We had a lovely drive down to Michelham Priory. The A22 was edged both sides with the bright yellow of the gorse flowers. My old mum used to say “if the gorse isn’t flowering, love is out of season”. Well she was right, it blooms all year round. As for the Magnolias, I’m sure nobody can remember a better year for them, they were all so perfect with no frost to kill off the blooms.

We arrived at the priory and found several other engine men (and women) setting up. It was a hive of activity and as more arrived it soon filled the allocated spaces. Some of us were alongside the drive where the cars depart and a nice little circle, or more of a square, over near the watermill. The weather couldn’t have been kinder with sunshine all the way, which meant the sun cream had to be used. No complaints there then. For those of you who haven’t been to Michelham Priory it makes a good day out with beautiful grounds to stroll round, and you can go inside the priory itself which is very interesting. Unfortunately the mill wasn’t working that day for some legitimate reason but when it is that too is worth seeing.

I think there were about twenty engines all together and it was a very friendly gathering with quite a few public coming round to view the engines and talk to their owners. They have a nice little shop there and really the prices are quite reasonable. I bought a lovely book, ready for a birthday present later in the year as they had lots reduced in price. Well I’m not one to miss a bargain. All in all, a very enjoyable and relaxing day.

If you do go there, don’t forget your camera as you can get some lovely shots. On July 16th & 17th Alan is organizing the engines again for the ‘country show’ so if you’re interested I’m sure he would love to hear from you. If it’s anything like last year (apart from the terrific storm) you’ll have a thoroughly good weekend. See you there!

Report by Joan Boyer