Camberley & District Probus Club

34 attendees with a number from the Surrey Heath Ladies Probus Club, which was encouraging as this was the first outing to which they had been invited. Interestingly, out of the 34 that went, 32 were National Trust members.

Two excellent tours of the motor museum and the reserve collection covering the history of the UK car industry and a lot more, by ex BL staff who really knew their stuff, much more than those who built the original cars, which was evident in some of the exhibits where doors and bonnets did not quite fit.

A day out a local trust who’s aim is to restore old buses which used to run services for the local Great Western and Thames Valley bus companies. We were given an overview of the trust on the work it is doing, which has about 60 buses in various stages of restoration, many which still run. Following a trip around the restoration workshops and the bus garages, we had an excellent buffet lunch provided by the Trust. After this, the highlight of the day was a trip around Windsor on one of the old vintage buses, where we were the highlight of the show as the King was not in.

The National Trust tour guide was excellent, explaining how the estate had evolved, with many stories from the past, none of which can be found on line or in the guide books.  Bicester Village was a different experience, the clientele was a bit different from the normal Probus demographic, but the Pret sandwiches were ok.

Our MP was due to turn up, but sent his apologies on the day.  But our tour guide was excellent, taking us through both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, explaining very well how the seat of government works, the etiquette and why it takes a long time to get anything done. After lunch people went off to do various other sights and some went back into the visitor galley for a second dose to see some of the afternoon action in the House.

Only open on a Monday, the Azaleas and Rhododendrons were both in full bloom. The mirror in the grotto was quite amusing. 14 made the trip with a good stroll round the gardens, finishing off with a light lunch in the tea room, which is also just open on Mondays.

Even if you have been to Bletchley before, it was a really interesting day, the guide, a seasoned veteran in the history of Bletchley Park was excellent. He brought the place to life with the stories and real memories from the past.

It was not just about enigma machines and code cracking, it was a full scale intelligence factory, making sense out of the enemy communications, and infiltrating it with counter interference. The success of the operation at Bletchley was estimated to have shortened the war by 2 years and saved 14m lives.

Deciphering intelligence messages was a very manual process, one letter at a time, and each letter had to be transcribed 4 times, not much different from WhatsApp today.

A local Cotswold guide, Steve Roth, who was well worth the money, gave us all the insight, stories and lowdown on what really went on in the Cotswolds in the past (some of it not very nice), along with dry stone walls and the wealth derived from sheep.

After a coffee, sticky bun and a tour of Arlington row at Bibury it was on to Bourton on the Water and its wonderful bridges.  Choices of lunch varied from a long lunch in one of the Cotswold pubs to a pasty from the expensive baker’s shop but all was good.

Coming home, the climb up the Cotswold escarpment was up the notorious but impressive Crickley Hill to Birdlip with great views which will soon become one of Britain’s biggest road works.

The weather kept its distance with the clouds and gloomy fog over France where they should be.  Dover Castle is one of the most impressive and complete fortresses in England.  As well as visiting the main keep and the surrounding castle buildings, including the church, we were allowed to go through the war time tunnels.  This is where the evacuation of Dunkirk was planned and executed, in the small window of a few days, which enabled over 300,000 troops to be lifted off the French shores and brought back to the UK. The wonder of the small boats and British spirit which went to get them.

Some winners too, reinvested in a bottle of vino along with fresh strawberries with no queue. We managed to acquire some picnic tables right next to the rails, so not far to see all the action or getting to the bookies in placing and collecting those all important bets. It was a great social event with great company and one of those rare times these days where we could dress up for the occasion, soak up the ambiance and have some fun.

Edinburgh, dominated by its imposing castle on top of an old volcano, overlooking the city, along with the cities many other sights including the Royal Mile in the Old Town, the Palace of Holyrood, and a tour of the retired Royal Yacht Britannia. The Falkirk Wheel proved a great attraction, trying to understand how the water did not fall out of the ‘gondola’, as our barge was raised 115 ft from the lower Forth and Clyde Canal to the upper Union Canal. The world’s only rotating ‘Boat lift’ – a 21st century, state-of-the-art engineering achievement. Scotland’s finest stately home provided a magnificent panoramic main façade, as we arrived into the extensive grounds of Hopetoun House, overlooking the Firth of Forth. The Firth of Forth featured again in our ‘3 Bridges Tour’ – on board a small boat, out into the bay, looking upwards- dominated and impressed by the sheer size and engineering involved in three iconic bridges. [SB]

Edinburgh, capital of Scotland, with the castle being a fortress sitting atop an old volcano, ancient buildings scattered across the city and the seat of Scotland’s parliament , lying close to the royal residence of the Palace of Holyrood, and a UNESCO City of Literature, provided a wealth of interest and the focus for our holiday.

Edinburgh Castle itself, provided a wide range of interests – its ancient gun emplacements on the battlements at different heights making it impregnable, the Royal Jewels and the Stone of Destiny (used at the recent coronation), the Great Hall with display of weapons but originally for feasts , the fantastic views from the highest battlements, and St Margaret’s Chapel – all brown stone brickwork, providing a friendlier environment than granite castles. Plus a gaggle of military museums of the Scottish regiments.

Edinburgh is famous for its multitude of statues to writers, soldiers, kings and queens, and the different religions, many of which could be found in the old town in the centre of the city and in the Princes Gardens. Plus multiple museums – both Scottish and Edinburgh-biased, and for the Parliament building, infamous for exceeding cost but praised for its architecture. Unfortunately, we were unable to enter Holyrood House since security was high for the King’s Scottish ‘inauguration’ in the forthcoming week, but we did visit many of the locations before the event. The Royal Yacht Britannia at Leith, now has 5 decks which record impressive status world travelling by the late Queen and the essential crew support facilities.

The Falkirk Wheel proved a great attraction, trying to understand how the water did not fall out of the barge ‘gondola’ as our barge was raised some 115 ft from the lower Forth and Clyde Canal to the upper Union Canal, followed by a short trip into the Roughcastle Tunnel. The world’s only rotating boat lift, a 21st century state-of-the-art engineering achievement, recognised as an iconic landmark worthy of Scotland’s traditional engineering expertise. It certainly excited us.

Scotland’s finest stately home provided a magnificent panoramic main façade as we drove into the extensive grounds of Hopetoun House overlooking the Firth of Forth. The contents of furniture, paintings, carvings, wainskirting and painted ceilings illustrated the elegance of the Georgian era of social life and entertaining. The guides pointed out many ‘balancing elements’ in the architecture and a unique circular staircase not seen elsewhere.

The Firth of Forth featured again in our ‘3 Bridges Tour’, this time on board a small boat out into the bay. Looking upwards, we were impressed by the sheer size and engineering involved in three iconic bridges, each a groundbreaker in its own time. The cantilevered Forth Rail Bridge, first major steel bridge in the world opened in 1890 which revolutionised the link across the Bay. The Forth Road longs pan suspension bridge of 1964 and the Queensferry Crossing 3xtower cable stayed bridge of 2017. In contrast were the seals basking on a buoy, the concrete ‘decoy ship’ on an island and nature reserves. A fascinating and enjoyable experience.

Some folk took the opportunity for a break in the beautiful town of Peebles or the Rosslyn Chapel of Knights Templar fame. Members, partners and friends, friendship and fellowship and companionship, ensured that the 6 day holiday was enjoyed by all. [AB]

The day was in two halves, a guided tour around the RNLI College and a boat cruise on Poole Harbour.

