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Lynne Taylor breaks two long distance
records - now with lots of pictures

UK cyclist Lynne Taylor of the Walsall Roads Cycling Club has broken the 840 mile Land's End to John O'Groats record and the 1,000 miles record. Read below for the full details of her epic ride. Click here for details of Lynne's route.
 

Time: 06:00
Lynne has just left the South door of the Land's End Hotel, weather conditions are dry with a good following breeze that her helpers expect to strengthen later.

Time: 07:07
Distance: 22.3ml
She has joined the Redruth Bypass and is nicely into her stride. Weather conditions are misty with not much wind, but Lynne looks happy to be on her way at last.

Time: 08:35
Distance: 51.8ml
Lynne has just joined the Bodmin Bypass and continues to look very comfortable. Weather remains slightly misty with little wind at the moment.

Time: 09:48
Distance: 77.1ml
Just joined the Launceston Bypass and Lynne is about 3min up on schedule. The early mist is slowly clearing as the sun breaks through, though still no wind so far.

Time: 10:36
Distance: 92.0ml
Just reached the Okehampton Bypass and back on schedule after a long, stiff climb. Sunny conditions now, still no wind, so Lyne will be making a quick stop shortly to change out of mist-dampened clothes.

Time: 10:55
Distance: 100.0ml
In spite of a stop to change clothes Lynne is now 5min up on schedule at the 100ml point.

Time: 11:51
Distance: 117.3ml
Lynne has reached the junction with the A377 near Exeter and is 1min up on schedule. There is now a slight drizzle, but still no wind.

Time: 12:36
Distance: 132.0ml
After passing through Exeter, during which the support vehicle got lost for a short time, Lynne is now at Cullompton and just on schedule. The drizzle has now cleared up, though still no wind.

Time: 13:42
Distance: 151.5ml
Heavy traffic and lots of traffic lights on her passage through Taunton have put Lynne about 8min behind schedule. The light drizzle has started again and there is still no wind. Nevertheless, Lynne seems quite happy and is riding well.

Time: 14:17
Distance: 160.8ml
The weather has taken a turn for the worse and there is now torrential rain, which has put Lynne about 15min behind schedule. She has had a short stop to put on waterproof clothing.

Time: 15:43
Distance: 180.5ml
Because of continuing heavy rain Lynne has continued to lose time and is now 40min behind schedule. She has had several stops to change clothing so as to try and rermain comfortable, but in spite of all this she is still very cheerful.

Time: 17:04
Distance: 199.1ml
Rain has contiued to pour down, making life difficult for Lynne who is now 1hr 5min down on schedule. However, the forecast is for an improvement in the weather conditions as she moves farther north.

Time: 18:13
Distance: 218.2ml
Coupled with the rain, Lynne has had slight stomach problems that has meant she is now 1hr 15min down on schedule. However, she is still very cheery and happy to continue.

Time: 18:43
Distance: 227.0ml
Lynne has managed to pull back 5min on her schedule as she goes through Gloucester.

Time: 20:40
Distance: 257.0ml
After a 25min stop for a short sleep 6ml north of Tewkesbury, Lynne had reached Worcester and is 1hr 40min down on schedule. The rain has stopped and this has cheered Lynne up quite a bit.

Time: 21:52
Distance: 268.9ml
Although the rain has now stopped, Lynne is still suffering from its effects and passed Kidderminster 1hr 53min down on schedule.

Time: 23:20
Distance: 303.3ml
After being 1hr 58min down on schedule at Gailey, Lynne has begun to rally a little bit and by Stafford had reduced her deficit to 1hr 50min. She is still quite cheerful and giving thumbs up signals to well wishers cheering her from the road side. Click here to see a picture of Lynne at Gailey Island (with thanks to Claire Ashton of Shrewsbury) and see report on right (from Margaret Hopper).

Time: 00:05
Distance: 318.3ml
Lynne is continuing to ride well and has pulled back another 8min on her schedule. There have been lots of people at the road side cheering her on and that has really cheered her up. The weather is slightly misty but dry and with a gentle tail wind. See report on right from Rob Waghorn.

Time: 01:48
Distance: 341.7ml
After a short stop to change clothes Lynne passed through Knutsford 1hr 58min down on schedule.

Time: 06:00
Distance: 410.0ml
In spite of having been sick Lynne managed to do 410ml for the first 24hr, which was reached near Levens Bridge on the A590 north of Lancaster. She has had a break of 30min and is currently 2hr down on schedule.

