Canterbury and surrounding area has huge significance to us as one of my major clients was situated on the south coast in Sandwich.
I had a period of approximately 15 years when we visited this area on a frequent basis. Our accommodation varied according to the volume of work which was generated over time. In the earlier years I spent a great deal of time in The Bell "at Sandwich. This little place has stood still in time despite its association with the influx of corporate bodies. It is quite unspoilt and quaint. As part of out trip we passed the site of Pfizer where I spent so much time. The organisation during my time flourished from approx 500 people and grew over time to nearly 3000. They occupied buildings on both sides of the main road - it was so vibrant. On return last week it was incredible to see how the site had changed. It was incredibly quiet and although new scientific organisations/start ups were in evidence the atmosphere had changed. The main entrance site and restaurant areas had been demolished and only the hardcore remained. For me this represented sadness but also closure. The people in this organisation were great, exciting, curious and ambitious. I know they have gone on to other ventures and I wish them well. They should be incredibly proud of the pharmaceutical developments they have achieved and the benefits we have all had the derived from their research.
During my heavy workload period we bought a new small flat in Ramsgate as hotel life was taking its toll. Although I was working we still enjoyed the environment and going back last week we commented on how pretty and increasingly productive the whole area has become. So much improvement and feeling of optimism.
One must do!! You must experience in seaside places - the fish!! I am here being reluctantly (as you can se by my expression) photographed in "Peter"s Fish Factory"on the quayside. We had a superb lunch of rock and chips and pots of tea! Nothing quite like it!
The other very significant accommodation in the latter part of my working life was at the Abode in Canterbury which I posted last time. I have always felt an incredible affinity with the Cathedral - so steeped in history and brings back memories of lessons at school. Visiting this place makes it all so real - I have never lost the excitement of being there and sharing the thoughts of the past. If you have never been here pay a visit you will not be disappointed. The whole area is practically unspoilt and fascinating. The street performers also add to the feeling of a bygone age. There is so much to do. During our time ether we took so much for granted.
When My children were very young their grandfather was a GP in Cliftonville and I have fond memories of this time and again visiting Canterbury some 30 years ago - never thinking that one day I would return to the area in my working life.
We are so lucky in this country to have so much history and places of interest on our doorstep. We neglect it thinking that the grass is greener elsewhere. Reconsider!!!
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