Thursday 16^th April

Just a couple of hours working this morning, calling new complainants about noise and bonfires. I have a habit of walking around during phone calls, and have to apologise for the interruption when I step on a squeaky dog toy. Afterwards I walk the dogs on the fields, enjoying deserted footpaths, although meet more dog walkers on the routes around Huncote, including a colleague who retired a few years ago. We walk together, 2m apart, until our routes diverge. The three dogs also walk together, but totally ignore social distancing guidance. Electrician John is at home when I return, having been summonsed to repair the shower which refused to operate for Chantal, but is apparently faultless. Just like me then. He did repair an emersion heater switch, all from the safety of the bathroom while Chantal remained in the garden. Tonight, we walk on the “New Hill”, meeting three lads carrying beer, disposable barbeques, and bags with, presumably, food. Chantal warns them not to leave rubbish,  and grumbles for the rest of the walk about such gatherings in these socially-distanced times, threatening a Facebook exposé. Her mood is worsened when we come across waste from another BBQ, some of it thrown into a tree. We remove what we can. Much as I have sympathy for those whose circumstances are less favourable to lockdown than ours, the rubbish left thoughtlessly for others to clear up is inexcusable. On our return the lads have clearly met up noisily with others on the wooded side of Croft Hill. Their shouting and laughter is still audible at 8pm, when I have no doubt that they were taken by surprise by an eruption of loud cheers, claps, and banged saucepans from our Lane, the weekly demonstration of our support from the NHS. The Hill was quiet by the time we finished, but probably not for long. An amusing WhatsApp from Junior Doctor niece Megan, trying to adjust from today’s day shift at LRI, to nights from tomorrow. “Had a nap after work, and was woken by some nutters clapping, cheering and honking on the street!” Just saying Thank You, Megan!

Posted: Friday, April 17th, 2020
Category: News and Views from the Oakstump
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