Another organised day out thanks to my old School – Selhurst Grammar School for Boys and The Old Croydonians’ Association. Today, it was a behind-the-scenes tour of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.

We set off from home just before 10am, heading for Huntingdon Station. It’s become our ‘go to’ station-of-travel in recent years when heading for the capital due to better parking, cheaper rail ticket prices and generally much more ticket flexibility. OK, we first needed to drive there, but it’s only 30-or-so minutes and (touch wood) we’ve never had a bad run yet!

I wouldn’t say we’re ‘theatre luvvies’, but we’ve been to quite a few Theatres in the capital over the years – but never this one.

These OCA events are always worth looking forward to – not just because it’s an opportunity to meet up with old school chums but to ‘dig deeper’ into places that wouldn’t usually be on our radar. So far, thanks to the good work of the OCA looking after us old boys – and girls! – in recent years, we’ve enjoyed visits to:-

St Bride’s Church (February 2026)
Fulham Palace (September 2025)
Hidden Greenwich (September 2024)
Backstage at the National Theatre (February 2024) – we missed that one!
Behind the Scenes at the Royal Opera House (October 2023)

We’re now building up quite a list! , and as usual at these events, there’s always time for pre-meet over an informal meal beforehand. Today was no exception as we took the short walk from Covent Garden Tube to the nearby Prince of Wales Pub in Drury Lane.

Prince of Wales

We arrived just before 12.15 where OCAer John Wade introduced himself and set the scene for this special day.

We’d been here before on the previous OCA trip to the Royal Opera House, and it was good to be back in a Pub that typifies ‘old London’.

The food punched well above its weight, and despite the hostelry’s size, there was plenty of seating. It was popular too for that time of day (but thankfully, not too popular!). For us, it was perfect! Meanwhile, elsewhere, because of the expected numbers and differing food tastes, there was also a second gathering of ex-pupils at nearby La Ballerina in Bow Lane. As always, it was good to see some very familiar faces – Cortland, Valerie, Roger, John, John, Caroline, and many other faces from previous events and my school days – can it be 50 years since I left? (err, yes, ‘fraid so! )

After the perfect antidote to WeightWatchers (yes, we did have a pud too!) and the opportunity to have a longer natter with those assembled, we decided to stretch our legs in the vain attempt to burn off the meal (really!?!?)

Twenty minutes later, and now at least an ounce lighter than when we left the Prince of Wales, we arrived at the Theatre. Just from the outside, it looked impressive, but the very best was yet to come – the interior.

Theatre Royal Drury Lane

First, the shortest of history lessons: The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane was opened in 1812, and is the most recent of four theatres that have stood at the location since 1663, making it the oldest theatre site in London still in use. It recently underwent a massive refurbishment at a personal cost to the owner of £60m.

And as we were about to discover, this was no ordinary London Theatre

In total, there were around 20 of us eager to learn about the inner workings of this famous establishment. Sensibly, we were split into two roughly equal-sized groups, where Ann and I were put in the ‘first’ group, meaning we finish sooner, making it easier for our train connections. In many respects, getting in and out of London these days by train is a breeze compared with when I worked in the capital, but timing is everything!

Alan introduced himself as our Tour Guide. He turned out to be the perfect host, and we sensed an actor fighting to get out (or get in!).

In fact, his delivery, for us, was so engaging, I was caught up in the drama of it all instead of taking photographs. So, the photo stock may have come up short for today’s outing, but our appreciation of this wonderful building more than made up for it!

Here are some of the takeaways for us:-

Recently refurbished in 2021 WITHOUT the need for any grants or loans
Thank you, Lord Webber for the £60m! (the owner)
The restoration returned the Theatre to its 19th-century look
Immaculate from top to bottom, it looked like it opened yesterday!
Luxurious Ladies Loos (no, I didn’t check personally!)
A very haunted Theatre and a place full of ghosts
The Stage that was a technological marvel – and very large!
Proper legroom for the audience

If the interior that the public usually sees was jaw-droppingly gorgeous, there was more to enjoy – behind (and under) the scenes. Alan first took us into the Theatre seating and explained the layout changes during the refurb: first, seats with proper legroom, next, no ‘restricted view’ seats and best of all, the upper seating had been moved closer to the stage. The result? The Theatre now offers just under 2000 (1981?) ‘proper’ seats!

Then it was down, down and down further as we headed beneath the stage and into the oldest parts of the building. Complete with a slightly spooky flickering overhead light to set the mood, we learned more about the resident ghosts! . The Theatre is generally considered to be the most haunted theatre in the UK, and whether that’s all part of the clever branding or a genuine part of its 350-year history, it made for an (even more) engaging experience! . I’ll spare you the spooky details here, but the Theatre has more than its fair share of occasional apparitions, including: Dan Leno (Panto Dame) and the ‘Man in Grey’. Oh! and the smell of Lavender. Even our Guide mentioned he’d seen one of the spooky residents!

On the slightly more surreal side, we got to see a very special chair – a gift to the Theatre – that belonged to Adolph Hitler taken from the Reichstag! How very strange! . We also took a look inside a restored Dressing Room with the helpful advice from Alan about NOT leaving your makeup out overnight (yes, one of the resident ghosts again! )

Typically, as with all enjoyable events, the 90 minutes passed in a flash. As we said our goodbyes to the group, we reflected on today’s experience. The OCA events have always been well-organised and interesting (thanks Bob, I’m sure you’re looking down on us, with an approving smile ), but today was probably the best so far, for us. We were impressed with the Theatre from start to finish – and Alan had really brought the building alive (except for the ghosts, of course! ).

Thanks to everyone at the OCA who made today possible – and to Alan who entertained and educated us in equal measure. We won’t forget this Theatre in a hurry, and we’re even tempted to get onto their mailing list for future productions.

Now all we needed to do was to hope that all our train connections worked! They did, and we arrived home just before 6pm. Here’s to the next one! (Note to self: Take more photos!!!).

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post OCA – Theatre Royal appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Another organised day out thanks to my old School – Selhurst Grammar School for Boys and The Old Croydonians’ Association. Today, it was a trip to London and St Bride’s Church in Fleet Street, London.

Actually, it was a full-on day even before the Church visit. By the time we headed for Fleet Street, we’d already had a meeting with our Investment Manager, Hilary, at Mercer, over at Tower Hill. This all meant leaving home before 9am this morning! Retirement, ehh?! – the busiest time of our lives!!

Back to today’s event. It was a sad day in some ways, as this outing was the last one organised by Committee Member, Bob Smith, before his passing in September last year. Bob joined the Committee during my time as Chair (2010-2016), and personally and professionally, he is very sadly missed

These OCA events are always worth looking forward to – not just because it’s an opportunity to meet up with old school chums – but to explore places that wouldn’t usually be on our radar. So far, thanks to the good work of the OCA looking after us Members, we’ve enjoyed visits to:-

Fulham Palace (September 2025)
Hidden Greenwich (September 2024)
Backstage at the National Theatre (February 2024) – missed that one!
Behind the Scenes at the Royal Opera House (October 2023)

…so we’re building quite a list!

Up until today, we weren’t really familiar with St Brides, but it has a proud history and goes back more than a thousand years! It’s also seen more than its fair share of damage.

According to their website: Fleet Street is a warm and welcoming Christian community, and our Church is one of the most famous and fascinating historic buildings in London. A place of Christian worship for 1500 years, we continue to proclaim God’s love in the heart of the city. We are a thriving and inclusive parish church, renowned for our outstanding music and unique ministry to all who work in the media.

