arrival

It only took ten minutes, just as we were joining the A14, for the first complaint of "I'm bored" to be voiced. Next, of course, was the obvious, "Are we nearly there yet?". Oh dear, it was going to be a long journey. That said, we made it to the first stop at Grantham without much ado, or was that because I managed to doze off?

Grantham services on the A1 then proceeded to be invaded by 120 year eights. Some went for the shop, others sensibly opted for the loos, others, less sensibly, took on plenty of fluids, perhaps they thought we would be running to the next stop, not sitting cross-legged on a bus with a broken toilet. On the road again after 45 minutes and the old folks sitting in their cars were able to at last venture inside as we departed.

Next stop, Scotch Corner and more sugar to keep things buzzing on the bus before crossing the Pennines on the last stretch to the lakes. The other coach managed 1/2 mile before the first and, fortunately, only travel sickness episode. The sights across the Pennines truly gave us something to look at as the afternoon sun highlighted their rolling splendour, beautiful stone farms, fields of grazing sheep and a camel! Canny Yorkshire farm diversification in these tough economic times I guess.

The A66 led us the rest of the way and we were dropped in the car park of the Salutation Inn in Threlkeld; the fervour and excitement reaching its height in the last twenty minutes. Like cows let loose in a spring meadow the 24 members of 8D bounced from the bus into the fresh air full of the joys of freedom. We unloaded the bus, trying carefully to avoid removing any of 8Es bags or leaving any of ours. The minibuses from Blencathra arrive shortly after to take us up the narrow road to the centre... well all but Jake and Mrs Brighten who remained behind upon finding no free seats. They were collected shortly afterwards and once ensconced bags were stashed temporarily and all were allowed a breather and chance to released some sugar-fueled energy.

And that's where we are. Supper had. Beds allocated. Facilities toured and briefings given. Off to study glaciation tomorrow. Let hope slightly less energy tomorrow evening.