Astonishing news from work

So this is super odd, we had an email come round from Jason this week advising us that we'd see something in the news about one of our previous colleagues, Dave, and what he did wasn't anything to do with EdCo and when we heard about it he was removed but it'll be in the public domain now. 

So of course that made us very curious and a quick Google Search returned results that he'd been charged with producing indecent images of children and was trying to organise a meeting with a 12 year old girl - absolutely astonishing news!

So he had category A images, which on checking with ChatGPT, said these are the worst and should be an immediate custodial sentence.

It has taken a while to sink in, it really has. It's someone we've worked with for 20+ years and it's the worst thing you can think of, murder always seems less! I felt partly vindicated that I've always called him the "C" word - seems I judged correctly.

Sentencing should be 11th May so we'll see what happens - everyone just wants him to experience prioson time, I am not convinced he'll get it - but as you can imagine it sent shockwaves around the company for those I spoke to.

Sick

Easter Monday - Lewis Hosting

Slept fairly well, although woke up a few times with an aching body and feeling cold. Flicked the diesel heater on a couple of times — it’s brilliant, makes things so much more comfortable. Didn’t properly wake up until about 8.30am.

Made porridge, which was a mistake… tasted awful without sugar or honey. Noted that down immediately for the van inventory list — lesson learned.

Got the van sorted. Tash wanted to go for a walk, but we needed to be at Lewis’s for just after 11.00am and it’s a 2hr 25min drive, so we skipped it and hit the road instead.

Traffic wasn’t great — volume and a few incidents slowed things down — so we didn’t arrive until about 12.30pm, which wasn’t ideal.

One funny moment though: sitting in traffic, a bloke tooted at me and started pointing at his t-shirt. Took me a second to realise it was the same “Evolution” design that I’ve got in the campervan window. He was absolutely buzzing about it. VW people… we’re a strange bunch.

Got to Lewis’s and Jack, Charlotte and Miles were already there. Frankie was asleep — for ages it felt like — so we had a good catch-up before he woke up and immediately became the centre of attention.

They’d cooked a roast chicken which was really good, and afterwards we went for a short walk to the park where things got oddly competitive on the outdoor gym equipment. Standard.

Back home, Tash organised an Easter egg hunt, and we also had a look at the garage conversion — now plastered and looking really smart. They should be really pleased with it. Exciting to see it coming together.

The rest of the afternoon revolved around Frankie. He’s properly on the move now — pulling himself along the floor, which surprised us all. Really cool to see, and he clearly knows he’s cracking it too.

Around 5.00pm Charlotte, Miles and Jack headed off, but we stayed a bit longer which was nice, especially as we’re back again in the morning anyway.

Then we made our way to the campsite — Welltrough Farm — the same one we stayed at when Frankie was born. Only about five miles away, so perfect: close enough to be handy, but not intruding.

Got set up, although needed to borrow a proper ramp from a friendly caravanner as the slope was too much for my blocks. His were massive — not something I’d buy — but they did the job perfectly. Definitely something to think about.

Water still not working, which is annoying. Will have to get CamperKing to sort that. Electric hookup all fine though.

We then went for a long walk around the farm — really lovely setting and a great sunset to finish it off. About an hour or so, very enjoyable, although my legs were still aching if I’m honest. Felt more tiring than it probably should have done — and it was only about 7k steps.

Back at the van, wasted a bit of time on phones, then watched the last three episodes of Last One Laughing. It was alright… not sure they’ll get another series out of it, but we’ll see.

Finished around 10.30pm and turned in. Thankfully not as cold as the previous night, so no need for the heater, which made for a better sleep. Still struggling with the blankets though — never quite enough coverage, and Tash either steals them or they fall off. Another thing for the van checklist.

Been a really good couple of days — thoroughly enjoyed it.

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End of Day Summary

A proper campervan day — small frustrations, simple pleasures, family time and fresh air. Great to see everyone, especially Frankie on the move, and a peaceful evening to round it off. A really enjoyable little break.

