I set my alarm so I was up nice and early this morning. There was some initial cloud, but it was shaping up to be a scorcher.

I was ready to go but needed to wait for the shop to open at half eight, so I could buy some water and something to eat.

So off I went knowing once again that I just needed to head for a gert big bridge. It was pretty easy to find and I went past the velodrome where many records have been set - including Boardman's hour record in 96 (I think)

So over the bridge I went. And a fine bridge it was too. I then got a little lost as there were road works everywhere, but I was soon back on track and found myself exactly where I wanted to be on the south bank of the river.

I followed the cycle path for a few miles before it ended and spewed me out on the D10.

At this point it was really hotting up. There was also a strong headwind making progress hard. And then to top things off, there were some things I've not seen much of in the last 600 odd miles - hills!

I'm very much now on phase 2 of this trip as I make my way across to the Med. The terrain is much more how I think of France - hills, trees, little villages where leathery old men drive ancient Renault 4s and of course - sunshine!

I stopped off in Langon for a sandwich jambon et fromage and an eclair chocolat. I got plenty more water too!

After that it was simply a case of following the road for another 40 miles all the way to a campsite I had found that I liked the look of.

It took a long time as it was pretty slow going, but I got there in the end.

The site is owned by an English family and it is really nice. The first thing I did after pitching up was to jump in the pool to cool off!

I shall be going to dinner shortly and you'll be pleased to know I have ordered a croissant and two pain au chocolat for the morning!