Today, was a special tour conducted by none other than the Head Verger, Robin Turner and was scheduled to last 90 minutes.

2.15pm: Let the Tour begin!

Well, not quite yet! Initially, it was all a little confusing. It turned out that earlier in the day, the Church had welcomed a VIP. And not just any VIP – it had been the Queen herself!!!

The morning Piano Recital had therefore been moved to the afternoon, overlapping with OUR Tour. Thoughtfully, the Church recognised we would get in each other’s way, and around 20-or-so of us Old Croydonians were relegated to The Crypt!

We’ve probably all got an idea of what a Crypt looks and feels like, but this was no dark, cold and dusty environment! Instead, we discovered a brightly lit, scrupulously clean, almost sterile area – and as we were about to find out – uncomfortably warm too!

Robin quickly got into his stride!

And what a stride! We learned that Queen Camilla had officially opened the newly refurbished area earlier today as part of the 650th celebrations. The Crypt now sported a lengthy information board/Timeline explaining the Church’s history.

Robin gave a thorough explanation of the display (perhaps TOO thorough?) and, combined with the warmth generated by the over-enthusiastic floor heating system, meant that after 30 minutes or so, some of us were beginning to wilt.

If you like your Church visits to have a fascinating history, St Brides certainly deserves to be on the list. Robin’s extensive history lesson certainly covered a lot of ground – and a lot of years. So much so that an hour later, we were only just coming to the end. And we hadn’t been upstairs yet.

But wait, there’s more!

Robin then split us into two groups and took us into the storage area adjacent to the information boards. Inside, bones, bones and more bones were neatly boxed up, sharing shelf space with various other bits and bobs that you and I would keep in the loft.

The bones were actually the property of the Museum of London, and we were also lucky enough to see a partial skeleton laid out awaiting inspection. Next, MORE bones to enjoy, locked behind a door to the Church’s own Charnel House. Sadly, no photography was allowed of the bones.

Time was marching on and (as usual, we were ‘on the clock’)! It was now almost 3.45 – and we’re still ‘underground’. We snuck out, snapped a photo of the Altar and then took the short walk to City Thameslink Station.

It had been a fascinating visit, but we rushed it all to ensure all our train connections worked out. It had been good to walk in the footsteps of royalty (literally!), but it would be great to make a follow-up visit here to pick up where we left off.

Thanks, Bob! A worthy day out in your memory!

Our next OCA trip? A behind-the-scenes tour of Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post OCA – St Bride’s Church appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Great! Another organised day out courtesy of my old School – Selhurst Grammar School for Boys and The Old Croydonians’ Association. Today, it’s the iconic Fulham Palace – the historic home of the Bishops of London since 704AD.

Thanks to the OCA, we’re building up a nice portfolio of cultural visits so far:-

Hidden Greenwich (September 2024)
Backstage at the National Theatre (February 2024) – missed that one!
Behind the Scenes at the Royal Opera House (October 2023)

We had a straightforward journey there, but we temporarily thwarted by the planned walking route from Putney Bridge Tube leading to the Palace being closed. Thanks to a very friendly local, she accompanied us almost to the door via an alternative route! Ahh, the kindness of strangers!

The weather held (we were expecting rain!) and we were soon saying hello to our fellow Old Croydonians together with Valerie, John and Caroline from the Committee. Bob, as usual, had organised the event, but wasn’t with us today. A light nibble or two later, and we were ready for the off! There was around 20 of us, helpfully split into two groups. Theresa, our Guide, who possessed the two vital ingredients for someone in her role – enthusiastic and very knowledgeable! We learned that Bishop Stopford was the final Bishop of London to live here, leaving in 1973, and the Palace, in addition to its home for Bishops had also been a War Hospital in WW1.

In terms of what to see, there was more than we initially thought. Although the Garden (September!) was past its prime, there was plenty else to see and learn more about. There is also a Museum here (although we didn’t visit that today).

Some of it wasn’t accessible on the day, but what we did see was worth the trip. First, the Courtyard…

We learned that the mortar in the brickwork was originally black, and during the renovation work some 20 years ago, it was painstakingly replaced with a more traditional colour.

After seeing the Tudor Courtyard – the oldest part of the Palace – we were shown the Gate. It was impressive (and heavy!) and is still used today.

We headed outside in the almost warm weather (September!!!???) to see some sights we weren’t expecting. If you’re fascinated by wood carvings, you’ll be in for a treat here!

 The carvings (Bishops up a Tree) were created by Andrew Frost in 2007 and donated to the Palace by Dolores Moorhouse in memory of her husband, Peter. Sadly the tree wasn’t in the best of condition and the Bishops were ‘evicted’ to nearby.

As we headed for the Chapel, we were reminded of the mish-mash of architectural styles with each Bishop (all 133 of them!) putting his seal of approval by making changes to the building(s).

For us, the most interesting feature was the Chapel, but here’s the weirdest fact you’ll hear all year! In spite of the obvious religious connections of the Palace, you can hire out the space for Weddings, but you CANNOT have a C of E Wedding Service. Civil Ceremonies are fine, and your Wedding can be blessed, but no ‘traditional’ Service. How weird and what a missed commercial opportunity!

Next stop? The Great Hall. Very spacious and full of paintings of Kings and other nobility. We ended the Tour in the Library (quite modest in size – so modest, I forgot to take a photograph!). The Tour ended just over an hour after it had begun, and we all felt we’d learned a lot. We thanked Theresa and gave her a well-deserved round of applause.

We left around 3pm where our travel connections all fell into place. Actually, it was good to travel on a not-too-crowded Tube (where was everyone?) and the trip from St Pancras International to Huntingdon wasn’t too bad either. We arrived home just after 6pm. Could we have driven it less time? Maybe, but the stress of London traffic these days would have ruined the day.

Thanks, Bob- another successful event! .

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post OCA – Fulham Palace appeared first on Steve's Blog.

It’s late July, and that can only mean one thing! My annual School Reunion & AGM!

Wary that last year’s journey out of Kettering resembled a sardine convention, I assumed that it had been a one-off – err, No! As the 9.11 with its 6 carriages pulled in, it welcomed enough passengers on the platform at Kettering to fill 10! What was going on? Note to self for next year: ‘Find out if there’s a different/earlier/later train’.

I stood all the way for the next 60 minutes where it all felt like being a commuter again – I think I’d forgotten what a horrid experience this can be! . The ‘cattle truck’ eventually arrived about 10 minutes late into St P, so I rushed down the escalator to ensure I didn’t miss my next connection! Phew! I made it! .

Actually, apart from last year, I don’t think I’ve been inside East Croydon Station for nigh-on 50 years! It was unrecognisable and somehow looked and felt much larger. Just like last year, I couldn’t see any signage for taxis, but I eventually located the rank, now along the side of the Station (they used to be out the front!) – Ahh! Progress! . I was exiting East Croydon Station at around 11am but did have to wait 10 minutes for a Taxi as the rank was empty.

Next stop? The BRIT School!

2025’s Event

By 11.15, I arrived at the Brit School. It was just about 2½ hours, door-to-door! . And in spite of the crush out of Kettering, on balance, using public transport, was much less stressful and quicker too than attempting it all by car!

These days, attendance at the AGM is measured in double-figures rather than hundreds and in so many ways, that’s a real shame. But having said that, numbers this year appeared to be UP. I think I counted closer to 50 people by the time this year’s event got underway – including quite a few who showed up unexpectedly. However, the general lack of numbers is always made up for by a convivial atmosphere together with a well-oiled machine in terms of the organisation of the event. Cortland (my successor as Chair), together with the active Committee – Bob, John Valerie and Caroline – have got this down to a fine art and the event pretty much runs itself these days!.