Easter Sunday – Helvellyn Hike

Alarm went at 4.00am, showered and shaved, then got Tash up and sorted and we were on the road by 4.35am – not bad at all, only five minutes later than planned… and a lot earlier than Tash had expected! She hadn’t quite clocked the time but it worked in her favour as she managed to sleep most of the way while I listened to my Orphan X book – number three, Hellbent – which I finally finished this week. Four hours of that on the drive was perfect.

We’d been a bit concerned about the weather with Storm Dave hitting over the weekend, but decided to go for it anyway and just be sensible.

After about 4.5 hours we arrived in Glenridding, at the base of Helvellyn in the Lake District. It was a bit rainy, so I took the chance to grab a quick 20-minute snooze. Also picked up a fridge magnet for the van from the souvenir shop, just in case it was shut later. Then we set off.

I’d downloaded a route from Komoot, which we tried to follow, but fairly quickly we went off track and ended up tackling what can only be described as a near-vertical scramble. Definitely not a standard hiking route! It was tough going for nearly an hour – steep, exposed, and not particularly enjoyable. Tash wasn’t impressed (understatement), especially with the weather closing in, but we made it to the top.

At that point we were hit with even stronger winds and hail – not ideal. But after pushing on a bit further we eventually came across a proper path with other hikers casually strolling along… which confirmed we’d taken a completely wrong route up!

From there things improved. On a proper trail, progress was much easier and the weather began to lift on and off. The views were spectacular, especially with patches of snow still on the higher ground. Striding Edge, however, looked pretty intimidating in those conditions, so when we reached the fork we made the sensible call to leave that for another day and took the safer middle path.

Even so, the final push to the summit still involved some scrambling over rocks, and this part was arguably more nerve-wracking with the drops and the wind. At the top, the wind was brutal – easily 50–60mph. I didn’t even want to get my phone out in case it disappeared! We grabbed a few quick photos as there was actually a view (rare!) and then made a swift decision to head back down.

The descent wasn’t as bad as expected, and we settled into the long hike back to the car. Stopped a couple of times for food and to take in the views, and also spotted a much more sensible route we’ll use next time. Whoever created that Komoot route needs to have a word with themselves…

All in all, it was about a 7-hour hike. Back at the car park, I persuaded Tash that a pub stop was essential – and that pint was absolutely spot on. Then we drove about 30 minutes to Keswick and treated ourselves to fish and chips, which we ate at the campsite overlooking the lake – a great little spot.

After getting set up, we went for another walk (as if we hadn’t done enough already!) and then settled into the van for the evening. Got the MiFi going and watched a few episodes of Last One Laughing. It was okay – still enjoyable, but not as strong as the first series, a bit forced in places.

By about 10.00pm we were done. A very long, tiring day – and definitely ready for bed.

End of Day Summary:
A challenging but rewarding day – tough conditions, a dodgy route choice, and some proper scrambling, but incredible views and a real sense of achievement. Finished perfectly with a pint, fish and chips, and a peaceful evening by the lake.

Mother's Day

Woke up with a bit of a heavy head this morning – thankfully nothing too serious. It was Mother’s Day, so did the usual bits to try and make it special for Tash… whether I succeeded is another matter, but there were plenty of messages coming through for her which was nice.

We started with tea and coffee in bed, then headed out for our usual walk up to Wytham Woods – bang on an hour again, we’re very consistent with that now. Back home, we got breakfast going and started prepping the Sunday roast for later. Jack wasn’t too impressed that Tash had already made a start as he wanted to do it himself – he had to settle for scrambled eggs instead!

We were back in time to receive Theo, Ralph & Olivia as we were looking after them for the day. To be fair to them, they were really good – much less arguing than usual, which made everything a lot easier.

