Garstang Probus Club

Trips 2015 - 2002

• Anderton Boat Lift and Arley Hall - June 2015
• Crazy Golf at Zumo - June 2013
• Radio Lancashire - May 2013
• Crazy Golf at Zumo - June 2012
• Coach Trip to Floriade - June 2012
• Holker Hall - 27th July, 2006
• Haworth and Parsonage - 11th April, 2006
• Salford Quays - 16th February, 2006
• Carols by Candlelight - 20th December, 2005
• Day Trip to Liverpool- 11th October, 2005
• Ravenglass - La'al Ratty and Muncaster Castle - 28th June, 2005
• Martin Mere and Rufford Old Hall - 22nd March, 2005
• Christmas Luncheon - 7th December 2004
• Lakeland Spectacular - 14th September 2004
• Club Excursion on Settle to Carlisle Railway - 18 May 2004
• Club Theatre Excursion - 5 March 2004
• Club Excursion to Blackpool - 21 October 2003
• Club Cruise - 29 April 2003
• Club Visit to Local Cheese Factory - 19 November 2002

Anderton Boat Lift and Arley Hall - June 2015

A most interesting day. After a sail down the river we were able to admire this fine example of Victorian engineering as we were taken on the lift up to the canal above. The skill of the boat's crew was obvious as she manoeuvred the craft out of the very narrow lift and did a 180 degree turn to face back towards the lift ready for the return trip. Here are boat lift details

After a good look around we set off for Arley Hall. The reason for the somewhat unusual route taken by the coach driver along narrow country lanes was explained later. It was to avoid the heavy traffic on the normal route due to the annual Cheshire Show which was being held on the same day.

The Hall was typical of the many houses of its type - oil paintings of ancestors, old furniture, library and so on. The gardens were well laid out and Arley is well worth visiting for these alone. After a welcome cup of tea and cake we returned home tired but happy. Arley Hall details here.

« top

Crazy Golf at Zumo - June 2013

A sunny, warm day. The competition was conducted with the seriousness that crazy golf demands - much hilarity and banter. No rain and grey skies this time.

The winner was Hayden Evans. Did the fact that he is a regular 'proper' golfer have anything to do with it?

« top

Radio Lancashire - May 2013

This was a trip of two halves. We met in Blackburn at the Radio Lancashire studios in time to be members of the audience for an edition of the Sally Naden programme. It was fascinating to see the informal way that the programme is put together with a mixture of chat, live music and guest interviews. Audience participation is encouraged and some members duly obliged. We were impressed by the professionalism and the confident way that Sally put the guests at ease and brought in the audience at the appropriate time.

After the programmme we had lunch in the cafe in the crypt of Blackburn Cathedral, just across the road from the studios. On our return we were given a talk about the history of Radio Lancashire from the early days when it was Radio Blackburn. This was given by Gerald Jackson who has been with BBC local radio since he was a tea boy and now devises the jingles and presents a Sunday afternoon programme. Then it was time for a tour of the open plan 'office' where each presenter has their desk, phone and computer terminal. We were shown by the news presenters how they assemble the relevant news items and keep an eye on the opposition, Sky News.

All in all a very interesting few hours. Now when we listen to local radio we know how much work goes into putting each programme together and can imagine the presenters' gesticulations, face pulling and the friendly informality of it all.

Photo reproduced by permission of BBC Lancashire

« top

Crazy Golf at Zumo - June 2012

This is turning out to be an annual event. Though rain threatened, it was not enough to dampen our spirits and the crazyness proceeded with much concentration and merriment. There was food in the cafe afterwards and a good time was had by all.

« top

Coach Trip to Floriade - June 2012

A good trip to Holland to see the festivities and superb floral exhibition.

« top

Holker Hall - 27th July, 2006

There were no photographs or text submitted.

« top

Haworth and Parsonage - 11th April, 2006

The journey to Haworth turned into a mystery tour to Halifax, the driver had missed the turn in Hebden Bridge. The walk around the area adjacent to the Parsonage was cancelled due the rain, instead a talk about the Brontes' life was given by the tour guide.

The rail trip on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway took us from Haworth to Keighley and back.

There were no photographs or text submitted.

« top

Salford Quays - 16th February, 2006

Afternoon visit to Salford Quays and evening performance of the Moscow State Circus in the Lowry Art & Entertainment Centre.

There were no photographs or text submitted.

« top

Carols by Candlelight - 20th December, 2005

The event was very similar to the previous year.

There were no photographs or text submitted.

« top

Day Trip to Liverpool- 11th October, 2005

The coach left Garstang at 0900 heading for the drop off/collection point at the Albert Docks. With the return time of 1700, the a whole days exploration in Liverpool was waiting.

The Albert Docks and shops/coffee were the first port of call.

Later visiting such places as the two cathedrals, members came across each other around the next corner. It made the day more friendly and interesting.

A very large area opposite the docks was under re-development and some roads were closed to everyone.

The "trippers" were Probus Members, Members of Garstang Camera Club and friends/relatives. Everyone agreed on the return coach that a good day had been had by all.

