WHERE should we go?

Padstow, or rather Wadebridge, Holt in Norfolk as well as Usk and Thornbury were all considered as were Minchinhampton, Fairford and Northleach.

Cirencester was chosen.

Mrs Light and I were retiring and in Penny’s case this was leaving London after a lifetime of Hampstead Heath and the Highgate Hammers running track.

Now Gloucestershire areas were soon discarded but so were the areas around Stroud and Nailsworth as well as romantic hopes of a Sheepscombe return.

Hills, as well as prices, were too steep and as we were not in the first flush of youth we needed somewhere level.

The centre of Cirencester proved ideal.

We can walk everywhere, and there is so much to walk to.

The town lost an Iceland frozen food shop and a Curry’s electrical store soon after we arrived and those are missed.

House of Fraser has gone recently but the town still thrives.

A marvellous addition has been the Barn Theatre where high class professional performance delight.

The recent one Daddy Long Legs was worth going many miles to see.

We were able to walk there.

The Gloucestershire Diocese were most helpful in progressing Penny’s path to ordination and with my cricket interests a move to this county was perhaps inevitable.

Undoubtedly we made the right decision.

There is much for retired people to do and I list some of the best.

Walk in the arboretums at Westonbirt or Batsford, head for Wiltshire for the standing stones at Avebury.

Visit Silbury Hill and West Kennet long barrow. Go slightly further afield to the spectacular Uffington White Horse.

The ruins at Minster Lovell are magical, being almost impressive as those at Tintern Abbey.

Crossing the Severn Bridge to the Wye Valley or the Forest of Dean brings a host of special delights.

There is an endless number of small towns to visit and explore, Wotton-under-Edge being the best.

One is spoiled for choice and if in doubt head for Oxford and the park and ride scheme.

This wonderful city is easily accessible.

It takes one hour, 10 minutes from out front door to the city centre.

Of course you will have your own ideas but advice to all of you is the same. Get out and about, it truly is God’s own country.