20:22:20.011+01:00Day 7: Kirkby Stephen to Keld<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDmpoUeYLxd9YSc4r81Jw6N2lakUPVAj8SdkRlrRgjkCsEszMuQwxH8217_AvTv4GjHPYfJy0TjKXO5OXkW6X4rarU86jmDDVJRZ7we2TSSbbe8naoYObkMpmC8ecDJlrq7A-bqgvMxc/s1600/photo-740012.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDmpoUeYLxd9YSc4r81Jw6N2lakUPVAj8SdkRlrRgjkCsEszMuQwxH8217_AvTv4GjHPYfJy0TjKXO5OXkW6X4rarU86jmDDVJRZ7we2TSSbbe8naoYObkMpmC8ecDJlrq7A-bqgvMxc/s320/photo-740012.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499781817393899410" /></a></p>(Subtitle: A blog about a bog)<p>A slightly later start today - we played before we left the fabulous youth hostel in Kirkby Stephen, which is an old converted chapel (with much of the original architecture preserved), and set off with the clock approaching 10.00. We were joined for the day by Clare's old friend Kate and her three daughters, and this boosted us to get up to the Pennine ridge in good time. <p>After playing at the Nine Standards - a set of stone constructions on the ridge at about 650m up (the morale-boosting sudden view of Yorkshire nearly being tempered by James's attempt to let his cello be attacked by his case...), we walked through the boggiest part of the whole route, which despite being dry by its standards was still enough to get us rather wet in places. <p>The journey down to Keld was then rather more straightforward, the occasional shower meaning we couldn't rest on our laurels though. We did stop at the wonderful Ravenseat farm for a cup of tea & scones, and played to the owner - two of her children and the dog being particularly engaged by the performance. We would certainly recommend the food and drink there!<p>And so tonight we're staying in Keld, a tiny village in the western end of Swaledale. It's great to be back in Yorkshire, although the lack of phone reception means I have no idea when this blog post will appear! At the halfway point of the challenge, though, I am pleased to report that all is going to plan...<p>Quote of the day: "We were following you yesterday, and it was so inspirational to see the cellos in the valley ahead..." "You mean knowing there is someone madder than you around?"The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-8567105042886945292010-07-29T18:42:00.000+01:002010-07-29T18:50:32.348+01:00Day 6: Shap to Kirkby Stephen<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasshBzgBlU_0jpWdC5vd3eiAxsM0_HIYUTgaIiD8ZQoBdsfVeSgHVkXy3h7UKRzaYXzTJSGhMBg-GsJsIOKDZs1yywYhglRLj2fds3UlO95sWWCgfng9w1MECPMYJWremkj2DhnvwfJs/s1600/photo-732349.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasshBzgBlU_0jpWdC5vd3eiAxsM0_HIYUTgaIiD8ZQoBdsfVeSgHVkXy3h7UKRzaYXzTJSGhMBg-GsJsIOKDZs1yywYhglRLj2fds3UlO95sWWCgfng9w1MECPMYJWremkj2DhnvwfJs/s320/photo-732349.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499387074426332322" /></a></p>Well, that was a different day. A long one, for sure (20 miles), but far easier terrain than previously in the walk and almost perfect walking conditions (alternating sun and cloud cover, but never getting too hot for too long and barely even the merest hint of rain - no need for waterproofs!). <p>We covered the 20 miles in just over 9 hours, including a stop to play some Beethoven by a wonderful railway bridge near Kirkby Stephen (pictured) - I don't know whether it added to the occasion or not that the audience was mostly cows (who, to their credit, gathered round almost as soon as we started playing!). <p>Tomorrow is different again - an ascent up and down the Pennines, with the promise of finding ourselves in Yorkshire by the end!