Herne Hill and Redhill


As my trip starts ti move towards its final weeks, I continue to thoroughly appreciate the opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Last but not least of my family was Becky and her family in Herne Hill. We had a very restful time in the local area, enjoying a walk in a typical London park with  impressive views of the skyline of the city of  London in the distance, actually only a ten- minute train trip away. Once again, I enjoyed some canine company with a far bigger version of Meek, Bethan's dog. Gus was a real character and super soft and cuddly while I was with him, but smart and considerably slimmer after his visit to the groomer on the day I left!

While people queued for up to 30 hours to view the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, Becky and I decided to pay our respects and sign the Condolence Book at her local church. Apparently every church will keep their books and they will becomepart of local history.

Although living in an urban environment, Becky explained that they have a range of animal visitors to their garden, including foxes of course. They seem to be everywhere and I was thrilled a few days later to see one in my friend's garden, in the middle of the day!
Despite warnings that trains and public transport might be disrupted due to the number of travellers to London, all my trips went very smoothly. I have been so lucky!
How fantastic to see my schoolfriend Diana againg after so many years. I realise more and more how good friends can be separated physically, but quickly reunite easily no matter how many years later, taking up where we left off!
As in previous years Diana was good enough to ensure a two- day visit included as many places special to me as possible.
I haven't been along Ashtead High Street for decades. It hasn't changed much except fo the intriduction of M and S! 
Postboxes in the area were beautifully decorated. Di is a very keen Royal follower and so I was perhaps not so surprised, but nevertheless amused, by the decorative cushions on my bed.

Having bought some potted plants, our next stop was at Mum and Dad's grave in the beautiful churchyard of St. Giles. I love this churchyard, so tranquil and with such mature trees. I realise we were there more or less on the 20- year anniversary of Mum's death.

I can't go to St Giles without a quick peak into the grounds of City Freeman's. What a pity I didn't appreciate what a magnificent place the school was. 

The next day, after one of the most exciting rugby matches I have ever seen between NZ and Australia, Diana and I had a fabulous day in the Brockham area, where I lived for four years after marrying.
We started with a fantastic pub lunch at The Grumpy Mole. I love the pub names here. I had not been there before, but I will certainly go back. Great to see the adverts for meals on Bonfire night. What a great night that is at Brockham. They will start building the fire soon to ensure it will be 20-30 metres tall by 5 November.

The fire will be in the centre of the lovely village green, surrounded by picturesque houses, pubs and cottages.

No visit to Brockham can exclude a trip up Boxhill to look over this truly beautiful area of Surrey in the south of England. I have never seen such clear views. Itvwas very special to see Brockham church so clearly. 
My day was made perfect when a fox slowly walked across Di and Ian's drive as we drove in! What a marvelous two- day catch up with friends. Thanks Di and Ian.




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