Ahoy Sailor

At last, the big day arrived and thirty-six members of Blandford Methodist Church Lunch Club set off on their summer outing.  Where were we off to?  To Bradford upon Avon and a session on a barge on the Kennet and Avon Canal.

Though it was a warm feeling day it was rather overcast and just before we arrived at our destination there were a few spots of rain on the driver’s windscreen.  However, by the time we had exited the coach the rain had dissipated, and all was well.  It was a short walk to the barge and the facilities.  Unfortunately, there was only one toilet in use and that could only be accessed by collecting the key from the tearoom.  With thirty odd ladies and gents in need it was a bit of a to do.

Once everyone was safely aboard including those less mobile, who entered by means of a lift, the safety checks were undertaken and we were off.  The crew, all volunteers, were conscientious and efficient and proceeded to make us feel very welcome.

We took turns outside at the front of the barge as there was only room for eight people at a time.  Commented on a number of times was how the slow pace of the journey helped relax folk as they all took in the surrounding scenery and marvelled at the workings of the lock.

Lunch was a leisurely affair with everyone bringing their own picnic.  The tearoom had made and delivered to the barge a yummy-looking lemon drizzle cake which a number of folk thoroughly enjoyed sampling.  There was fellowship, laughter and just generally a pleasant time spent in the company of others.

The visitor’s book was handed round to be signed before departure and once back on dry land with the sun blazing down it was off to the tearoom for an ice cream before boarding the coach home.

Funny isn’t it that going home always seems quicker than going, and in no time thirty-six weary people arrived back in Blandford.  Some were asking oh when’s the next one Joyce!