Compared with my days in the Chair, this all felt a much more intimate affair – and that was a great thing! Best of all, Cortland has streamlined the AGM component to something much more efficient and productive, leaving much more time for people to actually ‘reunite’!

Elsewhere, Lesley had been hard at work getting the buffet table ready – and when the time came, just after 12.30, as usual, it didn’t disappoint!

Amongst all the socialising today, there were two surprises in store for me. First: I caught up with Richard C, now Mayor of Croydon, but more familiar to me as part of the Committee during my tenure. We had about 10 minutes to cover the 10 years since we last saw each other! Second: Donald M turned up unexpectedly. He’d been Treasurer during my time and I hadn’t seen him for at least 10 years!

Another great feature of these annual events is the ‘guest speaker’. This year, at 2.15, we welcomed Professor Paul Goddard, who was at the School from 1961 until 1968. Rather than let Paul do all the talking, he was to be interviewed by ex-Head Boy, Neil Bennett (1960-67). It was a good format and probably brought out the best in both! Just before the start, Cortland gave a grateful (and well-deserved) thank-you to Lesley for her hard work on the catering.

We learned that Paul had had quite a career since leaving school. Qualifying as a Doctor, he also spent time in a Missionary Hospital in Nigeria followed by training as a Radiologist. A spell as an honorary Air Commodore was followed by time in Ukraine providing medical services. He ran an Air Base in Cyprus and has written 50 books! Oh, and he finished his session banging out a few tunes on his side guitar.

It made my 100 yards breaststroke certificate, milk monitor badge, and eventually, my role as a Prefect look rather pale by comparison.

I caught up with Ashley and Keith, completing the ‘New Addington’ table, where it was good to catch up with all their news since I first reunited with them at last year’s event.

At just before 3.30, with Paul and Ian’s (very!) entertaining piece almost over, I made a silent exit in order to ensure I got to my timed train home. In true tradition of the nation’s railways – one of my trains had been cancelled, necessitating an earlier departure than originally planned. My Uber was early and I was back at East Croydon in good time, followed by a smooth journey back to St P. My final leg was on time too, and I was soon heading north towards Kettering. Thankfully, with a seat (unlike the journey down!).

With Ann acting as an unpaid Uber, I was home with a cheese plate and a drink by 6.15pm!

A fantastic get-together! Thanks to all for another successful annual School Reunion. See you in 2026!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post School Reunion 2025 appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Today was an opportunity to meet up with some of the Old Croydonians Association Committee from my days as their Chair (2010 until 2016).

It was one of those increasingly rare occasions when I took the train to London from Kettering to St Pancras International (I don’t get out much these days!). Roger met me as I exited the barriers at St P, and then it was the short hop to Blackfriars plus a brief walk to The Doggett’s on Blackfriars Bridge. That short final hop allowed us to begin the mammoth catch-up of what we’ve both been up to, since we last saw each other (around two-plus years ago!)

The Doggett’s was a regular watering hole for me back in the late 80s as part of my day job (although Ann and I had dropped in here for another OCA event back in February! ) and it was good to be back with its all-round views across the Thames. Roger and I headed for the Bar and grabbed a table by the window that looked across Blackfriars Bridge.

Bob and Valerie joined us soon after, completing the foursome, and we were soon nattering. They had both recently celebrated a ‘milestone’ birthday, and today was partly about a joint celebration, especially with Roger’s also just around the corner! I was (politely) reminded that I was the youngest (at the tender age of just 68!). It makes a change these days to be the baby in the room!

To use a current phrase, we could be described as a ‘Coalition of the Willing’ as collectively, we’d all been the driving force behind plenty of OCA successes during my tenure on the Committee. It felt fantastic to see everyone together again. The last time we were like this, we probably had an important agenda in our hands! Today, it was just great to be simply enjoying each other’s company!

The only other important piece of paper was the Menu… and it didn’t take us long to decide!

The Doggett’s is famous for its pies – and who were we to break with tradition!

Could we squeeze in a Dessert?

Of course we could!

What a thoroughly enjoyable day together! Oh, and a free Easter Bunny for each of us from Valerie!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Every Doggett’s Has Its Day! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We travelled down to Greenwich today for our annual cultural day out, courtesy of The Old Croydonians’ Association – the ex-pupil association of my old School. Last year, in October, the OCA organised a behind the scenes at the Royal Opera House, and it was great day out. This time, we’re looking ‘beyond the obvious’ in Greenwich.!

As usual, Bob, from the Committee had put the event together where for once, the weather worked to our advantage – a gorgeous day – perfect for just ‘wandering about’.

We arrived in good time. In fact. we even had time for a slice of cake at a nearby café – The Green Café – in Greenwich High Road. It certainly lived up to its green credentials, where there was even a ‘Betroot Latte’ on the menu. Err, no thanks! We went ‘old school’ and ordered two good ol’ fashioned full-fat cappuccinos before we headed for the official meeting point – The Mitre Pub.

Into the Pub

By the time we arrived at the Pub, further along Greenwich High Road, there were already plenty of Old Croydonians filling the Orangery. In fact, it was a great turnout of just under 30 ‘old boys’ (and girls). It was also pleasing to see the familiar faces of Cortland (Chair), Valerie (Committee), John (Treasurer) and Caroline (Membership) too. We were soon settled on one of the Pub’s bright and rather plush orange couches chatting with Steve, Alan and Chris(tine) – none of whom we’d met before. Over a relaxing lunch of haddock goujon sandwiches we had an extended opportunity to exchange views of our individual school experiences, and it was all very pleasant and where the time passed rather too quickly.

At just before 2pm. Bob gave a short briefing, introducing us to our Tour Guides – Wendy and Isabel. Like all good school trips, we were split into smaller groups. Whether we could remember which groups we’d been assigned to, was another of today’s challenges, but we coped and headed outside!

Into the Church

The first part of our tour, the Church was right next to the Pub – St Alfrege – According to our Guide, there been a church here for over a thousand years, dedicated to the memory of Alfrege, the Archbishop of Canterbury who was martyred on this site in 1012. St Alfege Church was the first London church designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor. Many key historical figures in Greenwich’s royal, maritime and scientific history have close links with the site, including Henry Vlll, Composer, Thomas Tallis, General James Wolfe and Astronomer, John Flamsteed.

Split into our two groups, Wendy began to give us an overview of the Church plus Greenwich in general. She certainly knew her stuff and was passionate, humorous and very engaging. Perfect! All the qualities of a perfect Guide!

If you like your Churches light, airy and spacious – then this is a must-see. Much of the interior had been rebuilt after the war and consequently, it all felt very contemporary.

Into the Catacombs

Part of our special arrangement with the Church for today was a visit to the catacombs. The most famous burial there as General Wolfe, victor of Quebec and Thomas Tallis Best of all, it was beautifully cool down there, if a little cramped with quite a few opportunities to play ‘head-meets-roof’!

Into the Town

After the coolness of the catacombs, we returned to the living and headed into the back roads of Greenwich.

There was certainly plenty to absorb about the history of the area. We saw Benjamin Waugh‘s house (or thought we did). He set up the NSPCC, but what made it even more interesting, was that the person who put the plaque on the house, got the address wrong! . Elsewhere, we saw where the old railway passed through the town, the Fan Museum, a row of House specially built with an additional annual cost of a few pounds per year to support the local schools and even a ‘darker’ part of the area where press-ganging was rife. All very interesting and Wendy continued to do a great job of keeping us informed entertained.

