Blackpool did not know what had hit it. For the first time in history everyone was on time for work. We set off , all 44 of us in a charabang (coach to the uneducated). Richard Giles and Johanne arranged a themed "fish" quiz (because we were going to the land of fish and chips) for the journey. Once again Richard Davies , who is currently rumoured to be on contract to Weatherspoons national pub quiz team, assisted his team (Shona and Debra) to victory with over 30 points out of 50. There were cries of "fix" and chips. Shona responded by generously handing round her prize of a box of maltesers, but only on the way back when everyone was feeling queasy after a day of rides and greasy food.

We got to Blackpool at about 10.30. Everyone grumbled and tried to smile as a few folk took pictures of us all (Click to enlarge the picture). The fresh air and fun should not include photos should they! 

We were then let loose on the Pleasure beach, though some went for some fresh air without the fun on the bracing front. None were eaten by any lions at the zoo. Most came back with exciting tales about how brave they had been on Blackpool's brand new ride the "Spin Doctor"

We then tucked in to a hearty meal of fish, chips, mushy peas, bread and butter, apple pie and cream. The stupid amongst us went straight out and tried make ourselves ill on the Revolution (upside down and back to front). Shown to the left is a picture of the partners on the Ice Blast (300 feet into the air in less than a second supported by just a harness on a tiny seat) This was Paul's first ride for years. He says he was looking at the ground but really he was wondering whether we would ever come down again. Click to enlarge it.

The climax of the day some said was the afternoon show in the Globe, the Pleasure Beach's own theatre, which for the last few years has shown the world famous show "Eclipse". It is described as "Circus Ballet" and is a spectacle of Dance, Acrobatics, and Franco/Japanese music. If you are old enough you may remember the Yes album "Tales from Topographic Oceans", which has definite parallels. If not you simply must go and see it. For the girls the highlight of the show was the "Flying Lunchbox". Need I say more!. Click the picture to enlarge the vision. Problem is, male members of staff have been coming into work wearing leather thongs which does not go down well with the elderly clients at all.

Feeling sick, happy, tired and bonded together we all returned on the coach at tea time, realising that it was just one day of fun and frivolity, and that it was back to work as usual on the Tuesday. Next trip should be March 2003.