The Environment Agency have been doing a rolling programme of Lock refurbishments over recent years, and this autumn / winter is the turn of Abingdon Lock.
The lock will be will be drained and the lock chamber and surrounds refurbished.
Fences are already in position, and signs are up. Work personnel are being advised to be properly booted and suited and to wear life jackets.
Thanks to Iain for some pictures of one of his families favorite annual events. Iain says “This year’s turkey tasting was bigger and better than ever. The kids loved meeting their Christmas dinner – who were all in good voice and enjoying their straw bale perches.”
The spread included “Delicious turkey, ham, goose and smoke salmon, not to mention a fantastic range of cheeses and cakes from Wells Stores.”
As the Queen led the national tribute at London, we like many other cities, towns, and villages gathered at our war memorial at 11am this morning to remember those who have fallen in conflicts, and those serving in areas of conflict. Many people were there to pay tribute.
Abingdon Town Band led the parade followed by serving soldiers from Dalton Barracks.
Many uniformed organisations followed, and veterans from WWII.
Reverend Charles Miller led the prayers at the start. At 11 the last post was played, and two minutes silence followed, at the end of which a glider flew over. Wreaths were then laid, first by the Mayor and Royal British Legion, then by other organisations – as Abingdon Band played solemn music. Finally we sang God Save the Queen.
It was significant this year that Remembrance Sunday coincided with Armistice Day – 11/11. It was also significant that two visitors representing our twin town Schongau, in Germany, were there. Also significant was that so many young people took part. I was struck by the quiet dignity of many of them during the service.
Last week the gas mains work moved from East St Helen to St Helen’s Wharf – black pipes are still being replaced with yellow.
Sorry to have missed Darth Vadar today at the Abingdon BookStore signing copies of the book “Straight from the Force’s Mouth”. Thanks to @loagsmum from Twitter for the picture. Let the Force be with you.