The Beeches, Blue Anchor Bay, Minehead, Somerset

Again, we do not have a letter for 1984. Blue Anchor Bay sounded idealic, but when we saw the beach at low tide, all we saw was acres of mud. What a disappointment.

However, there are always memorable moments. One of this year's occurred one evening when we were dining in a pub garden. Jonathan decided he wanted some milk. Following some gentle persuasion, Jerry managed to get the barman to give him his last drop. It was also Jerry's round, so having bought the round and with the precious milk also on a tray, he set off back to the table. He didn't quite judge the steps on his way as well as he might, and ”Crash”! Down went all the drinks. Jerry picked himself up and was Ok, but had froth from the beer over his beard to add to his general frustration. Why are such things mildly amusing? We tried not to laugh – honest.

1984 page 1

The enticing brochure.

1984 page 2

“The beach, which is a mixture of sand, shingle and rocky pools, is just a few yards away”. The brochure seems to fail to mention the mud on the beach.

1984 pic 1

At low tide, a vast expanse of mud and seaweed.

1984 pic 2

But it had a nice promenade.

1984 pic 3

Our little patch.

1984 pic 4

The gang taken on one of the platforms of the West Somerset Steam Railway.

1984 pic 5

We manage to find a very pebbly beach.

1984 pic 6

Not sure what Jerry's doing here. Is he practising his tray lifting?

1984 pic 8

The infamaous Butcher's Arms. Jean has rather more success than Jerry in getting the drinks back to the table.

1984 pic 9

Having fun on the Helter Skelter.

1984 pic 10

Five rascals.

1984 pic 11

It's ice cream time.

1984 pic 12

Look, water!

1984 pic 13

Juliet, Elizabeth, Charlotte and Claire.