Chilly Crewe and Heavenly Hobbiton

THURSDAY

Today's mission took me on an adventure across road and rail. My task: check on Harriet's house in Nottingham and bring her car back to Wales.

The day began with a drive to Rhyl to catch the 09:56 Avanti West Coast service to Euston. My first stop was Crewe, a station steeped in railway history and buzzing with activity. Last time I set foot on the platform here was in 2017 when my train to Cardiff abruptly terminated due to problems on the line and I was stranded for three hours.

This morning, at a crisp 4ºC, it was alive with the bustle of travellers, my trains were running on time and the change ran like clockwork.  My Blipfoto  captures the moment: the Euston-bound train just departing and my East Midlands Railway (EMR) train arriving into Platform 3.

The 11:10 EMR took me to Long Eaton, perfectly on time.  I treated myself to a delightful lunch at the (recommended) Farm Shop Café,  with good food and a welcoming atmosphere then a pleasant walk in sunshine to Harriet's house. Everything was in order there, so I checked the CCTV, fitted new batteries, and loaded up her car for the drive home.

The journey back was a stark contrast to the train. The roads through Derby, Stoke  the M6, and A55, were busy as usual with a total drive time of nearly three hours.

Meanwhile,  across the globe in New Zealand, Harriet and George had enjoyed a much sunnier day 24ºC and bright skies. They visited Hobbiton, the enchanting movie set from The Lord of the Rings. (See the extra photo they have shared!)

I have to say however that both trains were on time, clean, had working power points and wifi, and plenty of available seats. The railway staff were very pleasant and made it a nice experience.