Second last day

Have had a wonderful few days away from the speedway (mainly anyway) and catching up with relatives both in Wales and Leicester. Spent two days in the valleys with Ruth (my cousin) and husband Ian. Also got taken around Cardiff bay one afternoon by Linda (my other Welsh cousin) and husband Neil. Cardiff bay is marvellous, they have transformed what was largely a derelict area into a modern suburb which now houses the Millennium Centre (for performing arts) and the National Assembly (where the Welsh ruling body meets). Had a thoroughly enjoyable time all round.

Then off to Clacton On Sea to meet speedway author and historian Norman Jacobs. Had a lovely time with his family and then the next day took me to the speedway museum to have a look round and later to High Beech to the rear of the Kings Oak Hotel which is generally acknowledged as the place the first speedway meeting in England took place. Really interesting and enjoyable day we had and Norman is charming and knowledgeable company.

Then off to Anstey to catch up with the Leicester side of the family. Stayed with my Auntie Heather and husband Frank. They live fairly close to Bradgate Park and I had a lovely few hours yesterday walking in the park, watching the deer, enjoying the sunshine (after the rain stopped) and remembering what it was like years ago when we came here as a family when I was a kid. Had the family gathering last night and caught up with uncles Gordon & Frank (with Angela), and later on cousins Nick and John. John had two of his children there and they were an absolute delight, especially daughter Grace who narrated her way through some photographs she had taken on the family holiday to Normandy. Not bad for five years old !!

Off to Birmingham later today for one last speedway meeting and then head off home tomorrow. I've picked up a slight cold that is only very mild but I can't seem to shake off and the timing of going home is sounding very good. I've resolved to come back again in one of the next two years and take longer while travelling slower and seeing more of the country. More plans to be made and more people to meet !!