Into the Park

Next stop was the famous Greenwich Park. We didn’t dwell much on the history here as these were sights most of us were already familiar with.

The statue of King William IV, sculpted by Samuel Nixon, had originally been erected in London (King William Street, where else!!!) but was moved to Greenwich Park in 1936.

and finally…

…two tales and a tail!

We concluded our tour at the Cutty Sark, but not before Wendy left us with a couple of rarely known facts. What looked like a large feather being held by in the Clipper’s figurehead – Nannie – is in fact part of a horse’s tail and it’s all linked to the poem Tam O’Shanter, by Robert Burns involving witches, Tam and his soon-to-be tail-free nag – spooky stuff! Wendy’s second and final story was somewhat more recent. Near the Cutty Sark is a locked gate that leads down to the River. Apparently, when they were filming Pirates of the Caribbean here with Johnny Depp, he was so concerned about being mobbed by fans after a day of filming. he paid for the old gate to be fully restored – and locked – so HE alone could use it to ‘escape’! Ahh, the price of stardom!! . Ironically, it’s said that he NEVER used it!

Well, the afternoon seemed to pass in a flash. Wendy said her goodbye and whilst a few stayed behind for a natter and a final cuppa, we called it a day. We said goodbye to our school chums around 4.15pm and headed back to Greenwich Station.

All our connections worked well and our recently purchased ‘Two Together’ Card pretty much paid for itself today just from today’s ticket savings. We were indoors just after 6.55pm, so it beat trying to do it all by car!

Bob – thanks for getting today organised, we had a really good time!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Greenwich and Beyond! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Yes, it’s that time of year again! My annual School Reunion!

Unlike last year’s event, where a) I travelled by car and b) Roger H travelled with me, for 2024, a couple of changes were made. First off, the journey by car last year was full of stops and starts (mostly ‘stops’) making it a three-hour affair and a very stressful drive. Considering it’s only 100-or-so miles, it wasn’t a good experience. Second, my friend and colleague Roger, who, like me, served for many years on the School Committee, unfortunately, was still recovering from some ill-health earlier this year.

All things considered, there was no way I was making the journey by CAR this time, and so based on Roger’s advice, I took the train from Kettering to St Pancras and then, a second connection to East Croydon, where I grabbed a cab to The Crescent. In earlier years when I’ve made the journey by train, it’s also been a torturous affair – Kettering – St Pancras – Victoria and then finally, Selhurst, but with temperatures forecast for the mid-20s, travelling by tube to Victoria wasn’t my idea of fun and therefore, Roger’s suggestion was spot on!

Well, things didn’t start well today, with a ping on my phone when I woke up this morning! . EMR was telling me that my train was cancelled. Time for a ‘plan b’ and therefore a slightly earlier departure for Kettering Station. Continuing the theme of ‘disappointment’, on arrival at the platform just after 9, it looked like the whole of Northamptonshire had planned on getting the same train as me! And just to make it even more interesting (!!!) the tanoy announced they’d reduced the carriages to just FOUR.

As expected then, it was ‘sardine time’ on the train all the way to London – but on the (rare?) plus side, because of the earlier departure, at least I was 15 minutes ahead of schedule. From that point onwards, things got better, and it all fell into place – and with connections at St Pancras working perfectly, I was exiting East Croydon Station at around 11.15.

Actually, I don’t think I’ve been inside East Croydon Station for nigh-on 50 years! It was unrecognisable and somehow looked and felt much larger. I couldn’t see any signage for taxis, but I eventually located the rank, now relocated on the side of the Station (they used to be out the front!) – Ahh! Progress!

2024’s Event

By 11.25, I was sitting pretty inside the Brit School. That’s just 2 hours, door-to-door!

In 2024, attendance at the AGM is measured in dozens rather than hundreds and in so many ways, that’s a real shame. However, the lack of numbers is always made up for in a jovial atmosphere and a well-organised and interesting event – and where Cortland (my successor as Chair) together with the active Committee – Bob, John Valerie and Caroline always create a really good experience for those who choose to make the pilgrimage! . Compared to my days in the Chair where things were much more formal, it now feels a closer and more intimate experience – and that’s a great thing! Best of all, Cortland has streamlined the AGM component to something far more slick and therefore productive, leaving more time for people to actually ‘reunite’!

These days, the Reunions are held next door to the Boys’ School in the famous BRIT School (site of the old Girls’ School). They’ve got better facilities for events like ours and can cater more easily for the numbers.

The earlier train meant I was one of the first to arrive. It gave me an opportunity to grab a seat near to Reception and catch up with emails and then grab some time chatting with Cortland, Bob, John and Valerie in between their preparation duties. Perfect!

Just after 12, I made my way to the room. Lesley had been hard at work getting the buffet table ready – and when the time came, at 12.30, it didn’t disappoint. The pork pies especially were yummy!

I joined a table of fellow New Addington locals – Alan & Kay, Alan & Felicity with Keith and Ashley and we got down to the serious business of reminiscing about our time at Selhurst. During this time, I also had brief chats with Hazel D, Steve C, Tony T and Brian Y. This period immediately before the formal stuff was a great way to rekindle relationships and perhaps make new friends!

At just before 2.30, our guest speaker, Simon Parnall (at the school from 1970-1977) began his presentation: The Development and Future of Digital Broadcasting and Online Media. It was a fascinating topic and although it was quite a complex presentation, we all felt it was an excellent session with plenty of questions from us all.

Following Simon’s entertaining and education presentation came the AGM which Cortland has now got down to a fine art in terms of duration. Let’s be honest, no-one really comes for the AGM and getting it all covered inside 20 minutes was well received by everyone!

In amongst the usual AGM-type content, a grateful (and well-deserved) thank-you was given to Lesley for her hard work on the catering.

At just before 4.30 with the business of the day concluded, I helped with the clearing up and then Bob dropped me back at East Croydon Station at just before 6pm. Another set of perfect connections followed and with Ann picking me up from Kettering Station, I was home with a sandwich and a beer by 7.15pm.

A great day! Thanks to all for another successful event

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post School Reunion 2024 appeared first on Steve's Blog.

A trip to London today! My old school’s ex-pupil Association had arranged a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of the Royal Opera House! . Our train connections were good and we even had time to drop into Fortnum & Masons beforehand for a few Christmas gifts!

It was a well-supported event with around 20+ ex-pupils, partners and friends making the trip into the capital for our bespoke event.

Many of us met at the Prince of Wales hostelry in Drury Lane at 12.30 for a light lunch before taking the short walk to our destination. The Pub was an unexpected treat – great food, great service and very reasonable prices. It was good to see some familiar faces from my days on the School Committee – Cortland (my successor), Valerie (ex-magazine editor and a mighty fine support act during my time in the Chair) and Bob (who’s really developed the social aspect of the Association in recent years).

At just before 1.45, we took the short stroll to the Opera House en-masse. Gosh! It was so mild outside for October! .

On arrival, there were already a few other Members waiting, and we were soon assembled ready for our tour.

Our personalised tour began at 2.30. James (from Brazil) was our Guide and he did a splendid job. After equipping us with personal headsets, so we could hear his commentary, we began front-of-house, but were soon ‘backstage’ exploring areas that aren’t usually accessible to the general public.

