#trotters london.

[world-of-wales]

WHAT LOTTIE WORE - 2022

15 DECEMBER 2022 || Princess Charlotte attended the 'Together at Christmas' Carol Service hosted by her mum at Westminster Abbey in London.

Lottie was in -

Heritage Burgundy Classic Coat from Trotters Childrenswear

Button Strap Slippers in Black Patent by Rachel Riley

[justforbooks]

Middle England by Jonathan Coe

Reactionaries and remoaners clash in a meditation on anger, loss and the passing of time featuring the characters from The Rotters’ Club

At one point in Middle England, a couple attend a marital counselling session in which they are each asked to explain why they are so angry that their spouse voted differently from them in the EU referendum. One complains that the other, by voting leave, showed that “as a person, he’s not as open as I thought he was. That his basic model for relationships comes down to antagonism and competition, not cooperation.” Her husband answers that her remain vote made him realise she’s “very naïve”, “lives in a bubble”, and that it gives her “an attitude of moral superiority”.

The therapist’s verdict is: “What’s interesting about both of these answers is that neither of you mentioned politics. As if the referendum wasn’t about Europe at all. Maybe something much more fundamental and personal was going on. Which is why this might be a difficult problem to resolve.”

That, perhaps, is the sore point a novelist taking on Brexit as a subject might be expected to probe. There’s a truth here – that the Brexit vote was experienced and has continued to be experienced as a matter of personal identity. For a novelist, this is where the action is.

Middle England is the third novel featuring the characters from Coe’s 2001 novel The Rotters’ Club and 2004’s The Closed Circle, and sees an excellent writer making an enjoyable, absorbing and less than completely successful attempt to find the sweet spot of that sore point. The action runs from the spring of 2010 to the autumn of 2018, and the newsreel that unrolls in the background takes in Gordon Brown’s encounter with “that bigoted woman”, the coalition government, the London riots, the murder of Jo Cox, Nigel Farage’s notorious “Breaking Point” poster, the London Olympics and all the rest of it. And in that respect, of course, we know what’s going to happen because we’re living it. This is a book that foretells the present.

It also has a good deal to tell us, oddly, about geography and local transport. Coe has frequent resort to the melancholy poetry of place. On page four we read that the hero is driving “through the towns of Bridgnorth, Alveley, Quatt, Much Wenlock and Cressage”, and 40 pages later he’s taking the route in the other direction: “Cressage, Much Wenlock, Bridgnorth, Enville, Stourbridge and Hagley”. A garden centre isn’t just “midway between Shrewsbury and Birmingham”: it’s ���not far from the M54 and considered such a geographical fixture that it had its own official sign on the motorway”. A pub is “tucked away in a hard-to-find corner beside the Suffolk Street Queensway in Central Birmingham”. At one point we meet characters “driving out of Birmingham along the A3400”; at another contemplating the “rail replacement service between Kettering and Nuneaton” “‘Rail replacement service’, ‘Kettering’, ‘Nuneaton’. Were there five more dispiriting words in the English (or any other) language?”

In its politics, just as in its gripes about public transport, this is a great big Centrist Dad of a novel. It lives largely in the world of the media, academia, politics and (peripherally) the City. Benjamin Trotter is a failed novelist who in late middle age finds himself longlisted for the Man Booker prize; his old friend Doug is a well-heeled centre-left newspaper columnist; his niece Sophie is a university lecturer who becomes a minor TV don. The book has a wide cast of characters, though the ones we’re invited to sympathise with are pretty much all remainers.

And yet it’s never stronger or more convincing than when it’s furthest from political events. As the novel addresses the rise of populism, for example, we meet reactionary oldies in golf clubs moaning about “political correctness”; a lunatic conspiracy theorist buttonholing a publisher with a manuscript about the EU’s “Kalergi Plan” for white genocide; a porcine chancer funding the referendum through a dodgy free-market thinktank; an elderly former car worker uncomprehendingly contemplating the site where the Longbridge plant used to be; a privileged Corbynite student lodging a complaint against a lecturer after hearing (at second hand) that they’d said something to a trans student that could be taken the wrong way. They tell us, in caricatural form, what we already know – or at least suppose we do.

One problem is that the historical scaffolding is so familiar, and yet will date so fast; this means that certain passages of exposition feel clunky. The reader in 2018 has no need to be told the following:

Jeremy Corbyn had become leader of the Labour Party in September. The surprising – even astonishing – election of this obscure but long-serving, rebellious backbencher had been seen by many, including Sophie, as a welcome sign that the party was planning to return to the principles it had abandoned under Tony Blair.

The reader in 2028 might welcome the reminder. The reader in 2038 will struggle to give a damn. The reader in 3018 may eke a PhD out of it.

To give Middle England its due, it doesn’t aim to cover everything, recognising wanly that, in drink, the conversation will broaden out “to include Brexit, Donald Trump, Syria, North Korea, Vladimir Putin, Facebook, immigration, Emmanuel Macron, the Five Star Movement and the contentious result of the Eurovision song contest in 1968”. So the American elections are dispatched, wittily, in two lines:

Finally, Benjamin said: “I don’t like Trump, do you?” “Nope,” Charlie said. “Can’t stand the bloke.” Benjamin nodded. With the political discussion out of the way …

And it is when the political discussion is out of the way that the novel becomes richer and less schematic. There’s Sophie’s odd-couple relationship with her driving instructor husband Ian (they met on a speed awareness course) and the way she thinks and rethinks an adulterous near-miss at the beginning of their marriage. There’s Benjamin’s relationship with his sister Lois and his long-lost schoolfriend Charlie, now working as a children’s entertainer and locked in a feud with a rival clown. And there’s Benjamin’s journey towards self-understanding and acceptance. All these are done with real style and feeling.

Coe’s writing is as smoothly accomplished as ever. His comic set pieces – funerals, dinners, clown fights – and scenes capturing the affectionate and ridiculous sex of middle age, and a relationship between a journalist and a Yes Minister-style government adviser, are very funny.

Yet this is also a surprisingly sentimental book, beginning and ending with Benjamin listening wistfully to Shirley Collins’s song “Adieu to Old England”, which is not to its disadvantage. It is an autumnal novel, and a sad one: poignant about the passing of time, the wishing for what has vanished, the decades lost to obscure hatreds, misplaced loves and unsatisfactory marriages – and about what, washing up on the brink of old age, we’re left with and what we can or can’t make of it. That a river, or two, runs through it is no accident.

