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The Big Sites Book turned up trumps for David and Rosemary Aylott. They found River Valley Holiday Park from the advertisements and chose it as the rally site after some welcoming and friendly exchanges with the site owners on the telephone. Advertised as “A small family owned park sheltered and bordered by the River Winnick and 2 miles from the south coast “ it was in the tiny village of London Apprentice (blink and you would miss it!) a few minutes drive from the town of St Austell. The 2 miles to the south coast gave many of us very pleasant walks along the National Cycle path which could be entered from the site – bikes were available to hire for the energetic.
There were 20 units, many coming on direct from the Paignton rally, and most of us made the most of the offer of two free nights arriving on the Tuesday instead of the usual Thursday.
The site was also very convenient for The Lost Gardens of Heligan and The Eden Project. These, and many other enjoyable attractions, were among the many topics of conversations at the coffee mornings, casual encounters at the washing up facilities, evening chats and the general camaraderie that is the mark of a GOC rally. As the week progressed footwear became the focus as brightly coloured cloggies were worn by many and Thelma’s equally brightly coloured Disney socks were coveted by a few admirers.
The weather was sunny and warm and there was much to explore locally. For those who found the challenge of the steep slopes in the villages, narrow roads, parking charges and so many double roundabouts too much, it was great to just relax among friends in the lovely surroundings.
The arranged activities included a day trip to The Eden Project and a fish and chip supper. Poor David and Vic! They were gone so long we thought they had gone to catch the fish! Our large order rather stretched the local chippy even though it was placed well in advance. On Monday evening, an amazing carvery at a local restaurant completed the enjoyment of this rally. A small presentation of local pottery and flowers was made to David and Beryl Mottram as they announced this would be their last rally. They will be greatly missed but they are hoping their son will take over their Carousel.
Many thanks to David and Rosemary, ably assisted by Vic and Joan, for a great rally and for introducing us to a lovely site situated in a beautiful part of England. Our thanks too to Lorna who managed to charm contributions out of us for Mary’s raffle.
Thelma and Colin Edwards
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