London to Paris Day 3

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Day 3

Arras to Compiégne. 

Stats

Total miles. 82

Climbing. 2415ft

Avg 13.5 mph

Max speed 38mph

Today has been another lovely day.  Unfortunately a strongish headwind has dogged us all day and made what would have been a relatively easy day much harder. 

The morning started with a weather warning. As we left Arras we were told we were heading into a huge thunderstorm some 10 miles south of us. We all made sure we had our waterproofs with us but luckily despite coming across soaking roads we never actually got wet.  We all dumped our extra clothing at the first water stop and the rest of the day has been in short sleeve order. 

About 20 miles South of Arras we came across our first of many First World War Cemeteries. 

All of them are immaculately kept and very thought provoking. Our first water stop was at the Somme Memorial, which is truly stunning. 

From that point on we cycled along the Somme Valley through some very small villages and then across a huge agricultural area which was a bit like cycling across the Fens, very exposed. 

Late in the day we called in for a quick beer in a village Tabac followed a few km's later by a very nice strawberry tart from the local bakery. 

Tomorrow we arrive in Paris and with the weather forcasted to be sunny and 27deg it should be a fun ride in. 

Onwards and upwards !!