Time: 07:47
Distance: 426.0ml
Lynne is still very cheerful and giving a wave to those cheering her from the road side. She will shortly be climbing Shap Fell and is about 2hr 10min down on schedule.

Time: 08:43
Distance: 436.1ml
Lynne has just reached the summit of Shap Fell after a long hard climb and is now 2hr 30min behind schedule, but with a good run down the other side should be able to get back some of that time.

Time: 09:50
Distance: 454.8ml
After a good run down Shap Fell and passing through Penrith, Lynne had a short stop at Stoney Beck Island on the north side of Penrith to put on suncream and sunglasses as it is now hot and sunny. Still not much wind though. See report by Mike Westmorland.

Time: 10:42
Distance: 471.1ml
Lynne has just passed Carlisle Station and is about 2hr 22min down on schedule. The weather is still hot and sunny but still very little wind. Current 1,000ml record holder Eilleen Sheriden has been on the phone to Lynne to offer her words of encouragement

Time: 11:10
Distance: 480.8ml
She has now passed Gretna Green and has gained another 2min back on her schedule deficit. A slight tail wind has picked up which is more helpful.

Time: 12:35
Distance: 503.3ml
Lynne has reached Johstonebridge and has made more inroads into her deficict on her schedule. She is now 2hr 5min behind, with the weather still sunny and a freshening tail wind.

Time: 13:40
Distance: 517.3ml
After climbing to the Devil's Beef Tub summit Lynne is now about 2hr 15min down on schedule, but there is now a good run through to Edinburgh and at last the wind is beginning to blow a bit stronger behind her.

Time: 14:36
Distance: 534.4ml
Now that the tail wind has risen Lynne is making further reductions on her schedule deficit and as she reaches Broughton she is now 2hr 2min behind.

Time: 15:39
Distance: 553.5ml
Lynne has just passed through Penicuik with the tailwind helping her reduce her deficit still further, and she is now 1hr 49min down on schedule.

Time: 17:25
Distance: 582.8ml
The good ridiing conditions have continued and Lynne has passed over the Forth Bridge at Ediunburgh and is just at Cowdebeath where she had reduced her deficit still further to 1hr 37min behind schedule. See the report by John Williams on the right.

Time: 19:21
Distance: 607.2ml
Lynne stopped on the outskirts of Perth to put on night clothes and is now 1hr 47min down on her schedule. Still very cheerful and feeling good.

Time: 20:20
Distance: 622.1ml
In spite of getting slightly lost through Perth, Lynne has pulled back a little time on her schedule and is now 1hr 42min down. A slight drizzle has started but she still has a good wind behind her along the A9.

Time: 21:40
Distance: 640.6ml
Lynne has passed Blair Atholl and will soon be climbing the Drumochter Pass. It's still drizzling, a little heavier now, and that has slowed her a little so she is 1hr 43min down on schedule.

Time: 03:25
Distance: 720.3ml
Lynne has just passed Kessock Bridge and is 1hr 39min down on schedule. The rain has stopped and she has dry roads and a clear sky.

Time: 04:18
Distance: 732.6ml
She has just passed Cromarty Firth where she will turn right at the traffic island and the wind will be on her back again. From there road signs point for John O'Groats to spur Lynne on, and she has pulled back another 4min on her schedule.

Time: 05:31
Distance: 752.4ml
With a helpful wind at her back Lynne has reduced her defict still further and at Tain has gained another 18 minutes.

Time: 06:39
Distance: 770.3ml
Lynne has continued her fight back and at Golspie had reduced her deficit on the schedule by another 15min. That makes her 1hr 3min down with 70 miles to go to John O'Groats.

Time: 07:41
Distance: 787.2ml
Lynne has reached Helmsdale Youth Hostel and is now only 51 minutes down on her schedule. With the wind behind her and the sun coming up she's doing her best to get to John O'Groats in record time.

Time: 08:22
Distance: 796.8ml
In spite of the stiff climb at Berridale, Lynne continues to claw back time and is now 44min down on her schedule.

Time: 08:48
Distance: 802.9ml
Lynne has now reached Dunbeath and has reduced her deficit on her schedule to 40 minutes. It looks like it will be touch and go as to whether or not she beats her existing record for the End to End so it's fingers crossed time for everyone.

Time: 09:10
Distance: 809.8ml
Lynne has reached Lybster and is still making inroads into her schedule deficit and is now only 28min down.

Time: 09:50
Distance: 823.0ml
Lynne has just passed Wick and is now only 2 minutes down on schedule, a quite fantastic achievement in such a short distance. The timekeeper who has been in the support vehicle is now going ahead to be ready for when she arrives at John O'Groats.

