Day 49 Southerndown to Barry Island (19.2 miles, cumulative 830.5)

Firstly, a big thumbs up to my Wetherspoons hotel - a well-equipped, comfortable room and 20th century prices for food and drinks.

I caught a bus back to the coast path and braved strong winds for a long section on top of the cliff tops. It was noticeable how the coast seemed more at risk to erosion here than almost anywhere else on the coast path to date. 

I experienced another section where the signposted route was very different to the version on my OS map - presumably the route had changed, but the OS version had not been updated. 

Then I discovered a problem. Part of the sole of my right boot had become detached. It is fine to continue for the moment, but in the more rugged sections of Offa's Dyke next week, this could be a problem. I've only walked about 600 miles in these boots and fully expected them to see me through to the end. Unfortunately, I will now have to consider buying new boots in Cardiff, an unplanned and unbudgeted expense. 

I'd like to thank whoever arranged to celebrate yesterday's 800 mile landmark by having the Red Arrows perform a special fly past for me this afternoon - this was much appreciated. 

I reached Barry island (known locally as Barrybados) and my accommodation for the night, then met up for the evening with my good friend and former work colleague David, who will be walking with me for some of tomorrow.

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