ST STITHIANS BOYS' PREP. TOUR TO THE UK ~ AUGUST 2003
7 August 2003 D Day!
Such excitement, but so many last minute things to do! The group plans to gather at Johannesburg International at 6.30pm and they are really looking forward to their tour -- in spite of the heat-wave!
Written by: Jenny Peddle
8 August 2003 Welcome to England!
I have not heard directly from Russell, but rumour has it that they all arrived safe and sound (albeit a little weary, after taking full advantage of the "on board" TV screens!) I have chatted to a few Mums already and if you have any snippets of information from your child, please give me a call on 031 7811930 and I'll enter it into the diary!
Written by: Jenny Peddle
9 August 2003 No news is good news!
They must really have a busy schedule – haven't heard a word in three days! Thanks to those parents who have contacted me to say that their children are having a lovely time – any details would be great! In the meantime, let me tell you a bit about the accompanying Casterbridge guide! His name is Marc Feron and he is in his late 40's. Although British by birth, he now lives in France and speaks fluent French ---makes me wish I were there! He is a practising artist and folk singer, in addition to having previously worked as an actor in Paris!
Written by: Jenny Peddle
10 August 2003 Breaking news!
Thanks so much to Mrs Kok for sharing snippets of conversations she has had with her son, Calvin. On Friday the boys apparently swam in the sea at Clovelly and yesterday they ran in a commemorative marathon at Stithian.They were all delighted with their keepsake --- a bright yellow tee-shirt with a big 50 emblazoned on it! Sunday was devoted entirely to the legend of King Arthur and the boys loved this! They started off at the alleged site of Camelot, moving on to Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur, which was apparently well worth the visit, in spite of having to climb "thousands of stairs!"
Written by: Jenny Peddle
11 August 2003 En route to Bristol
Mrs Kok spoke of the happy chatter of little voices in the background – something really heartwarming and reassuring for a parent to hear! Apparently the first port of call en route to Bristol was an ATM – seems like they all need to replenish their wallets! Also believe that the "weather is getting a little more British!" Holding thumbs that the heat wave is abating! Looking forward to hearing about their guided tour of SS Britain as well as their visit to the Maritime Heritage Centre, the Exploratorium and the Floating harbour. Should sleep well in their new hostel tonight!
Written by: Jenny Peddle
12 August 2003 Day trip to Bath
Nothing to report at first hand, but am told by Luci in the Casterbridge offices that they're having a great time!They were in Bath today and had plenty of free time this afternoon to explore and do some shopping!
Written by: Jenny Peddle
13 August 2003 King Arthur's country
was really hoping to have some exciting news to pass on about today, but no such luck! Wookey Hole sounds such a fascinating place and I'm sure the boys loved exploring the extensive cave system --- hope no-one got lost!
Written by: Jenny Peddle
14 August 2003 Building up reser ves!
As you can imagine, all the excitement and exploring has left the boys a little weary and so, quite sensibly, they decided to take it easy today. They'll need all their energy reserves for their last few days in London!
Written by: Jenny Peddle
15 August 2003 Spectacular scenery!
Today they visited the magnificent fortress of Corfe Castle, the scene of a bloody battle in the English civil war and then enjoyed a walk along the spectacular path from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Moor.
Written by: Jenny Peddle
16 August 2003 Welcome to London
Time seems to have passed so quickly and today the group arrives at Rotherhithe YHA, which is to be their base for their last four nights. Over the next few days they will see all the famous sights of London and this will probably be the highlight of the trip for many. In the words of Samuel Johnson, "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life!" My next entry will only be on Wednesday 20th, by which time I hope to have some interesting snippets of news.
Written by: Jenny Peddle
20 August 2003 Fond farewell to England!
The boys have bubbled over with enthusiasm during their last five days in London and this certainly has been a wonderful way to end their tour! As I write, they are en route to Heathrow, where they will board flight BA 55 and bid fond farewell to England at 1930. You must be so excited at the thought of seeing your children tomorrow and to hear all their stories first hand, but I am sure that they will need a few days rest when they get home to recharge their batteries! Thanks to all of you who kept in contact with me and I really appreciate all the positive feedback. Until next time --- !
Written by: Jenny Peddle