And in this context the national stuff just sort of bubbles up. The Midlands landscape of Benjamin’s childhood, a landscape at once familiar and remembered and transformed and imaginary, is the real middle England of the novel. And what is lost and gained goes far beyond the referendum in 2016. To quote that therapist again: “Something much more fundamental and personal was going on.”

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at Just for Books…?

[androphagos]

Trotters

I don't know who needs to hear this, but you have to try 'Trotters' if you love male feet! It's this amazing restaurant in central London that specializes in cooking feet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The flavors are out of this world, and the textures are so unique. You've got to check it out! They've got all sorts of signature dishes like 'Feet on a Stick', 'Foot and Mouth Pie', and my favourite, 'Trotter Toes'. And the atmosphere is just incredible. The decor is old-timey with all these posters of famous people with foot-related quotes. The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable too.

[envihellbender]

What would the successful Last Feast look like?

Rating: Explicit

Fandom: The Magnus Archives

Characters: Jared Hopworth, John Haan, Monster Pig

Content: gore, bodily fluids, extreme weight gain, animal death, cannibalism

Summary: The UK succumbs to the flesh

—

Jared Hopworth may cause the Last Feast in Istanbul, but it’s the Magnus Institute in London he decides to build the centre of his new world. When it begins, the blue of the sky fades. It becomes grey before turning to the yellow of pus, there’s a strange fractal pattern across it that’s only visible without a telescope when a strange electricity pulses through it. The ground becomes soft and wet, it almost seems to breathe. Flowers aren’t flowers anymore, petals are like skin and they smell of meat. The only respite from feeling as if you’re being marched towards the Killing Floor is if another Fear takes an interest in you.

In place of the Panopticon would be the Abattoir, except instead of towering over all of London, the entire capital city has turned into the horrifying palace of bones, blood, visceral, fat, and muscle. From the outside it’s a gigantic grey building with chimneys that go far beyond the sky, pumping out foul smelling smoke that covers the entire country. There are gigantic metal doors that open automatically to welcome in their guests, the walls inside are covered in flesh and muscle, pulsing and pumping constantly. The first rooms you see are the Flesh Avatars that have happily embraced their new place. John Haan can be found chopping up the victims of the flesh, the ones who stumbled into the Abattoir or who were in London when the Last Feast began. He had his own Killing Floor now, the zombie of his son Tom dutifully bringing him more humans to be toyed with, eaten, or fed to the Boneturner.

If you go down to the pens where the livestock is kept, be careful not to vomit because it’s like catnip to the ruler of the pens. In each one are shaking, sobbing victims, fat with hormones being pumped into their body and covered in their own urine and faeces. In the centre of the hall is sat the most gigantic hog than could possibly have existed outside of the Abattoir. The pig could have crushed Buckingham Palace underneath its behind and its breasts and head are hidden through its gigantic gut. If you were able to climb a top of it, you’d see a grotesque beast, a neck roll that swelled and caused a fat head to sink into it with a snout poking out. As his useless arms can’t lift themselves, and his trotters are pathetic stubs, the building brings his meals to him. The pulsing meat on the walls dragging and passing him down the line until they reach the gaping maw of the sow.

In the heart of the building is the Flesh Garden, where rests Jared Hopworth, or what was Jared Hopworth. Now he’s The Boneturner. If you’re unlucky enough to reach his flesh garden, the first thing you would see was a table, a long, wide table covered in rotting carcasses. Cadavers that have maggots crawling in them but are still being left to be feasted on by The Boneturner. If time still worked, it would take the time to walk to the head of the table as it would to walk from one side of the London to the other. What you will see however is tendrils, so many tendrils. Some of them are pink and pulsing, they’re humming as if they’re pumping a substance towards something. Others are hard white bones with sharp edges that follow the same route as the others.

The denizens of The Abattoir and the Flesh Garden exist to serve the Boneturner, all of the flesh that is shredded from those who enter is fed to him eventually, and the bones are added to his own. Few actually see the ruler of this new world, and only the unlucky are given the opportunity. He isn’t recognisable as anything that was ever remotely human anymore. The fleshy tendrils have sharp teeth when they reach their ends which sink into The Boneturner’s skin and cling to him, pumping him full of all the fat and viscera in the Abattoir. The ones they tangle around, that are hard and white as bone are the man himself, he has become so full of bones that they pierced his muscles and skin. Parts of him have tons of bones forced into gigantic mounds of fat, but the ones that don’t have flesh to cover them simply split his skin open and keep growing. Everything in this new world exists to feed, sustain, and add to his collection.

[grits-galraisedinthesouth]

"The Kate Effect:" Often imitated, never duplicated 👑

Determined to help, Kate has now persuaded 19 British brands to donate more than 10,000 NEW items to more than 40 baby banks across the UK.

The Duchess of Cambridge donned a mask, apron and gloves today as she launched a major initiative to support vulnerable babies and children. On a visit to the baby bank charity Baby Basics UK in Sheffield, she revealed how she was moved to tears by the stories of families she met during secret lockdown visits to its West Norfolk branch near her Anmer Hall home.

As she unloaded pallets and unpacked the first deliveries at the charity’s temporary distribution centre, she told volunteers: "It can get very emotional. I remember a couple of the families I met from King's Lynn and I went home and literally burst into tears, their stories were so moving. The struggles they have gone through, the bravery they have shown...in extraordinary circumstances. Helping their families through extraordinary times."

Volunteer-run baby banks provide essentials such as nappies, clothing and bedding to vulnerable families who are referred by health visitors, midwives and social workers. But while baby banks across the UK have seen an increase in demand during the Covid-19 outbreak, many have been unable to accept second-hand donations because of health and safety concerns.The Duchess also spoke via videocalls to Amy Cotton, who fled a violent home with only her baby son Ricky, now three, and received a buggy, clothing and toys from Little Village. She is now a volunteer for the charity and has a 12-week old daughter, Ellie-Rose.

Kate told her: "It is brave and not often the easiest thing to do but it is really fantastic that you've reached out, that you are so open about your own struggles but also the fact that you are in such a fantastic place now. I suppose it is real credit to you, the journey that you've undertaken and the courage and strength you've shown to get there. So well done. And I love the fact that you are volunteering too."

She also spoke to Ella-Mae Michalski, whose 21-month-old twin girls Bella and Ruby were born prematurely with chronic lung disease. Little Village provided them with a double pram, clothes, muslins and other essentials.