The RNLI tour was a fascinating insight to both the RNLI and the operation of the college. The RNLI costs about £500,000 a day to run, which is all financed by donations and legacies. The college had very impressive hands-on training facilities dealing with all types of modern technology which is now fitted to lifeboats. A number of us had a hands-on experience in the simulator which was an incredibly realistic trip of a rescue out of Dover Harbour. We were shown the pool where life raft and class B lifeboat capsize training takes place. From a quiet sunny afternoon, the simulated environment can rage up a significant gale and wild water in darkness in the middle of the night. There was some equally impressive huge diesel engines in the workshop which we were taken round. On the view from the upper floor, we were shown the wider and very extensive RNLI estate based here in Poole, including where they build their own life boats. A new class 7 boat will cost about £2m to build.

The cruise round Poole Harbour was equally impressive from a scenic point of view. From the Town Quay, where we started, we headed out past Brownsea Island and Castle, before going out through the narrow entrance into the bay with views to the Isle of Wight, Studland Beach and Old Harry Rocks.

In between, a number of us had an excellent fish and chips lunch and well earnt beer at the Jolly Sailor pub on the Town Quay.

The sun broke through during the morning at Cliveden enabling us to clearly view the unrivalled magnificent vistas all the way to the horizon seen from the magnificent 400 ft long terrace in front of the house. The more adventurous members explored the huge 375 acre grounds walking right down to the Thames and up the hill again before a very short heavy shower struck.

The house visits really brought to life the rich, luxurious and decadent past of the last 350 years. High society living and frequent entertaining benefitted from the extravagant palatial building and the grand terrace, encouraged by a dream setting of impressive views over large manicured lawns leading down to Britain’s most famous river and a view of the monarch’s prestigious castle at Windsor. We learned about previous owners including how the world’s richest man Viscount Astor, who arrived from America with his wife Nancy, and how the environment of the house provided the setting for powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs in the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s culminating in the infamous Profumo affair which challenged the 1960’s establishment.

At Windsor, in the afternoon, we boarded our private boat for a 2 hour cruise past the Eton fields, the Hurricane (designed by Sir Sydney Camm) on a plinth, the Windsor racecourse and yacht basin, Dorney Olympic rowing course, the extensive sets of Bray Studios, life saving demonstrations and navigating through Romney lock. On return, a patriotic moment seeing Windsor Castle rising majestically in front of us.

The riverside view of a whole range of individual homes, building and fields is always fascinating. The commentary identified buildings and organisations whose names were familiar, but whose location was a surprise. Combined with the varied flora, fauna and birds, it was a truly riparian experience. Thoroughly enjoyed by all.

We learned about the eventful history of the Royal Opera House (ROH). Two previous buildings burnt down. In Victorian times, going to the opera was a social event. You could hire your own box, bring in your own food, draw the curtains across the front of your box and undertake other activities. Queen Victoria was an enthusiastic patron, visiting up to 4 times a week, with her own entrance to the ROH. Into the auditorium for a ballet rehearsal, the dance was part of Wolfe Works, featuring themes from Virginia Wolfe’s books. The excerpt we were privileged to see had two females kissing, the first time this has occurred in a ballet. History being made.

Below stairs was the very extensive costume store, row upon row by production, with multiple costumes for when there were several costumes for that role and perhaps multiple performers for the same role and all labelled. All costumes are regularly fumigated to eliminate fungal growth. Scenery moving provided an example of modern technology with not only 6 large understage lifts, to move scenery up and down off the stage, but large pallets to move blocks of scenery to and from the extensive backstage. This ability to rapidly reconfigure means the ROH can stage 3 different productions in the same week. No other London theatre can achieve this. Recent investment in rebuilding and modern technology has resulted in spacious front of house and events which work very smoothly. Very impressive. Recommended for revisit.

The Centrifuge Tour started with a knowledgable and authoritative exposition of the effect of different levels of G forces on the body, the research undertaken by the RAF Institute of Aviation Medicine in the centrifuge and means of counteracting effects of G by body suits, both partial and whole. The lecturer had herself been involved in many of the experiments.

Then close examination, in small parties led by experienced users, of the centrifuge itself, the gondolas, the motor, the power and electrical control room, observation room and control room. We were blown away by the engineering – the building itself was impressive – 27 foot deep concrete floor to dampen any vibrations, and 2 feet thick walls. Equally impressive was the equipment to get the 40 tons of motor, centrifuge and gondolas rotating – accelerating smoothly, decelerating smoothly and controlling the rate of G whilst rotating – all achieved with 1950s technology – a magnificent achievement.

Finally, videos showed how all the equipment combined together to complete experiments. Very proud – firstly, to see British achievements, secondly that it is all being preserved and thirdly, that it is now recognised by an Engineering Heritage Award.

Finally – the icing on the cake –a Souvenir Booklet to a professional standard illustrating everything we had heard and seen, and much, much more. A brilliant visit, but very cold in the unheated rooms.

Crushed by the loss of her husband Napoleon III in 1873 and the death in 1879 of her 23 year old son in the Zulu War, she built St Michael’s Abbey as a monastery with the Imperial Mausoleum. Subsequently, in 1895, the Empress invited French Benedictine monks to England, and the daily round of work, prayer and study began.

Inside the abbey, one of the just 10 resident monks in the monastery, eloquently and competently described the varied architecture with many French features which make it ‘a little corner of England which is forever France, irreclaimably French’.

Underneath the abbey is the large and impressive mausoleum with tombs of Napoleon III and the Empress – the tombs are apparently famous – a coach full of ‘Friends of Napoleon ‘ arrived whilst we were there.

The abbey and its history remains remarkably hidden and unknown by locals and that is probably appreciated by the monks, who experience a very long and devoted day, starting at 4 am.

That is what it said on the box and that is what it delivered. The RMA is a Camberley icon on our doorstep. We pass it each day but do we appreciate the history that lies behind the gates?

An introduction, to explain all the branches of the Army at this unique establishment and its predecessors. Then on to five rooms of historical and cultural significance, including the Indian Army Memorial Room, Wellington Room, History Room, Old College Grand Entrance and the two chapels on site, the Royal Memorial Chapel and Roman Catholic Chapel – all with commentary. All Probus members thoroughly enjoyed the tour. Plenty of information and knowledgeable guides. The two guides allocated to our group spoke clearly and in depth. Very impressive and well worthwhile. Three hours passed very quickly, it was so interesting.

A bonus during our visit – a first rehearsal for the Sovereign’s Parade, complete with band – really great, but the guides had to shout above the music! The public can attend the later rehearsals but at a cost.

We boarded our flight in the new, unique and innovative British Airways i-360 Observation Tower ( the world’s largest moving observation tower) in a circular glass pod, rising slowly to 450 ft in the air. The weather treated us well during our flight, and we could see long distances in all directions – at the horizon, a bit hazy, with a little imagination, the the Isle of Wight was just there — but Worthing pier ( to the west), Seven Sisters (east), Devil’s Dyke (north) and the off-shore wind farm (south) were all clear . Everything looks different from that that height and viewpoint. Still all very recognisable, such as the elegant well-designed, well-maintained blocks of Regency houses in white glory in Hove. We could see also the various sea front attractions, restaurants, and the more well known Brighton attractions such as the Royal Pavilion. All too soon, our ‘time at the top’ finished and we landed safely, thanked the captain and left our flight to search for fish and chips bars and Brighton’s other land-locked attractions.

