Part 3 - Buying the van and leaving London

 

Friday, 15th August, 1981

 Up early and off to Brentford to see the van.  Went by tube after lots of discussion.  Sandra and I don't care much for the underground.  We nearly balked when, after going down two flights of stairs, we were hustled into a lift to go down further into the bowels of the earth.  We hesitated but bravely entered where the driver chatted quite madly to either himself or us, we never did find out, then out to Brentford to pick up the van, after a unanimous vote to buy same we started back through London traffic to Paddington. 

 The afternoon was spent shopping and planning, filling the larder for our farewell. After we sent the boys and Rae home with a pizza each, San and I went into a small cafe for a steak and salad.  Have not found things expensive yet here in London - meal was £5.25 for both and very nice.  Bought 2 dolls, flags and match boxes for the kids back home.

Saturday, 16th August, 1981

 Up early to pack the van and bid our little rabbit warren goodbye.  With much trepidation and nervousness, we set off into the London traffic. We had to pick up the camping gear from Apex on the river embankments - we were there on time, parked the van and headed for the rural district after visiting Ron Phillips at Brentford again.

Made Chigwell for camp at "Grange Farm" camping area - beautiful sleepy place, small narrow roads, beautifully kept.  Swimming pool, tennis area for children £5 for the night. 

John jogged up to the village and booked us in for dinner at "Ye Olde Kings Head" in a beautiful Tudor style - visited by Charles Dickens and included in his book "Barnaby Rudge".  Also Winston Churchill country.  This was his favourite spot in his country.  Had a very nice meal!  John was disappointed as they had visited this hotel last trip and had exquisite service.  This time it had changed ownership and the service just wasn't as yesterday but then what is as before?  We could not complain about the service - four people served us food and wine -crystal glasses, silver service, tea service superb meal - about 10 pm we ambled home through country lanes to the park.

Ye Olde Kings Head, Chigwell UK