It was their 25th wedding anniversary and I’d never seen Mum and Dad happier, the house bursting at the seams with friends and family. It was a simple affair, with six kids and one colliery worker's wage coming in, there wasn’t money available to splash out on a lavish affair, hence holding it at home. … Continue reading The Anniversary
The Pewter Jug
Wandering around the junk shop, looking for nothing in particular, more for inspiration for final detailing pieces in the new bar we were opening soon, it started to rain heavily; so I moved indoors. I inched my way slowly around, not wanting to trip over the eclectic mix of items scattered around the floor, they … Continue reading The Pewter Jug
The Fall
I shuffle slowly, ever closer to the edge. The metal girders of the bridge firm beneath my soft soled shoes. My mind is racing and my stomach churning, thinking of my loved ones, wondering if they know I love them, hoping they won’t be angry at what I’m about to do. I’m all alone on … Continue reading The Fall
The Scar (3)
The scar spread inexorably from the pit yard across the previously pristine countryside around the old fishing lake, it’s jagged edges and dark mounds like a cancerous tumour. Some of the mounds were so high a tunnel had been excavated through them. As kids, we were banned from playing or even going anywhere near the … Continue reading The Scar (3)
Constance Twittering (Village Affairs 2)
Constance took the back lane from her cottage towards the village station. It was one of those lovely autumn mornings; a low sun shafted golden beams through the little pockets of mist that lingered. Glancing around to ensure she was not seen, she did a little hop, skip and a jump through a pile of … Continue reading Constance Twittering (Village Affairs 2)
Anniversary
Jim and Margery sat at the top table and surveyed the Community hall, full of their family, friends and neighbours. It wasn´t very often these days people celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary and the whole community had turned out to wish them well with this wonderful party. On arrival, flowers and gifts awaited them, people … Continue reading Anniversary
Scars
He sat on the rocky outcrop and raised his glass to the scene before him. Taking a deep swallow of the strong local beer, Jim let the majesty of the view sink deep into his consciousness. Looking back to where the Land Rover was parked, he could see Miriam in animated conversation with Ed, their … Continue reading Scars
Scar
Perhaps it could be advertised as ‘lacking basic amenities’ and, there being a large piece of roof missing, ‘might suit astronomer’. It was a bothy once. Not one of those for well-dressed walkers but just a place for wet shepherds to hide from the weather. Even shepherds wouldn’t touch it now. It suited Jack … Continue reading Scar
Hot Summer
Hot Summer. They called me that, the boys in school. I was Summer Dawson before I married; now it’s just Ma. They said I looked like Candice or Cheryl somebody. Some film star. I could never see it but the name stuck. I suppose it was just their silly fantasies but it didn’t help with … Continue reading Hot Summer
The Bench (3)
Do you know I’ve had to sit on that bench most days for the last forty years. It looks very grand doesn’t it, but between you and me it’s not very comfortable. I suppose it shouldn’t be too comfortable. I’m told it’s made from mahogany which is a very hard wood. It certainly feels very … Continue reading The Bench (3)
