This page will show details of forthcoming outings for members living with MND and photos of past outings.
THE BRANCH ON SAFARI IN THE FOREST AUGUST 2010
It may have stopped the Airshow and ruined the cricket but a bit of rain did not deter our annual trip out, this time to the New Forest. Meeting at the Reptilarium was a bit of a damp squib as the residents had more sense than us and remained in their warm dry shelters.
The trailer ride through the Forest was fascinating with lively commentaries from Volunteer helper Steve and Keeper Andy. We learnt much about the highs and lows of the conservation programmes. Steve has immortalised the Natterjack toad breeding experiment in the song “There’s a Toad in my Bucket” commemorating the accidental scattering of young toads in the forest and not in the purpose built pen. The moral of the story being you can never have too many buckets.
Andy who should have his own TV show was informative and amusing highlighting the successes and failures of past forest management schemes. He explained the economics of forest management in his unique blend of anecdote and fact but his love of everything that grew or lived in the forest shone through.
Slightly damp in body but not in spirit we arrived at the pub for lunch which was enjoyed by all Thanks to all who made the trip so enjoyable including our chauffeur Alan who has driven us all over East Dorset in recent years.
Note to Committee. Why don’t we arrange the trips in the summer?
PS Just to show how devious and cunning we are the whole of the above was subterfuge for the main purpose of the day which was to ambush “Rambling Doug” with a birthday cake made in his honour by Melanie Broomfield with her own fair hands. It was enjoyed as the sweet course and made a touching finale to an excellent day.
By Royal Appointment
.Branch Members visit HRH Princess Royal. At St James’ Palace. They scrub up well don’t they!, so I’ve treated them to some appropriate music. Click here for the STORY