Brixham. My 50th birthday.

Just entered a competition with a holiday company.  We have to write out the holiday, and put some photos with it.  Here is my article, and accompanying photos.  Wish me luck. 

Susan Jones


January 11th 2010



Holiday in Brixham.



Alan and I have just got back from a week in Brixham, Devon. While the whole country has been under a snow-drift we had clear skies and snow free footpaths. The smell of fish fills the air, along with seagulls cry and the salty tingle of the sea. To arrive there is a breath of fresh air before you begin to explore the place.

We stayed at Pilot’s Rest; a modernised fisherman’s cottage overlooking the harbour, and recently redeveloped fish market. The property is comfortable for a couple, and was the ideal place to celebrate my fiftieth birthday.

Walking towards Paignton along the harbour front, you come to the battery gardens. Sit down and enjoy views of Torquay ahead and Berry Head to your right. Benches are dotted every few yards. It’s fascinating to read the inscriptions of who the bench is in memory of. As it’s just after Christmas, quite a few of them had gifts of flowers and wreaths draped on them which was touching to see. Steps leading down into Fishcombe Cove bring you onto a beautiful pebble and shingly beach. It was great to have it to ourselves, and we took chance to skim stones into the sea. The cafe and toilets weren’t open as its January, but from March onwards you could get a snack there. In-fact it had a sign saying business for sale, Oh how lovely it would be to run a cafe on Fishcombe cove.

Not to be missed is a visit to the Battery museum which is at the top of the steep hill as you leave the cove. A group of extremely knowledgeable, interesting gentlemen will talk you through each picture and piece of equipment they have on show for you to see. It was open on Friday and Sunday, while we were there, and my husband left as a signed up member of the battery heritage group.

Walking towards Berry Head, if you take the top road, the views looking back down on the harbour are spectacular. It’s easy to see how the vicar of the local church Henry Lyte was inspired to pen the words to ‘Abide with me’ from his home up there. St. Mary’s church bells ring out this tune which is amazing to hear while browsing round the shops. The absolute gem of Brixham for me is the outdoor sea swimming pool. Open from May onwards, it has a nearby cafe and picnic area. I must get a flowery bathing hat ready for next time we visit.

Our son lives in Torquay. He recommended the Harvester. Large car park, amazing views of the Riviera, superb steaks cooked to perfection. My salmon was scrumptious. Good value and excellent meal. In Brixham harbour, the Buller’s Arms looking out onto the Golden Hind with that roaring fire was very welcome.

Don’t go home without some fish from the harbour shop. That’s what this town is all about.

Off to Brixham

Getting ready for a week in Brixham, Devon.  This is a birthday treat from husband Al, so packing and checking we've got all neccessities, like parking ticket, warm clothes etc.  The company we've booked with also run a competition.  You write about your holiday, then email it to them when you get back.  So I'll take notebook and pen and see if inspiration strikes.  Also taking my knitting.  A peach coloured jumper that will be cheerful for the spring.  Must remember to get a new memory card for my digital camera.  Off for a lovely Italian coffee now in the new perculator... Mmmmm...

Happy New Year to anyone who reads my blog.  Sitting by a roaring fire, nibbling cheese biscuits, and drinking ginger ale.  Now off to watch willie wonka and work out some ideas for the mslexia story competition.

Mslexia Diary

I'm pleased to have the new mslexia diary.  It's inspirational for any writer.  Luckily I had a copy of the new writer's and artist's yearbook 2010 as well.  No excuses now.  My motto for the new year is this.

Two thousand and ten is the year of my pen.

Now, I'm off to write up a story of 2,200 wds for the Mslexia story competition.  Date for entries is end of January. 

A Stately Visit

A stately Visit

Rolling hills drenched in purple heather, October bracken coloured of brandy snaps, heady pine scented air only begins to touch on the beauty of Cannock Chase. For Staffordshire’s of all ages the Chase is our tranquil heaven of loveliness.
Whether it’s a brisk walk with your canine pal, or a more meditative stroll; woodland pathways and hills will never fail to leave you refreshed and energised. After your revitalizing exercise, enjoy a welcome cheeseburger and coffee down the road at Milford. Or an ice cream if you’re not so hungry.
Adjoining the chase is the former home of Patrick (Lord) Lichfield. A drive into ‘Shugborourgh’ will prove memorable. For families with young children, an animal farm with a play park is available, where an open air picnic can be enjoyed.
Enter the estate through the walled garden. Workers adorned in period costume will answer questions about the eighteen hundreds. They’ll tell how they are paid beer not wages. “Not very good beer,” they add. A miniature train delivers you to the main hall. Alighting the pleasant trip, you arrive at the servant’s quarters. Here, find hidden gems around every corner. From the old lady spinning in a barn, to a replica of the kitchen, complete with maid knitting next an open fire. Fresh gridle scones topped with homemade gooseberry jam were cooking on the day we went. “Take a sample.” She smiles.
With working mill, farm animals; tearooms aplenty and superb gardens, Shugborough has charms each which way. A nineteen sixties photo gallery displaying Patrick’s personal collection including George Best, and Edward and Mrs Simpson are upstairs in the main hall. On display, his birth certificate showing royal connections.
You’ll leave with pockets of home- made fudge and liquorice sticks and a heart full of nostalgia.

Summer on the Heath

Working on my novella Summer on the Heath. Chapters 1 - 5 will be posted on here shortly.

Terry Pratchett

The book I am reading at the moment is Going Postal by Terry Pratchett.