A Day in Leigh On Sea - 27th June 2010

Got to Hadleigh Castle, sun beating down and it was only 9.30am. I’d left my hat at home – no-one else had – sensible lot the others!

A gentle walk to the castle ruins which boldly thrust into a wide expanse of Essex sky. The hill seemed very high above the town – thinking of the return walk!  It didn’t take much to imagine what it might have been like more than 400 years ago. Distant mist added to the air of mystery.

Panoramas over what had once been very marshy wetlands, showed the ecological inheritance – rivers of water meandering round muddy looking flats, distant islands and outposts of land. Perhaps a future  EFOG day?

The stroll down to Leigh was a mixture of open fields and bush lined paths, with butterflies, loads of different grasses and plants and a few pesky flies. I suppose they have a right to life as well – maybe. We had occasional stops  to enjoy the views and to rest up, especially in the shady patches.

The folk festival was nicely warmed up by the time we reached Old Leigh. The music from the different bands competed occasionally but each space offered something new. I don’t think I have ever seen so many different types of Morris Dancing in one place at the same time. Troops of Egyptian, Spanish and Jive dancers added to the variety. Gill and Michelle may do some Zumba there next year. Hope so.

Some of us even managed a paddle along a short stretch of rather stony beach and we had a great picnic spot on some steps leading down to our own beach. Paul’s pastie had defrosted, my sandwich had cooked - I must remember Peter’s way of keeping the butties cool. Katie had a swim and Eddie had to be rescued when the tide came in a bit too quickly. All added to the fun.

The festival atmosphere was infectious, the enthusiasm of the artists abounding. I  wanted to join in with the dancing ….. nearly lost the others a few times because my spirit was doing just that and ignoring the others. Sorry gang!

The singers also varied, from  pop/rock type folk beats to soul filled melodies which could have brought tears to my eyes (even if I didn’t understand a word) if I’d been in a different (less toe-tapping) mood.  The artists were happy to chat and a hurdy gurdy man even let Paul have a play with his instrument……

A great day out. Thanks Paul. And I didn’t even notice the hill on the walk back.

Pamela Fleish, June 2010