We appreciated that we were almost pioneering in organising and running a holiday before there was a roadmap and the uncertainties of social distancing continuing.

The break on our outbound journey was at the Crich Tram Museum – a collection of about 60 vintage trams – a wide variety from all over the world. Not only the opportunity to visit the extensive museum, but also to experience a nostalgic short journey with memories of changing the seat-backs at the terminus.

Our base for the week, the Cedar Court Hotel, an historic building evident in the dining and reception rooms, but tastefully modern bedrooms with all mod cons. Overlooking 200 acres of pristine Stray parkland. A three course evening dinner with choice, and the last night in the Green dining room was excellent.

Time set aside to explore Harrogate’s many attractions including Bettys famousTea Rooms. Its heritage as a fashionable spa resort continues in the Montpellier Quarter with the Royal Pump Room Museum. Nearby was the restored Moorish-style Turkish Baths and the Valley Gardens were all visited in this easy to walk fashionable town.

A walking tour of Saltire, a self-contained town built to serve a large woollen mill with 1200 looms, to house the workforce locally, educate their children, feed the workers, within a religious discipline. This very impressive UNESCO World Heritage site, was described in depth by our two very competent guides.

On the way to Pickering, the terminus of the North York Moors Railway, the weather was just right for viewing magnificent rolling Yorkshire hills and dales, plus the added bonus of taking the full coach up a steep 25% grade. At Pickering, we found a very crowded platform (contrasting with other attractions) waiting to greet the vintage steam engine. The 16 mile trip in the vintage carriages suited the rail enthusiasts. We left the train at Grosmont -a small backwater town, with access to the main road along a 6-mile narrow, winding and hilly road. On to our destination of Whitby, where we stopped at the Abbey for the views of the Ruins. Several hardy members made their way down to the fishing town, where the heavy rain prevented much exploration. More views on the return journey – the moors at their atmospheric, wet, best.

Harewood Hall turned out to be a surprising gem, with plenty of unique features (including Wedgewood pelmets) in the many rooms inside the Hall itself . Plus the varied aspects of the extensive gardens, a prime example of Capability Brown’s planning, with controlled views right to the horizon.

Arriving at York, we surprisingly found an empty coach park and fewer tourists than expected. The Minster was as magnificent as usual and the recent extension to the excavations of the Crypt and Undercroft were very impressive. Others found the Shambles, but none ventured to walking the walls.

Gardening experts had a (wet) treat at the RHS Gardens at Harlow Carr. Most sheltered in Betty’s tea room but just a small gap in the rain revealed the splendid tracks, display trees and plants to their advantage before the rain descended again.

The monotony of the return journey by motorway was relieved by a break at Nottingham for a short cruise on the river Trent -not the usual standing in an open windy boat, but a luxury inside seated emporium, with a generous cooked lunch served at your table, whist the boat cruised slowly in sunshine, viewing the luxury riverside flats and football stadiums.

Everything ran to schedule and we combatted the petrol shortage. Members thoroughly appreciated the wide range and variety of attractions visited, the entrancing conversation and companionship of other Probians It was agreed that it was the Probians who made the holiday so successful.

Coffee and biscuits followed in the Jaguar visitor Centre, with time to admire the latest Jaguar electric cars, and have an introductory talk from our two guides.

A pleasantly swift and traffic-jam free coach journey got us to the MacDonalds and KFC round the back of JLR in good time for a lunch break. Coffee and biscuits followed in the Jaguar visitor Centre, with time to admire the latest Jaguar electric cars, and have an introductory talk from our two guides.

That was followed by a detailed tour of the F Type sports car production line. The highlight must be the “cell” of around ten massive robots assembling and riveting together a jigsaw puzzle of components to make the car’s chassis. The way they each collected the pieces for their section of chassis, changed their “hands” for riveting guns, then back to hands to pass the assembly on to an adjacent robot to do its bit. All perfectly synchronised and in perfect harmony, until a complete chassis was handed down the line.

The cars are made from Swiss aluminium – so presumably “Brexit” is irrelevant on that score. Might even result in lower prices if we can drop the EU tariffs. Switzerland is not in the EU.

The West Bromwich site was a major Spitfire aircraft production site during WWII. As such it was a prime target for the German bombers. We were taken down to see an underground shelter set up, and used in earnest, as a hospital during the raids.

Then back to the Visitor Centre for more coffee, and chats with the guides, followed by another swift journey back to Pine Ridge Golf.

The tour was meticulously structured, planned, and executed – as you might expect from a military organisation.   The comprehensive Tour included maintenance and fabrication facilities, an overview lecture of history of the base and Inflight refuelling and a visit to a Boeing KC135 Stratotanker on the flight line. Each Tour stop had two or three extremely friendly and knowledgable specialised staff to inform us, and time was closely monitored.  The maintenance and fabrication facilities were extremely impressive in size, scope and function, with state of the art testing and manufacturing equipment galore – even to a large Faraday cage. These guys hardly needed to refer back to Boeing – they could make most replacement parts of the aircraft themselves.

On the KC135 Stratotanker on the tarmac, we were able to enter the cockpit and also lie on the horizontal refuelling boom operators position in the tail,  –  trying to visualise 900 gallons per min flowing out from the tanker to the receiving aircraft just 35 feet below. There was a final bonus –an unusually high  level of flying activity whilst we were on the tarmac, so, at close quarters,  we saw Osprey helicopters practicing abseiling , a C17 Globemaster transport       and two ear-shattering F 15 Fighters take of –worthy of the Farnborough Air Show. A terrific finale WOW. All of our party were left with an everlasting admiration for the airmen and role of the 100th Air Refuelling Wing.  Everybody got a souvenir of the visit.

We started from an end-of-the road, very quiet backwater on the Kennet and Avon Canal, known as Kintbury .  The silence was deafening.–– The canal and towpath had very little traffic and there were not even any cattle or sheep in the field – only the Probians chatting spoiled the illusion.

We went back to what canal life was like in a previous century – a real education.  Nowadays, there is the engine, someone on the rudder and maybe one other crew.  But for the horse-drawn boat of yesterday – no engine noise, but forward movement by courtesy of the horse, was controlled by the HORSEMAN.  But Drummer2, our horse, had a habit of stopping to chew at his favourite bush, so the HORSEMAN had to keep Drummer moving– because if the horse stopped, the inertia of the boat meant it would overtake the horse. Then TOWROPE MAN’s job was to lift the towrope up and over, as we came to any boats moored at the Canal bank. Then the seamen amongst you will know that if a boat is pulled by a towrope, the laws of mechanics means that it would just scrape along the bank –so TILLER MAN’s role was to steer the boat to the centre of the Canal. Then there was the CAPTAIN, who served the generous wine (by courtesy of the Club) by walking along the roof, because Probians filled the inside of the boat. And madam COOK served the generous Ploughmans lunch. So a high ratio of Crew to Passengers –reminder that commercial transport was very manpower intensive in the old days.

Very relaxing – time to enjoy the wine and food, to  talk,  and to admire the beautiful scenery, to enjoy the wine, even time to jump off the boat, and walk uncertainly  alongside to the next lock and jump back on.  The sun hardly showed,  but the rain (almost) kept off.   An excellent enjoyable and relaxing day. Well organised by John Clark.

We then had time to look around the exhibits in the Centre. These included full scale, fully detailed replicas of a Spitfire and a Hurricane flying above a hall full of interesting items, from an air raid siren to a Merlin engine, an explanation of the new Radar system, and many other exhibits. The corridor leading into the main part of the hall was lined with graphics detailing the development of aerial warfare from airships to the Spitfire and beyond.