It all felt very special and we learned a lot. It was fascinating to see behind the scenes where I think for me, the most memorable part was experiencing the size and scale of what goes on – it felt like a ‘small town within a single building’. Amazing!

The final part of our experience was to actually sit in the Opera House as a member of the audience. There was an orchestra rehearsing and even given how high up we were in the seating, the sound quality was perfect.

Photography was not allowed backstage (for obvious reasons) but once we were back in the public areas, there was no restriction.

With the perfect blend of facts, hands-on opportunities and humour, the 70-minutes-or-so passed in a flash and where we all felt it had been a very worthwhile event.

In a way, it was a pity that Ann and I had to leave immediately afterwards (train connections!) so we missed out on the communal cuppa afterwards. All-in-all then, a really enjoyable day and even if Opera isn’t your thing, it’s a very worthwhile experience. If opera IS your thing, it’s a brilliant gift! . Thanks for organising this, Bob!

We got home around 6pm.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post School Trip appeared first on Steve's Blog.

They say ‘every day’s a school day’ – today was literally true!

Today, I took the rather long journey by car to my old school. Keeping me company, was Roger Hill, one-time Head Boy, and fellow committee colleague from a few years back. What made today different was that this was my first visit since I stepped down as Chairman of the Old Boys’ Association back in 2017 (after taking up the position in 2010). The Old Croydonians’ Association (their website is HERE) manages to hold a Reunion every year around this time, although in recent years, numbers have been dwindling.

Ordinarily, a journey of this length would mean I’d do it all by train, but that wasn’t an option today as the buggers were on strike! Again! . These days, the school goes by a new name: The Crescent Primary School, but pretty much the exterior and interior haven’t changed very much, except for a brighter paint job and less-draughty classrooms compared to my years there – 1968-1975.

Mr Google predicted a journey time of between 2 hours 10 minutes and 3 hours, 20 minutes, for the 100-ish miles, so Roger headed to ours, and we jumped in the eNiro, for hopefully, a straightforward journey. It wasn’t to be! Everything was OK until we got to the bottom of the M11 and then it seemed that the whole world was out in their car! It was just how I remember this area during weekday travel – but this was a SATURDAY! . We arrived just after midday – almost a three-hour trek! The event was held in the BRIT School next door. Being a more modern environment, the ex-Girls school location was perfect for a gathering of this type.

Good to see the band back together! (if only for the food!) – Roger, Yours truly and Bob!

It was a thoroughly enjoyable affair and good to catch up with some familiar faces – and see some new ones too!

The afternoon flew by, with plenty of time to socialise. These days, the event invites a guest speaker – usually an ex-pupil from either the Boys’ or Girls’ Schools. Today was no different where we enjoyed the company of actress, Sue Parker-Nutley and her “AN ACTOR’S LIFE FOR ME” performance. The short AGM followed signalling the end of this year’s proceedings.

Roger and I shared the theory that given our somewhat sluggish journey there via the Blackwell Tunnel, it was probably best to avoid it on the journey home. So, as we pulled out into the Crescent just after 4.40pm, we set the Sat-Nav for the Dartford Crossing. Within minutes, the directions showed that the device was doing the opposite – and sending us back in the familiar direction of the Blackwell Tunnel. ‘Stupid machine’ I thought, as the familiar ‘man v machine’ battle began. Obviously, the Sat-Nav seemed to think it knew best!!!

Actually, it did! As we got closer to the Dartford Crossing, it became clear that the whole world had re-joined us once more, and although we were moving, we weren’t moving very fast. It appeared that the Sat-Nav had worked this out and was attempting to be helpful and get us OFF the Approach. By the time we thought we might, so had a lot of other motorists, and the exit route was jam-packed! We decided to stay where we were. In the end, after the Crossing, things improved dramatically – and we were finally on our way, at speed.

Or were we? For reasons that I can’t explain, the range on EVie was now suggesting that we might (note ‘might’) want to stop for a recharge (even though I’d calculated the distance, there and back, and we had it covered, with about 40 miles to spare). Suggestion turned to insistence a few miles later, and we hobbled into the McDonalds close to home for a very quick top-up. Ten minutes later, we were ready for the final mile-or-so!

Roger and I said our goodbyes just before 7.30pm. It had been a great day, and I was pleased to be able to touch base with so many familiar faces from my time on the Committee. The only downer had been the rather frustrating journey in both directions

Note to self: Use the train next year!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post School Reunion 2023 appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Today, I (and a lot of others) said their final goodbyes to Peter. The service was held at Bluebell Cemetery in Halstead at 11.15 on a gloriously warm day.

I met the current Chairman of the OCA, Cortland Fransella, in the car park and we grabbed a cuppa and sat outside reflecting on the man that had touched both of our lives! We then headed inside to the Waiting Room after introducing ourselves and saying hello to Katy and Stephen. On the dot of 11.15, the Service began. I felt it was a really touching tribute, where Revd. Steve Spencer made it feel really special and very personal.

Afterwards, there was an opportunity to catch up with some other familiar faces from my time in Chair! I had a long chat with Karen (who used to help out on the Bar) and Pauline (who helped with the sandwiches) for our AGMs and Reunions. It really was lovely to see them both again.

We then drove the short distance to the Wake that was held at the Metropolitan Police Sports Ground – The Warren – in nearby Hayes.

What an emotional day! But it had been good to catch up with old friends and colleagues. Pity about the journey home though! Instead of the predicted 1 hour 20 minutes, it was almost 3½ hours!!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post RIP: Peter Juniper appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Well, all good things come to an end, and today, I said my final ‘goodbye’ to The OCA after 13 years as their WebMaster. Having stepped-aside as Chair and Magazine Editor this time last year, this was the final (final!) ‘cheerio’ having allowed a year to find a replacement. Going forward, I’ll simply be a ‘Member’.

Over the years, I’ve enjoyed developing the site and bringing (occasionally ‘dragging’) the Association into the 20th (and then, 21st) century! The biggest benefit was that the Website certainly helped with the recruiting of new Members. Many ‘found us’ via the various search engines, and after a look-round, decided to sign-up.

In spite of its successes, at 61 years of age, I shouldn’t really be designing websites, should I? – it’s a young persons’ game, and I’m mindful that the site was starting to possibly look a bit ‘dated’. Hopefully, my replacement will bring a fresh pair of eyes to proceedings!

I think I fulfilled the Association’s motto though: ‘Ludum Ludite’ (‘Play the Game’)

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Bye-bye OCA appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We drove down to Roger, Jane and Oliver’s for Oliver’s end-of-term musical concert at his new school: Richard Hale. The past few days have been roasting – and today was no different with temperatures in the mid 30s.

I feel like I’m getting old!

Oliver’s solo piece was entitled: ‘Nobody Knows’,  and he certainly made his flute sing! His ability has clearly grown since the last time we saw him play. Fantastic!

The nine pieces that made up the first half clearly showed that Britain’s got talent – well, at least Richard Hale school has! The other thing that became immediately obvious was how confident all the kids were. To get up (especially during solo pieces) without any sign of nerves and perform in front of mostly strangers was no mean feat – and I can’t imagine when I was their age having the balls to do what they did!

The interval arrived, and the congregation flooded out into the area in front of the Hall where the (very, VERY) welcome glass of free Pimm’s helped us all cope with the heat. If the School needed anything more right now, it wasn’t talent, it was an air-conditioned Hall! Phew! what a real scorcher. The Pimm’s seemed to be going down a treat, and happily we were informed that there was plenty more – clearly the musical talent of the kids wasn’t matched by the mathematical ability of those who provided the alcohol!