"As a mum the one thing you want to be able to do is to provide for your children and it was difficult not to be able to do that but Little Village helped," said Ella-Mae. "It's something as basic as getting a cup of tea when you come here and people asking how you are and being able to offload without fear of what people might think."After learning about the situation during private visits to her local branch, where she helped to pack Moses Baskets with essential products for babies, the Duchess spearheaded a campaign to get UK companies to donate items to baby banks run by Baby Basics UK, London-based Little Village and Aberdeenshire-based AberNecessities.

Retailers taking part include John Lewis, M&S, Tesco, Sainsbury's, The White Company, Matalan, Trotters, Boden, Frugi, Mamas & Papas, Jojo Maman Bébé and Kit & Kin. Green People (Organic Babies), My Little Coco, Bloom and Blossom, Kokoso Baby, Childs Farm and Bramley have also made donations, while DHL Express is providing transport.

In Sheffield, Baby Basics CEO Cat Ross told the Duchess: "Often in a world where there is a lot of judgement and stereotyping about being poor, that additional stress can be even more difficult for parents who are doing amazing things to keep their families going with such strength, such determination."

"Yes," agreed Kate, "One of the mums I met was a nurse. These are families who do fantastic jobs and even they are struggling."Talking about community spirit during lockdown, she added: "It is those small volunteering acts that everyone can contribute to that make such a difference. That inter-generational support system has been amazing. Knowing that you can make such a big difference to another family is wonderful."

Kate also met Ali Wartty and Sahara Hamawandy, and their one-year-old triplets San, Shan and Laveen. An emotional Sahara told the Duchess how she was referred to Baby Basics after struggling to cope. The charity provided them with a triple pram, Moses baskets and starter packs, as well as clothes and toiletries as the babies have grown.

"I was living on the 12th floor of a block of flats and trying to cope with the three of them," she told the Duchess. "It must have been so stressful," sympathised Kate.  

Sahara told her: "How do you take your three babies down from the 12th floor without a pram? We weren't able to go out at all." Speaking afterwards, Sahara said: "To give support to mum means giving support to the whole family. That’s why the charity has been so important to a mother like me. It gave me power. It transformed me. I just want to say thank you to everybody."A Little Village survey of more than 50 baby banks has found that 77% desperately need more nappies, mattresses and other products as demand for their services increases. The charity is set to support more than 6,000 children this year, double the number they helped in 2019.

Founder and Chief Executive Sophia Parker said: "The pandemic appears to be making the situation much, much worse for many families. Every child should have the right to a good childhood and this new initiative is a much welcomed step towards tackling child poverty in the under 5s."

Danielle Flecher-Horn, Founder of AberNecessities, added: "By providing parents with the resources to build a positive relationship with their children - from pregnancy and throughout the first years – we can make a real difference to a child’s development, health and overall happiness."Speaking aftewards, Baby Basics CEO Cat Ross said: "A lot of people have heard about food banks but don’t necessarily know about the baby banks and what we do. Having someone like the Duchess behind us is amazing and her helping us by getting in all these amazing brands has been incredible."

Announcing the initiative, Kate said: "Over recent months, I have heard from families who have been supported by baby banks through the most difficult of times and I have been deeply moved by their stories. Having somewhere to turn to for support is important for all families, and baby banks work every day, up and down the country, to provide immediate, tangible and practical help for parents and carers when they are most in need.

"Baby banks are driven by incredible volunteers, demonstrating the power of community spirit in supporting families and coming together to raise the next generation. Thanks to the generosity of the companies taking part in this initiative, baby banks across the UK will be able to support even more families through this particularly challenging time."

"In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you. For this is the essence of the Law and the Prophets."¹

@skippyv20 I remember when you told us to spot the difference. No photos of "the wife" out shopping with mom for baby items.🧐

¹Matthew 7:12

[sophia-sol]

Some time ago I saw a production of Agatha Christie's play The Mousetrap with a friend. I'm generally the sort of person to look up spoilers beforehand so I know what to expect going in, but The Mousetrap has a long history of specifically asking the audience to come in unspoiled, even though it's from long before the current anti-spoiler culture, so I thought it might be fun to play along and go in with my expectations untainted.

And to continue that tradition I'll put the rest of my thought behind a cut!

It was an enjoyable and well done play, overall. Good set design and staging, well acted, and a fun mystery with a collection of intriguing characters all stuck together in one place.

At the intermission my friend and I had a good time talking through our thoughts on who the most likely suspect was, and there were a number of options. We agreed that Trotter couldn't be the guilty party, though, because that would not be narratively satisfying.

So I was very disappointed to discover in the end that it was in fact Trotter.

Some other aspects of the plot kind of niggled at me too. Like, why didn't the police pretending to be Metcalf do anything to stop Trotter??

Trotter suddenly being super crazy at the end, despite no previous signs, was also unsatisfying. That didn't feel integrated at all!

Plus, the anniversary gifts…. why didn't the two of them fess up earlier that that's why they were in London? When your own spouse is accusing you of murder, that's not a time to continue keeping secrets simply for the sake of romance!

I was also disappointed by the multiple points where the audience is expected to laugh at a man for acting gay, plus there's one joke that was made that expects the very idea of a person engaging in cross-dressing to be funny….and the whole audience laughed heartily at it. I hate that this happens every single time I go see theatre that has cross-dressing in it! Whether it's intentionally played for laughs or not, cross-dressing is somehow inherently hilarious to a normie audience, and it is infuriating to me.

In the end I'm glad I went to see the play for the experience, but it is not the strongest of mysteries, or even a particularly strong Agatha Christie story. But I do recommend going to see it live sometime if you ever have the chance!

[activatebutterflyshield]

Sketching out the top brass of the Chatter & Melody society.

Left to right:

Ryan Trotter, he/him, 41 years, designation Lucky Lion, Hearth-Tender (internal affairs), of the Beyond and Toronto.

Charlie Everett Sargent, she/her, 38 years, designation Skywriter, Architect (future affairs), of the Songbird and London.

Riley Weaver-Tang, she/he, 37 years, designation Roman Candle, Record-Keeper (past affairs), of the Contradiction and Los Angeles.

Tobias Lovelady, he/him, 39 years, designation Thousand-Year Oak, Telegrapher (external affairs), of the Expanse and Brasilia.

These four executives are all equal in power and must achieve a unanimous vote to enact any Society-wide changes beyond their individual purviews, ex: all must agree to any new defense initiatives that include internal and external forces related to the Society and her allies.