<p>Quote of the day: "Moo!"The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-78907567118452011722010-07-29T08:48:00.000+01:002010-07-29T08:52:13.450+01:00Shap (...ah-ah!)We're just starting day 6, and thought it would be worth blogging about the fantastic hospitality we received in Shap. The fabulous New Ing Lodge was where we stayed, and we would heartily recommend it to any Coast-to-Coasters, and indeed anyone else visiting the village. <p>Clare was particularly impressed that one of the owners not only bought her an ice cream on arrival, but even carried it up two flights of stairs for her! Also worthy of a mention is the Bull's Head Inn, where we performed and had a great meal last night. Let's hope it was enough to see us through today's 20 miles...The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-4574778385032209072010-07-28T18:55:00.000+01:002010-07-28T19:01:23.988+01:00Day 5: Patterdale to Shap<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_4o1H0IBAlUCAKl2sVKgWqGHTBsZmnemULb3SqMrU9JzxlZyqJJthWAirNnMDvCUgvfNj_07cOIuPEVj9J53qfD-BEgfnacTJsOxkf0W3EPDRJ0YwZppJIikLg2qW37PeZiTnyrpk8c/s1600/photo-783989.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_4o1H0IBAlUCAKl2sVKgWqGHTBsZmnemULb3SqMrU9JzxlZyqJJthWAirNnMDvCUgvfNj_07cOIuPEVj9J53qfD-BEgfnacTJsOxkf0W3EPDRJ0YwZppJIikLg2qW37PeZiTnyrpk8c/s320/photo-783989.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499018790464149186" /></a></p>Are we really only 5 days and 62 miles into it? We seem to have been going for ever, and the feet and joints certainly feel as if we have. <p>Today was certainly the toughest day of the route so far - and may yet turn out to be the toughest of the whole lot, but I don't want to tempt fate by saying that for certain now! Although there are three which are longer in terms of mileage, it was still nearly 16 miles today, and involved the biggest climb of the route - 780m up Kidsty Pike. <p>We played at the top (including our debut performance of "Ain't no mountain high enough"), and James decided to get arty with his cello (pictured). This was then followed by the toughest descent I've known for a long time - bone and muscles being crunched all the way. <p>So, we arrived in Shap safely at about 6.30, and are going to head out to perform in a local pub soon. Tomorrow brings much easier terrain, but a whole 20 miles of it... let's see whether we feel that more or less than the same distance on day 1!<p>Quote of the day (to Jeremy at breakfast): "Did you hear those cellists in the pub last night?"The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-41055106814063582632010-07-27T17:51:00.000+01:002010-07-27T18:15:30.331+01:00Day 4: Grasmere to Patterdale<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7qznZTfWS5_isBT9nhEjfXxCVXMlnuM2PWHV-kgjlgBgkGbOcQ4O6GUA8qiyfBI2xsCh_x9LA2f_EyMN2jZMChEQTB8P8Rl4I7M8UvUkF29FN6yIUtBOK1mrBfS-I3m2_DFVgIQOCqY/s1600/photo-730332.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7qznZTfWS5_isBT9nhEjfXxCVXMlnuM2PWHV-kgjlgBgkGbOcQ4O6GUA8qiyfBI2xsCh_x9LA2f_EyMN2jZMChEQTB8P8Rl4I7M8UvUkF29FN6yIUtBOK1mrBfS-I3m2_DFVgIQOCqY/s320/photo-730332.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498635877518602786" /></a></p>Something amazing happened today: it stopped raining and the sun came out. Not for vast amounts of time, granted, but long enough for us to get our cellos out at the highest point of the day's walk, just above Grisedale Tarn - about 600m up the slopes of Helvellyn (pictured). <p>This was one of the highlights of a good day's walking - again not the furthest in terms of mileage (about 9 miles, meaning we've now done 46 in total), but a good climb and descent, with a novelty in arriving at our destination in dry clothes!<p>Another highlight was meeting a group of kids on the way down, on a YHA-run adventure course (they were camping up where we had just come from), who turned out to be wonderfully polite, interested and enthusiastic to hear us play - and despite being no older than about 13, generous in their donations too. The sort of encounter that really leaves a good feeling about the whole challenge!