FOR the final coach outing of the year, Shobrooke Friendly Club decided on an outing to Padstow.

Thirty six members and friends from Crediton set off from Shobrooke at 9.30am. Fortunately the weather was dry and warm.

Unfortunately two persons who had intended to go on the outing had to cancel. One because of a broken hip, and the other because of an injured arm.

Hopefully they will both make a speedy recovery. We look forward to seeing both of these persons on our coach outings next year.

Everyone seemed amazed at how the wind farm at Den Brook, near Bow, was progressing, although not producing any electricity yet.

A stop for coffee and a pasty or breakfast bap or whatever was made at Trethorne Leisure Park.

The rest of the journey was uneventful until we got to the roundabout at the start of the Wadebridge bypass on the A39, when a queue of traffic was encountered.

For approximately two miles we just crawled along. The problem being caused by roadworks just past the entrance to the Royal Cornwall Showground at White Cross. Once this had been cleared we sped on to Padstow, arriving just in time for lunch.

Of course, being Padstow, fish and chips I think were the order of the day for many. Some may even have been tempted to try Rick Stein’s establishment – which to me looked a bit pricey!

Some took leisurely strolls around the town and harbour or along the South West Coast Path to St George’s Well about three quarters of a mile from the harbour, passing the Town’s War Memorial on the way.

All too soon it was time to board the coach to return home, arriving back in Shobrooke at about 7pm.

The usual draw was held before leaving Padstow. Wesley Powell, the driver made the first draw, and the winner of a £10 voucher for the Red Lion was Margaret Gale. Rosa Hasler won a £5 Morrisons voucher and Sheila Metherell a £5 garden voucher.

It is hoped that enough interest can be generated to organise a trip to Tiverton Pantomime, which this year is Dick Whittington.

If anyone is interested please contact Margaret Gale on 01363 773282 or Eileen James on 01392 851218.

Further details of the date will be available if enough people show interest in going to see this.

The Annual General Meeting of the Club, followed by Bingo, will be held on October 19 at Shobrooke Village Hall, at 2.15pm.

Anyone over the age of 60 wishing to join the Club will be more than welcome. An interesting series of talks and activities has been arranged for next year, as well as the usual outings.

Again further information can be obtained from Margaret Gale or Eileen James numbers as above.

Norman Gale