And to Finish

Tuesday

Was spent as a hang-around day as there was no point in heading to Eurotunnel, or "Le Shuttle" as it's now called until closer to our  booking. But mid-afternoon we went round to the service point to empty the waste tank and loo then headed for Calais. We needed a little bit of shopping to get us home plus the fuel tank needed topping off so thought we'd go to Auchan. Unfortunately someone didn't quite remember the way and we spent 15 minues trolling around the back streets of Calais, hopelessly lost until we stopped and enlisted TomTom's help.

Fuelled up and shopping done we had a cuppa and biccie until it was time to go to Le Shuttle. All changed round again, the Pet Reception having been moved to a totally different location and of course as we arrived the heavens opened. Short-lived however and by the time we'd cleared the formalities it was dry again and we joined the queue for French and then UK Customs. It's important to get one's passport stamped as having departed the EU to satisfy the 90 in 180 day rule! Then through a security and a gas check before boarding the train, really without waiting anywhere. The train left a few minutes late after a possible power failure, all the lights going out for a minute before coming back on.

Usual 35 minute trip, thinking that the ride is not as smooth as it used to be, then off-loaded into a pleasant evening in Folkestone. As intended we made our way to Canterbury and the New Dover Road Park & Ride where there is one of only a few proper motorhome parking areas in the UK. Busy but still places left, we parked up, walked Jamie then ambled down to The Old Gate pub for our evening meal. We've been here several times and never been disappointed, although it's not cheap, and today was no different. It perfectly finished off our holiday.

Wednesday & Thursday

Were spent just tackling the long slog home, stopping off at Terrys Mum near Lincoln overnight. Nothing significant and we arrived home safely about 4.00pm. Cuppa then unload the van ready for a good clean inside and out and attention to a few things over the next few days.

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We've thoroughly enjoyed this trip, despite the long drive, 5790 miles in all, and everything seemed to work out very well. Although we did have a few not so nice days, the weather generally could not have been better, which always helps. Bertie performed flawlessly and we've only a couple of minor niggles to sort out. You may recall our worries about the clutch but we've had no further indications of problems, although it will get thoroughly checked before our next trip.

Mission accomplished!

We hope you've enjoyed reading this drivel and maybe are encouraged to try something similar. Thanks for reading.

Terry and Brenda, not forgetting our little monster Jamie.