Berkeley is a small town with a 12th century castle, which is impressive from the outside, but closed on Fridays! It is where the imprisoned Edward II was murdered, but now serves as a popular venue for weddings. Also of note are the 13th century church (damage to the front entrance dating back to the civil war still apparent) and the home of Dr Edward Jenner, who first documented the benefits of vaccination against smallpox.

Our friend, Rod, drove over from Cheltenham to see us. We had a stimulating visit, catching up over coffee, lunch and tea, alternating between the two cafes in the town. Although the Edward Jenner Museum is closed on Fridays, we had arranged a private visit (with Rod, another long-time public health colleague) so, while Lois had a pedicure, Rod and Paul spent a fascinating time in the house and grounds.

Marius and Helen arrived later with their tandem. “Team Twite” will be accompanying us for the Berkeley to Derby stretch of the trip. We all spent a very enjoyable evening drinking and dining at the Berkeley Arms Hotel with a number of Lois’ International Studies cohort from U of Birmingham, who had travelled to Berkeley to meet up with us.