500 miles for 500 towns - Day Four by Bruce Crowther

 As we approach 500 Fairtrade Towns in the UK, Fairtrade supporters are taking to their saddles for a 500 mile cycle relay from Aberfeldy to Cardiff. We're blogging about their journey that will conclude in Cardiff on Monday 1 November. Learn more about their route at http://www.fairtrade.org.uk/500fairtradetowns

Brampton campaigners and the Cumberland News were there to send off Chris, Pete and Steve from the Moot Hall on the first wet and windy day of the 500 mile celebratory journey. The inclement weather and the far too many abundant hills did not deter the committed and dedicated heroes who were fuelled with Fairtrade chocolate and flapjacks.  “I hate it when I have to pedal downhill against a headwind but thanks to the constant supply of Fairtrade chocolate we keep on going” said the cyclist and Fairtrade supporter Pete Lloyd. The cyclists enjoyed lunch at the Village Bakery at Melmerby where Fairtrade tea and coffee are served and Fairtrade Xmas puddings are on sale. They then continued on their arduous quest. Unfortunately conditions only got worse as the Southerly wind blew stronger, the rain fell harder and fog and darkness closed in. The cyclists finally arrived in Kendal just before 7pm where they were treated to a wonderful meal by Janet and Paul and met with many Fairtrade colleagues from the Kendal campaign.