Executives are chosen by vote of all active Society members and approved by the existing execs. In the event of a total wipe-out of the top brass, the popular vote will instate four members to temporary leadership for a term of 5 years, at which point they must face another popular vote to permanently hold their positions.

[confessions-official]

People that think British food is disgusting are so STUPID we are NOT all tea drinkers nowadays, we like coffee. Who the hell would eat faggots people born in Titanic era DUH. The pie with all the fish sticking out is a Cornwall only Christmas dish, Jellied eels & pie and mash that is for Londoners Gen Z hate them. Rock sticks are for theme parks. I doubt anyone eats pigs heads or boney pigs trotters now. Boomers did. Only Scotland fries mars bars. Spotted dick is a cake.

 

[ayantika2920]

What are some British TV shows you just won't understand unless you've lived in the UK?

British TV shows often carry a unique cultural context that may be challenging to fully grasp without some familiarity with British society, humor, and references. Here are a few examples:

Only Fools and Horses: This classic sitcom revolves around the lives of two brothers, Del Boy and Rodney Trotter, who live in Peckham, South London, and their various get-rich-quick schemes. Understanding the nuances of working-class London life and the particular humor of the characters can be key to fully appreciating this show.

The Thick of It: A political satire revolving around the inner workings of the British government, particularly focusing on the Department of Social Affairs and Citizenship. The rapid-fire dialogue, profanity, and cynical view of politics may be difficult to fully understand without some familiarity with British politics and bureaucracy.

Peep Show: A comedy series filmed from the perspective of the characters, often delving into their inner thoughts and insecurities. The show's humor relies heavily on awkward situations and social faux pas, which may resonate more with those familiar with British social norms and urban life.

Gavin & Stacey: This sitcom follows the long-distance relationship between Gavin from Essex and Stacey from Barry in Wales, along with their quirky friends and family members. Understanding the regional accents and cultural differences between England and Wales can enhance the viewing experience.

Blackadder: A historical sitcom that spans multiple periods, following the misadventures of the various incarnations of Edmund Blackadder and his dimwitted sidekick, Baldrick. Appreciating the show's clever wordplay, historical references, and satire of British history requires some familiarity with both British history and comedic traditions.

These are just a few examples, but many more British TV shows may require a certain level of cultural understanding to fully appreciate.

[the-time-lord-oracle]

5 facts about Shareen Costello:

The genesis behind Shareen came from binge-watching the RTD-era during lockdown and noticing the numerous mentions Rose makes of Shareen, which got me thinking about what if Shareen actually showed up and met the Doctor. This idea lingered at the back of my mind for some time and in 2022 I finally decided to make it happen.

When planning Shareen, I went through several different ideas for her face claim. Alexandra Daddario, Phoebe Tonkin and Holland Roden were favourites for a while before I ultimately settled on Victoria Moroles. The choice of Victoria came from watching her as Hayden Romero in Teen Wolf. I imagined Shareen to be very feisty and street-wise, so I felt that Victoria was a good choice for such a character.

Shareen's catchphrase of "Cosmic" comes from Only Fools & Horses. Rodney Trotter had a tendency to say "Cosmic", usually in a sarcastic sense when things went pear-shaped and I felt that Shareen would've watched that classic British comedy while growing up and so would start quoting it. She's also called people "Plonkers" a few times, which is an insult Del Boy tended to use. In fact, it runs in the family, as Shareen's sister Zara once called the Doctor a "Wally", which is another insult Del tended to use.

Shareen's spiky relationship with the Doctor came about because I wanted to do something different from the usual characterisation of Doctor Who OCs, who tend to be love interests for the Doctor and worship the ground he walks on. It provides for an interesting contrast with Rose, who was always sucking up to the Doctor, especially in series 2. Shareen is very much cut from the same cloth as Donna, which made writing them together in series 4 so much fun!

Shareen's interest in football comes from the euphoria surrounding England's victory at the 2022 Women's Euro Cup. The Lionesses' victory inspired me to give Shareen an interest in football. This has come up several times in her series; she and Mickey participated in a match just after the events of Aliens of London/World War Three, she left off some steam at the end of Gridlock by practising her goals in the TARDIS, she offered to play a match with Jethro in Midnight and she played a match with Mickey after the Doctor dropped her off on Earth after series 4. Perhaps the 11th Doctor's football skills came from his previous incarnation's time travelling with Shareen! For the record, Shareen's favourite team is Crystal Palace.

[bunnyified]

how i’d style the plastics in 2024

cady heron jaded london zip up. diesel skirt. dolls kill platforms. coach handbag. vivienne westwood earrings. tiffany necklace.

regina george tout a coup jumper. guizio skirt. larroude pumps. prada mini-bag. van cleef and arpels earrings. oak and leaf necklace.

karen smith rat boi bolero. guizio tank top. poster girl skirt. valentino pumps. dior trotter bag. tiffany & co earrings and bracelet.

gretchen wieners jacquemus sweater. miu miu skirt. amani muaddi sandals. jacquemus bag. bottega veneta earrings. cartier bracelet. miu miu belt.

[myasssaysno]

On a late foggy London night, a police-officer makes his rounds, only to trend down trotters lane. Upon which he hears a faint humming noise, which leads him to the blue gates of a scrapyard. He dares to open them, only to find a blue police box tucked inside. 

Dun. Dun. Duunn. 

That’s it though. We never see him again. He’s completely irrelevant and he doesn’t even die. 

What nonsense is this? 

Episode one of Classic Who

Full explanation and review under the cut...

An Unearthly Child is not a bad episode per say; I suppose its a very dated one; in the sense, not much happens in it but historically, it’s fascinating. 

Don’t get me wrong; entertainment level; Meh; fascination level; Oooh

We’re quickly introduced to our two companions for the series; 

Barbara Wright the history teacher; there to show the Doctor the power of Compassion

And Ian ChesterTON the science teacher; there to show the Doctor the power of Hope

Which I mean is amazing; Doctor Who truly has always been about four things; Science; History; Compassion and Hope. 

Just wonderful. 

Don’t get me wrong; we no longer get anything half as good, as the dynamic that this TARDIS team has; its all there, and the Doctor’s just along for the ride (for majority of it). 

I wish modern who was more like this. No drama. (Well no relationship drama ((Well no love-triangle bullshit)))

That being said, there are questionable moments. Moments that make you go, Ah the Sixties. 

For example; the whole premise of the episode. 