Distance: 840.0ml
Lynne has broken her existing record for Land's End to John O'Groats with a new time of 2 days 4 hours 45 minutes and 11 seconds. A truly phenomenal ride after being 2-1/2hr down on her schedule at the top of Shap Fell. This breaks her own record that she set last year by 1hr 3min.

Time: 12:05
Distance: 840.0ml
After a short break for some food, change of clothes, etc, Lynne has now begun her attack on the 1,000 miles record.

Time: 13:22
Distance: 859.6ml
Lynne is well on her way on her second record attempt, and has passed though Wick then on to Thurso. There is still a strong breeze blowing so the return from Thurso back to Wick is likely to be quite hard. Many thanks to all those who sent emails congratulating Lynne on her End to End record, they are much appreciated. Look in the yellow right hand columns for details.

Time: 14:28
Distance: 879.5ml
Lynne is now back at Wick where she does a turn in the road to retrace back to Castletown. She is still looking really good and is just flying when the wind in behind her.

Time: 15:58
Distance: 899.5ml
Lynne is well on her way back to Castletown, having retraced along the A9 to the junction with the A836, and is about half an hour up on schedule. The weather is still sunny with a strong breeze blowing.

Time: 16:36
Distance: 909.7ml
Lynne seems to really have the bit between her teeth now. She passed through Castletown at 904.6ml about 40min up on her schedule as she makes full use of the tailwind and carried that speed on to Thurso.

Time: 17:56
Distance: 929.6ml
Lynne has now got back to Wick for the second time and seems to still be going very well, and as cheerrful as ever.

Time: 19:33
Distance: 954.7ml
Lynne has got back to Castletown again and is now 1hr 33min up on her schedule - fantastic!!

Time: 20:18
Distance: 966.0ml
There are 44 miles to go (Lynne is going to a provisional 1,010 miles just make sure she covers the full distance, to be measured more accurately later) and she is absolutley flying. As she rides back towards Wick for the last time the Northern Lights are lighting up the sky as if to greet her home.

Time: 21:18
Distance: 980.0ml
Lynne is now at Wick for the last time and is returning to Thurso and there are nearly 50 people at the roadside giving her a cheer.

Distance: 1,000.0ml
Lynne has broken the 1,000 miles record with a provisional time of 2 days 16 hours and 40 minutes. That means she has broken the previous record by about 8hr 20min. She will continue for about another 10 miles just to make sure when the final measurements are made that she was not short of the full distance. Click here for pictures from Malcolm Grey of the Caithness Cycling Club .

To all those people who took the time to visit this page to see how Lynne was getting on: many thanks for your interest and support, it is much appreciated.

To all those people who sent in emails to give Lynne their best wishes and congratulations: thanks to you all, we'll make sure Lynne gets copies to add to her memories of this great occasion.

And to all those people who managed to get out onto the course to give Lynne a cheer as she rode by, many thanks for your efforts in helping Lynne get through to a tremendous triumph.

And a Message from Lynne herself:" Hi everyone, Lynne here. I just want to say a thousand and twelve miles of thanks to EVERYONE who supported me in my record attempts, especially my team of helpers and organiser Jim Turner. Also thanks to all the RRA officials and the marshalls, who saw me safely through. I dried ten loads of washing today in a strong south-westerly wind !! And the web site has been fantastic. See you all next year, maybe?? Love to everyone. Lynne xxx"

Click here to see a picture of Lynne at Gailey Island (with thanks to Claire Ashton of Shrewsbury)

Click here for pictures from Malcolm Grey of the Caithness Cycling Club

Click here for pictures from Mike Taylor, Lynne's brother and one of the back-up crew

Lynne has waited nearly three months for favourable weather conditions and at last, just as she was about to cancel the attempt for this year, the forecasted winds have begun to turn in the right direction. So, at 6am on Tuesday morning (1st October) she set off from the front door of the Land's End Hotel for the long journey northwards.

Last year Lynne broke the Land's End to John O'Groats record (known in UK cycling circles as the End to End) with an epic ride that tested her courage and determination to the full.

Battling through headwinds and incessant rain for most of the ride, Lynne was nearly four and a half hours behind schedule by the time she had covered two thirds of the distance. Most people would have thrown in the towel at that stage, but Lynne is made of much sterner stuff than that.

Lynne's answer to the problem was simple: forego the scheduled sleep stops. That takes some doing when you are already feeling the strain of over 500 miles of riding in awful conditions.

