Dear Jerry. What a delightful day out you’ve had. It makes me quite nostalgic for Bristol. Maybe I could join you on an outing when we get back in October. I haven’t visited Shirehampton for ages x

Thanks Pete. It would be great if you could join us somewhere. Hope you’ve had a good summer sailing x

I decided to wait until conditions were perfect before setting off, and Monday seemed to be ideal: an amber sun rising over the dew-soaked grass of Canford Park, an autumnal crispness to the air, and a slight north-westerly breeze.

I motored along Canford Lane, turned left into Coombe Lane and again into Parry’s Lane, and then prepared to turn right into Kewstoke Road. Never an easy manoeuvre, but on this occasion accomplished without mishap. This took me to the centre of Stoke Bishop, and after a couple of times round the block I managed to find a parking space.

There seemed to be few, if any, tourists, so I was able to mingle with the local people. They seemed friendly enough, and of course language was not a problem, as I put on a posh accent.

I was there to see the famous village hall, and after a short walk found myself admiring its traditional architecture. I was unfortunately unable to gain access to the interior, but the notice board outside offered an intriguing insight into the cultural diversity of the area – the Bridge society, Zumba classes, ladies choir and a dog training club were just some of the activities available.

I returned home, exhausted but happy, and reflected on the day’s events over a hearty British meal of beans on toast, my thoughts turning to planning another trip – Henleaze perhaps?