Basically, Barbara Wright is concerned for a student of hers (Susan Foreman) who she considers to be very bright and wants to help her become unstoppable.  And by that I mean, give her more in-depth lessons outside of school; basically a home-schooling advance learning opportunity; just for Susan. 

Only problem; Susan says her grandfather won’t like nor allow it. 

So, Barbara does the logical thing, accepts Susan’s no and moves on with her life, like any good teacher. 

I’m joking; she stalks the girl, I mean naturally. 

She first uses her privilege as the girls teacher to get her address from the school’s office; and then tracks her down to this scrapyard, only to be horrified. 

Well I’m sure Susan’s not trilled either Barbara, but save your judgement, my goodness, she doesn’t come barging into your address and judging your living circumstances. 

I mean in all seriousness, Susan attends school regularly (presumably) and is in no means in a state of distress nor dressed poorly. What I’m trying to say is, Barbara has no reason to presume Susan’s ill-looked after. 

That being said, she turns up in the hopes of speaking with Susan’s grandfather, without Susan’s permission, to convince him of the benefits of tutoring Susan outside of school, and I mean, you couldn’t really get away with this now-a-days. 

Possibly a call, but most teachers would hand them a letter and ask the parent to get in contact if they’re interested. 

But Barbara’s dedicated. Only the episode freely admits, she’s more curious about the very clever, very knowledgeable oddity that Susan Forman is. She knows things she shouldn’t, and doesn’t know things she should. 

I mean, she’s just had a sheltered life, she does come across as a very naïve girl who has been raised around a very intelligent role model. That’s it. So in other words, Barbara’s just curious of this grandfather of hers, and everyone acts like the Doctor was paranoid but he had a right to be. 

Ian on the other hand, freely admits this is suspicious behaviour and tries to get Barbara to admit it. All the way to driving up outside the scrapyard and waiting for Susan to turn up. Yeah, two teachers just chilling, waiting for their student to turn up, like weirdos.  

And everyone questions the Doctor’s behaviour, his hostility but these two, the real weirdos, I’m telling you. 

Anywho...

Each teacher takes turn talking about their experience’s of Susan, and in all honestly they fall a little flat. 

For Barbara; she discuss’ Susan’s humiliation; about currency. And oh, prepare yourself for a short little history lesson. 

Basically, British money made zero sense until 1971.  1 Pound = 20 Shillings. 20 Shillings = 12 Pence 1 Pence = 2 halfpennies or 4 farthings

What is this nonsense? And I struggle with modern British currency, my goodness. 

Now to be a barer of bad news. Doctor Who didn’t actually predict the change in currency (with Susan mistaking presuming Britain had already shifted to the new decimal system) as from 1961; the slow process; taking ten-years; had already been happening. How known this was, I couldn’t say, but talk of switching a more easy currency, like in America, had probably already been happening for years. 

This along with the idea that Doctor Who’s first episode aired the same day President Kennedy got assassinated is a little misinforming, but either way, still a little fascinating quirk. 

Doctor Who Air Date: 23rd Nov 1963 (Sat) Kennedy Death: 22nd Nov (Fri)

Back to the episode;

Susan wrongly presumes Britain are on the decimal system 1 pound = 100 pennies Only to embarrass herself in front of the entire class. 

And that’s the only flashback Barbara contributes. Like come on. Not one thing about her showing off her historical knowledgeable. Because apparently, Susan’s corrected the history book, and I don’t know how she managed that one because surely Barbara would believe the book, over a student but....

Ian gets two flashbacks (blatant sexism)

In all honestly, I can see why. He first shows us Susan being bored of science (which high school student isn’t) but it’s not because she doesn’t understand but because she’d rather be working with active chemicals. (Whoa girl calm down, this is a school, go blow up the scrapyard you live in). 

Basically, remember in science class, when you dipped paper into chemicals to see it change colour (I vaguely remember myself) that has apparently been happening since the sixties, which is a little depressing. 

Then, Ian shows us Susan not understanding how dimensions work. As apparently she can’t work in three-dimensions, and instead works in four which is drumroll please, time. 

Again, the idea either teacher would believe Susan is a little questionable at best, sure she’s coming up with novel ideas, sort of, but she sounds like a rambling mad-man or scientist, not a clever girl. If anything, they’re showing the opposite, which makes more sense. 

There here for the Doctor, he needs to RUN! Quick Doctor. They’re on to you. 

Now, I know what you’re thinking; who’s the big bad of the episode. Who is going to try to kill or trick the companions? Is it Susan. Now while that would make for a brilliant episode, no. Technically, it’s no-one. 

But I have different idea to put across. Because, if anyone in this episode is acting antagonistic, it’s the Doctor. 

Dun. Dun. Duuun. 

Susan arrives home. Enters the scrapyard, and failing to notice or hear her teachers calling out to her. They follow her anyway, and begin exploring the scrapyard, which as you imagine is full of a lot of old junk, nobody wants, and would look at home in a car boot sale. 

It is rather late, after school, but Ian brought a flashlight and also finds the TARDIS hiding beside some steps. He manages to round the entire box, notes its humming and claims it a living being. Which is more than most companions can say. 

At the arrival of the Doctor, both teachers hide behind those steps, as he approaches the box, only to spot them and immediately become suspicious. Which turns into a full blown argument, between Ian and the Doctor over the box, which the Doctor claims a cupboard, and Susan’s disappearance. 

Like these teachers go full on, you’ve abducted her. Um, she willingly entered the scrapyard, you saw her, and um, he wasn’t even in here when she did, because he came after, so, um, good look arguing that one in court. 

After a rather lengthy back and forth, with a lot of condescending comments on the Doctor’s part. Susan opens the TARDIS doors, and Ian attacks him to allow Barbara to rush inside to save Susan. 

Did I say the Doctor’s the bad-guy; whoops; I meant Ian and Barbara; they stuck there noses in where it both wasn’t asked nor needed, and forcefully entered the Doctor’s TARDIS, despite being asked to leave, all because they didn’t like nor understand what’s going on. 

Also, the Doctor drawing attention away from the TARDIS, by admiring junk found in a scrapyard, will never not be funny. (Also, also, did scrapyards have a different meaning in the sixties? Or have I been Americanised beyond hope?)

As episodes go; not as sexist as I feared. I mean there’s this idea that Ian is the man, and he has this role to play (which features throughout the entire series) but its done in a way, that makes you, one, like and trust Ian, and two, not think any less of the other characters. It doesn’t bash on Barbara for being a woman, nor Susan for being a young girl, or even the Doctor for being an old man. It accepts it, even if it takes it a little far, with assigned roles. 

