Steam

Just look what my son spotted today on his way home from Uni.

Third

Today Rishi Sunak, MP will assume the office of British Prime Minister. No big deal perhaps unless it is remembered he will be our third to do so since September. Not only that, he is the youngest PM since the 1800's and our first Hindu.

Oh and he is famous for being a massive Star Wars fan.

Fond Farewell

Today I took my son to Prospect Park for a farewell visit to Carter's Steam Fair. Their touring days come to an end this Autumn.

Owner Joby Carter is currently seeking a buyer, who will offer the fair a permanent home. Berkshire based Carter's has been, with the exception of the Covid period, a constant touring attraction in the south of England for many years. Unfortunately the costs of  upkeep of the historic stock has meant continuing as a touring fair is now untenable. 

Thank you to a lovely local attraction; you'll be greatly missed.

Our BBC

This month the British Broadcasting Corporation, or BBC, or, The Beeb or indeed Auntie is celebrating 100 years. To mark this occasion the Royal Mint have issued a limited edition 50p coin, featuring a broadcast antenna, transmitting to the World. Although only released now, these  coins were struck a good few weeks ago, naturally then, they feature Her Majesty. These are still legal tender, in case there was any doubt. It may be a good few years before coins depicting the Queen are taken out of official circulation.

Anyway, here is my own limited edition Silver Proof version, with a maximum mintage of 3510. Enjoy the shiny LOL!

Boddi

Bit of a blast from the past, of my misspent younger years at least LOL. Cheers!

Moments

Last night's gig with Moments of Pleasure: the Music of Kate Bush. Awesome as always. The venue- now known as The Acoustic Lounge- used to Ocean's Nightclub, Bracknell back in the day. It's "nice" to see the 60/70's style moulded concrete ceiling still in evidence. Kind of takes me back LOL.

Great night out with the hits of Kate Bush.

Symonds Cider Press

What could be better after- what has turned out to be- a particularly pleasant and warm Autumn weekend Cheers? Cheers everyone!

Rest Now, Your Majesty

From today's Daily Mail.

1926-2022

A very long and sad day, especially the moment the symbols of Monarchy were removed from the coffin and Queen Elizabeth II entered into history. Watch on the BBC.

Uni Life

While the UK and Commonwealth countries have apparently come to a near stop to mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, it is worth remembering that day to day life continues. 

This coming week, although postponed by a day due to The Funeral, my son will start university. I'm so incredibly proud of everything he has achieved to date and the potential he has to do even greater things in the coming years. I've told him he has to succeed otherwise who will look after me and his mum in our old age? No pressure then LOL.

Standing Vigil

Her Majesty's four children have tonight completed their public standing vigil in Westminster Hall.

Polite Notice

Anti-monarchists: don't forget to inform your employer you won't be needing the Bank Holiday off for Her Majesty's funeral and that you prefer to work on Monday.

It's the right thing to do.