Hi Gang,

Our "Walk around Michael Heseltine's Gardens at Thenford, Northampton started a year ago to the day. Those of us "Quick enough to book tickets" (then put on an extra day for some of our membership who failed the first booking) had our visit cancelled due to flooding (the others went as planned).

So one year on, those of us who had had their tickets rebooked by the staff, turned up to see the snowdrops. The weather was expected to be worse, but during the night eased. Armed with gumboots, two hats and a brolly was going to make the most of it.

We met at the "Cafe Barn" and had the place to ourselves. Then three coaches loaded down with elderly wide ladies armed with walking sticks and multi coloured bright clothing and brollys invaded.

We made a prompt start as a group reaching the house for the only group photo. We were overcome by the first of the marching ladies. Along the paths we desperately found side paths to escape, each loosing other members of our party.

Apart from finding a few taking similar pics I never saw many again, apart from polite messages to say they were back at the cafe I explored the grounds until after 4pm finding a range of delightful features. Though only open 19 days in the year, clearly a visit during the Summer Months will be worth the effort.

Thanks again to Neil for organising it.

Bill

Photos credits to Bill