Day 25 - Bristol

Intending to spend the day in Bristol,
Vero made sure we were at the right bus stop,
and at Mike's suggestion we sat on the front seat at the top.
It always feels good to back in Bristol.

As we crossed the suspension bridge we met Neil from Exeter. 

We'd noticed some information boards explaining that the environment around the Bristol gorge provides an ideal micro- climate for a range of flora and fauna. Neil is a naturalist and as a volunteer helped us spot a number of small lizards 
- probably about 75mm long. He explained that their survival technique when attached by a predator is to detach a section of tail - which continues to wriggle - and satisfy the assailant while allowing the lizard to escape. The tail then grows back. 
He explained that these aren't indigenous lizards but are a breed of escapee North Italian lizards which - luckily for them have just happened to have found their perfect environment in the gorge  which - nice to think- presumably reminds them of home!! 
A few weeks ago, while walking on the Cornish coast with Kirsten, she'd pointed out a small indigenous plant called squill. I'd thought I'd kept my eyes peeled since but not seen any.  So it was lovely to see that apparently Autumn squill is to be found in the Bristol gorge.
Clifton Cafe culture seems in very good health 
and with the sun shine there seemed to be a very nice buzz.

5 Buckingham Place hasn't changed in 20 years 
- the same windows need fixing, the same rainwater pipes are blocked and the same TV aerial cables are hanging off the walls.
Plus ca change!
The front door though has changed from British racing green to a dark charcoal grey. I wonder if it still jambs infuriatingly  in the afternoon sunshine!

In the evening, Vero and Mike hosted a lovely supper for the gang - Paul, Bubbly, Anne, Colin, Sally and me.

It was lovely to meet up again and be so easily reminded of the very special chemistry that our team has always enjoyed. 
It was a great evening, delicious food and with loads of hilarious stories. Great as always. 





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