September 2009

4th August
Westerham

After a rather dull day, the clouds moved away to produce a very pleasant summer's evening. Thirteen members foregathered on the Green, some equipped with cameras. Some pictures were taken but the rapidly fading light meant a retreat to the Beer Garden of the Grasshopper Pub, where our conversations were serenaded by the Church Bell Ringers practising their art. As twilight set in and members went their way, the evening's finale was a glorious, low on the horizon, full moon.



MEMBERS ON THE GREEN AT WESTERHAM

11th August
South Bank

Only 3 of members went to the South Bank A pleasant evening being entertained by some excellent street performers.


Saturday 15th August
Outing to Eastbourne Air Show

At least eight members turned up, there might have been others who missed the originally planned train due to the number of people travelling from London and East Croydon. Some members had to stand most of the way. Others went by car.



Some of Chairman Bob's shots

Six of members managed to meet at the pier as arranged, but some three hours before flying started seating was already at a premium. At this time although warm, as forecast, there was low cloud but it was very enjoyable sitting by the sea chatting. At 2.0pm, just as the flying started, the sun came out and the sky cleared. Great views of the planes, because they are flying over the sea, they came in low and close to the shore. So even with 300 mm lens on a digital camera it was possible to see the pilots. Even so jet planes are not the easiest of subjects to photograph. The highlight, as in most airshows, was the Red Arrows. After their demonstration, many of the crowd chose to leave, those who did missed some further great flying displays. An excellent day. Yes even the fish and chip lunch was good.


18th August
Godstone

Nine members spent a very pleasant evening in Godstone. Those who arrived early witnessed an altercation taking place on the other side of the Green where a man and a woman were arguing violently. We then strolled across to the Alms Houses and the Churchyard where a number of photographs were taken. As the light faded we adjourned to a local hostelry for more chat about a variety of topics.


25th August
Southwark Cathedral

Seven members and two guests attended this evening with a quick look around the outside of the Cathedral (it was all closed up) and the deserted Borough Market, members then went to the George Inn. After a cosy chat about this and that and a jar or two the group broke up, some to go to Piccadilly Circus to see the lights whilst others walked along the South Bank back to Charing Cross Station.