No photographs submitted, pictures scanned from postcards at reduced resolution

« top

Ravenglass - La'al Ratty and Muncaster Castle - 28th June, 2005

A hot summer's day saw 31 members, spouses and friends take the coach to Ravenglass.

We were entertained along the way by the reminiscences of our Treasurer, Dennis Livick, who was born and bred in West Lakeland. Some of his recollections and anecdotes about local characters of the past were very amusing - the farmer who habitually wore only a flesh coloured body stocking as he drove his tractor was a particular case in point.

We arrived at Ravenglass in good time for a cup of tea or coffee before setting off on the 1130 La'al Ratty steam train.

We were treated to glorious scenery along the Mite and Eskdale valleys before arriving at Dalegarth for Boot spot on time (Sir Richard Branson please note!). Most people had lunch, either in the new Fellbites café, or as a picnic on one of the benches nearby.

The return journey by train (also on time) was followed by the short coach journey to Muncaster, in good time for the Owl and Bird of Prey display - "Meet the Birds" - on the lawn outside the castle. We were treated to flights from a buzzard, a kestrel, a European eagle owl, and a Barn Owl - who turned out to be the famous "Sparky", star of several television shows. Truly elegant birds.

Most people then went inside the castle, home of the Pennington family for the last 800 years. Some of us were fortunate enough to have a few words on the way out with Patrick Gordon-Duff-Pennington, the present incumbent, who had spent the afternoon gardening on the terrace. A charming man.

Finally, we watched as the herons were fed from the cannon bank. The view over Lakeland from the cannon bank is most spectacular. I counted 15 herons at one time - the record this year is apparently 25. The hour and three quarters journey back to Garstang passed very quickly, and the day was voted a huge success.

Photographs courtesy of Robert Haythornthwaite

« top

Martin Mere and Rufford Old Hall - 22nd March, 2005

On an overcast morning around 9.00am the coach left Garstang on time for Martin Mere (Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust) via Preston.

Upon arrival there was a presentation by a WWT staff member, of long standing, about the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and the history of Martin Mere. Even though the talk was a trifle too long the history was very interesting.

With the provision of a map and bird food, members were sent on their way with a proviso to be back at the coach by 2.00pm. Although the wind was a little chilly the forecasted rain kept away.

Groups of Probiens and Camera club members could be spotted taking photographs and studying the wild fowl together with the very informative story boards.

Some of the members managed to spend some time in the numerous hides and most had lunch in the cafeteria or had sandwiches. In all a splendid outing.

The coach departed on schedule bound for Rufford Old Hall.

Upon arrival at Rufford Old Hall the members were greeted by a NT representative who spoke about the Hall and asked that as a large group would we split into two main grouping, one to look around the gardens and the other to enter the house.

Walking through the formal gardens was very pleasant and the path seemed to lead to the shop and cafeteria, so for those who had not yet been into the house it was a great temptation to partake of a cream tea. The scones and cakes were delicious.

The time spent in the house is relatively short as Rufford Old Hall is quite small. The coach left for home around 4.0pm, arriving in Garstang around 5.0pm

Many thanks to Peter Western, our Social Secretary, for organizing this outing.

Photographs courtesy of Mike Baker.

« top

Carols by Candlelight - 17th December

On a cold and crisp Garstang evening our coach left on time for Preston. Upon arrival we had a tour of the "Preston Illuminations", actually it was a round trip to enable our coach to locate a parking at the side of the Guildhall.

Our arrival was early and there was plenty of time for a drink and convivial conversation before the performance.

The spectacle of the orchestra dressed in period costume was a delight to behold and the music and carols were very enjoyable with the audience participating in some of the carols.

The conductor gave an animated performance and made everybody in the audience stand and sit to order. In all, a delightful evening as a prelude to Christmas.

Many thanks to Peter Western, our Social Secretary, for organizing this outing.

Photographs courtesy of Mike Baker

« top

Christmas Luncheon - 7th December 2004

Our Christmas Luncheon was held once again at the Garstang Golf and Country Club, and as is usual on this special occasion Ladies were invited as guests. Special guests were the President of Garstang Rotary Club, Mike Bradley and his wife, Lynne.

An excellent meal was provided, along with crackers, hats, balloons and even party poppers, during which carol music was played by harpist Patricia Lewis.

Following the luncheon, we all enjoyed an interlude of relaxation, provided by the ensemble Musical Options played carols on hand chimes, (a very pure and haunting sound), when members, wives and guests were invited to do a spot of carol singing!

Our President, Joe Relton, his wife, Dorothy, and Mike Bradley then entertained us with festive and amusing speeches. A very enjoyable occasion which left us well and truly in the Christmas spirit!

Photographs courtesy of Mike Baker

« top

Lakeland Spectacular - 14th September 2004

Mixed weather greeted the 26 intrepid Probians, wives and friends who set off from Garstang to Haverthwaite railway station in Cumbria on 14 September 2004. Our steam train left at the appointed hour towards Lake Windermere. Fond memories of the days of steam for many of us!