That turned the tide and, although the weather didn't get any better, Lynne began to pull back the lost time. As she finally reached the last stages of her epic ride she began to get ahead of the old record. At the end she beat the previous record by just over one hour, to the tremendous delight of her support team and all those who had turned out during her ride to spur her on.

After a short rest Lynne and her support crew discussed the idea of continuing for the 1,000 miles record, but it was decided that she had taken more than enough punishment already, and so the attempt was cancelled.

That left Lynne with some unfinished business, so she decided to have another crack at the 1,000 miles record. As secondary targets she decided to attack her own record for the End to End, plus the current record for 24 hours.

And now you all know what happened this year!!

Click here for full details of the route Lynne will take.
The distance between Land's End and John O'Groats is approximately 840 miles.

Name: Lynne Elizabeth Taylor
Born 17.12.1968
Height 5ft 5in

Likes: sunshine and south westerly winds!!

Dislikes: dogs on the loose, ignorant drivers, and people who say that the sun is out and the rain has stopped just up the road !!

Started racing time trials at the age of 21

Times achieved in year 2001:
25 miles:   59mins 26secs p.b
50 miles:   2hrs 1min 15secs p.b.
100 miles:  4hrs 9mins 8secs
12 hours:   249.02 miles p.b.
24 hours:   423.13 miles

Lynne in her own words:
"After spending years saying never, I finally, with words of encourage-ment from people who knew me, broke the End to End record in September last year and to this day it still hasn't sunk in.

I never thought that I would be strong enough. It is a lot of mental preparation, and self belief. My dad always said I could do it and dads are always right aren't they!

As I finished the End to End last year I had already decided that I would like to have another go, especially because I had no wind assistance and atrocious weather conditions, and still broke the record by an hour. My aim this year is to try for the 24 hour record held by Christine Roberts, and the 1,000 miles record which has stood for nearly 50 years, held by Eileen Sheridan who I keep in touch with, and who has given me much encouragement and advice.

This year, I was very proud and honoured to be made President of my Club, the Walsall Roads Cycling Club, and have been to many other cycling club dinners around the country, trying to get people interested in riding the longer distances. I work full time in my parents cycle shop, Bridgtown Cycles in Cannock and we promote cycling to all our customers, encouraging them to join the local clubs. My training levels are around 350-400 miles per week, done before and after work, and also on my days off on Friday and Sunday.

Along with my father John and my mother Liz, my main source of encouragement for these big rides are Andy Wilkinson and Paul Histon who talked me through the End to End when the going was rough; Lynne McKie who I am indebted to for helping me through bad patches on all these big record rides, and is always there for me as female support, when I am surrounded by men.

My thanks also go to John Williams who organised my solo End to End and tandem records, and to Jim Turner who cajoled me into riding 24 hr races a few years ago, and has been a big support on all the records. He is currently organising my 2002 1,000miles / 24 hour / End to End record attempts. Finally, I would like to say a big thank you to all those people who came out to give me shouts of encouragement during my End to End ride - they were much appreciated."

2002 Record Attempt

Progress Reports
From the Collins' family: "Due to work I was unfortunately unable to go cheer Lynne on, however Mum dragged herself out of bed at some ungodly hour and saw Lynne at approx 6.50am just past Hayle. We have been following her progress all day and will continue tomorrow.

I have to report that Mum was frightened to death whilst waiting to see Lynne go by. She was sat in a lay-by in the dark and mist, when a dodgy looking vehicle full of even dodgier looking people pulled up very close behind her. They started acting very suspiciously, rummaging round in the boot of their car and loitering in the layby. Mum locked all her doors and just opened the window enough to shout to Lynne as she flew past...the van with John Taylor and the crew pulled over to say hello and it was only at this point that Mum discovered the car was actually the support car, with one very dodgy Mike Taylor at the wheel!!! Well it gave them all a good laugh anyway.

Well, best of luck to Lynne...let's hope the weather improves for her. Judi, Pauline and Martin down in sunny Cornwall"

Aston Island, Stone junction of the A51/A34. She came through at 23.42, approximately 1hour 50minutes down. Sorry about the time lapse but it is a fair drive back, round trip of over 50 miles, but Lynne is worth it. There were Ian Hill, Les Lowe (Mr miles himself), Sean Mcdonnell and Jim and myself, all gave her a shout and clapped her through. She was pedalling well, and seemed comfortable.The weather was still and mist kept coming and going."