We bundled them into the car and headed to McDonald’s for some lunch, then on to Millet’s Garden Centre where we met Charlotte and Mum. Jack was with us too. It was pretty cold there, but we did the usual wander around, grabbed drinks and cookies, and the kids went on the funfair rides which they loved.

After that, we all came back to ours, got the fire going and sat down to the roast – which was excellent as always. Nathan turned up briefly and was his usual whirlwind self!

Danny picked the kids up around 5.00pm, and we had a bit more of a catch-up before everyone gradually headed off. Once the house was clear, we tidied up and settled down to watch the next episode of Paradise, which is going really well.

We also watched the Louis Theroux documentary on the “manosphere” – quite a tough watch. Some of those blokes are absolute idiots, to be honest. It did make me pause a bit as a few of the “motivational” phrases sounded similar to things I’ve heard Jack say – not the nasty stuff, but the general tone. Hopefully just surface-level and nothing more.

That led into a bit of a “discussion” between Tash and Jack, which I quietly removed myself from and headed to bed!

End of another really good, full weekend – and Tash seemed happy (and a little bit tipsy by the end!).

End of Day Summary:
A busy but enjoyable Mother’s Day – family time, well-behaved kids, a great roast, and a relaxed evening. Slightly thought-provoking end to the night, but overall a warm and successful day.

Visit to Lewis & Family

Tash woke up in a terrible state this morning — a proper hangover. At least an hour spent either being sick downstairs or lying on the sofa trying to recover. I wasn’t exactly bursting with energy myself — heavy head, low battery — but nowhere near as rough as she was, thankfully.

We had to get moving though as Zoe was due at 9.30am, which she was, and then we set off for Crewe. Tash slept (or attempted to) most of the journey and, mercifully, wasn’t sick again. By the time we arrived just before midday she’d rallied enough to pass as “normal”.

The drive up was relentless — constant rain the entire way. Hard enough in decent conditions, let alone with a fuzzy head.

Frankie, as ever, was brilliant. He has this lovely way of quietly observing everything with a little sideways smirk, like he’s taking it all in and judging us gently. He got plenty of attention of course.

I helped Lewis in the garden removing an old satellite dish — more physical effort than I’d ideally have chosen given the circumstances, but satisfying to get it sorted. Lewis and Emily then headed off to Mowgli Street Food for a meal together — a rare and well-earned bit of time without Frankie.

The rain eased slightly so we walked into Holmes Chapel and had a look around the Artisan Market. It wasn’t especially impressive, but it got us some fresh air. Picked up a few cookies and bits for later and stopped at a café we’ve been to before. I’d been craving a bacon sandwich all morning and finally got one — absolutely hit the spot. Tash managed to eat too, which felt like progress.

Back at the house we watched more of the Winter Olympics, which has been surprisingly gripping. GB picked up two gold medals today — Mixed Snowboard Cross and Mixed Skeleton — genuinely exciting and history-making stuff.

Lewis and Emily returned later, relaxed and happy after their meal. Pizza in the evening, Olympics on in the background, easy family time. After the Mixed Skeleton final we said our goodbyes and set off home.

The drive back was dry at least, but dark motorway driving when you’re tired is always a bit draining. Still, it was a good run and we were home just before 9.00pm. Zoe headed straight off, Airbnb guests arrived shortly after, and we squeezed in the final episode of Steal. Thankfully it had an intelligent ending — always a relief.

Bed by 10.30pm.

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End of Day Summary

A hangover start but a strong recovery. Wet roads, bacon sandwiches, garden jobs, family time and Olympic golds. Exhausting but worthwhile — another full chapter in what’s been an absolutely relentless weekend.

Valentine’s Day - Pasta Making Course in London

Up early and we both took Bess out for a walk. I “pretended” I’d forgotten my phone and popped back inside… in reality to get the flowers, chocolates and bottle of bubbly I’d bought for Tash. Subtle.

The walk was good — we’re doing well keeping the routine going, which feels positive.

