Chapter 8 - TO BATTLE
Hypothetical and Literal

A new year, and may 2024 be full of new beginnings. 

The last few days of 2023 left us in a state of bewilderment and disappointment. We had a meeting with Building Control. This was following a meeting with the Fire Regulation consultants. You don’t want to know…… in a nutshell, setbacks and replanning on almost every level. WE BATTLE ON!

And talking about Battle. On New Years Day we decided to take a drive and explore a little corner of our great English Heritage which is just down the road from Bexhill.

1066.  A decisive moment in history that changed the future of England forever and allowed me to consider my Norman heritage! Battle Abbey is an absolute marvel and on a cold, rainy day when very few visitors are there except a few hardy annuals, it captures the atmosphere and historic significance of such a fascinating and important site.

We ignored the weather and absorbed ourselves completely in our walk to the Undercrofts, the Latrine Block  and the Dormitories and really poignantly, the battlefield itself, where an estimated  6,000 to 10,000 combatants were either injured or died in one day.

On a lighter note, I must also wholly endorse an excellent café and a marvel of a gift shop which sells an exciting variety of battle weapons and kit. Sadly just for children or equally, those who are young at heart!

On rainy, muddy days walking in the country the subject of footwear comes to mind. In praise and love of DM’s or to those who have not indulged so far, Doc Martens. I bought my first pair back in the 80’s. Lace up black leather brogues which are still in perfect condition. I am now the proud owner of 2 pairs of boots as well. Both bought years ago and still absolutely marvelous and up to any weather challenge. Why 2 – well, one pair of black leather and one pair of blue so am covered for all requirements. I am gutted that they are losing their place in the world of ‘must have’ fashion. They are absolutely iconic and cannot be allowed to disappear. Ageless, timeless and V comfortable.

Go forth and buy!