It had been sometime since holding the annual trip for the Harmony Jubilee Chapter Rose Croix No 834 which meets in Faversham, and it was felt that it should hold a weekend trip once more, for members of the Chapter, their partners and friends. It was left to the ‘Chief Planner’ to make the arrangements, and Bro. Brian duly set out the details of a visit to Wiltshire.
So, at 8.00am on a cold and cloudy Saturday October morning, twenty-nine heavily wrapped-up travellers met at Faversham railway station and were introduced to their luxury coach and its super driver, Janet. The organiser quickly learned how to count up to twenty-nine despite not having enough fingers on his hands! At last, we were finally on our way and traversing the motorways across southern England – with its multitude of road works! After a short breakfast stop we eventually reached the busy city of Bath and time to take in the sights of this bustling city In Somerset – (not in Wiltshire).
Attempts to get into the Pump Room or the Roman Baths unfortunately failed since a group of “rowdy” OAPs with walking aids was not always the best requirement for Blue Badge holders in a busy city. However, a West Country cream tea was obtained by some (with added musical accompaniment), whilst others preferred a trip to Bath Abbey, the local masonic centre or even a visit to the local Marks and Spencer!
Leaving the crowded city of Bath after lunch caused some problems from a distraught local bus driver as we had taken “his” parking place. At last, we were on our way travelling the short distance to Bradford on Avon – a town with hilly streets and old buildings -and finally squeezing into the narrow hotel entrance. It was then time for a beer and friendly chat before dressing for a splendid Gala Dinner.
The Most Wise Sovereign, Colin Harris, officially welcomed everyone to the weekend and thanked the ‘planners’ for organising the excellent travel arrangements. It was also a special occasion to see two members of the Chapter who now live in Wiltshire : Bros Tony Ashby and Bob Merritt (without his Tuba).
Next morning, after a good night’s sleep, a hearty breakfast, and a group photograph it was time to leave the Elizabethan house once owned by Daniel Clutterbuck some 250 years ago and work our way through the quaint town of Bradford on Avon, across Salisbury Plain and into the centre of the delightful city of Salisbury.
Stopping in the Central Square, we found a country fayre taking place which the “Wibrews” were adamant had been arranged personally for them! Others travelled a little further – as all the shops, including an enormous Marks and Spencer, seemed to be open on a Sunday. Quite a few visited the majestic cathedral whilst few could resist a visit to the Fudge shop on route.
Finally, with the aid of Captain Jones, all the intrepid travellers returned to the coach – nearly on time – and we set off back to Kent. Another set of motorways and road works beckoned before we finally saw Faversham railway station come into sight once more.
The travellers all agreed that it had been a great trip to Wiltshire, and we all look forward to the next one sometime soon – possibly to the Cotswolds and perhaps, even Oxford?
Thanks to everyone who organised such a great weekend.