Monday 25th August 2025 - Fruitless, Sad Loss and So Busy

On Saturday morning we decided to go and see if there were any more ripe cherry plums and also pick some sloes for sloe rum.  Despite the lack of rain this summer, the sloes have been fattening well and are deep purple, bordering on black.  However, they didn’t leave the bushes easily, a strong indication they are not ready to be gathered.  I think we need to wait another week or two.  As for the cherry plums, all those on the lower branches have gone, leaving ripe deep red fruits at the top of the tree.  A little disappointing but we had a good picking a couple of weeks ago, with enough to bottle, stew and eat fresh.  I’m sure the birds and wild animals will appreciate those that are left.  I picked some blackberries but these didn’t make it home; I ate them. We may have arrived home fruit less but there was no doubt, it had been an enjoyable walk.

Sad to see, over the weekend, the Belfry Centre for Music and Arts, selling many of the articles from the centre, including musical instruments.  The final items, mainly books, crockery and glasses, were placed outside today.  These were free, with the option to make a donation.  Apart from our ExWI group meeting at the centre each month, I didn't take advantage of all the different classes etc. which were available.  Despite this, I know a lot of people are going to miss their art, keep fit, scrabble, yoga, record club and music appreciation etc. activities.  A sad loss for the village.

It's so busy!  I’m referring to today in the village.  When it comes to the August Bank Holiday, there seems to be something of a ‘must do’ amongst people who just have to get to the coast.  It’s been a glorious warm sunny Bank Holiday Monday with blue skies so who can blame them, especially if they live in a flat with no garden to sit in and enjoy.  The result has been cars parked, here there and everywhere and the beach this afternoon is the busiest we’ve seen, over what, with regard to visitor numbers, has been a relatively quiet summer.

Today’s photo was taken last week when I was taking a walk in Cromer, prior to a dentist's appointment and shows the rock armour which was brought in last summer.  I wonder if Overstrand will get similar, to reinforce the sea wall below the promenade.