THE morning of Wednesday, July 19, started dry but dull when Shobrooke Friendly Club members and friends from Crediton and surrounding areas, 43 in total, set off for a day trip to Poole.

The weather stayed much the same until just after Honiton, when a light drizzle set in. This continued to get heavier and the visibility worse, until by the time Askerswell Downs was reached the visibility was really poor.

However, by the time Powells coach reached West Bay, where a stop was made for coffee, (some enjoyed a huge baguette), the drizzle had all but ceased, but it was still dull.

After about three quarters of an hour we were on our way again, arriving in Poole at about 12.45pm, just in time for lunch.

After lunch, some of the party, who were more of a seafaring bent, took one of the many boat trips available around Poole Harbour.

It was pleasing to see that those who went all came back safely, and had not been kidnapped by any Poole Pirates, which might have still been around.

Meanwhile, others took advantage of the chance to visit Poole Pottery, however there were no potters at work that day throwing pots. There were two artists at work, one lady taking great care to paint a model of a tiger’s head, and another lady deeply engrossed in painting an elaborate design onto a large jar.

Other members were quite content to wander along the quayside viewing the many boats and yachts moored there, some of them looking quite expensive.

I think that most of the group enjoyed the obligatory ice cream, and we left Poole at about 4.15pm.

A draw was held on the coach on the way home, Margaret Turner won a cushioned lap tray, Margaret Bye, two towels and Barbara Roberts an address book.

The weather by this time had improved considerably, and on the way home we had some good views of the sea and inland villages. We arrived home just before 7pm.

The Secretary, Eileen James, thanked everyone for supporting the outings, especially those from Crediton, without their attendance, the trips would not be viable.

Once again, many thanks to Wesley Powell, for getting us there and back safely.

Forthcoming Events: - On August 16 the Club is holding an afternoon of entertainment at Shobrooke Village Hall, commencing at 2.15pm, followed by afternoon tea. The entertainment will be by Brian Sandy, singer and guitarist. There will be a small charge of £2 per person, numbers of those wishing to attend would be appreciated.

Some of the ceramic poppies which were in the magnificent display at the Tower of London, are now touring parts of the UK, and will shortly be at The Hoe, Plymouth.

It has been suggested that the Club should run an additional short outing to view them. As a result, an additional outing is being arranged for September 5.

This will be coupled with a stop at Endsleigh Garden Centre on the way to Plymouth for lunch. Details of the coach fare have yet to be decided. Please note that the cost of lunch and entrance fees (if any), are not included in the coach fare.

On September 20, there is the usual Autumn Outing of the Club, this time to Clarks Village, at Street, and also to Wells.

If anyone is interested on going on any trips or attending any of the forthcoming events, or for further information, please contact either, Mrs Eileen James on 01392 851218, or Mrs Margaret Gale on 01363 773282.

Norman Gale