All in all; little underwhelming; quite boring; and um Racist. Yeah, only one comment about the indigenousness people of America not understanding trains, like American’s didn’t think a woman’s womb would explode if she boarded one, and the general lack of POC anything. 

Yeah, I’m afraid the next three episodes are by far the worst episodes of Doctor Who, that I have ever had the misfortune of experiencing. 

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy the old Classic Who, I like historical things, and working out how much society has changed, writing has changed, things like that, and by no means recommend this for someone looking for entertainment. Not that its all boring, there are a few serials (stories spread across multiple episodes) that I would recommend, if some of the episodes weren’t missing but as a general rule. WOULD NOT RECOMMEND. 

Part 1 of 4

[candy-floss-crazy]

Meet Betsy the camper van. A photo booth with a difference. The original photo booths on the party scene were basically boxes. Much like the old Woolworths or Post Office booths where you would go for a passport photo. Indeed some of the first models used inkjet printers, so not only were they slow. but you would have to wait for the ink to dry. As things progressed they started to use dye sublimation printers. These used rolls of paper matched to rolls of ink, the paper would be run through the print mechanism four times. Cyan, Magenta and blue would be overlaid on the paper to form the image, then a clear laminate film sealed over the top. The prints were not only quick, but instantly dry and water proof. The booths themselves though tended not to change much, still being basically boxes. Then quirky booths began to appear. Booths in London taxi cabs, classic mini's, a telephone booth, even a Del Boy Trotter van had a booth in. Mini Camper Booth We had booths installed in all of the above. We were always on the lookout for something different we could stick a booth in. Looking around different vehicles we came across a mini camper van. It looked like a VW camper that had been shrunk. So we investigated. It turned out to actually be a Subaru Sambar. It was one of a special range of vehicles sold in Japan called Kei cars. These had to be no more than 3.4 metres in length with an engine no bigger than 660cc. Our particular model was actually a high spec version. It had the 660cc supercharged engine, along with four wheel drive and an interior that allowed the front seats to swivel around and face the rear seats. Along with two sunroofs. The car in its basic guise looked nothing like a camper. However the Japanese seem to have an obsession with VW campers. This led to numerous firms converting them with fibreglass panels to look like the VW T2 campers. The main change is the addition of a large VW front grill, along with side panels and stainless steel bumpers. A close look will rapidly reveal it isn't a genuine VW, but it is surprising how often people will ask if we had a VW specially shortened. camper crazy photo booth hire Ours was a blue and white colour when it arrived. We had it resprayed pearl white and candy apple red. Along with a new leather interior in red and white and an internal respray of all the panels. Camper Interior For festival themed jobs we added a roof mounted surf board to dispense the prints, a music system playing Beach Boys songs and tiki themed dress up accessories. Chauvet Mini Camper Booth-300x169-1 Betsy The Camper is definitely a perfect match for festival themed weddings and events. Read the full article

[imbrianmatthewmarkle]

Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition Celebrates 60 Years of Working with James Bond

On September 17, 1964, the movie Goldfinger premiered in London, marking the first time an Aston Martin DB5 ever appeared on film. Clearly, it was high time the model made its silver screen debut because 60 years later, the car and the spy are still intimately linked. So much so that Aston Martin has decided to mark the anniversary with the DB12 Goldfinger Edition.

Just like 007, Aston Martin has turned to the Q division to prepare its grand tourer for duty, and the result is a limited edition model, of which just 60 will be sold. Each example of the DB12 Goldfinger Edition will be finished in Silver Birch paint, just like the DB5 that was featured in the film. As a nod to the classic’s wire-spoke rims, the new model has 21-inch multi-spoke wheels that cover black brake callipers.

More than its overall look, the DB12 Goldfinger Edition is also marked by its subtler touches. Its winged logo is finished in silver with black enamel, and it gets bespoke gold side strakes. The gold theme continues inside, where the drive mode dial, the roller controls, and the notched gear selector are all plated in 18K gold, and the carbon fibre trim has gold metal fibres woven into it.

On top of being a nod to the film’s titular villain, Aston Martin says the gold highlights were specifically inspired by the golden tracking device that James Bond uses in the film — and that isn’t where the references stop. Buyers will also find a red number eight and a heart stitched into the driver’s side sunshade, which is the last card drawn during the film’s Miami pool scene.

In addition, the DB12 Goldfinger Edition’s leather Sport Plus seats are finished in the classic DB5 fluted style, and feature a perforation pattern inspired by the Prince of Wales check, the same pattern seen on a notable suit worn by Bond. The pattern is also found on the door inserts, the headliner, and is etched onto the car’s treadplates.

Finally, buyers will be offered a selection of gifts, including a Globe-Trotter attaché case and Air Cabin Case, the latter of which can hold the magnum of 2007 vintage Champagne Bollinger and the Bollinger 007 glasses that buyers are also entitled to. In addition, buyers will get a Silver Birch Speedform model and a section of 35mm film that features a portion of the Furka Pass scene from the movie Goldfinger. Finally, buyers will receive a special, 1 of 60 golden edition of Aston Martin magazine to read next to their vehicle.

[digitaltravelexpert]

25 Unique Travel Fun Facts That Will Inspire Your Adventure

Discover fascinating travel fun facts and stories from the world's tallest waterfall to the coldest inhabited place on Earth that will ignite your wanderlust. Uncover unique tidbits that will inspire your next adventure There are a lot of interesting travel fun facts remind us what's cool about traveling a step into a real-life adventure book! And here's a fun fact to spice up your day: Did you know that there's a hotel in Japan that has been open since 705 AD? Are you ready to embark on a journey through the fascinating world of travel? Whether you're a seasoned globe-trotter or a newbie adventurer, there's always something new and exciting to learn about the places we visit. Get ready for a whirlwind tour of 25 unique travel fun facts that will leave you itching to pack your bags and hit the road!