This from Rob Waghorn and members of the Congleton CC: "A number of us from Congleton Cycling Club have been out giving Lynne support on her epic ride. I picked her up just north of Stafford and followed her progress for a few miles. She seemed to be going well and when I left her 4 miles before Holmes Chapel it was just coming up to 01:00. Sadly there was hardly a breath of wind but at least it was dry and warm. She certainly looked cheerful and I think our shouts helped. We all think she is great and admire her courage, tenacity and permanent cheerfulness. Please pass on our love and best wishes to her at some time further up the road and let her know we are all thinking of her. Good luck Lynne from Rob, Karl, Joyce, Graham and Jane (Congleton CC cheerleaders!)"

This from Mike Westmorland: "Wednesday 9.59 am – 1.5 miles N of Stoneybeck roundabout on A6 north of Penrith. Sun has just come out, very light southerly breeze, warm. Lynne looked great, riding smoothly and looked quite fast. 456.3 miles in 27hr 59min = 16.3 mph."

From John Williams: "Carole Dietman telephoned me at Alsager with details of her witnessing in the Edinburgh area. She has no email facility, so I am filling the gap. Her checker's written report will be in the post to Eddie Mundy.

Carole and her friend Jane first saw Lynne between Lothianburn Junction and Oxgangs Road. Carole was nearer to Lothianburn and Jane was standing by the Oxgangs Road traffic lights ready to indicate the left turn. They were both dismayed to see Lynne take a premature left turn into a cul-de-sac and there was about 5 minutes delay before Lynne had realised her error and came back to be correctly directed and given lots of verbal encouragement. Carole and Jane spoke to the bearded driver of the red support Land Rover, then jumped into their car and set off on the by-pass to try and get in front of Lynne at Barnton to see her emerge from Drum Brae onto the A90, as they had done for the tandem record attempt and for Lynne and Gethin Butler last year. Unfortunately, the horrendously heavy traffic conditions delayed them and they emerged at Barnton to just get a glimpse of Lynne already rapidly disappearing on the A90 towards the Forth Road Bridge."

Congratulations
From Chris Day in Oxford: "Having been avidly following Lynne's progress on the ABCC site for the last 2 days, I felt I had to mail and pass on my congratulations. well done! keep it going for the 1000 miles! I'll be sat here in oxford, hitting 'refresh'.. :o)"

Some more congrats: "Can you give Lynne our congratulations and wish her the best of luck for the next 160 miles. Tell I knew she could do it. From Reg and Gill Bromley, Kev and Sue Tom and Hannah Payton"

From Graham King: "Just to say "brilliant" to Lynne for such a wonderful recovery on her schedule. I found out about the record attempt from your link on cyclingnews.com, and have been keenly following your progress online since the start. It's been really thrilling and a great tribute to the organising team as well as Lynne herself. Thanks for the inspiration!! Best of luck to Lynne if she's continuing for the 1000 mile record: I hope she gives it a real hammering, and can enjoy seeing the new record stand for as long as Eileen Sheridan has! Once again - BRILLIANT RIDE! "

From Stan Turner: "Please convey hearty congratulations for a wonderful ride."

From Rob Waghorn: "Just read the news and had to send an email. WELL DONE LYNNE!!!!!!! She is truly amazing and I am sure that she will destroy the 1000 mile record. Please pass on my congratulations to her on achieving this part of her quest and wish her luck in the next few hours. "

From Judi, Martin and Pauline Collins: "Congratulations Lynne! We've got everything crossed for the 1,000 miles....keep pedallin gal!"

From Trevor Friggitt: "Please pass on my congratulations to Lynne. Another great record and I am sure she will get the 1000mile record and put it on the shelf for another 30years."

From Margaret Hopper: "Jim and I plus all her friends in this area, Yoxall, Barton, Whittington and Derby, send her our CONGRATULATION on beating her existing End to End Record. What a ride, she is truely wonderful. Now for the 1000, we wish you all the best Lynn and we are with you the whole way, as we have been from Land's End. When you reach that final goal you will be the perfect successor to a great lady, Eileen. "

From Mike Perkins: "sorry I can't make it to cheer Lynne on........but give her a cheer for me please, and send her by best wishes!!!! I'm following things closely via the website!"

More congrats: "Hearty conratulations Lynne, on the E to E, dig in for the 1000, you really have some guts!!!!! From Nigel Brunton and Kev Moreland (RAF Cosford)"

From Claire Ashton: "Dear Lynne, When I went to see you at Gailey Island I had to wait for ages as you were so far down on your schedule. I didn't even see you when you passed as I was so busy looking through the viewfinder to get the photo which is now on the website. After you had gone I turned to Marion Guy and commented that I thought you had no chance of breaking your E2E record but probably would be saving yourself for the 24 hour record.

