We've been home a week now and just starting to come right. Of course we have had horrible wet, windy and cold weather since we've been back. Just like summer in UK and Europe this year! It is starting to improve now, like us.
Noel's found a project in the garden! I'm sorting out the office. Plenty to do before the Gemini arrives home.
Pepper is happy to have us around.
On beautiful Lake Windermere in the Lakes District, the wonderful old bridge and hotel at Newby Bridge and further up the lake, Windermere itself.
The town was bustling with tourists. A ferry runs regularly. Big country houses and hotels on the picturesque lake. Would be lovely to stay here in good weather, but up here there are no guarantees. We took the motorhome on a very wet day and found a park and enjoyed the scenery and change of pace.
Real steam trains! One still operating and a picturesque station.
A big plus for me were the three beautiful owls on display. Fabulous feathers and wise expressions. It's the extreme rotation of the head that makes them such superb hunters.
This was a special day when Robin and Sue picked us up to drive through stunning West Lakes District. The narrowest roads you can imagine. Two way but barely space for one car and nowhere to pull over! Add steep and winding and scenery! Very stimulating for us and challenging for the driver!
Small village with lots of pubs. Grey stone in grey weather. Surrounded by lake and rugged hills. Great for hiking and walking and there are lots of people with serious backpacks.
On the way to the Lakes District is this interesting museum. As well as a great collection of cars and bikes, it is also home to Malcom and Donald Campbells' Bluebirds: land speed record cars and water speed record boat. The water speed record was achieved by Donald on nearby Coniston Waters (lake) in 1967. Originally, Bluebird was two words.
Sue and I went to the Antiques Road Show at Holker Hall on the coast south of the Lakes District. It surprised me that it was so low key and gentle. All the recognizable voices and faces and lots of interesting people queuing. We joined the queue as Sue took some delightful mementos of her grandfather. These were handled with great sensitivity and appreciation. I really enjoyed the whole experience.
A visit to this old cotton mill is a must in this area. All the old spinning and weaving machines are kept in working order and demonstrated. The evolution of the Manchester cotton industry is on display from cottage industry to the magnificent water mill and steam engine. The history of the people, both owners and workers makes fascinating reading. The gardens are lovely.
We are up here visiting Sue and Robin. An easy walk through the local market. A variety of stands and lots of dogs.
Adam Ealand gave some awards in Roger's memory to drivers who showed special skills in each race. It was lovely that Roger was recognized in the event that he had so much wanted to be part of.
I think of Margaret.
It was very disappointing for Noel but a great celebration for Formula Junior.
Duncan distributed the trophies with a very special one going to Chris Drake: the Mike Hailwood Trophy. Duncan's daughter Sarah was there organizing everything. She is delightful but also a fantastic worker. Duncan's dream of this day and event was realized. It was quite a special occasion.
Noel had a brilliant start, gaining one place immediately. He came over the top of the hill in 5th position.
It was quickly apparent that something was wrong as he drifted up the hill and pulled over. After everyone had passed he cruised downhill and went off into the unused road of the small circuit. I ran to meet him as he came back through the tunnel.
He was heartbroken! The front of the lower rear trailing arm on the rear suspension had come off when it jumped over the safety washer. It happened under accelleration at the start and made it impossible to steer.
Phil Foulkes was there to lend a hand to move the car and helped to get the bolt out of the chassis.
The Gemini was packed into its trailer in disgrace.