25 Interesting Travel Fun Facts

Disclaimer: While I endeavored to gather cool and interesting travel facts, I must disclose that I cannot guarantee their 100% accuracy due to the dynamic nature of travel statistics and facts and information availability. Let's get to it. 1. The Great Wall of China: Did you know that the Great Wall of China is not actually visible from space with the naked eye? Despite what popular belief might suggest, it's nearly impossible to spot this ancient wonder from orbit without the aid of magnification. 2. The Longest Flight: If you're a fan of long-haul flights, you might be interested to know that the longest commercial flight in the world is from Singapore to New York City, covering a whopping distance of over 9,500 miles in approximately 18 hours! 3. The Deepest Lake: Lake Baikal in Siberia holds the title of the world's deepest lake, plunging to depths of over 5,300 feet. Not only is it incredibly deep, but it also contains around 20% of the world's unfrozen freshwater. 4. The Busiest Air Route: Want to take a guess at the busiest air route in the world? It's not New York to Los Angeles or London to Paris. It's actually the short hop between Seoul and Jeju Island in South Korea, with millions of passengers flying this route each year. 5. The Oldest Hotel: The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest hotel in the world, continuously operated since it first opened its doors in 705 AD! 6. The Largest Palace: You might think Buckingham Palace takes the crown, but it's actually the Istana Nurul Iman Palace in Brunei that holds the title of the worlds largest palace, boasting over 2.1 million square feet of floor space. 7. The Tallest Waterfall: Venezuela's Angel Falls is not only the tallest waterfall on Earth, plunging an astonishing 3,212 feet, but it's also one of the most breathtaking sights you'll ever lay eyes on. 8. The Northernmost Capital: Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, holds the distinction of being the world's northernmost capital city, earning it the nickname "The Land of Fire and Ice." 9. The Largest Desert: When you think of deserts, you probably picture the Sahara, but did you know that Antarctica is actually the largest desert in the world? With its icy landscapes and barren terrain, it's the ultimate frozen wasteland. 10. The Most Linguistically Diverse Country: Papua New Guinea takes the prize for being the most linguistically diverse country in the world, with over 850 languages spoken among its population of just 8 million people! 11. The Busiest Subway System: Think New York City has the busiest subway system? Think again! Tokyo's subway network carries over 3.1 billion passengers annually, making it the busiest in the world. 12. The Shortest Commercial Flight: On the other end of the spectrum, the shortest commercial flight in the world operates between the Scottish islands of Westray and Papa Westray, spanning a distance of just 1.7 miles and lasting a mere 90 seconds! 13. The Coldest Inhabited Place: Welcome to Oymyakon, Russia, the coldest inhabited place on Earth, where temperatures regularly plummet to bone-chilling lows of minus 50 degrees Celsius (-58 degrees Fahrenheit)! 14. The Most Remote Island: Tristan da Cunha, located in the South Atlantic Ocean, holds the title of being the most remote inhabited island in the world, with the nearest inhabited landmass over 1,500 miles away. 15. The Smallest Country: Vatican City may be small in size, covering just 44 hectares (about 110 acres), but it's big in significance as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. 16. The Only City Spanning Two Continents: Istanbul, Turkey, is the only city in the world that straddles two continents, with its historic center situated in Europe and its more modern districts located in Asia. 17. The Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Italy is a treasure trove of cultural and historical wonders, boasting more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country on the planet, with a grand total of 58 sites. 18. The Busiest Airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in the United States consistently ranks as the busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic, with millions of travelers passing through its gates each year. 19. The Highest Capital City: La Paz, Bolivia, holds the distinction of being the world's highest capital city, nestled in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of over 11,900 feet above sea level. 20. The Longest Beach: If you're a beach lover, you'll want to visit Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, home to the world's longest natural sea beach, stretching uninterrupted for an astonishing 75 miles along the Bay of Bengal. 21. The Largest Cave: Son Doong Cave in Vietnam is not only the largest cave in the world by volume, but it's also a subterranean wonderland filled with lush jungles, underground rivers, and towering stalagmites. 22. The Most Visited City: Bangkok, Thailand, consistently ranks as the most visited city in the world, thanks to its vibrant street life, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine that draws millions of tourists each year. 23. The Fastest Roller Coaster: Adrenaline junkies, listen up! Formula Rossa, located at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, holds the title of the world's fastest roller coaster, reaching speeds of up to 149 miles per hour in just 4.9 seconds! 24. The Largest Volcano: While Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on Earth, Mauna Loa in Hawaii is the largest volcano by volume, rising over 13,600 feet above sea level and extending another 16,400 feet below the ocean surface. 25. The Most Remote National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska is not only the largest national park in the United States but also one of the most remote, offering rugged wilderness and unparalleled natural beauty for intrepid adventurers. And there you have it, folks! 25 mind-blowing travel fun facts that will inspire you to explore the far corners of our incredible planet. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today and discover even more amazing wonders waiting to be uncovered!

Power of Travel Fun Facts

The travel and tourism industry is about people and destination. Understanding travel fun facts about a destination isn't just about accumulating trivia; it's about forging a deeper connection with the places you visit and enriching your experience through travel storytelling. Here are several advantages of knowing travel fun facts when planning a trip. 1. Cultural Appreciation: Learning about the history, customs, and traditions of a destination through fun facts allows you to appreciate its culture on a deeper level. You'll gain insight into the local way of life, which can enhance your interactions with residents and help you understand the significance behind certain landmarks or rituals. 2. Personal Connection: Fun facts create a personal connection between you and the destination. Whether it's discovering a shared interest, uncovering a hidden gem, or learning about the origin of a famous landmark, knowing these tidbits adds depth to your travel experience and fosters a sense of belonging.

3. Memorable Stories: Travel Fun Facts serve as the building blocks for memorable stories. When you weave these intriguing tidbits into your narratives, you not only entertain your audience but also evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity about the places you've explored. These stories become cherished memories that you can share with friends and family for years to come.

4. Enhanced Exploration: Armed with knowledge about a destination's unique features and attractions, you can tailor your itinerary to include must-see sites and off-the-beaten-path gems that align with your interests. Whether it's visiting the oldest hotel in the world, sampling street food from a bustling market, or exploring a hidden cave system, knowing fun facts enhances your exploration and allows you to delve deeper into the destination's essence. 5. Cultural Sensitivity: Being aware of cultural norms and etiquette can help you navigate unfamiliar environments with respect and sensitivity. By learning about local customs and traditions, you can avoid inadvertently offending residents and foster positive interactions that promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

6. Educational Value: Traveling is an opportunity for lifelong learning, and travel fun facts add an educational dimension to your adventures. Whether you're discovering the geological wonders of a region, unraveling the mysteries of ancient civilizations, or marveling at architectural feats, each fun fact contributes to your overall knowledge and appreciation of the world.

