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• day 08
• Monday, 3 September 2018
• Arras to Rancourt
• 141 km to yesterday
•   35 km today
• 176 km on Via Francigena to date

Have an early breakfast in the hotel and away about 08h.  I had scouted the route on Friday and Saturday. Today the route is on the D917 and is uneventful leaving Arras.  The countryside ahead is gently rolling and the road has good shoulders.  

About noon I arrive at Bapaume.  Although a short stage I look about for accommodation.  On the notice board outside the parish church (closed) is a notice for pilgrims.  I ask around and get the message it wont happen.  So back track to a hotel I noticed on entering the town: English is well spoken but no, they are fully booked.  

I get a quick bite for lunch and carry on.  On the way I notice signage for several WWI battle sites, in particular for South Africa. I know the major Kiwi memorial in France is not far beyond (Longueval - I had been there is 2010) and decide not to divert.

At the very small village of Sailly-Saillesel, the D917 becomes the D1017.  A short while after I pass through the village of Rancourt with the imposing Hotel Le Prieuré on the outskirts.  I've had a big day and decide this is my stopping place.

Not many guests and I have the restaurant almost to myself.  A largish meal follows.

And so to bed.