Suited me!

Part Two beckoned, as the now fully-refreshed (if slightly inebriated) audience flooded back into the sweat-box School Hall. Just like the first half, talent was in abundance, and although Khachaturian got a brief look-in with his Sabre Dance, (nicely played Oliver!) the session was dominated by more modern pieces that included vocal solos and personal compositions.

The evening finished with the returning Concert Band (and more of Oliver!) who knocked-out Rock, Reggae and Disco pieces like their lives depended on it!

The Head rounded-off the evening with his thanks to everyone – and a reminder that next year is the school’s 400th Anniversary. I suspect that will be the perfect excuse for even more musical events! Wow! what an evening!!!!

We were soon back at R, J and O’s reflecting on it all. I think we all concluded that (based on Oliver’s education to date), the ‘system’ seems to allow kids to blossom at an earlier age – and that’s no bad thing.

By 10.30, we were done and with the music still ringing in our ears, we headed for bed. I think it had now ‘cooled’ to around 21 by the time our heads hit the pillow and we hoped for a good night’s sleep.

Morning came (as it often does) and we’d slept well. We had a quick breakfast before heading home. Another smooth journey meant that I was home in time for probably my last phone-call ever relating to my role as Chairman for the OCA. We’ve got our AGM and Reunion next Saturday (when I step down) and the phone conversation allowed me to clarify the last remaining bits and pieces.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post End of Term – Oliver appeared first on Steve's Blog.

After yesterday’s trip into London for possibly my final informal School event as Chairman, it was a quick turn-around, and then off to Stratford-upon-Avon and Second Thoughts’ 7.30pm production of Cyrano De Bergerac. Unusually, it played at The Bear Pit, rather than the Civic Hall – but that didn’t diminish the attendance, as it was almost a sell-out (and had been for the previous three performances).

Wow! what a production!! The cast all played their parts really well, especially the lead, Tim Guest, as the doomed lover of Roxanne. My only criticism was the seats, that were so close together, it’s a good job I sat next to Ann, and I was on the end of a row!

Well done everyone!!!
    

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Big Nose! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

After the torrential rain on the south coast last week, it was good to learn that we wouldn’t end up rusting this weekend as the weather forecast predicted a heatwave!

So, we left home just before 9am, in the direction of Eastbourne, with a plan to stop of along the way, somewhere, and enjoy a picnic. When we left home, the weather was very mediocre, but the further south we got, the hotter it got! So that was just perfect!

First stop was the rather quaint town of Lewes. I don’t think I’ve been here since the late 70s, and it was good to see the town again. We trundled into Lewes Castle before taking a look round the varied shops, before stopping off at a local watering hole – and their roof garden – for a swift one!

Then, it was back in the car to nail the picnic spot – and we found the perfect location – the village of Alfriston – just a short drive away… with free parking… and a view to die for. And that’s where we stayed for the next hour, under the shade of an oak tree with a perfect view of dozens of park benches and a very green lawn area in front of the Church.

Suitably refreshed, we headed back to the car – and to our final destination – The Da Vinci Hotel, just opposite the sea-front in Eastbourne. Parking was initially a nightmare, but I did manage to find the last space almost opposite the front door – and with a parking permit part of the deal, we were sorted for the next two days.

After a lightning quick check-in we headed for room 306. On entering, we felt the immediate need for sunglasses – not because of the local weather, but because of the colour scheme!! The room looked like it had been designed by the same people that make my socks! Bright orange doesn’t even begin to describe it!!! Perhaps they use the hotel rooms instead of a lighthouse to ward-off ships from crashing into the pier!!

After a quick change of clothes, we wandered along the seafront and onto the Pier. Lovely!

..and then we did a quick tour of the shops, stopping off at Zizzi’s for a light nibble in the shape and taste of their ‘Pulled Pork Napoli’ pizza.

..and then we waddled back to the Hotel by way of another wander along the seafront.

Saturday dawned with the sound of the seaside – more specifically, the sound of seagulls! And they were noisy… real noisy… even at 5am!! Bang went the lie-in then! Then, It was a sharpish breakfast for me, as I was off to the nearby Hydro Hotel, for another of the OCA’s informal reunions/get-togethers, with yours truly ‘chairing’ the event. Not a great day then for the Polo to break down on the way to the Station to pick up the Team, due to a knackered ignition coil on cylinder 2. Thank goodness then for the RAC, who turned up in under an hour and, happened to have a spare coil on board! Phew!!!!

The event went well, and after clearing-up, I was back to the Da Vinci ready for a meal out at the nearby The Channel Restaurant. Ann had booked it based on some very good recommendations, and luckily for us it was a stone’s throw from our hotel. The food was great and the service, very prompt – just how we like it!

Then it was a short walk back to the Da Vinci  for our final night here.

Sunday – and we were up with the lark (and those b****** seagulls!), and after a swift brekky, we were on the road and heading for my brother’s in Bromley. It was a great time to visit: our Nephew, Frankie had done well in his exams: 6 A*s, 5 As and a C and we also picked up my new PC that Neil had built from a basic configuration with a few extra bits bolted on. We’d also managed to install most of my current software during the preceding couple of weeks, by taking advantage of DropBox and a fast internet connection – brilliant!

After a buffet lunch, we headed home – and the journey was a pig! One hour queuing to get through the Dartford Tunnel plus various other hold ups on the M11 meant the journey of just 90-or-so miles took nearly three hours!! We were knackered, by the time we got home – I didn’t even have the energy to post this blog on time!

Still, looking back on the events of the past few days, it had been a great weekend for us – always good to catch-up with family, and a(nother) successful event for the OCA meant that when I step down next year, at least I’ll have some positive experiences to look back on.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Eastbourne or Rust! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Even before the celebrations began today, I had a rather unexpected birthday-call the previous evening. The phone rang, and I didn’t recognise the number that came up, nor the voice at the other end. The mystery voice immediately sprang into singing ‘happy birthday’. After the serenading had finished, the voice asked: ‘do you know who this is?’ and i thought I did, but the phone number didn’t fit. After a bit of head-scratching (an increasingly regular occurrence these days!), I guessed correctly, as It turned out to be the evergreen Reg Whellock, a member of the OCA , whose 100th Birthday party we’d been to a few weeks’ ago! These days, I’m a cynical bugger, but I’ve got to say, I was very touched that he took the time (and remembered) to ring me. 

The Day of the DoDO
The postman was early, so I was enjoying reading through my cards much earlier than I’d planned. Thanks everyone – an enjoyable collection, some traditional, some rude and some weird in roughly equal proportions! And some great presents too. I also had a even more good wishes this year (compared to last) via Facebook and Twitter – details later in this Blog.

The Theatre
In the evening, we headed off to The Derngate, to see the 7.30 performance of One Man, Two Guvnors. The Play itself had already been in the West-End, and everyone we had spoken to said it was very good. We weren’t sure what to expect, and the opening scenes appeared to suggest a rather straightforward production with more than its fair share of laughs. That was good enough for me, but my expectations were about to be exceeded in every way!!! I won’t spoil for those who’ve still to see it, but rest assured, it is REALLY worth the trip. I have never laughed so much in my life, and I’m pretty sure there were one, or maybe two occasions, where Ann nearly wet herself!

It was packed a little later – Honest!

Most definitely the funniest Play I have ever seen! Just one word of warning – maybe don’t choose to sit in the first three rows!

Birthday Weekend – Saturday  Ann has planned a surprise trip somewhere in the UK, complete with a hotel stop-over! I wonder where it’ll be?

