Politics and Padfields...

Well,

The last 2 days have fizzed by quickly - so better get started.

We headed in on the tube into London (raining heavily - but a pleasant change to the drought we've had back home!!). Arriving in the city (accompanied by Rotarians Myra, Tony, Norman) we were given a tour of the House of Commons by Alan.

Having the opportunity to walk through the House of Commons and Lords was fantastic, as we all listened to the highly detailed tour. Standing where Blair, Thatcher & co had stood before was amazing........

We headed off for lunch (nearby) before arriving at the Courts. Suhanya was definitely in her element here - as we undertook an in depth tour of the chambers and courts. Many facts were told - especially of the high profile court cases that had once been held (Spice Girls, Tom Cruise, Elton John etc). Unfortunately, we were unable to take photos - as a law had been passed in 1922 .......

Heading off to the Rotary Club of Chigwell, we presented again - to a packed house at the local pub - something about some Dickens fellow writing there....mean anything???? (just kidding!)

***** THE NEXT DAY *****

Again apologies for being behind in blogging........we're getting tired!!!!)

This morning we got up bright and early - ready to head to the Chigwell Riding Trust - which is a centre for people with disabilities to ride horseback and learn the art of riding etc. It was a fantastic place. We were greeted by Karen (who did a fantastic job presenting!) who gave us a tour of the site. Wandering around, we took photos from all angles, with Kira thoroughly enjoying the stables....apparently she likes horses (see pics!!!)

Lucky for us - we were able to ride a horse named Trigger.......ok....it was electronic - but Merv was still clinging on for dear life.....apparently he has a "bad back" and tried avoiding this one at all costs......yet through peer pressure......had a go - GO MERV!!!

After all of us riding the pretend horse....i mean Trigger....we were all in amazement as we watched a young gentleman (Simon - who was blind) canter around the field on horseback - which is something we found amazing!

After the riding trust we headed for Alan & Anne's place (where i knew we would be exceptionally well fed - as i'd stayed there the last few nights!!!). Anne (as always) had prepared an outstanding meal - we thought that there must be more of us coming with the amount of food on offer. The meal was delicious (and deserved to be photographed!!!!)

Alan, Tony & Brian then took a group of us to the "Padfield Farm" nearby, where we were able to see Dairy cattle being milked, Beef cattle (not doing a lot) and horses. We were also given a tour of the "Padfield residence" - where the house dated back to the 1850's - which we were all impressed by. Kira again found her calling - the dogs all loved her....and we are sure she loved them (see pics!!!!)

Another presentation (this time in front of the District Governor - which made Merv a bit nervous!) and another day concluded! Another outstanding couple of days in London - the weather has held up well and we're loving every minute of being here. Post again soon.....