We were then led on a tour of the Command Centre itself. An inconspicuous grey concrete entrance went down into the earth to a series of rooms, 60 feet under a massive concrete slab designed to withstand a direct hit by the most powerful bombs then in existence.

From this room all the aerial combat in the South Eastern sector of England was directed against the invading Nazi bombers and fighters. The central plotting table, with its map of the South East and the Channel and the markers showing the positions of all the aircraft was laid out as it was on a day during the Battle of Britain in 1940. On the wall behind the was the system of lights showing the state of each squadron at the time – squadrons on the ground, refuelling, on standby, in the air and so on. We sat in the seats occupied by the personnel taking phoned-in information from observers and radar stations and passing it on to the women moving the markers on the table. The overall commander sitting in an office overlooking the hall could, at a glance, assess the situation of planes on the ground and in the air, and act accordingly.

Our very good guide took us through a typical day of combat in a most interesting and informative way.

The Park Hotel was conveniently located for self-organise activities, on the very edge of the quiet lake (a renowned international Rowing centre with an Olympic Course marked out and frequent regattas, and no motor boats allowed) . The hotel had good food with a smattering of local dishes which required guesswork to identify the contents . There were fascinating excursions to suit all interests – those interested in equinine breeding and shows loved the white Lipica horses both in the stables and strutting in the showplace.

Most travellers were not afraid to try a miniature train ride  inside the largest caves in Europe – the Postojanana Caves  – the train  was followed by walking several kilometres of splendid Stagmites, tites and other colourful formations.  The historic buildings of Ljubljana   were full of interest,  and there was the optional  Mt Vogel  trip including  a cablecar trip  – but unfortunately, the clouds covered the top cablecar station..  We had an excellent local guide – maybe the very best.  All the newcomers merged in, socialised and communicated, especially at the lighthearted Last Night Rowing Regatta.  The holiday was enjoyed by all, due to the real essence of friendship and fellowship, helping one another.     Feedback suggested it was amongst the best Probus holidays.

We were given an introduction to the history of aviation at Farborough, starting with the move of the Aldershot Ballon Factory to Farnborough Common in 1905. This led to experiments with heavier than air machines,  and Samuel Cody’s flight in British Army Aeroplane 1A in 1908, being the first sustained and controlled flight in a British designed and built powered aeroplane. Volunteers have built a full size replica of Cody’s plane, which we were able to inspect close up. From those pioneering days the Royal Aircraft Establishment, as it was named after the 1914/18 war, has been at the forefront of research and development into aircraft design and building.The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts showing these developments, from high altitude flying suits, a Baker Martin ejector seat, aerial reconnaissance equipment, carbon fibre components, and even one of Frank Whittle’s developmental jet engines. Whittle of course is well known as the inventor of the jet engines that power all major commercial and military aeroplanes today.

Our guide, one of the volunteers who look after the museum, took us around the collection, highlighting a few of the many aeronautical inventions and developments made by people working at Farnborough. Outside is selection of relatively modern military aircraft. It was possible to sit in the seat of a Harrier jump jet, and a Puma helicopter. Both with full instrumentation in place. The Harrier even had a formidable looking bomb ready to be loaded.

Following that we had an excellent buffett lunch before proceeding to the two wind tunnels which have been preserved for the museum.

First was the 4 x 3 foot wind tunnel. This is a beautifully constructed timber structure, made in 1946, and capable of producing a “clean” airflow at speeds up to some 160 mph. This had been used to test scale models of supersonic aircraft, and to calibrate equipment.

Next was the gigantic 24 foot wind tunnel, used to test full sized aircraft and components such as wings. It has also been used to test racing cars prior to going on the track. We were able to walk the full length of the tunnel, from the 30 foot fan, producing wind up to 125 mph, through the vast concrete vanes directing the air round the doughnut shaped tunnel, and out at the test section, where the test subjects are mounted.

The visit was full of interest and thanks must go to the volunteers who saved the site, and who created the museum and look after it now.

Stourhead Gardens were set out by Henry the Magnificent in the early eighteenth century when he and a team of fifty gardeners planted and tended beech , oak , sycamore, ash and holm oak along with a variety of rhododendrons and camellias . The centre piece of the gardens is the lake , achieved by damming the River Stour. The lake is surrounded by some magnificent buildings , the most spectacular are the Temple of Flora, The Pantheon and the Grotto.

The Palladian designed house is the home of the merchant bankers , the Hoare’s . The magnificent house is adorned with many splendid paintings and many examples of furniture made by Chippendale. The time passed very quickly , with so many things to see.

We then retraced our way back to Stonehenge. This is perhaps the most famous prehistoric site in Europe. There is evidence of Mesolithic Posts on the site going back to 8500 – 7000 BC. The first Stonehenge was built around 3000 BC. The stones were raised in the centre of an enclosed ring approximately 2500 BC. The site has been at the centre of British history with evidence of Bronze age carving (1750 – 1500 BC ) and with the Romans being in the region in AD 43.

The whole site has been greatly improved with the new visitor centre, with frequent buses from the centre to the stones.

This ancient woollen town still has its original Medieval timber framed buildings, dating from around 1500. Over time the timber frames of many buildings have warped to the extent that one can only look and marvel that they are still standing. We stopped there to look around, and to have lunch in  one one or other of the buildings converted to cater for visitors. The interiors matched the exteriors for old world interest.

After lunch it was onward to our hotel, just South of Norwich. Dunston Hall Hotel is is a grade II listed building, set in its own golf course. It was built in 1859 in the Elizabethan style, restored and converted to a 4 star hotel in latter years.

Next day was a full day in Norwich. A guided walking tour of the town centre was followed by time to wander at will. The combination of old and new buildings, spanning 1000 years, offered a fascinating variety of places to visit, from the two historic  cathedrals  to the futuristic but graceful “Forum” building, the castle, and the country’s largest six day open air semi-permanent market. Many of our group went on to visit the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, whilst other opted to remain in Norwich. Then back to Dunston Hall for dinner.

Sandringham, the Queen’s Norfolk home was the destination for the next day. After looking round the small museum of old cars and other interesing items, we ware able to wander round the ground floor rooms of the house. These were of course impressive, but also had a truly homely, lived-in feel . The surrounding gardens made for a very pleasant afternoon wander, mixing the quite formal with the picturesque informal. Lunch was available in the on-site restaurant, where we also gathered for an afternoon cream tea.

Following this quite restfull day, next day was a trip to Holkham Hall, with impressive interiors, and on to Thursford with its collection of steam driven engines and organs.

Friday involved a lot of restfull sitting around ! We began with a 45 minute ride on the Bure Valley narrow guage railway, pulled by a steam locomotive. This conveyed us to Wroxham, where our coach was waiting to take us the short distance to Wroxham Bridge. Here we joined a tour boat for a one and a half hour trip round the Broads, with an informative running commentary, returning to Wroxham Bridge to refuel ourselves and have a look around. We interupted our return to Dunstan Hall at an interesting little out of town shopping centre with a rural emphasis.

Saturday was home time. On the return journey we stopped at Oxburgh Hall. This large, late 15th century fortified and moated house became an stronghold of the Roman Catholic church after the Reformation.  Like any self respecting RC house following the Reformation there is a priest hole. Unlike in other houses, visitors are free to enter. Some of our group (one at a time!) lowered themselves down the narrow, angled entrance to find quite a roomy niche hidden in the walls of the house. Exiting did require a little forethought and agility!

Altogether another action packed Probus holiday, carefully crafted to be interesting, but never too tireing. Many thanks to the Outings team.

So we had to “talk among ourselves” for 10 minutes before being allowed in for a coffee and a day exploring. The highlights were the new Treetop Walk, and the “Hive”.

The Walk was reached by spiral stairs, or by a lift, up high among the treetops, with good views across the Gardens. A very substantial, safe and easy walk high off the ground was a novel experience.

The Hive was a representation of a bee hive, made of aluminium struts bolted together to form a truly immense “hive”. From a distance the external struts were arranged to look like a swarm of bees around their hive. Walking around inside the hive one could hear the sound of bees going about their business in a nearby real hive, and a recording of two queen bees fighting for territory.

The view across the pond towards the Palm House and the colourful flower beds in front was as photogenic as ever. The Princess of Wales Conservatory is always noteworthy, with its different climatic zones. At the other end of the gardens, the freshly restored Japanese Gateway and garden was on view. The Pagoda, however, was shrouded in scaffolding for restoration work. Likewise the Temperate Glass House. Several of our group visited Kew Palace, with its many points of interest.

For the weary of foot the hop on – hop off “Discovery Bus” made light work of the tour, whilst the several restaurants served the inner man/woman.

Over the centuries it fell into disrepair, until it was taken over by the Courtalds in the early 20th century. They restored the Great Hall and built a mansion as a kind of “annex”. The interiors of the mansion  were decorated and furnished in beatiful Art Deco style, e.g. the solid onyx bath and gold leaf tiles of one bathroom. Outside, the gardens were landscaped with rose gardens, and small lakes backed by enormous rock gardens. The high location of the Palace, combined with good weather in the morning  meant that the views over Docklands and the towers of central London were spectacular.

Our coach then dropped us off in Greenwich Park, At the Observatory we examined the Greenwich Meridian, found good places for lunch, and had a look at some of the Royal Naval College buildings, then gathered beside the Cutty Sark ready to embark on a river trip up to Westminster Bridge. At Westminster our coach picked us up and brought us home again.

Next day some perverted, bloodthirsty Soldier of Satan drove a vehicle accross Westminster Bridge and into people on the bridge, before attempting to enter the Houses of Parliament with knives. We had had an interesting day, but were happy to have missed that event.

Onto the fascinating St Augustine’s church with its unique separate wooden bell tower, fascinating box pews, 13th cent Lead font and some walls leaning outwards!!  Then. losing altitude, we wound up at sea level, to marvel at Europe’s only desert – Romney Marsh  –  much larger and longer than first view, and saw the stony and harsh environs with scarce foliage, the abandoned fishing boats and the few isolated private properties. We drove all the way to the end of the desert, to the three lighthouses and the  infamous Dungeness Power station – a great hulk on the skyline – but also the very welcome fish and chips lunch at the famous Pilot Inn, just a stones throw from the beach, and very popular.  Then the thrill of the Romney Hythe and Dymnchurch railway – with the wind in our hair. and  ignoring health and safety for 30 mins.  Finished the day at Hythe – a sleepy retirement town, with an old narrow high street where shops close at 4 o’clock every day.    So, unique geography and buildings, a desert, and a scarry train ride – a very enjoyable day  – thanks to Steve Duckworth.

Amberley Working Museum is an extensive 36-acre open-air museum, dedicated to the industrial heritage of South East England and with a special interest in aspects of the history of communications and transport, and disappearing manual trades and skills.

The site for the museum turned out to be a former chalk quarry where the chalk was converted into lime for use in mortar and cement, so there are several kilns remaining, with associated buildings – offices, cement bagging shed and locomotive shed.  Also within the site, is the quarry tunnel (which appeared in the James Bond film A View to a Kill).

Rail enthusiasts were well-catered for, with the Amberley Museum Railway (narrow gauge), and the railway exhibition hall devoted to British industrial narrow gauge railways. There were 45 locomotives, (steam powered, internal combustion and battery electric), and around 80 items of rolling stock.

Visitors remembered the Southdown Coaches services– recalled by a 1920’s garage with 8 coaches.

The numerous exhibits and collections, mainly rescued from towns across the region, included an Earth telecommunications exhibition, an Energy Electricity Hall. Vintage Wireless and Communications exhibition, an Amateur radio station, and Rural telephone exchange. There were a range of workshops recalling disappearing skills – Wheelwright’s Shop, Machine Shop, Ironmonger’s shop, a metal foundry, Timber yard and Steam crane.

Fascinating rare and dying craft skills were on display – woodturning, broom-making, walking stick-making,  caning, the blacksmith and stained glass maker – but none of the group decided to take up a new hobby.

Such a wide range of exhibits to interest visitors (many exhibits being retired after being used locally), that some visitors could have stayed longer.

A Brochure to the site helped everyone find their way around – even to the James Bond film set. Although much of the content appeared to be masculine-biased, it included many everyday subjects, so everyone, including Ladies, appeared to have enjoyed themselves, despite the catering service becoming overloaded.

Enterprising Members found many attractions, within reasonable walking distance of being dropped at the London Eye – including the exhibitions at the Imperial War museum, and more locally – National Portrait Gallery, Royal Festival Hall, Tate Modern and The National Theatre.  Others immediately aimed for favourite museums or first visits elsewhere, or wandered down the Queens Walk riverside trail. Lunch by the Thames was a favourite choice.

Although the London Eye, the National Film Theatre, the I-Max Theatre, The London Dungeon, the Sea Life London Aquarium, and Thames River Trips down to Greenwich were local to the South Bank, they seemed to be full with foreign visitors and there were comments that popular London attractions are now overpriced for pensioners.

Everyone could follow their own preferences and hence another very enjoyable day in London.

Maps helped participants find their way between the two main attractions and other points of interest, and a good outbound journey provided more time to wander.

We had four different guides for our tours of the world-famous Bodleian Library, each with slightly different, but valid, slant on the history and the building, and feedback was good on all four. The Bodleian is the main research library of the University of Oxford, is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and with over 11 million items, and in Britain is second only to the British Library. It is one of six libraries where all works published in the United Kingdom have to be deposited. The Bodleian operates principally as a reference library and in general, documents may not be removed from the reading rooms (and in the early years it was even a Chained Library!! so that readers could not remove books).

The Library tour started at the Divinity School, completed in 1488 for teaching theology. With it’s elaborately vaulted ceiling and 455 carved bosses, it is a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture. We continued inside the 17th century Convocation House, where Parliament was held in the Civil War, and looked inside the Chancellor’s Court room.

Next was Duke Humfrey’s medieval library, still in use today, where generations of famous scholars have studied through the ages – including five kings, 40 Nobel Prize winners, 25 British Prime Ministers and writers such as Oscar Wilde, C S Lewis and J R R Tolkien.  Guides used microphone and individual headsets in the Library, to avoid disturbing readers/scholars.

The Guides described the fascinating architectures, resulting from the University’s creation in the Middle Ages, and its development over the centuries. If you thought that Libraries were boring – well this one certainly was not.

The Ashmolean Museum was the second attraction- the world’s first university museum. Its first building was erected in 1678–1683 to house the cabinet of curiosities that Elias Ashmole gave to the University in 1677. In 2001, the Sackler Library opened, incorporating the older library collections of the Ashmolean – an expansion of the book collection, which concentrates on classical civilization, archaeology and art history.