7. Inspiration for Future Travel: Travel fun facts often spark curiosity and inspire further exploration. By uncovering intriguing tidbits about a destination, you may find yourself drawn to similar places or themes for future trips. Whether it's seeking out more UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exploring culinary delights from around the world, or embarking on adrenaline-pumping adventures, fun facts serve as a springboard for future travel adventures.

In summary, knowing travel fun facts adds depth, meaning, and storytelling potential to your travel experiences. By connecting with the destination on a personal level, crafting memorable stories, and enhancing your exploration, fun facts enrich your journey and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the diverse wonders of our world. So, the next time you plan a trip, don't forget to delve into the fascinating world of travel fun facts—you never know what amazing discoveries await! FAQs about Travel Fun Facts Did you know fun facts about travel longest place nameThe longest place name in the world is Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapiki-maungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitnatahu? Yup, that's a mouthful! It’s a hill in New Zealand, and locals often shorten it to Taumata for obvious reasons.What are 5 facts about tourism?Here are five cool fun facts about tourism history: The Grand Tour: Wealthy Europeans embarked on the "Grand Tour" during the 17th and 18th centuries, traveling through major cultural centers to enrich their education and social status. Thomas Cook: In 1841, Thomas Cook organized the first-ever package tour, offering train tickets, meals, and accommodations, pioneering modern mass tourism. Pan American World Airways: Pan Am, founded in 1927, revolutionized air travel by offering the first transatlantic passenger flights, making global tourism more accessible. The Jet Age: The introduction of jet aircraft in the 1950s dramatically reduced travel times, fueling a surge in international tourism and making distant destinations more reachable. Space Tourism: While still in its infancy, space tourism became a reality in 2001 when Dennis Tito became the first private citizen to travel to space, opening up a new frontier for adventurous travelers.What are 3 unique facts about travel?Jet Lag Is Real: Traveling across time zones can disrupt your body's internal clock, leading to fatigue, insomnia, and mood swings. It's like your body's way of saying, "Wait, what time is it again?" Airport Codes Tell Stories: Ever notice those three-letter airport codes? They're not just random letters; they often reflect the city's name, history, or nearby landmarks. So next time you're flying into JFK or LAX, you'll know there's more to those letters than meets the eye. Wanderlust Is Contagious: Once you catch the travel bug, there's no going back. Exploring new places, meeting diverse people, and experiencing different cultures become addictive, leaving you constantly craving your next adventure. Consider yourself warned—once you start, you might never want to stop! Additional resources: Interesting Facts You Didn’t Know About Dubai https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-35hw_a3g5I Read the full article

[toughgirlchallenges]

Gina Atkinson: From Royal Signals Engineer to Inspirational Fundraiser and Adventurer

Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we delve into the extraordinary life of Gina Atkinson, a former Royal Signals engineer with a remarkable story of service and resilience. Gina's military career took her to 30 Signal Regiment, where she visited  35 countries during her first five years of service.

Following a deeply personal loss in 2019, Gina embarked on a mission to honour her brother's memory by running/cycling 100 miles a week for a year, raising £10,000 for a local cancer charity and establishing an Art Foundation in his name. Her dedication did not stop there; Gina continued to raise over £250,000 for veterans' charities through a series of inspiring challenges and initiatives, including ultra races and solo adventures across Scotland.

In this episode, Gina shares her journey of coping with grief through fitness and adventure, her experiences in the military, and her passion for supporting veterans and cancer patients alike. From riding across Death Valley to planning her next challenge of running from London to France in 2024, Gina's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of adventure to heal and inspire.

Learn how Gina's adventures and fundraising efforts have made a significant impact, and gain insights into her motivations, challenges, and the importance of mental health advocacy in her journey. 

Join us as we explore Gina Atkinson's inspiring story on the Tough Girl Podcast.

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Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

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Show notes

Who is Gina

Being based on the Wirral, UK

Being a fundraiser for Veterans Charities 

Combining her fundraising with crazy adventures 

Growing up on the Wirral and why it’s an amazing location

Her early years spending time hillwalking in Wales

Joining the army cadets at 13

Deciding to join the army as an electronica engineer in the Royal Signals 

Being posted to 30 Signal Regiment nicknamed the ‘globe trotters’ 

Visiting 35 countries in the first 5 years 

Military memories from peace keeping missions

Volunteering at the orphanage in Bosnia 

Making the decision to leave the army

Wanting to make a second career and experience something different 

Starting fundraising for veterans charities almost straight away

Riding across Death Valley in America 

Getting involved in ultra races and going to see places at the same time

The Wall Ultra Race across Hadrian’s Wall 

Dealing with covid and losing her brother at age 52 to stage 4 bowl cancer

Coming up with the idea of doing 100 miles a week for 52 weeks - 5,200 miles in memory of her brother. 

Dealing with grief and needing a distraction

Coping with stress and trauma by fitness and adventure in nature

Not knowing the next steps

Getting post adventures blues at the end of the challenge/adventure

Backdoor adventures

Raising funds for ssafa the Armed Forces charity  

Meeting veterans and sharing stories and memories

Being an advocate for mental health 

Raising over £250K for veterans charities and winning multiple awards

300 mile solo adventure across Scotland (3 bucket list challenges in one) walking the West highland Way, paddling the Great Glen, and then walking back on the Great Glen Way to Fort William

Getting injured and needing to return in 2024 

Not taking a dip in lock ness

The planning behind the challenge ideas

Taking it from the idea to getting to the start line 

Sticking to the plan 

Using YouTube as a resource 

Testing your kit and making sure your food is nutritious and tastes good

Keeping positive while on adventures 

Motivation and discipline why you need both

Quote by D.H. Lawrence, “I never saw a wild thing sorry for itself. A small bird will drop frozen dead from a bough without ever having felt sorry for itself.” 

Going back to your WHY

Motivation from the GI Jane movie and Legally Blonde

Being inspired by the Queen 

The next challenge in 2024 - running to France from London!

Maintaining fitness levels while not on adventures 

How to connect with Gina on social media 

Final words of advice for other women who want to do more adventures 

Starting on your own fitness journey 

Why consistency is the key for training for endurance events

Try and enjoy it and remember why you are doing it

  Social Media

Instagram: @goliveit.onelife

Facebook: @GinaGinelli

Military Memories is an anthology of poems from the force’s community.Profits go to Military Charities SSAFA & Sporting Force.

Instagram @Militarymemories2021

Twitter @militarymemos

Book: Military Memories: Military Memories is a anthology of poems written by the forces community. The poems illustrate the journey taken by those who join ... families’ lives and also the trauma we face.

  Check out this episode!