When I got home and looked at the photo I had taken (only one as you going so fast!) I saw your thumb raised from the bars. I then noticed your cheeky grin - then I knew that you would make it to John O'Groats in time.

It's a good job you didn't make the attempt in REALLY favourable weather of a roaring tailwind and dry conditions - now at least you haven't put the new record so far out of reach that you can't break it again next year!!"

From Kathy and Geoff Platts: "Once again a fantastic achievement by Lynne: to be so far down on schedule, to pull back the time and get the record ...Congratulation, .. superb. With the guts and determination Lynne has, surely the 1,000 is a formality, brilliant."

From Joyce and Karl Austin: "Well done Lyn and best wishes from Joyce and Karl Austin, I have been watching every hour and passing news to Karl. All the people in our office know of your achievements and we are thrilled. What a smashing ride it was a pleasure to be a small part of your journey as you passed by at Newcastle-under-Lyme. Keep it up for the 1,000. Message from Karl see you on Sunday at the '25' !!"

And some more: "Please pass on our bestest wishes and congratulations to Lynne for her stunning new record . I hope she now is well on her way to getting the 1000 mile record. I have just got home fromwork and am SO pleased...i was thinking constantly of her nearly all morning. All the best Ann Wooldridge, Toby Wooldridge, Mike and Lin Davis"

From Bob Beaman: "What a star, wonderful achievement breaking your own record on the End to End. Now go on & smash the 1000. best wishef rom the B'ham St christophers (central section)"

And another one: "Congratulations on your new End to End record, Lynne.I have been following your progress on the website (excellent idea by the way) since yesterday and have been willing you on since you began to lose time in the South-West. I remain VERY impressed that you did not give up after getting so far behind schedule and can only imagine the mental battle that you must have fought with yourself to keep turning the pedals. Good luck with the 1000. Best wishes, Nick Webber, Colchester Rovers CC."

From Geoff Lonsdale, Clevedon & Dist CC: "Saw Lynne through north of Bristol in pouring rain - got soaked but worth it. Sent the following line to Jim Turner when I saw that End-to-End record had been broken, still relevant now:- "I sit here with tears in my eyes after reading the latest internet update. Fantastic! Can't say any more........"

From Barbara & John Figgitt, Lynne's Aunty & Uncle: "Our heartiest congratulations Lynne on the first of your two records a great ride once again. We don't know how you do it but knew you would. Whatever you are on I think we will all have to have some. We are sure you will now go on to smash the 1000 record and are with you all the way. We also hope your achievement gets the recognition it deserves. Once again VERY WELL DONE and we look forward to seeing you on your return home."

From Jane and dave Kowalski: "Just wanted to say a big Congratulations and Well Done to Lynne. We watched her go through Newcastle under lyme (at a remarkable speed!). She is an inspiration to us all, with best wishes Jane and Graham (Team Lard!)."

From Wendy and Dave Lambert: "Little did we guess what we saw when our car passed a lone cyclist plodding up a steep hill in Cornwall two mornings ago. Back home in Kent that evening, thanks to the internet we found out, and we've tracked Lynne's progress ever since. What an unbelievable achievement! And surely now with an even greater to come. We feel privileged to have seen a bit of cycling history in the making. Many, many congratulations Lynne, and very best wishes from Wendy and David Lambert"

From the Maddock family: "We have been with you all the way - and we will be with you at the end (on the internet anyway). Les and Marg missed you on the A38 but weve all been keeping track of your progress on the net. Huge congratulations on the E to E we now sit here at 1800hrs waiting for the next update and the next record!!! love and best wishes, Les, Marg, Rita, Rich and boys "

From Chris Watts: "Congratulations on End to End Lynne - a brilliant ride and can't wait for the final chapter! "

From the Tunsall Wheelers: "very well done Lynne from Jackie white and Karen Byrne and all the members in Tunstall Whls we don't know how you did it but are very happy that you have. Jackie White"

From Sean McDonald: "Congratulations Lynne, your determination to finish is a credit to you, John and liz are I am sure very proud of you."

From Martyin Hemmings: "Saw you through at Knutsford, highly impressed with your positive attitude even though you were down on schedule. Have followed you on the excellent website and have been thrilled with your wonderful performance. My heartfelt admiration and congratulations."

From Anne Chadeva: "Congratulations Lynne on beating your own End to End record. Fingers crossed now for the 1000mls as well GOOD LUCK "

From god-daughter Samantha: "Well done on your record breaking ride. You must be very tired. See you soon. Lots of love from your God-daughter Samantha."

