TALES OF THE SHROPPIE

As hoped the three shows on the Shropshire Union were very enjoyable and successful. Luckily we winded before mooring at High Offley as there was a breach shortly afterwards at Shebden which closed the canal. Despite heavy clouds all day and probably because we had collected the marquee from the Witts at Gnosall, the sky cleared and we had a lovely evening show with the usual huge appreciative crowd and a good sing song in the bar afterwards.
With a very threatening sky at Gnosall we set up the marquee, our gazebo and another gazebo - covering the Witts tiny garden in canvas - in expectation of a downpour which never materialised and again we had a great evening. Thanks to Mary and Barry and the boys for looking after us, doing our washing and feeding us.
We had another lovely clear but cold evening at the Junction Inn in Norbury and our third well attended show.
Then Gandalf (Mr Tuplin) arrived to take Tyseley up to Shardlow while we went off by van to the independent republic of Doxey where we once more enjoyed the marvellous Doxey hospitality. Thanks Jane and Jill and all the Doxey tribe. Then to Market Harborough to the lovely little theatre right in the town centre and finally to the rural paradise of Appelby Magna where we once again performed in the beautiful old school hall, enjoying the great hospitality and good company of Mr Gerald Box, patron saint of red wine, cheese and crackers.
Thanks to everyone for making our journey and visits so much fun. Finally we return to find Tyseley safe and sound and clean as a new pin, tucked up under a huge willow tree right outside the Clock Warehouse in Shardlow. So thanks once again to Ian and Ruth for all their help.