January 2017 Extra

We’ve had plenty of gloomy, chilly days this January, so at our mid-month cafe it was an ideal time to take our minds off the weather with talk of holidays and warmer climates.
After a chance for a chat or to have a go at our word puzzles and a quiz, Richard and Joan Greenwood presented an illustrated talk on ‘The Arabian Gulf and India’. To create an atmosphere there were even bowls of Bombay Mix on each table for everyone to nibble. The talk was based around a fascinating cruise which they undertook last Autumn. With the aid of a wonderful selection of souvenirs, maps, and photographs which were taken during their expedition, Richard took us on a ‘virtual’ journey beginning in Oman and travelling via the spectacular skyscrapers of Dubai across the Strait of Hormuz to the west coast of India. Arriving at Ghandi’s birthplace of Porbander, Richard then took us south to the busy streets of Mumbai (formerly Bombay) and finally via Goa to the southerly tip of the country, the region of Kerala, which he described as the Indian equivalent of the Norfolk Broads! Everyone was totally engaged by photos and descriptions of temples and churches, towns and countryside, occupations and history.

We were all envious of interesting experiences, and at teatime there was plenty of talk about our own holiday adventures – both those already taken and plans for future trips. Refreshments were accompanied by the distribution of copies of the reminiscent ‘Sparkle’ magazine, sponsored by the Bowgie, which visitors were invited to take away with them to peruse at leisure back at home.
After tea, Joan introduced a representative from Cornwall Rural Community Charity who gave an informative talk on ‘Energy Saving’. She explained how we can all become more energy efficient and save on our fuel bills. Helpful booklets and contact numbers were distributed and we all appreciated her very practical advice.

The afternoon ended with a chance to compare our answers to the quiz and thanks were given to all our guest speakers for an interesting and thought-provoking afternoon.
The doors of Crantock Memory Cafe will open again on Monday 6th February and Monday 20th February at Crantock Village Hall from 2pm – 4pm. New members are always welcome and should you need further information ring Di on 01637 830544 or Joan on 01637 831347.