Once in a lifetime

I had a major dilemma yesterday. Two once in a lifetime events were happening on the same afternoon. Murray in the finals of Wimbledon and the Olympic Torch relay in Hertfordshire - at the same time. So there was I that morning deliberating tennis or torch? How to choose? Just to make the choice even more difficult I had a performance to give with Rock Choir at Wheathampstead Village Fete too! 

So here's how I managed it. First to Wheathampstead, north of St Albans, to sing with black clouds looming overhead. Fortunately the rain held off and we got through our set with a lovely appreciative crowd. 


(Here we are lining up ready to perform)

Next a quick check on the score at Wimbledon - one set all. Drove the 5 miles to St Albans and found somewhere to park near the long road where the torch relay would pass. Where to stand for a good view. The torch was due in an hour and the crowds were starting to gather. A lovely steward said that that spot right there would be a really good place to stand - note the emphasis on really ;-)

There was a wonderful atmosphere in that jolly British Jubilee sort of way. Union jacks galore, children with painted faces and lots of anticipation. Everyone was getting very excited!

On the opposite side of the road to me were the ladies above who were there to support Glynn Carter who was going to carry the torch. Not long before the torch arrived Glynn appeared in his white tracksuit. Here he is...he was just bursting with pride and happiness! 

The excitement in the crowd by now was jubilant and all eyes were expectant on the road. It was coming!

The police motorcyclists where sounding their sirens and waving to the crowd, everyone was cheering!

And here's the moment when they lit the torch - this was a really good place to stand!

Off he goes into towards the centre of St Albans. (Love the old lady waving the flag in the middle of the road!)

A once in a lifetime experience - I was thrilled! 

(I even got back to watch the end of the tennis - ah well!)