Modern expansions including large well-lit open atriums(2006 to 2009), now contain the new galleries of Ancient Egypt and Nubia, and the restored Ruskin Gallery, houses the Chinese Picture Gallery – the only gallery in Britain devoted to Chinese paintings.

Many thought the Ashmolean was bright, airy, excellent descriptions to accompany the exhibits and a good example of how museums should be, and offered something for everyone.

Walking around, between the attractions, there were plenty of pleasant local restaurants, the colleges, the statue of Cecil Rhodes, the indoor market, local bookshops, and many other well-known buildings and famous views, including the Bridge if Sighs.  Oxford, as ever, provided not only the two named attractions, but a thoroughly enjoyable visit.

Starting at Southampton, we got to know each deck of the boat well before lunch. At lunch, the scenery did not move very much (the battery for one of the engines failed, and no replacement available), so we were able to appreciate the delicious lunch without the distraction of attractions moving past outside.  Following lunch, we transferred to another boat, and went out into the estuary, in calm(ish) waters .. There, we saw the huge car transporter boats and the even larger P&O cruise ships Brittania (3,500 passengers)  and AZURE (3,000 passengers), before heading east to the Southampton Water  -passing ferries, ribs, canoes  and sailing boats en-route to the River Hamble.  A great feast – the river seemed to be home to the majority of small yachts in the UK.  Berthed, in the basins, moored in neat lines, and going on forever – 99.9% of them were just moored, not out sailing, despite the excellent sunshine, except for 1 huge racing trimaran.  And we had an extra treat   the Red Arrows air display over the Southampton Boat show was clearly visible in the clear blue skies. Super Day.

The West Dean Gardens were established almost 400 years ago, and comprise a huge area with a variety of different horticultural attractions. Members explored the  2½ acre Walled Kitchen Garden (neat rows of vegetables, intricate vines and colourful borders), and were impressed by the 300 ft long Edwardian Pergola (covered in climbing roses, Clematis and Honeysuckle and one of the longest in the country). The most popular areas were the Victorian Glasshouses (one of the few still in use, was built between 1891 and 100, brimming with flowers, fruits, vegs, grapes and exotic plants) and the exquisite Sunken Garden (winner of the Sussex Heritages Trusts Garden and Landscape award 2014). The walkers in the party reached the Spring Gardens (passing the flintwork bridge, and the almost-empty River Levant). Those who could wait, lunched in the award-winning restaurant with excellent food.

Goodwood House

After lunch, we drove the very short distance to Goodwood House.  Our group were greeted at the door, and split for 3 guided tours of the seat of the Dukes of Richmond’s property.  Built circa 1600, it was acquired by Charles Lennox, 1st Duke of Richmond in 1697 by which time, there was a main entrance block and two wings, placed back at an angle from the main block: we were informed these were just the first three sides of what was planned as an octagon of eight blocks for an immense building (but lacked the funds).  The Regency State Appartments house some astonishing portraits of Kings and Queens, Dukes and courtiers of England, resulting from the origins of the family as descendants of King Charles II, together with treasures including celebrated paintings by the horse artist George Stubbs and Canaletto’s stunning views of the city of London, an extensive Svres porcelain service and French tapestries. All housed in tastefully decorated rooms – Dining, Drawing, Yellow, Egyptian and others. After the tour, we relished a cream tea served in the magnificent Ballroom. Overall, a very impressive House and contents. Opportunities to visit the House are limited because it is used extensively for corporate hospitality for numerous horse racing, motor racing, golf and other events (but since these partially fund the restoration and upkeep and the 650 permanent staff associated with these), we were pleased to participate in any viewing.

Plan B featured delaying our reservation on the Lee Valley Railway, an impromptu Al Fresco lunch, and arranging a local coach to get us to LLangollen. Once there, we joined the vintage engine and carriages to trundle gracefully along, following the course of the river, viewing fields of sheep and cattle, through a tunnel, and multiple bridges over the river.  The return stopped at stations Berwyn, Carrog,  Coren and and Glynyfrdwee. A treat for the railway enthusiasts amongst us.

A good night’s sleep at the Mercure Hotel, revived us for Chester, only a stones throw away. A tour of the towns historic hotspots by (replaced) coach with guide Mary Ann Cameron, was supplemented by a walking tour with Mary or Gerry Tighe, which together, completed an excellent exposition of the history of Chester.  with explanations of the 3 layers of Roman ampitheatres (built one on top of the other), the history of the development of the Rows – the historic shops (also built one on top of the other), and examples of ghosts in the town –almost every shop and building seemed to have a tale of some form of voices, apparition, visitation or manifestation. During free time in Chester, Members listened to the town crier, visited the cathedral for a light lunch (or even starred in the Korean veterans celebration).

The only entrance/exit to the Museum was up a steep spiral staircase with rope handle, but that did not deter the majority of our party. The fascinating lecture relating to surgery in Victorian era, took place in the original style Theatre (featuring a large skylight to maximise natural light available).  Our party gathered in tiers around an old short wooden operating table, with a box of straw underneath to catch the blood. The speaker had everyone’s full attention and we absorbed much information about medicine and operations in Victorian times, and also, by means of a mock amputation, the ancient operating tools and techniques. Techniques used to aid surgery included tourniquets, blindfolding the patient, use of Drugs, (including alcohol or opium), and speed of surgery (90 seconds for an amputation – cutting plus sawing).  The explanations for the disastrous low probability of surviving operations and amputations, lay in  the conditions – lack of sterilisation and anaesthetics (only discovered much later). Most patients died from blood loss, trauma, and blood poisoning.

Extremely interesting, and we were thankful that we did not live in that era.

Our party were all enthralled by the insight provided by Charles Henty (the Secondary and Under Sheriff of London) into the Central Criminal Courts of the Old Bailey, as we sat in seats in one of the courtrooms. His insight led us through not only the layout of the court, its entries and exits together with explanations of how these had developed over a couple of Centuries, to where technology aids but does not supplement experience and case history. The explanations were clear and concise and illustrated by a series of anecdotes, covering events which occur not only everyday, but also in unplanned situations – these were professionally presented with flowing movement around the court.so as to bring each example to life.  The examples and extracts from case histories were impressive.

No less impressive was the volume and scope of the building itself, both above and below ground, with its 18 Courts and 54 holding cells and associated complexity of daily operations of moving, holding and guarding prisoners. We saw the security of the cells in the basement for ourselves.

Most of our Members have, thankfully, not had close contact with criminal courts, and were blown away by the systems, processes and safeguards.  

An altogether very comprehensive and entertaining exposition, by an enthusiastic speaker, who filled us with confidence about the operation of the Old Bailey courts and the British judiciary system. We will now sleep more peacefully in our beds at night.  And we now have 30 Members who know what will happen if they have to appear at the Criminal Court.

A thoroughly enjoyable and informative day.

Built in 1783 by the architect John Carr for Francis Sykes, both Yorkshiremen.

Sold 50 years later, to the Liberal MP James Morrison and lived in by the Morrison family until the death of daughter Ellen in 1910, whereupon the house remained empty for over 40 years, until the 2nd Lord and Lady Iliffe bought it in ‘52. They lovingly restored this great 18th Cent Georgian mansion with skill and on a grand scale, to bring it back to its full glory. They scoured the country for, and salvaged, 18th century architectural fixtures and fittings. Lord and Lady Iliffe filled their comfortable new home with fine period furnishings and important Old Master paintings.  By contrast ‘below stairs’ the 1950’s kitchen and laundry, are utterly of their period, and provide memories of childhood for visitors.