<p>So we're staying in Patterdale tonight, perhaps entertaining the locals later, and preparing ourselves for a much bigger walk tomorrow - the highest climb of the whole route and 16 miles to boot (well, to Shap actually!). Fingers crossed for some dry weather...<p>Quote of the day: "So, are yous lads all army then?"The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-36253870252731821112010-07-27T10:20:00.000+01:002010-07-27T10:26:07.300+01:00Day 4: raining again<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim08ZyFv186Kr_u9ZD5Vuw9Q0NVQN3ytuoi1VJKRgIuBsn2KQMoo_ZFezYdjq0zHkh5hqcUS1rn9kLuq4yPZTDd8c2kitjRI5tifqrKnr6eEpTIovSNwWqFy5_6hXdgtHfyIoGahEoShE/s1600/photo-767301.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim08ZyFv186Kr_u9ZD5Vuw9Q0NVQN3ytuoi1VJKRgIuBsn2KQMoo_ZFezYdjq0zHkh5hqcUS1rn9kLuq4yPZTDd8c2kitjRI5tifqrKnr6eEpTIovSNwWqFy5_6hXdgtHfyIoGahEoShE/s320/photo-767301.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498514917142884898" /></a></p>It's getting a bit tiresome, this rain! Still, we have a spring in our step this morning having enjoyed a fine concert last night - and thanks to the generous folk of Grasmere (and a fair few walkers we told about it on the way) our total has now surpassed £3000!<p>The only downside about Grasmere, I guess, was the evening meal at a local pub, where the food was ok if overpriced, and (some of) the staff were a bit rude and unhelpful - a complete contrast to the previous night in Rosthwaite, which had been absolutely great! Oh well, no great harm done... looking forward to another meal tonight after another big day's walking...<p>(Pictured: St Oswald's Church, Grasmere)The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191526557735207952.post-44674953208559356022010-07-26T17:07:00.001+01:002010-08-01T18:29:11.711+01:00Day 3: Borrowdale to Grasmere<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKza3Wu_YTA8N-xTkGvuMhewrWLFu8j9mwn-D7dwHTPO2C6nrhcVoN0jn2Nys8m1mIQopJG-JdCRI70WrZakcbxS5z32NgT-j6PKAI7ZTPsO_GRC-jI18EeflgAiGkIPMKLhPD2fyZjM/s1600/photo-786107.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKza3Wu_YTA8N-xTkGvuMhewrWLFu8j9mwn-D7dwHTPO2C6nrhcVoN0jn2Nys8m1mIQopJG-JdCRI70WrZakcbxS5z32NgT-j6PKAI7ZTPsO_GRC-jI18EeflgAiGkIPMKLhPD2fyZjM/s320/photo-786107.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498252146865712354" border="0" /></a></p>Well, it may have only been 8 miles or so today, but it was a tough 8 miles. A good climb in the first part of the walk was followed by a joint-destroying equivalent descent thereafter - and all in pouring rain. <p>In fact, for the third day running an alternative "higher" option was ruled out because of poor weather. It's a little frustrating, but it's not preventing us from getting there. It is, however, starting to cause some damage to the cellos (see picture) - hopefully it won't rain for the whole of the two weeks!</p><p>So, three days and 37 miles in, and we're seeing the first of our personnel changes. I've not said anything about our personnel yet this year, so here is a brief introduction... as many of you will know, Jeremy, Clare and James are the cellists; we're being joined throughout the walk by our friends Ashley, Rachel and Chris, to help us carry non-cello items, as well as Angela (James's mum), who is driving from place to place to help with transporting luggage and other logistical matters. Then we're being joined by some others along the way: Simon, Mary and Helen were with us for the first three days, and Clare's brother Paul joined us from today until day 9... which seems a very long way away right now!</p><p>Anyway, we're giving a concert at St Oswald's Church, Grasmere tonight (7.30) so we better go and prepare for that!</p><p>Quote of the day: "Oh, so you're those daft ha'peths with the cellos..."</p>The Extreme Cellistshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02339186305533108580noreply@blogger.com3