From the Histon family: "Well done to lynne on her fantastic record breaking rides. Paul,Gail,Kimberley Histon."

From members of the Birmingham St Christophers CC: "WELL DONE LYNNE YOU ARE A SUPER SUPER STAR. HOW ON EARTH DO YOU DO IT! WE HAVE BEEN WITH YOU ALL THE WAY IN SPIRIT!!!! YOU ARE THE BEST, KEEP ON BIKING, BEST WISHES FROM PETER, TONY, TWO BOBS, ALAN & DEREK. FROM B'HAM ST CHRISTOPHER'S"

From Phil and Stuart: "Saw you at J O'Groats - such an amazing feat - such an amazing time. Just wonderful. Saw you outside Thurso going so strong - unbelievable. Saw you in Wick - cool and strong - so determined. Lynne you're a star - and there are many in the Caithness sky tonight. However you are the brightest. All our love Phil and Stuart."

From the Walsall Roads Club: "From John Blower, Walsall Roads When she passed thro Gailey we were worried despite the thumbs up from lynne. Down on time and suffering from a cold when she turned up at the club run sunday.We should have known better! Lynne seems to go faster the longer and harder the ride. Most of us at walsall have suffered on her wheel after 60 or 70 miles so what must it be like after 1000 miles.I think even most cyclists out there cannot comprehend what this girl has done and she is a hell of a nice girl too. congrats from Walsall Roads. ps to Lynne are you riding the South Staffs 25 on Sunday."

From the Capewell family: "Well done Lynne. What a ride. We have followed you all the way on the internet, you have done so well, I can't imagine how it must feel to ride for that long! You have so much determination and courage, an inspiration to us all. I' m really proud of you and I think I speak for all your friends at Walsall Roads. Well done again, look forward to seeing you soon. Love from Debbie, Nigel Emily and Sophie."

From the Maddock family: "Lynne, absolutely fantastic, how's your Dad's nerves? What a superb achievement, and we are all very proud of you. Wish we could be with you at the end. Enjoy getting off the bike! Love and many congratulations, Les, Marg, Rita, Rich and boys. "

From Rob Waghorn: "Just returned from club night where there was no other topic but Lynne! Just got home to find out the news, and have already phoned Joyce who was out cheering on Tuesday night. She will phone Karl, who always has a ding-dong with Lynne in the 24. What can be said that has not been said already - Lynne you are superb, a real gutsy performer and really deserving of the 2 phenomenal records that you now own. I look forward to seeing you sometime soon and congratulating you in person, but till then WELL DONE!!!!!!!!!! Rob Waghorn Congleton CC."

From Lisa Colombo, Kingston Pheonix RC: "Congratulations to Lynne on a great couple of records from the Kingston Phoenix Road Club. The attempt has been eagerly followed by a number of our members (Ron Powney RRA President, I believe, amongst them) and particularly by the female members who have been priviliged to follow her progress on the internet. I personally should actually get some work done at my desk tomorrow! Thanks also to the support team without whom Lynne would have found it impossible. I am sure that all concerned are pleased that Lynne has finished in time for them to get a decent kip tonight - not least Lynne herself - rather than finishing in the early hours of the morning. And a special thanks to Malcolm for keeping the website updated for those of us into computers and allowing us to share this successful record attempt again."

From Ralph Dadswell: "I'm completely blown away by your 1000 mile ride, to say nothing of your improvement of your End to End. Quite extraordinary - and 45 minutes faster than my tricycle ride as well ! You probably know that I'm in the club of those for whom The Last 50 Miles seemed to take Forever. I'm so jealous that you've had fast finishes on both of your rides. I'm also really jealous that you managed to continue for the 1000, as it was something that I wanted to do, but was quite unable to consider. So, it's done. Sit back and enjoy it now. And then decide what to do next year (!). "

From the Southport Road Club: "From all at Southport Cycling Club Lynne,that was an epic tale of outstanding physical and mental fortitude.After seeing the reports on the weather and time defecits the phrase 'Never say die' was coined for people just like you.A truly remarkable ride and an inspiration for cyclists of all abilities. PS Hoped you looked after Yvonne and Colin."

From the Figgit family in New Zealand: "Congratulations Lynne, what a fantastic effort in breaking the two records! Even though we were only able to follow your record-breaking ride via the internet (thanks for the great coverage!), we were thinking of you all the way - brilliant! David, Nila & Ethan Figgitt (Auckland, New Zealand)"

From Mike Roberts of Mascclesfield Wheelers: "Fantastic. Congratulations from Macclesfield Wheelers!!!"

