As we sit here at Aunty Margaret’s in Darwen, waiting to find out whether our flight to Rome has been cancelled because of the volcanic ash (not looking good at this stage), we’ll bring you up to date with our adventures.

Ray has enjoyed revisiting old haunts and residences, most have since been demolished and changed considerably over the last 40 years , a mix of emotions for him.

Our day on Blackpool Beach - one can only describe the promenade as a bit like a carnival on steroids! It’s the off season so the streets aren’t crowded - we would hate to be here when it is. We had fish and chips and Ray decided he’d have his with mushy peas for old times sake. We were fascinated by the menu which offered chips with a choice of gravy, curry, peas or cheese and chip buttys (sandwiches) for 60p. Afterwards we went for a stroll down the North pier and were intrigued by all the ‘oldies’ who were sunbathing on the deck chairs in the ‘sun room’ area at the end of the pier. We joined them and probably looked quite strange rugged up in our jackets and coats while everyone else was half naked. We then headed off to Blackpool Tower, only to find that it was shutting early (off season again). Instead we went to Louis Tussaud’s and spent a couple of fun hours among the wax figures.

For a complete contrast, the next day we had a literary excursion and went to the Lake District were we visited the enchanting World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness-on-Windermere and then William Wordsworth’s home at Rydal Mount. Even though it was a cold rainy day, it seemed perfect for the landscape we were in - looking out at the mist hanging over the hills from William Wordsworth’s bedroom was inspiring.

The next day we travelled south to the town of Chester with its famous Roman wall that surrounds the city. We visited the Norman Cathedral first and learnt a lot about it’s history. It was built in 1098, thirty two years after William the Conqueror invaded England. We also walked on the old Roman wall. We were blessed with some beautiful afternoon sunshine were almost hot by the end of the walk. The afternoon finished with pints (alcoholic and non) all round in a pub by the river Dee.

Today (Sunday) was a day for reflection as we celebrated Aunty Margaret’s grandson’s C. of E. confirmation at St. Stephens in Darwen, followed by a family lunch.

While we are having these wonderful experiences we are also very aware of our family and friends at home, especially we are thinking and praying for our friend Vera, who died last Tuesday, and her husband Ian and their two sons. Our prayers and thoughts are with them as they prepare for Vera’s funeral, a beautiful, fun loving and gracious lady.
More news soon.
Blessings - The Ollertons