Following an early coffee in the small tearoom, some of the party were fortunate to join a guided tour, which highlighted the many treasures in the house:

In the Sutherland Room, Graham Sutherland’s studies for the Coventry Cathedral tapestry ‘Christ in Glory’ (Sutherland and the Iliffes were close friends)

Portrait of Lady Iliffe by Frank O. Salisbury, in the Staircase Hall

Paintings of God the Father and his apostles by Pompeo Batoni in the Octagon Room, as well as 18th-century silk damask curtains from Blenheim Palace

A rare example of surviving 18th-century plasterwork in the Green Drawing Room

The house has featured in many TV and film productions, most notably Downton Abbey. The interiors of Basildon Park are used as the Crawley family’s London residence, Grantham House. In the season five finale, the elegant Georgian mansion was at the heart of Lady Rose and Atticus Aldridges’ wedding, all providing an insider’s guide to the filming of the show).

A quick lunch at Basildon Park, whilst sheltering from the showers, and then we reboarded the coach to move eastwards to Nuffield Place near Henley–on-Thames.

Originally built as a country retreat for a shipping magnate and bought in 1933 by Sir William Morris (who became Lord Nuffield shortly afterwards), the founder of Morris Motors and one of the richest men in the world. Despite his wealth, he chose to live in the same comfortable Oxfordshire house (close to his car-building factories in Oxford) for 30 years.

William Morris designed the Morris Oxford ‘Bullnose’ a century ago, and it entered mass production in 1913, making him millions, most of which he gave away.

A comfortable 30’s home, with its china displays, cocktail cabinet and radiogram, Nuffield Place is furnished in quiet good taste, and an evocative reflection of a man whose modest home life was In complete contrast to his wealth and public persona. It is as though its owners have just stepped into their much-loved garden: there are framed photographs, letters and smoking paraphernalia everywhere. An unpretentious style of living. So Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia must have been startled when, in 1954, he dined at Nuffield Place. Lady Nuffield had laid the table and the food, brought from the local golf club and warmed up, was taken into the dining room by Lady Nuffield herself.

But the true nature of the man, is revealed in Lord Nuffield’s bedroom. The beige carpet, like that used in his cars, is made from offcuts.

We were fortunate to experience a tour of the gardens by the head gardener, who is endeavouring to regenerate the original gardens, which had been ill-maintained by the College after William Morris’s death. Based mainly on photos, he is trying to expose lost ponds and repair collapsed stone walls. A heavy shower brought our visit to a close.

Robert Windslade brought us back, via unfamiliar country roads, to complete a well-organised and very enjoyable day viewing two contrasting properties.

Although not strictly an “Outing” this is one of the regular social events of the year, where we invite our Ladies, plus the Presidents of the other local Probus clubs and their ladies (or Husband in the case of the Ladies Probus President).

Our President, Stuart Holmes, welcomed the Guests, and Thora Ray, the Ladies club president responded on behalf of the Guests.

Pine Ridge Golf Club provided the venue and excellent food, and a very pleasant social evening was enjoyed by all.

The airport was a very busy one for its size, with frequent landings and take-offs, which did not intrude on our delicious Brunch – very welcome by this time (so good, we even suggested that the next Probus lunch should follow the Brunch format).

Then a short hop to the northern terminal of the Emirates Cable car near the Excel Centre in the Royal Docks, where we boarded cabins to ‘fly’ high over the Thames to the O2 dome. Excellent views both up and down the Thames, as far as the Thames Barrier, Greenwich, all of Canary Wharf and as far as the London Eye – the level of detail which could be seen from such a vantage was excellent (despite the light rain which had arrived earlier than forecast). The flight was smooth, the winds being fairly light, with only small bumps as our pulleys went over each pylon, and a smooth steep approach and landing.

Once returned to Terra Firma, we commenced a coach tour of London Hotspots’ – this being very a comprehensive coverage of those areas of the Capital which had recently been in the news, or recently been redeveloped, but also highlighting those landmarks which have been preserved or under threat. So we covered Greenwich Museums and historic Palaces , Cutty Sark, the Gherkin, the Walkie Talkie, The Cheese grater, the Shard, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, Thames Street, the Embankment, the boundaries of the City, Big Ben, Palace of Westminster, Parliament Square, Whitehall, 10 Downing Street, Admiralty Arch, the Mall (special License for our coach), Buckingham Palace, Wellington Arch, Duke of Wellington, Apsley House, Piccadilly, Trafalgar Square, Strand. Fleet Street and St Pauls. To many of us, that included many, many streets that we had never travelled before.

After a very short break, return to the cable car, for our second ‘flight’ in the dark, to view the myriad of colours , as we soared to the heights again – especially the red lights on the other cable cars coming towards us. What an experience!

Our thanks to Victoria for an excellent faultless commentary, recalling so many evocative names and explanations of the results of political decisions: to Adam for tireless negotiation of all manner of London streets and complex junctions: and to Steve Duckworth for organising such an exciting and thoroughly enjoyable outing.

It was easy to see why the show has been running successfully for 6 years in London – it had everything – a great storyline of Maggie Thatcher, the mining community, the impact of the miner’s strike, and the clashes between the police and miners.  Overlay that with elements of youngsters aspirations and  family disagreements.  Although difficult at first to understand the northern vernacular, and ignoring the swearing, it became familiar by the second half.  There was skilful and intricate dancing at all levels, and a large chorus, with complex interlacing of dance groups. The singing was forceful and reflected the setting. The props and scenery were ingenious, providing many variations, and quick transformations such that, even when the miners went back to work after the strike, the group of miners with their miners lamps shining into the audience, sunk slowly down the mine shaft, whilst singing, in the dark. Excellent theatrics and a thoroughly enjoyable show.

We started at the News room and saw the familiar News presentation cubicle, and the hoard of people tracking news items, but also learned about the different sources of news which range from the BBCs own reporters (UK and abroad and satellite links), down to the modern public communications channels, such as Twitter, where certain categories of breaking news actually occur, and the need to verify the source, before using it.  Onto the mock-up News room, where 3 of our Members had the opportunity to read the News using the auto-cue and video interrupts, and present the Weather forecast – fascinating – but I think our Members need a bit more practice before standing in as replacements for real newsreaders.

Onto the ONE Show studio– extremely small, compared to how it comes across when viewing, and the opportunity to sit on the Guests Settee. A quick look at the ‘Shows theatre’ – revealing some of its original Art-deco fittings, and where many radio shows go out live or are recorded – and learning how the proximity of the studio to the Underground line, meant the noise found its way onto recordings.. Back to the radio side and an opportunity to for several Members  to participate in a short radio play, and view the secrets of sound-effects – fun all round

Agreed by all participants as a very enjoyable and educational day, well organised by Steve Duckworth.

Then we boarded our boat at Runnymede, motored downstream and all was quiet until the Queens Swan Marker (that’s David Barber) and the Swan Uppers of the Worshipful Companies of the Vintners and Dyers finished their extended liquid lunch and resumed the swan upping.   Swan Upping is the traditional process of marking the Queens Property (the Swans living on certain parts of the Thames from Runnymede to Oxford) to discourage the peasants from catching and eating them.  The Swan Uppers, in traditional rowed wooden skiffs which is less distressing to the swans than metal boats and engines, spot those swan pairs with cygnets, encircle and corral the swans and cygnets. Following capture, the swans are kept at bay whilst cygnets are measured, weighed and marked and then all the family are returned to the water.