From Rose and Jim Almond: "What another tremendous ride - clawing back all that time. Many, many congratulations to Lynn; we are really proud of her here in the Midlands. And now on to the 1000 mile. We know she can do it and we send her our very best wishes and lots of love. Rosie and Jim."

From Paul and Rose Thetford: "Well done Lynne! You are now well and truly one of the "Greats" We checked you just north of Kidderminster and have been visiting the web site almost by the hour ever since. What an acheivement to smash the 1000 mile record in such style and by so much.You must have been drinking rocket fuel from John O'Groats onto the full distance. We are looking forward to next year when you come past Cookley on your way to taking even more off the time! Paul and Rose Thetford."

From Keeley and Lisa Howard: "Lynne, Congratulations.... What an amazing achievement you must be so proud of yourself. I'm sure everybody on your team were overwhelmed, we know how hard you have all worked to make this dream possible. ...Speechless, you will go down in history as one gutsy lady.. Look forward to seeing you soon, sorry we were unable to come out to you, an unavoidable spanner was thrown in the works. Take care... Love Keeley & Lisa XXX"

From Caroler and Johnny Pardoe: " Congratulations Lynne, and to your enthusiastic team on your End-to-End and Thousand mile records. Even though we only saw you three times between Holmes Chapel and High Legh, we feel privileged to have witnessed a unique piece of cycling history, a cycling record which may never be bettered -except by yourself! We hope your Dad will give you some time off to recover, and that you might find energy perhaps to write a diary? Well done!"

From Alison and Martin Purser: "Just brilliant, Lynne, just brilliant. Well done you. Well done the team! Best Wishes"

From Jeremy Cotton: "Many, many many congratulations on a fantastic ride. I have been following your exploits many times a day on the abcc web-page. I am so thrilled that you broke both the End to End and 1,000 mile record. Well done. When I did the End to End we took 11 days and slept every night - not quite up to your standard. However we did have a spell of atrocious weather from Helmsdale northwards - NE winds and heavy rain. Kind regards, Jeremy Cotton, Lichfield Scout District Commissioner."

From John Leiper and Joyce Watts: "I would appreciate it if you would pass on our congratulations to Lynne on a fantastic ride. We did see her through Tweedsmuir where she looked amazingly fresh considering what a tough time she must have had. We have followed the entire attempt through your web site and must say what a splendid thing it was so well done for that. Best wishes, John Leiper and Joyce Watts (Viking RC - an Essex club even though we live in Northumberland)"

From Frances and Brian Pearson: "Many congratulations, what a fantastic ride, what a fantastic achievement. How do you do it Superwoman of Walsall? We feel as though we lived it with you through this internet connection. Thanks to Malcolm for making this possible. Frances & Brian Pearson , Merseyside Ladies Cycling Association & Mersey Roads Club

From Lynne's Mum: "Just had to say how proud I am of you, you are such a special daughter and I wish I was up there at John o Groats so I could give you a big hug. Can't wait to see you back here to hear all about your FANTASTIC ride. CONGRATULATIONS - you are WONDERFUL, and I love you loads. Mum"

From Mercian Cycles: "Hi Lynne. Congratulations! a fantastic achievement Sue & i saw you just on the outside of Wolverhampton, (what a place to navigate through) You looked in total control. once again a fantastic ride. best wishes, Jeff &Sue Bowler, Mercian Cycles Limited"

From David Barry and Sheila Hardy: "Just read it in The Times, searched the web!, saw the report, what a FANTASTIC achievement. Lynne you are the BBC Sportswoman of the Year in our eyes. An OBE beckons. All the VERY best David Barry & Sheila Hardy, see you at Champions Night. "

And a Message from Lynne herself:" Hi everyone, Lynne here. I just want to say a thousand and twelve miles of thanks to EVERYONE who supported me in my record attempts, especially my team of helpers and organiser Jim Turner. Also thanks to all the RRA officials and the marshalls, who saw me safely through. I dried ten loads of washing today in a strong south-westerly wind !! And the web site has been fantastic. See you all next year, maybe?? Love to everyone. Lynne xxx"

Click here to see a picture of Lynne at Gailey Island (with thanks to Claire Ashton of Shrewsbury)

Click here for pictures from Malcolm Grey of the Caithness Cycling Club

Click here for pictures from Mike Taylor, Lynne's brother and one of the back-up crew