Days 180, and 181.

Boy! Am I glad that toothache is (I hope) no more. I am convinced that the cocktail of amoxicillin, paracetamol and asprin conspired to make me feel a tad light- headed when I went walking on Tuesday. Nevertheless, looking back on the pictures I took that day, I felt that I had spent my time well. Here are a few more pictures taken on Tuesday (day 179)

The last time I was around here, was travelling back from Sheffield Victoria on the last day of passenger services between there and Manchester Piccadilly on 5th January 1970. The line remained open for the still substantial freight traffic until 1981. In 1960, I persuaded Mother, when we were travelling to London, that we should go via Sheffield Victoria, and thence to Kings Cross on the afternoon Sheffield Pullman. Hauled by E.E Type 4 diesel electric No. D207 (later 40007 which I would later become qualified to drive), this was my first journey on a Pullman. Afternoon Tea was the catering on offer, which Mother was disappointed with, in the belief that Pullman trains offered an all-day à la carte service. Perhaps they did at one time. I think the train consisted of five or six almost new Metrovic Pullmans, with a slab-sided traditional second class cars at each end. I digress!

Vivid colours despite the now dull weather. (Both photographs, *L.Barnes.*)

Details illustrated on tourist display board.

Day 180. Wednesday 23rd September.

After Tuesday’s exertions, I needed a more relaxed day, yesterday, Wednesday. I texted my weekly shopping order in the morning, and took delivery of everything I ordered in the afternoon. I still managed a brief walk during the day, around part of the “estate”. Like all other days, yesterday passed quickly and all too soon, overcome with heavy eyes, I “hit the hay” the right side of midnight.

Day 181

I have been using this abundance of time to myself in an effort to “put my house in order” – literally. The gift of a glass fronted cabinet enabled me to declutter the lounge. And now, before retiring for the evening, I routinely tidy up completely, downstairs so that I have a nice fresh start each morning when eventually, I come down for breakfast. Before lunch, I set off on what I intended to merely be a twenty minute walk. That twenty minutes passed quickly, so I decided on a two mile round trip, keeping to a built up itinerary. The Parks Inn beckoned, and it was lunchtime. I succumbed…and chicken Thai curry was delicious and served piping hot, as were the two cups of coffee which accompanied my lunch. I asked for the bill, which was presented to me more or less, straight away. “Where’s my wallet?” I asked myself as my hand went into an unexpectedly empty pocket! “Whoops! I am going to have to walk home…sorry about that”, I pleaded with the person who had brought my bill over. “No problem”, he agreed. Sure enough, I had not picked up my wallet when I went out; my bill was then settled within the hour. I look forward to trying out the Sunday carvery soon!

New lockdown regulations are making life very hard for those in the hospitality and entertainment industries. But at least, venues can stay open, but not after 10 pm. I remain confused about what restrictions are in force, compulsory or otherwise. But generally, I am staying away from anywhere it’s crowded.

As ever, thanks for reading. David, 21.57 Thursday 24th….just one week before The Crescent Hotel opens its doors. I can’t wait!