On Saturday 2^nd December, ten members of Bognor Regis WI were whisked back in time to experience a Victorian Christmas – courtesy of Portsmouth Dockyard’s wonderful event, and Woods Travel’s door-to-gate coach service.

The weather was cloudy but dry – except for where the artificial snow was falling – and the dockyard was awash with 21^st-century shoppers and 19^th century entertainers, all wending their way around the many food, drink and craft stalls that were spread around the site. Queen Victoria and her entourage looked unamused but were willing to pose for photos; while young chimney sweeps danced in the street, and red-coated soldiers marched about. There were women in shawls, gents in top hats, several giant reindeer and even a couple of angels (gliding about very cleverly on hidden Segways).

Then there was the carousel, which many of us could not resist – including Stella, who was not going to let the small matter of her upcoming 91^st birthday deter her from getting on board.

It was a fun, entertaining and enjoyable day – many thanks to our President and the committee for organising it.

Words:  Karen McCreedy

Photos: Karen McCreedy & Sheila Farmer