Well, 120-or-so miles later, I found out, as we arrived in Monmouth. It was a bit of a grey day, but the quaint shops and quite a few men dressed up in English Civil War costumes made all of it a lot more interesting – and weird!

First stop though was The Punch House and a date with a Full English (even though we’re in Wales)

First Stop – Breakfast!

Full English, or Full Welsh???

Scenes around Monmouth High Street

Monmouth Castle

The Royal Monmouthshire Regiment HQ

Nice View from the Monnow Bridge

Men Guarding the Monnow Bridge

Then it was off to National Trust’s The Kymin  a few miles away, but along some of the twistiest roads I’ve ever been on with lots of blind bends – not the the best roads for a car with such a long bonnet! The NT property was certainly the highest NT property we’ve ever visited! and it was well worth it – if only for the view from the top, across Monmouth and the Wye Valley. The location has two buildings – one is a sort of monument to British Navy, opened by Nelson in 1802 – in effect a Temple. The other, a small folly, called The Round House, and built in the late 1700s consisted of two floors, with a small windy staircase connecting the levels. The buildings themselves are surrounded by open woodland, making it the perfect spot for a picnic and/or a country walk. All-in-all, a rather quirky but beautiful area – and well worth the slightly hazardous car journey ascending to the summit!!

The Naval Temple at The Kymin

The Round House Folly at The Kymin

Views to Die For!
On the way back to car, it was then I noticed we’d acquired a nasty dink in the front grille area!
 
Damn, that won’t be cheap to fix! There’s a lot of paint area to have to blend in! Ahh, the joys of motoring!!! 

With our breath well-and-truly taken away by The Kymin, it was time to head for the next part of my weekend surprise, and our base for the next couple of days – The St Pierre Marriott Hotel and Country Club in Chepstow.

Wow! This a massive sprawling mass of hotelness! So large in fact, we couldn’t find the entrance (but did have fun not killing any golfers in their buggies who were dominating the roadway, during the attempt).

Inside was a very grand affair, all oak panels and oversized table lamps,! Although by the time we’d got to our room (what felt like miles from Reception!), a sense of ‘ordinary-ness’ was setting-in based on the look and feel of the corridors and our room. ‘326’ had a goodish view across the Golf Course and sported an ultra comfy bed and a large wide-screen TV, but the bathroom was badly in need of a refresh, and the mini-bar was the modern sort that we’ve seen in a lot of hotels recently – empty!, but at least that encouraged us to get to the Bar a little earlier than planned!

 
A nice touch though was that the Staff had left me a small box of chocs, with a hand-written note wishing me a happy birthday.

We attempted to book a table in the main restaurant for tonight, but it was full – clearly, guests who are staying at the hotel, aren’t given any preferential treatment. That’s slightly unusual in my experience. No matter, because of the hotel’s size, it had another large restaurant on-site, and we managed to squeeze in there for 7.15.

Well, the restaurant experience was pretty good. The menu punched well-above its weight and the Waiter, very professional and attentive – by 8pm, the place was packed (and that’s always a good sign) and the staff were kept busy. Ann chose the Chicken, and I went for the Lamb as our mains, but we did each manage to squeeze in a starter too, and in my case, a dessert (Blueberry Cheesecake) – Oh, and a bottle of wine too!

 
By 9pm we were both slightly pissed and collapsed in one of the many comfy settees in the lounge! And there we stayed until

Weather permitting, tomorrow we’re heading for Chepstow Castle, Tintern Abbey and Symonds Yat,  crashing out at 7pm for my official Birthday meal The Crown at Whitebrook  (that’s just been awarded its first Michelin Star!)

Birthday Weekend – Sunday
A lazy morning that began with a cuppa in bed and then down to breakfast. The Restaurant was packed (considering it was a Sunday), and the staff coped with the gazillions of guests really well. We think the extras were staying over from the Wedding event yesterday.

Then, after a hearty fill, it was back to the room to gather up our bits and pieces for a cultural day out. When we got back to the room, there were two swans on our bed!

Swans!
And what could be more surprising than Swans on your bed? We were soon to discover it was actually pigeons-in-the-tree-above-your-car! As we approached the Jaguar, we both noticed that it was looking fairly discoloured in several places. On closer inspection, it became clear that it was much worse. In my 40 years of driving, I have never seen a car with so much pigeon-debris on it. They’d managed to miss the cars on both sides, and their precision-pooping had smothered the bonnet in about six places, and the roof, and the boot too! Yuk! Clearly the pigeons had been out for a night on the town, and got stuck into a berry-vindaloo.

We all know that the way NOT to clean the car in these situations, is to attack it and quickly rub hard, so after forty minutes-or-so, and with Ann now an official car-cleaner, we had gently softened the mess and wiped it clean. Luckily I also had some ‘bird wipes’ in the glove-box to finish of the job. Now where’s the shotgun???

After yesterday’s episode with the dink in the front, someone has definitely got it in for the car!
And so, it was back to the itinerary.

Chepstow Castle
I’ve not been here before, but Ann visited here over 30 years ago! We love old castles (even more than we hate pigeons), and it was great just wandering round and soaking up the ambience.

Then it was off to Chepstow Town. A lovely place with cobbled streets and vibrant displays of begonias and other plants. Nice!

Tintern Abbey
Then, after sampling the delights of Chepstow, it was back in the car for our next destination. On arrival, two things became immediately obvious. First – parking was a nightmare, with even the overflow car-park 99% full. Second, the temperature was now much hotter, hitting almost 22 degrees (in late September!!!). Neither of which stopped us enjoying this old place – it’s in remarkable condition, given its age, and there is plenty of it left to enjoy!!

And, after all this culture, what better to take a break and stop for lunch at the Pub opposite – The Anchor Inn.

Fruit – One of my five-a-day
The final part of our whistle-stop tour was Symonds Yat, a local(ish) beauty-spot with stunning views. But we didn’t make it. After negotiating even narrower roads than yesterday, we couldn’t find it at all! After nearly mowing down a local in the narrowness of the road, he was still willing to let us know that we were at the wrong one. Ehh?!?!

Apparently, there are TWO: a Symonds Yat EAST and a Symonds Yat WEST – and we were at the other one! If the streets weren’t already narrow enough, we now had to turn round, and that’s when I first noticed the ‘road narrows’ sign. This was impossible! as we were already in a road that was only narrow enough for one car, and one local, and now things were about to get even narrower! I had a strong feeling it was going to be a long journey – in reverse – back to road junction. Have you seen the view out of the back of an XKR???? limited doesn’t even begin to describe it. It couldn’t get worse could it?

Of course it could! There was now a car coming from the opposite direction, heading towards us with some determination. Fortunately, a local driveway had just enough space for our new found – and closest – friend to shoehorn his car into, and eventually, after some clever moves, we passed each other with a cheery wave and a joint sigh of relief!

All this proved that we didn’t really know the local terrain at all, and heading for the OTHER Symonds Yat, was almost certainly going to offer us the same driving challenges. We bottled it – and headed for the nearest petrol station, then back to base.

The Crown at Whitebrook
Our final stop for my Birthday celebrations was The Crown. The name suggested it was a Harvester, but I couldn’t have been more wrong! This was a VERY classy restaurant in the middle-of-nowhere, where a few days ago was awarded its first Michelin Star. This, officially, was my birthday-meal and from the moment we stepped through the small front entrance, the Restaurant didn’t disappoint!

