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SociaLites outing to Windermere 2011

To the Manor Bourne  

We all had an early start to the day as we were to rendezvous at Stockton Library at 08-30 hours for a 08-50 departure. However, our departure was delayed as Ken Harris persuaded Harper to get off the bus at the wrong stop!!

We eventually got underway and proceeded on our way. After leaving the A66 we pulled into Tebay service station to stretch our legs and have a much appreciated cup of coffee and a biscuit. Feeling refreshed we set off for Stott Bobbin Mill at Bowness on Windermere. As we got nearer to Bowness and the road became narrower the coach driver commenced a series of manoeuvres in order to make it as easy as possible for all members of the party to disembark as close to the Bobbin Mill as possible.

Having disembarked from the coach we faced a tortuous walk down to the Bobbin Mill, to be greeted by a lady who was not in the best of moods when we had two groups who wanted to have a conducted tour of the mill. We eventually agreed a compromise, and she agreed to show us around in one party. It was very interesting to learn that boys as young as 12 years of age worked a 12 hour shift. The machines were powered by burning the shavings from the birch logs that were used to machine the bobbins. Those of us who took the conducted tour were eventually re-united with the remainder of our colleagues and made all haste to Windermere Manor for a splendid lunch courtesy of DUCK (Durham Universities Charity Committee). There was much jolly banter during lunch which was rounded off with drinks of an alcoholic and non-alcoholic variety.

After assembling outside in the garden we posed for a group photograph to commemorate our visit. Despite the fact that it was raining we boarded the coach and headed off for Bowness to embark on the S.S Swan for a cruise on the lake. Throughout the journey it persisted to rain on our parade!

The journey home was uneventful except for the sound of excited chatter and the sound of music being played on mobile phones. We arrived back at Stockton Library to be greeted by friends and family and all agreed it had been a grand day out!

Ray Feakes

Additional Comments:

Whole trip was fantastic; I’ve never laughed so much in all my life. Out of this world.  Graham

I’d definitely come again. Tash

Such a lovely chance to get away from the house for a day and be among friends. Chris

I’ve had a lovely day and I’ve enjoyed everyone’s company so much. Pam

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