We were very privileged to witness this unique 12th century tradition, being a very colourful, scarlet—costumed, annual event, and we were the only public boat following the flotilla – a fantastic display of colourful flags and uniforms of the Royal, Vintners and Weavers skiffs and crews. Our double-decker boat provided us with excellent close views of the traditional way of handling the dangerous swans and quieting them. Our Captain skilfully manoeuvred our boat to not only follow the flotilla, but also join them close-up in the locks going upstream, and even got us ahead of the game, such that we had close-ups of the players as they overtook us, in search of cygnets. The sun was out for most of our trip, so what a wonderful combination of traditional Pageantry, Colours and Action all reflected in the slow-moving Thames.in the sun. All we missed was the Queens presence – but by the time we got to Windsor, she was probably safe inside the castle, taking afternoon tea.

The Daily Telegraph thought it was excellent too, and a report of the action appeared in Tuesdays paper, with very similar photos to those which we ourselves had taken and it was also featured on the TV News in the evening.

A very unique, enjoyable and successful outing, with plenty of colourful photos to show grandchildren of ‘’the day when we chased the Swans ’.

Ten years later in June 1936, Air Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding (“Stuffy” as he was known) arrived for his first day as commander-in-chief of Bentley Priory – which became the headquarters of RAF Fighter Command – the nerve centre of operations during the battle for national survival that raged in the air between July and October 1940. So four years after taking command, amid the noise of air sirens, he would “stand there, eyes raw with tiredness watching the Battle of Britain unfold in the skies above him”.

By the start of that summer 1940, Hitler had conquered Europe and set his sights on Britain. The Luftwaffe numbered some 2,800 aircraft, and Nazi commanders estimated that victory over the Royal Air Force would take a matter of days. But Dowding and his men had other ideas. Bentley Priory was covered in green and brown camouflage paint and surrounded with sandbags, whilst inside, all its great rooms filled with desks, maps and Bakelite telephones. Spitfires and Hurricanes of Fighter Command were co-ordinated from here in dogfights across Britain. Stuffy, who had devised the Dowding System, an integrated defence of radar, raid plotting and radio communication, would often work for 48 hours at a time.

In 2007 the building was sold by the Ministry of Defence to the Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust – a group of veterans who won permission to convert it into a museum and education centre.

Entering the newly renovated building, we were immediately faced by many new specially-commissioned beautiful etched and stained glass windows, wonderfully illustrating the various facets of the Battle of Britain, in a very airy setting.
As we continued, we saw that rest of the museum was finished to a similar very high standard seldom found in Museums, and that the exhibits were laid out in very sympathetic settings which re-created the heady days of the battle. A wonderful array of medals and memorabilia in the rotunda was counterbalanced by an excellent multi-media video of Stuffy Dowding’s time at the Priory.

We were privileged to be the only group present during the morning and all the staff were available to answer our many questions. The view of London from the patio was magnificent, amply illustrating the Priory’s dominant location, and it was so easy sitting there, to visualise the air battles above, as Stuffy did.

After lunch, we had 3 guides to help us around the extensively-stocked RAF Museum so many aircraft, in fact, that 2 of the 3 the guides worked their socks off to make sure that they covered every aspect of all planes in the 2 hours allowed, and lost a lot of us on the way. But even wandering on our own, the impressive collection basically spoke volumes for itself. A very enjoyable day.

Garden lovers had a field day with the variety of plants and trees in the extensive gardens and meadows (circa 30 acres). The rare plants had been collected from around the world by Ludwig Messel, the owner at that period during the late 19th Century, and formed into a stunning colourful garden for his family to wander around throughout the year. The Gothic-style house had been partially destroyed by fire in 1947, but the remaining rooms were furnished in a homely manner and the guides were very knowledgable of their use.

The short cross-country transfer to Standen was interrupted by closed roads, diversions, then careful navigation of the narrow, twisting drive leading to the Standen site.

Standen is a late Victorian House built by Philip Webb, when the Arts and Crafts movement was at its height, in the 1920’s. The house had a mixture of building styles and building techniques, but the interest was in the interior. It contained plentiful examples of Arts and Crafts wallpapers and textiles(some by William Morris), curtains and furniture. These were complemented by excellent special crafts demonstrations. In addition to the main rooms, there were many small rooms hidden away in unusual places. Again, the guides were enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The 12 acres of varied gardens – Quarry Gardens, South Garden Terrace and Top Terrace – included footpaths and forest walks on the hillside, which provided the gardeners with lots to absorb, and Mrs Beale’s gardens are now being restored to their original design.

The weather for the day, characteristic of the dull May, treated us well, with only one small shower (whilst Camberley suffered torrential rain and hailstones). The small shower did not deter from the interesting contents of two National Trust properties, both with extensive gardens and large Private houses, lived in by real families, of previous generations. Members expressed their enjoyment of the well-organised day.

We first noted the mountains when our plane flew level past the windows of houses and landed at the small Dubrovnik airport on the only level piece of land for miles. The Albatross hotel was only a short drive and we were soon checked in to this very smart, large modern hotel with good rooms, delicious buffet dinners and breakfasts.  Travellers were quick to explore the nearby coastal town of Cavtat within easy walking distance, a small lively harbour,  many small restaurants, bars and even an entertaining youth church festival on one day.

After a ‘free time’ day, our first excursion was to Montenegro – outside of the EU with corresponding customs and border delays. Passing first through the large city of Herceg Novi, our coach then followed the coast road round the four arms of the Bay of Kotor, noting the beautiful surrounding mountains and small villages. A stop at Perast, to board a small boat to reach the Church ‘Our Lady of the Rocks’, built on a small artificial island in the middle of the Bay. A fluent and efficient guide filled in the intriguing history for us.  Return to the coast road, and onto Kotor, a delightful walled city, whose walls extended from the sea-level moat, up the mountainside (1600 steps) and a history to envy. The town itself was a delight of historic civic buildings, churches and small restaurants in winding alleyways.  Everyone liked Kotor. A welcome stop on the return Journey, back in Croatia, was the wine-tasting at Konavle – a delightful environment, entertaining hosts, prosciuttio, cheese olives and bread to offset the wines, and not least, delicious wines made from local, almost unique, varieties of grape.

Our second excursion was to the living museum of 1000 year old Dubrovnik, where little has changed over the years. We learnt the history, whilst sheltering from the rain under umbrellas or taking refuge in churches, Franciscan monasteries, a pharmacy or other buildings; we noted the damage caused in the civil war – mostly now repaired.  Points of interest on our walking tour were Orlando’s Column, the large and small Onofrio’s fountains, and the Placa Stradun. Some hardy souls ventured up the steep steps to reach the city’s medieval wall walk with intriguing views over the sea of red rooftops. An alternative attraction was the cable car rising up the hill beside the town – super.

Next day, an hours ride by small boat from Dubrovnik’s harbour of Gruz, to two of the Elaphite Islands, Sipan and Lopud, each with very small communities. A walking excursion to a ‘fort’ church, was an insight to earlier times. A tasty (local) fish lunch with wine on board, was a perfect complement to the environment, the opportunity to see the rugged coastline and scattered villages from the boat, and the sun, which shone all day.  Delightful.

Overall, a pleasant and efficient hotel, experiencing varied cities and villages and architectures, different cuisine, different customs and traditions, and the company of fellow –Probians, resulted in a very enjoyable holiday.

Alan Boyd