All too soon, we pulled in to Lakeside station, disembarked, and walked the short distance to the Aquarium of the Lakes.

Our conducted tour was made extremely interesting, and we saw many fresh and seawater specimens, and some very charming otters.

Our next short walk took us to the steamer pier, where our steamboat bound for Bowness awaited us. The weather was relatively kind - almost, but not quite, raining - typical of the Lakes.

We then had a couple of hours in Bowness for lunch and retail therapy before we set off back to Garstang by coach. Three very different forms of transport in one day was a fine experience, and a great success.

Photographs courtesy of Windemere Lake Cruises

« top

Club Excursion on Settle to Carlisle Railway - 18 May 2004

A bright sunny May morning saw 10 Probus members together with a further 23 wives and guests gather outside Garstang library for the coach trip to Settle in North Yorkshire. But no-one had forgotten to bring their passport, so we were able to cross the border without incident.

We had the best part of an hour to pass before our train was due, and although a few walked the short distance into the town for a look around, most of our group went along the platform to visit the signal box, restored by the Friends of the Settle - Carlisle Line. A most interesting talk and demonstration was given by Derek, one of the Friends who had started his 51 year career in the railways as a junior porter, and finished it in this very signal box. Two of our members, Ken and Steve, set the dials and pulled the levers to allow an imaginary train pass through our section of track. They managed not to crash their imaginary train!

Our train arrived precisely on time, and we boarded with Patrick, our guide supplied by the Friends. Many of us knew Patrick - he had delivered an amusing talk about his experiences as a coach driver to our January meeting - and he pointed out the many places of interest along the route. His talk also covered the history of the track, which was most illuminating. Patrick had to leave us at Appleby, as he had a meeting of his own Probus Club later in the day.

We arrived at Carlisle on time after passing through and close to some magnificent scenery and interesting places, including Pen-y-ghent (hill of the winds); Ribblehead Viaduct (yes, you can actually see it from the train, as the track curves gracefully before crossing the viaduct itself); Dent station (the highest mainline station in England at 1150 feet, and 600 feet above the village of Dent, 4 miles away); and of course the beautiful Eden valley as the line descends from its highest point Ais Gill, 1169 ft above sea level) with magnificent views across Wild Boar Fell, the Howgills and the distant Lakeland Fells.

We went our separate ways in Carlisle, most people exploring the Cathedral, the museums and/or the Castle, whilst finding time to indulge in the variety of shopping available in the City. Everyone was on time for the meet up back at Citadel railway station for the enjoyable coach journey back alongside scenic Ullswater and through Glenridding, Patterdale and the Kirkstone Pass, all of which Ron, our coach driver, managed to negotiate without incident.

A very happy and memorable day out in excellent company.

« top

Club Theatre Excursion - 5 March 2004

Our spring theatre trip saw 10 members and 15 wives and guests set out again for Blackpool - this time to see the well known thriller/horror "The Woman In Black", Stephen Mallatratt's adaptation of Susan Hill's novel, on tour following 15 successful years playing in the West End.

The pre-show publicity surrounding this two-handed (three-handed if you count the Woman herself!) play promised "you will scream". Well, we did just that! In fact the terrifying suspense thriller was so well acted out by Paul Webster and Damien Matthews as the story unfolded that at one point several Probus members actually jumped out of their seats involuntarily!

As we left the magnificent Grand Theatre, the suspense continued, as our coach trip back to Garstang across the Fylde was undertaken in patchy fog, reminiscent of the misty atmosphere created earlier on stage. We half expected the ghostly Woman to appear before us, just as she had appeared before us on stage only an hour ago! But of course the journey back home passed without incident, and we were left to reflect upon a most brilliantly spine-chilling performance of unremitting drama.

« top

Club Excursion to Blackpool - 21 October 2003

It was very refreshing to see such a good old-style variety show - the entertainment from all of the artists and artistes was excellent.

Compere Stu Francis held the show together so well that it over ran by a good half hour, and we nearly had to miss our viewing of the Illuminations.

However, John the driver was able to use his local knowledge of Blackpool's back streets to ensure that we saw everything there was to see along the Prom and still be back in Garstang by 11.30 pm.

« top

Club Cruise - 29 April 2003

Eleven members and nine guests gathered at the Garstang Marina for a club cruise, our first social outing of 2003. Although no exotic Caribbean islands were visited (on this occasion - maybe next time!) the three-hour journey along the Lancaster Canal was very much enjoyed by all who boarded the vessel Ashanti Gold.

The weather was kind to us, and we saw many parts of our delightful market town from an angle not often seen these days - the canalside. We even went past former President Joe Relton's back garden!

The on-board bar was opened for pre-meal drinks, and a genuine Lancashire hotpot with pastry crust (accompanied of course by beetroot) was served whilst we relaxed and enjoyed the rural views from the comfort of our narrowboat.

All too soon we were back at the marina; everyone agreed the event had been a great success, and one that would be repeated at some time in the future.

Photograph re-printed by courtesy of the Garstang Courier (ref 16415) © Johnston Press.

« top « top