This was a posh place, and doing good business, considering it was a SUNDAY night. OK, the portion-sizes wouldn’t have kept a mouse alive, but that wasn’t the point – every course was a taste explosion and presented in a way where it was almost a shame to disturb it! This was an operation at the top of its game, where they didn’t put a foot wrong all evening. Table-cloths and napkins ironed and starched within an inch of their lives (these days, I know about these things!), and Waiters who put the customer at the heart of the dining experience 100% of the time. Set the wow-factor to 11!

And by 10pm, we were done, so we slowly navigated the Jaguar back through the impossibly narrow lanes, arriving back at the Hotel just after 10.30. It’s been a very enjoyable surprise Birthday (and I don’t normally like these sorts of surprises!), and one that I’m sure we’ll still be talking about in years to come.

We check out of the Hotel tomorrow – checking back into normality, just after lunch. Another year older – and perhaps wiser too!

Good Wishes and Gifts

Cards

Ann
Angela
Antoinette
Bev 
Carey, Clive, Abigail and Madeline
Carol
David and Val
Denis
Gill and Chris
Ian and Sharon
Ian and Ann
Jo and Janet
John and Sue Merrell
Kerry and Tanya
Lee
Margaret Spencer
Margaret and Alan
Neil, Debbie, Alfie and Frankie
Nick and Celina
Nicki
Paul and Karen
Peter J
Philip P
Ralph and Karen
Roger, Jane and Oliver
Rosi, David, Rhiannon and Jack
Roy, Susan, Janine and Lauren
Sally, Amie and Zak (x2)
Steve and Helen
Sue, Paul and Ben
Tom and Julie   
Trish, John, Sean and Conor
Valerie H

Via Social Media

Bev 
Carey H
Carl G
Debbie B
Debi B
Geoff W
Helena B
Joan D
Jo K
John M
John W 
Joy D
Julie T
Karen M
Karen R
Kate P
Lydia E
Maggie S
Malcolm L

Mike P
Nina B
Paul M
Peter W
Ralph G
Richard P
Rosi L
Stefan B
Stella H
Trish C

and Gifts…
Ann –  Red Shirt/Blue Shirt/Xeryus Rouge/Gerry Anderson Limited Edition DVD and Book
Bev – Book: Super Graphics
David and Val – Book: Doctor Who – 100 Objects
Denis –  DVD: Man in a Suitcase/ DVD: The Saint (Colour Series)
Jo and Janet – Bottle of Champers and a Pub Voucher
Nicki – DVD: Enigma – Remember the Future/DVD – Randall and Hopkirk, Box Set
Paul and Karen – Bottle of quality Red and Moisturiser
Rosi, David, Rhiannon and Jack –  Set of Coasters and and a salt & Pepper set for the Kitchen
Roger, Jane and Oliver – DVD: Strange Report/DVD: Dark Skies/DVD: Lone Gunmen/CD: Sarah Brightman – Classics
Tom and Julie – Coasters for the Kitchen + Bottle of Prosecco

Thanks everyone!!!

Previous Birthdays…
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Birthday 2014 – Steve Serenaded/Men with Pikes/High Points/Low Points/Swans on the Bed/Pigeon Paranoia/East v West/Wow Factor 11 appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Another superb performance from the Kilworth House Theatre tonight as they sang their hearts out performing South Pacific.

It wasn’t quite a packed house (only about 99% full), but everyone clearly enjoyed themselves (including us – Ann, Jo, Janet, Carol, Chris and Pete) on one of those rare very warm evenings (that inevitably turned to ‘chilly’, as it got later). Veterans of these events were easy to spot: armed with blankets, cushions, and HOT drinks!

As we’ve come to expect with all these performances, not only is the acting superb, so is the singing – and coupled with the imaginative set-design, Kilworth Theatre really is THE West-End-Theatre-Just-Down-The-Road. With a couple of tunes that were sung at our Wedding too, it made for the perfect evening. I think we’ll be humming the tunes for weeks now including my fave – Bali Ha’i

I even ran into Roger H,  my colleague from the Old Croydonians there – we’d only been emailing each other a few hours before trying to decide when we could next speak, and hadn’t realised we were both destined for the same event!

Given the sheer number of theatre-goers, exiting the event by car just after 10.30, was pretty straightforward – and we were soon back on the A14, and then home. We’re here again for their performance of Sister Act in August. I can’t wait!!!

Thanks Kilworth – another great evening!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Theatre: South Pacific appeared first on Steve's Blog.

After a brief visit to Neil’s and then Mum’s, I was then off to the annual reunion & AGM of the OCA, and hopefully my re-election as Chairman.

It was a good turnout by recent standards and I wasn’t completely surprised that in spite of contacting every member (all 500+), a month-or-so ago, to ask them to nominate someone, no-one else stepped forward for the role – that was a good feeling, especially as I wanted to carry-on for a second three-year term. And when the time came and the congregation was asked to vote, my ego got a healthy boost as every hand in the room went up!

What a great end to the day!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Antique Chair appeared first on Steve's Blog.

In my capacity as Chairman of the ex-pupils association, ‘The Old Croydonians’, I was invited with many others, to see the official re-opening of the school, now reborn as: The Crescent Primary School.

It was a well supported event, with the pupils singing their school song and the head-teacher recounting how the school reinvented itself. Parents, teachers and Mayor of Croydon gave it a very special feel and I was also pleased that The Old Croydonians, was able to play a part by arranging for one of our oldest members – Reginald Whellock (99 years of age!) to cut the ribbon together with the school’s oldest pupil (somewhat younger, at 7!).

The event concluded with the unveiling of a plaque and the release of hundreds of balloons.

It was an great event, and somewhat emotional for us, the ‘old boys’ to see the old place renovated and so full of life.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post The School Re-opens appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Phew! Another one of those manic Saturdays, where it’s all go-go-go!

We were both ‘up with the lark’ – Ann dropped me at the station for 8.30 so I could get to St Pancras International in time for chairing the twice-yearly OCA Committee meeting (we chose the Parcel Yard at Kings Cross again because of its location, the quality of service – and the food and drink – perfect!!!). Well, at least the venue was perfect – the meeting should have been quite UNeventful, but instead, the Treasurer announced his retirement and the proposed new Honorary Secretary (because of his day job) decided not to stand! With the meeting finishing just before 4pm, I jumped on the 4.30 and Ann picked me up at Kettering.

Then, it was a quick change before popping next door for the main event of the day – Paul and Karen’s BBQ featuring Karen’s melt-in-the-mouth lamb! Ann prepared a delicious dessert (chocolate cake with prune and brandy sauce – yummy!!!!). John, Trish, Tom, Julie, Chris and Isla were there and we had a great time – we even managed to sit outside in the warm for a bit. it was a perfect end to an eventful day.

As normal, by 11pm, I was flagging, and so we staggered the short distance back to ours and crashed-out.

Thanks for cooking Karen – lovely grub!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Lovely Lamb! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

As a way of saying ‘thanks’ for proof-reading the annual OCA Members’ Magazine, I enjoyed a very pleasant lunch with Keith W today. Searcy’s (as normal) was the height of efficiency – and the food was excellent too!

Perfect timing in that we had time for three courses and a couple of coffees before my timed train at 2.30.

…and then at Wellingborough it all went horribly wrong as the train was halted whilst a crashed car was removed from its ‘new’ parking spot – a bridge – at Market Harborough, resulting in ‘everyone off’ at Kettering! All of this made me 20 minutes late, but luckily, my ‘chauffeur’, David was still waiting!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Searcy’s appeared first on Steve's Blog.