SYON PARK

I checked out of the Travelodge around 9am and got the bus to Becky and Mike's. Dumped my suitcase and we all got the bus to Syon House. We had breakfast in the garden centre cafe. I had scrambled eggs on toast.

Looked around the garden centre for a bit. Mike bought some strawberry plants. Syon House is the London home of the Duke of Northumberland and is set in 200 acres of parkland.

We saw a banner for The Isis Challenge. Becky and Mike are taking part on 4th May. They will do a paddleboarding time-trial at Brentford Lock and a 5km run around Syon Park.

Then we had a quick look around Brentford Market where Mike bought some beef for Sunday lunch.

My camera died at this point - battery had run out. I was not a happy bunny.

We walked the short distance to The Coach and Horses pub where I had a Crabbies alcoholic Ginger Beer. I don't drink alcohol very often but I fancied a Crabbies today.

Then on the bus back to Becky and Mike's. Football on the TV. I fell asleep on the sofa - not used to alcoholic beverages.

Roast beef around 3pm. Around 4.30pm it was time to walk to the tube station. Becky and Mike came with me to see me off. 50 min journey to Kings Cross. My train was already in the station so I settled down in my seat and the train departed at 6pm. More sandwiches, crisps and a muffin. Got to Newcastle around 8.45pm and got a bus home at 9pm.

Neil had been staying at my house over the weekend to take care of the cats and he was still here when I got back. Cats were pleased to see me.

So back home after a lovely weekend seeing Becky and Mike and going to Brighton for the first time.