Ishbel is a retired doctor who has worked with children in Malawi. She has been supporting MMF for many years. For borders22, she wanted to cycle the Hebridean Way, up through the Scottish Western Isles. The adventure started with a difficulty. She said, “Unfortunately, as is often the case in the islands the weather forced a change of plans. The day before we were due to cross to North Uist the ferry hit the pier and had to be taken out of service.”
Having had to change plans, she and her daughter got a ferry to Stornoway and cycled 138 miles on Lewis and Harris. She reflected on their ride and said;
“After a day cycling to the places of historical interest on Lewis, we headed south in the rain for Leverburgh in the south of Harris. We chose to cycle the “Golden Road” as it was shorter but the undulating nature of the terrain made for a lot of uphill cycling. As the low cloud and rain prevented much of a view, we wondered why it was called the ”Golden Road”. Later we discovered it was given that name as it had cost so much to construct – nothing to do with the stunning views to Skye that we were privileged to enjoy the following day when the skies cleared. Cycling round south Harris in sunshine is definitely to be recommended from the white sands and turquoise sea in the west to the rugged terrain with views to Skye in the east.”
Also, she joined the group circular bike ride round the Border from and back to Berwick-upon-Tweed. She commented;
“My cycle that day entailed an additional 24 miles and 2 extra crossings of the Border to get from home and back to join the others for a very enjoyable and sociable cycle.”
She completed an even 222 miles in total on these adventures and other border-crossing rides.
Thank you, Ishbel for your contribution and sharing your story.