Lovely to see people on Christmas Day at Ford Park

It was great to see dogs and a their people at the Christmas Dog get together  which has taken place every year now for four , or is it five years. We look forward to see you all next year, together with those that missed the dog chase around - same time. (10:00) same place.

The struggle up Hoad

Having Hoad to walk up on the edge of the town is a great opportunity.

It's a challenge that appeals to so many of us.

There are many that make it part of their daily routine. There are three main ways up with many variations. If it's windy, you can choose the route with the wind behind you going up. When you get to the top, there's the game of trying to push your way round against the full blast and see how far you can lean over and lie on the wind. Coming down you can buffet your way against gravity and take on the challenge of keeping your balance to the bottom.

There are usually two excellent places for coffee before entering into the mainstream of the town.

Today I met a young family struggling up against a wind with a touch of moisture in the air. Two plucky under fives led the way - a sight for sore eyes. These were going to be our leaders of the future. The challenge was one to be savoured and the views as they developed, enjoyed. No bribery to get to the top needed. Their parents reported there was never any suggestion of turning back with these two. This reminded of me of a young three year old that we have the privilege of accompanying, one morning a week. When at the bottom, asked which way up? She pointed straight up ; and off she went at pace leaving us to follow. Later on in the walk she was faced with mud, mud and more mud through a wood, she followed when other adults in the party turned back. She became apprehensive but still stuck to the task in hand. Only when we had navigated the muddy paths did she demand a halt and a sit down beside the road. This was the regime for the next half mile until she happily accepted a well deserved ride on old shoulders willingly offered.

Isn't great to witness the spirit some parents have instilled in their children. They are going to need it in their life ahead - wimps - stand aside.

Some stunning photographs

Pat Copner who lived on Sands Road, Croftlands, taught chemistry at Barrow College and served at Samaritains has gone on to be a superb photographer in the Aberdeen area of Scotland.

http://www.bristolphoto.org.uk/myweb/SALON-2012/sect_1/a_1_1313.htm

http://www.bristolphoto.org.uk/myweb/SALON-2012/sect_1/a_1_1311.htm

http://www.photographybuynick.com/Results-2012%20Suncoast%20Virtual/a_1_0189.htm

Planters provided with fresh flowers

It's great having young people looking after the look of the Gill.

All the old plants have been cleaned out and replaced, I suspect, by the scouts. We're looking forward to seeing them in the spring.

Woweeeee . . . . as Simon Clarke would say

SLDC have filled their yellow grit bins in the car parks . . . . with grit.

If you turn up at the next Ulverston Town Council meeting, be prepared to see Town Councillors dancing on their seats, applauding the brave actions of the District as they risk their precious grit in the yellow coffers previously reserved for dirty water, waste paper and empty bottles. Not only will the councillors be dancing but there are bound to be long queues as thieves jossle to get their hands on this precious resource - invaluable for keeping the local street supplies of drinks down to temperature - ready for the New Year Celebrations.

New fencing brightens up Mill Dam Park

The previous fencing was falling apart. Now we have a new one, looking very smart.

The work has been done to a high standard with wood that will look good for the next forty years if looked after. This stretch was completed yesterday by Paul Bennett (07725 654203) and he will be completing the new fencing inside very soon. This will raise all our spirits as an appropriate backdrop for the wide variety of plants and flowers that are gradually being installed by the team of volunteers in this little park that is attracting regular visitors from a wide surrounding area stretching from Martin to Backbarrow. As soon as the frosts go, the pottery which doesn't get damaged here by youngsters, probably because many of them make it, will be reinstalled.

This working group have developed a good working relationship of cooperation with Peter Clarke, the SLDC Park's Engineer who tries to cover the whole of South Lakeland. Peter always comes up trumps whenever the needs of this park are involved. It was he that enabled Paul to get the work, knowing he would do a good job and with a happy smile on his face. If you're looking for someone reliable to deal with landscapes - domestic and commercial; patios, driveways,drainage, fencing, decking, turfing etc.

Carols in The Gill, a year ago.

A truly memorable occasion.

The singing started spot on 6:30 thanks to Rita's professionalism and continued to 8 ish

We all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

There's nothing like having cold water running down your neck while listening to good enthusiastic music!