By Trish Swain This year was our fourth outing, and with eager anticipation 27 ladies from Swan Bottom, The Lee, Ballinger and points beyond congregated at Great Missenden Station on 3rd October to make the journey to the big city and the Victoria & Albert Museum.
We were able to take advantage of a little-known and poorly-publicised special deal: if there are three people in the car, parking is free (a saving of £3.50), and additionally three or four can travel for the price of two off-peak!
At the V & A we were given an all-too-brief, but fascinating, lecture on the history and importance of jewellery, the techniques used to make it, changing fashions and enduring themes, before making our way to the Jewellery Gallery. The pieces are exquisitely displayed and the oldest piece from 7000BC looked surprisingly modern and eminently wearable.
Feeling all ‘blinged out’ we enjoyed our lunch before going back for another look. Sadly, our savings on rail tickets didn't allow us to buy any of the stunning replicas in the shop, but all present will have many memories of a most enjoyable visit. A huge thank you goes to Frankie for all her efforts, especially as at the last minute she was unable to go.
Plans are afoot for next year, our fifth annual trip – watch this space!