The Meanderthals: BLACKPOOL

WIND & WAVES

Waverers :- Danny, Mike, John ...... and Barbara (excellent)

Yes, we did waver a little. with high winds and a less than comfortable daily weather forecast "Perhaps a walk along Blackpool promonade might be less than enjoyable. " was the thought in our minds. We needn't have worried.

The sea was excitingly tumultuous and with the wind at our backs we "stumbled" along the prom.

But first we parked and sought out the "Solaris" cafe for a brew to set us up.

Don't search for your purse Barbara. The drinks are already paid for.

We left the cafe and crossed over to a ramp leading us to the side of the sea. The famous glitter ball was already a little behind us. If you search carefully you might just be able to see the top of it to the right of Mike.

In the distance ahead of we could see the awesome "Big One" presently shut down because of the high winds. In John's world it is permanently shut down. The wired lines of lights, part of the "Illuminations" made the picture look busily complicated.

As we walked. sometimes a little awkwardly as the fierce wind buffeted us from behind, the rough sea continued to fascinate us.

At this point John suggested that he didn't like Blackpool because of the crowds. ................. WHAT CROWDS ?

Ahead of us was South pier seeming under renovation. Not surprising if it takes such a hammering at times from the unfriendly seas.

This redbox contained rescue equipment. we sincerely hoped we would not hear cries for "Help" as it was firmly locked with locks that looked rusted together.

By now we were approaching the very blue "Water Park" known as the "Sandcastle". Anywhere else I would consider it something of an eyesore but on the gaudy front that is Blackpool it seemed absolutely appropriate.

Coming out of the "Blue Wonder" you could see the water slides from the indoor pool. (Olyympic Size ?)

Along the front of the Sandcastle where trickling water features. Rather unnecessary in my opinion as taking a few steps right or left, allowed a view of the Irish Sea. Rather a large water feature. Especially on a day like to day.

We puzzled about this until we realised it was advertising a ticket which allowed access to all the visitor attractions pictured on it.

BY GUM ! that's a strong wind. It's blown that house over..... NO IT HASN'T !

GUESS WHAT NEXT !

At this point it was beginning to rain (lightly) so we stepped inside the South pier.

WOW ! ............. Heaven or Hell. Clue... There was a faint smell of SULPHUR

We did not stay long in this excruciating area but left to discuss our next move.

We had bought sandwiches and flasks in the forlorn hope of a sheltered spot to sit and watch the waves. FORGET IT !

It took us all of ten seconds to agree on lunch in Wetherspoons.

As I previously said it was to be a "Butty and Flask" day With a pleasant lunch by the seaside. Oh dear , not really feasible. So we ended up at the "Velvet Coaster one of the Wetherspoons wide flung group.