Back home, Tash was really pleased with her bits and gave me a card too. Then it was time to get ready for the day.

Charlotte and Miles arrived bang on time, with Miles driving as we headed into London. Quick stop at Beaconsfield Services where we used some of Jack’s Greggs voucher — repayment for covering his dinner the night before. Belgian buns, obviously. Excellent.

We parked on Bayswater Road with minimal fuss, grabbed some Boris bikes and cycled over to Oxford Street. Quick stop in M&S, then a very brisk march to John Lewis. I didn’t want to be late and apparently my determined pace caused some amusement — they’re not used to me striding out like that.

We weren’t late, but we were the last to arrive out of about 20 people for the Jamie Oliver pasta-making class at John Lewis. A glass of fizz on arrival (and Tash had pre-ordered a bottle for later too), then the chef talked us through the plan and did a demo.

It was actually very good. I was pleasantly surprised at how simple and quick it is to make fresh pasta — and equally how straightforward the sauces can be. We each had our own ingredients and station, so no one was left watching while someone else did all the work.

Genuinely great fun. Would definitely recommend it.

We ate what we’d made, grabbed our coats, said thanks and headed upstairs to the rooftop bar. Sat in one of the igloo pods, although I wasn’t keen — the acoustics were odd and a bit disorientating. Had a beer and a glass of champagne each before deciding to head off Oxford Street and find somewhere else.

Found a pub just off the main drag and went in. Busy upstairs, so we went downstairs where there was space — only to realise it seemed to be full of Japanese guests. We suspect we accidentally gatecrashed a private party. No one moved us on though, so we stayed put and carried on chatting and drinking.

We had train tickets booked for 5.45pm, and Charl and Miles were staying overnight, but they asked us to stay longer… so we did.

More drinks followed. We got properly merry — Tash especially.

As the evening rolled on, we decided we should probably head back. Quick stop in Selfridges to try some perfumes, then onto the gay pub (Quebec something-or-other) for a final drink.

Then it was time to part ways. I was more or less half-carrying Tash by this point.

We reached Marylebone at 10.10pm… and had missed our train by five minutes. Next one wasn’t until 11.05pm, and Tash was absolutely not prepared to wait that long. There was a train to Bicester North sooner, so we jumped on that and thankfully Jack agreed to pick us up.

Tash slept the whole way. I listened to music and sobered up slightly.

Jack got us home, we had some toast, and then straight to bed.

Such a fantastic day. Absolutely loved it.

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End of Day Summary

A brilliant Valentine’s — thoughtful start, hands-on pasta fun, London wandering, too many drinks, mild chaos, and a late scramble home. Laughter, spontaneity and proper shared memories. One to remember. ❤️

Pre-Valentines Day meal with Tash, Jack & Mum

Busy day at work again — it has been like that all week — but it was Friday, so that definitely helped the mood.

We’d organised to take Mum and Jack out for a meal in the evening, so once we’d finished up we walked down to The Trout for a Valentine’s meal. Tash and I had a voucher from Christmas, so that covered most of it, which was handy. Didn’t go mad on drinks either — kept it sensible — so all in all it didn’t cost much at all.

I had a burger, which probably wasn’t the most refined choice, but it was good. The rest of the food generally was really nice, and it was just a lovely, relaxed evening together.

We walked back afterwards and put the Winter Olympics on. Mum stayed to watch the men’s Skeleton — Matt Weston was competing and he was favourite going into it. It was properly tense but brilliant to watch, and thankfully he won. First individual gold for Team GB at these Games, and a big moment. Really exciting stuff.

That finished around 9.00pm, Mum headed off home, and we watched another episode of Steal — getting close to the end now.

All good, but not a late one as we’ve got an early start tomorrow.

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End of Day Summary

A solid Friday — busy workday followed by good food, good company, and a bit of sporting drama. Relaxed, enjoyable, and nicely rounded off without overdoing it.