29th November
So along to Viables Craft Centre for their Christmas Craft Fair, and there again was our very own Old Basing Royal British Legion Corp of Drums raising money for the British Legion and doing a very good job as usual.
30th November
It is not often that I have a rant in this column, but I am really quite cross. Every Monday and Tuesday evening between 5pm and 5.30pm I drive under the railway arch in Swing Swang Lane towards the Loddon Bridge in old Basing. For the past few weeks (since the clocks have gone back), there is a man walking home from work towards Old Basing along the side of the road. I recognise that there is no pavement on this section, but is it really necessary to be walking in the same direction as the traffic, wearing black shoes, black trousers, a black coat with a hood and a black rucksack? I fully accept that as a driver I have a responsibility to watch out for pedestrians, but do they not also have a responsibility to be, well a bit more responsible. In the darkness (no streetlights) and heavy rain (windscreen wipers going), I was upon him before I knew it and I was only going at 20mph as I had just rounded the 90 degree bend. To make matters worse as I slowed down behind him, he stepped a pace to the right to avoid stepping in a puddle at the side of the road, completely oblivious to my car behind him. We were always taught to “wear something bright” and walk towards oncoming traffic. This is an accident waiting to happen, and no doubt the poor driver will be blamed for not taking enough care. So Sir, if you are reading this, please take some action!
1st December
Suddenly realised in all the rush to get organised for Christmas, that it is Spencer’s birthday on Friday. Quickly arranged a meal out at Pizza Express for Friday evening, and pondered over what to buy him. Settled on a pair of trousers from M&S, as I had noticed that some of the pairs that he had been wearing were looking a bit shabby. Hurriedly wrapped it all up so that it didn’t look like I had forgotten. I know that the Children have bought him a really good present. At half term they queued up at Waterstones for 3 hours to get a signed copy of David Attenborough’s new book to give him. I know he will be thrilled.