Thankfully, our outing to Kew Gardens was on Thursday 06 August, as the following Thursday this location registered 38.1°C – whereas we had perfect weather.  No rain and a much lower temperature, but still warm enough to walk around the site in our light summer clothing.  Not that the British are fixated with the weather at all!

We enjoyed a good journey courtesy of Joseph driving our almost full Mervyn’s coach, this had proved to be a popular outing with very little need to advertise widely.  Obviously, we are unable to fill a coach from our membership, but thanks to family, friends and the wider community these outings have so far proved to be successful and viable. 

Once we had arrived, everyone dispersed around this amazing 300 acres of botanical gardens located in south-west London.  There is so much to see.  Many of our party decided to walk around this vast site and certainly made their step-count that day, others paid a fare to ride around the site on the mini-train.  There were vast glass houses to visit, tree top walks to venture up as well as opportunities to indulge in refreshments.  However, it seems that Kew Palace was a very popular destination. Whilst its origins date back to the 17^th Century it was for some years used by George III & Queen Charlotte and their many children.  It is now managed by an independent charity, Historic Royal Palaces.

Separate from the Palace is the 18^th Century kitchen block originally built to serve the original White House on the site, but which has survived practically untouched.  At least two of our members enjoyed a fascinating guided tour of this building. 

Thank you to Lynda Goldstone for organising another brilliant outing.

Unfortunately, due to the high temperatures we all endured again, we had to cancel our planned coffee morning this month, but the Book Group met on the 5^th August to discuss their latest selection.  This was To Love a Liar by L.V. Matthews.  Chris Fletcher, a police officer, has lived a double life having worked some years previously under cover.  Events have now caught up with him and his wife.  Our members enjoyed this thriller, but it really made us think about trust in relationships.  It did not disappoint.

No meeting this month, but there is a lot going on behind the scenes as we are preparing, once again, to serve refreshments at the Village Fete.  If you can help by baking a cake then this would be much appreciated, please bring along your offerings to the kitchen of the Village Hall from 9.30 a.m. on 5^th September.  It all helps.

Next month our meeting is on the 24 September and Tony Cross is our guest speaker on the History of Hampshire.  We welcome non-members and just ask for £5 entry fee to include refreshments.  Further information below.  

DIARY DATES: