Wussername

Hi John Can you remember that magical forum meet at Salhouse, before Covid. There was an “esprit de corp” amongst the members which few Norfolk broads forums have ever equalled or indeed maintained. I have fond memories of meeting you in the company of Vaughan, his wife and mine over an enjoyable glass or two that evening. Over and above which I was unable to count. Unfortunately due to Covid we see “empty tables, empty chairs” Still empty for some of us and certainly for some of my friends, and indeed yours. An anguish we all share. Be aware of those who wish to take advantage and be aware of the number of genuine friends that you have. Friends who will soon fill those table and chairs. Andrew and Anne

Did you have a look inside the boat shed? It is like going back in time by several decades. How they manage to find anything I do not know. However, if you asked for a left handed screwdriver they would have one and would be able to lay their hands on it immediately. Sadly all of this will be lost. Another part of Broadland will be gone for ever. Andrew

Egrets are white. Surely?

A relative of the Oozlum bird.

A Bheton?

Indeed. Even in mid winter there is tranquillity an unbelievable sence and appreciation of an awareness of calm. So often unable to be achieved in the normal day to day experiences of life. During a warm summer day and a restful evening there is a complete relaxation of life. Work issues, family problems, health worries, financial factors all fade away, insignificant in the full scheme of things. That is why the rivers, the Norfolk Broads are special to me. Andrew

It is still Summer. Some of this, and some of that. Must admit though I feel a bit glum! Andrew.

What lucky grandchildren to have such wonderful grandparents. To give up such a boat with so many memories must have been a difficult decision. However, I fully understand, my wife and I enjoyed sailing with our grandchildren in a Wayfarer last Saturday. One eleven year old, the other thirteen. A great day was had by all. For the grandchildren it demonstrated that there is a life beyond computer games and these new virtual mask experiences they seem to be addicted too. They have been on the river many times with Grandad and Nanny and it is very rewarding to see their confidence and enthusiasm and indeed skills improve over the years. I am sure that in turn you will be similarly and amply rewarded in the future. Is it too late to ask you to be my grandad? I wish you every success. Andrew.

I once hired a boat. Moored up miles from anywhere. 7pm came and one of the most catastrophic happenings ever. NO CORK SCREW !!

Every day I passed the Gunboat on the bus the "79". On the way to school, in Norwich. I had heard a rumour of the model railway. My father owned a toy shop, Hornby trains, Dinky toys, matchbox toys. (Some still in boxes somewhere in the sheds) I longed to see your train set. But not to be. Then we went our different ways but not until we passed each other during the Jenner days when Thorpe St Andrew, the River Green changed, and kept on changing to the present day. For better, for worse. For others to decide.

I lived in Thorpe St Andrew. Not far from master Ashby I can tell you. We all wore shorts. In the snow I might add. His school was just up the road. Just past Thorpe narrows. I peddeld miles in the wind and snow to Norwich. Dashing my ****.

I am confused. Why are we having this conflict. It is quite important.

It is not shame on the EDP it is dreadful of the EDP and they should publish an apology immediately> Andrew

There is a certain degree of urgency with regard to this matter. Social Services, Social Care are not well placed. In the first instance it is a Police matter to find and identify the people concerned. They will determine the course of action to take, not social services. Andrew.

The police have the ability to determine the names and addresses of the hirers. Their mobile numbers. Where they are. For a little talk. I fail to understand where social services enter or have any influence into this equation. Where does Broads Control have influence in this matter and able to take immediate action with regard to those who have a complete disregard to the safety and welfare of an infant? Finally, to have the authority to ensure the future safety of this little child. Andrew

Well spotted. These ladders are often used and abused. Not sure what the answer is. On BA moorings I believe there is a chain, below the water line even at low tide. It links from mooring to mooring at a regular intervals. A foot hold for those who are able to grasp the Quay heading and find a foothold. More important than the ladder. If you fall in how do you know where the ladder is amongst stern on moored boats?l Andrew

Another point. With regard to the behavior of this person with the child. It is not the Broads Authority's responsibility to deal with this matter. The boat yard has no ability whatsoever to influence or prevent this type of incident. The trial run driver is unable to cover all contingencies during the handover and cannot take responsibility in any shape or form. An infants life was placed in jeopardy by the foolhardy and irresponsible action of an adult. It could well have resulted in the death of the child. It is that serious. Manslaughter. Not the Broads Authority. Not the Boat Yard. Not the Trial run driver. It is a Police matter. The life of an infant is that important. Andrew

One encouraging aspect of this thread is the apparent healthy population of the Kingfisher. It was not so many years ago that the bird was a rarity, seldom seen. Severe winters were held responsible and cold springs. Frozen rivers and dykes caused serious problems for the bird and the population plummeted. Now it seems global warming has favoured the species. I wish the same could be said of some of our other birds. I have seen a dramatic decrease in so many of our common resident birds and visitors. Birds which I used to see on a regular basis, not only in my garden but in the fields that surround my house, fields of wheat, barley and sugar beet. Raptors play an important role, Marsh Harrier, Red Kite, Sparrow Hawk and Buzzard often seen, not in sufficient numbers to cause such a dramatic effect. By the way, I live on the outskirts of Lingwood, Strumpshaw and its nature reserve. Very close, a few minutes walk from Strumpshaw Hill over looking the valley of the river Yare and a ten minute walk to the Buckenham Marshes. Something is happening. What has happened. Where have they gone? and why have they gone?

I know that The Dunes cafe is shut because of staff issues concerning Covid but not aware of any problems regarding the pub. You may be right. Best to telephone I guess.

I have never known a boatyard refuse water. Sure on turn over day which was always a Saturday in those days you may have had to wait a little while, but never refused. Please tell me that has not changed.

They do say that dogs take after their owners.

https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/local-council/new-concerns-over-bid-to-weld-bridge-shut-8092360

GULP! Why did I join?

But does not serve food after 7pm.