Day 6 - Shrewsbury to Macclesfield - projected distance 45 miles.

A half-day today. The schedule worked out this way, and actually a shorter day's cycling today fits in well with my work schedule. Leaving Wem at 10am, it was on to Whitchurch in Shropshire and then Nantwich in Cheshire. As before, the landscape was pleasant but a little lacking in features - mainly arable farmland, predominantly green, and with a few tractors on the roads. Tomorrow, my ride will be much more urban.

I stopped en route for an occasional drink and nibble of an energy bar, and to take a photograph of the 'Secret Bunker' sign. I could tell you exactly where it is, but I would have to shoot you.

On entering Nantwich, there was a little more to see, and the traffic stopped for a moment at a level crossing to let a train past. Of course one of the great railway hubs in Britain is in Crewe, which was the next town on my route. On the way in, along a high street full of penny-conscious shops, it looked rather downtrodden. I was almost pleased to see the usual consumer hinterland on the ring road with B&Q, McDonalds, and Vauxhall dealerships.

Over the M6 next at Sandbach, and on - up a slight incline - to Macclesfield, where my friends the Townes live. I was greeted by their excellent home-made sign, followed by their usual warm hospitality. Andy Towne will be joining me for the next leg of my ride, to Lancaster.

Although today's ride was comparatively short, it has straddled the space, I think, between the Midlands and the North. I have always thought of Macclesfield being in the north of England - and in three days' time - all being well - I'll be in Scotland.