Crazy weather is one of those things that we have to learn to live with in the UK, and with all mod-cons, we can pretty much go off when we want, to where ever we want..........irrespective of the weather. Mind you it is rather better, when you get good weather!
During Autumn Half-term a while back, Lauren and I went up to Staffordshire to go to Alton Towers theme park. We had a great time despite the crowds and the queues and stayed on until the spectacular firework show that evening.
The weather had been great all day as you can see from the picture (left), but the rain started that evening, just as the firework show commenced.
It was a harbinger of things to come!
After the fireworks we headed back to the caravan which was at the Blackshaw Moor Caravan Club Site, on the edge of the Peak District National Park and had some supper and watched some TV.
That evening a huge storm swept in from the Atlantic
The storm force winds shook the 'van through the night and the trees around the site were stripped of their leaves.......many of which ended up plastering the car and the caravan (see picture).
In addition trees were brought down and awnings ripped away, many surrounding roads were closed and there was widespread havoc with power outages and structural damage to buildings.
Meanwhile we sat snug, but somewhat apprehensive as the caravan was shaken periodically by great gusts of wind.
"Hey Mum, its a bit windy here!"
"I'm
just going outside...I may be some time." 
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On the other hand, there are the occasions when the weather is so good, you are caught out by the unexpected heat. In the summer of 2003, we decided to head off to the Caravan Club site at Blackmore, near Malvern in Worcestershire. The weather over the previous week or so had been rather cool and damp, but the forecast for the weekend was promising. As we loaded up the 'van the rain was still tipping down, but had cleared by the time we set off.
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When we arrived at Blackmore, Kim wanted a pitch that would give us some sun. As it turned out we could have done with a pitch that had some shade!
Rio enjoys the sun at Blackmore
The surrounding area has some wonderful places to visit and we spent time in Tewkesbury at the Abbey and local market before ambling along the canal and riverbanks. Worcester too has its attractions with the cathedral and Royal Worcester Pottery being on our itinerary, but it was relaxing over a pint by the River Severn at Upton-on-Severn or exploring the lanes between Malvern and Tewkesbury that meant this was a relaxing weekend. Then again, such was the heat it was difficult summoning up the energy to do anything energetic!
The
canal at Tewkesbury
Kim and a
very hot dog on the riverside walk in Worcester.
The ferry
across the Severn at Worcester. Still powered by oars!
