An early morning newspaper collection phone call started our day, as it was raining so hard that Dad didn't fancy the walk to the village shop. We picked up their daily paper on our way over for breakfast - just as well as it was pretty soggy down their lane.
Fortunately the rain started to ease just as we all piled into the car for our day out. First stop was at the Ludlow Food Centre for a few Christmas niceties and a cuppa. Then on to Sainsbury's for a serious shop and to make use of the Argos collection point. Mum and Dad are now pretty much set up for Christmas and the holiday season.
We then drove to The Charlton Arms, in Ludlow, based on the river bank. The River Teme was absolutely torrential and thundering past on its journey down river. Quite a sight from the restaurant where we had a good view from the conservatory.
It was a lovely venue for lunch and I imagine in the summer that the outdoor seating by the river with views over Ludlow would be popular. The only downside is that it's a bit of a rabbit warren inside so navigating to and from the loo was a challenge. Poor Dad returned with a bemused look as he got totally lost and had to be escorted back to our table. I've suggested that we get a tag on him so we can use our phones to locate him or get one of those key fobs where you clap your hands to locate them!
After a delicious lunch we continued our day and dodging rain by parking up in the car park by the main town square. It had a Christmas market but I was very controlled and gave it a miss. Leaving Dad in the car for a nap we helped Mum to locate the last few Christmas items. A very satisfying feeling getting everything on her list.
By the time we got back, the lane to their house was flooded. As a result of rain coming off the hill and draining down the stream which had broken it's banks.
Surveying the extent of the problem.
Digging out the ditch to help with the flow of water.
We followed the flow of water down the lane , trying to work out where the drainage could be improved. Luckily the work Ian did improved the flow of water and by the time we drove to our evening B&B the flood had gone.
We're heading back to Kent tomorrow and hopefully leaving the rain here. Where we've been staying in Spain they've not had proper rain for 2 years! We can't quite believe the amount that has fallen over the time we've been here as it doesn't seemed to have stopped. Not much walking for us this week so we'll have to get out and about as soon as it's dry when we're in Kent.
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