Sunday 21 November 2010

Ghost Stories

On Friday I went with my other half to see, 'Ghost Stories' at the Duke of York Theatre.  Yes the Brompton came as as well.

Our show was the later one at 21:30 so we got to London early and decided to go to the National Gallery as it stayed open until 21:00.  (was able to leave the Brompton in the cloakroom for free as the attendant was a fan of folding bikes).  Had a look around with the place almost to ourselves and then ventured to the restaurant.  They do some really lovely cakes there!  That done we headed to theatre.

Inside the theatre there was an excited buzz from people who knew they were in for something out of the ordinary.  We weren't disappointed!  I won't give things away but there are three main stories that certainly left an impression.  Anyone familiar with the 'League of Gentlemen' will recognise the host for the evening.    A very interesting play that will leave you thinking about things long after.  Very funny too and well worth a viewing while it lasts.  It won't be on for too long so go and see it while it is around.  (By the way staff at the Duke of York were wonderful and my Brompton was safely put away with security until I emerged).




The view from the National Gallery.

Sunday 7 November 2010

Cycle Training - It's free

A friend told me that my council offered free cycle courses for anyone from a beginner up to fairly experienced.  Not wanting to miss out on something free I sent off a few emails, completed a form and waited for the next available slot.  Mine was at 10:30 this morning.

It was a great day for it.  Crisp, coldish but bright.  My instructor, Roger arrived early and got a Moulton non-folder off the rack of his car.  He also came to me and was waiting outside my door!  He told me later on that he was 61 but I wouldn't have put him a day past 51.  (Just shows what cycling on a small wheeled bike can do).

I was told to cycle off and he'd follow.  Very soon Roger identified that I didn't look back nearly as much as I should, especially when turning right.  I have never noticed this but he was of course right.  Apart from that he imparted some sound wisdom from many years of cycling and after about 40 minutes we arrived back outside my house.

I must say to anyone reading this (hello to my one follower by the way!!) if you live in London and want some free cycling instruction for yourself or a member of the family, you could do worse than have a look on your councils website.  Lots of councils off this for free as mine did and if you live further afield, well you never know, so have a look too.

Is there anyone out there who keeps cycling, even in winter?  Drop me a comment with some top tips for those of us new to all that the British winter can throw at us.