The Master’s Report on his IOW Break – Day 1
The Isle of Wight Master’s Break saw 50 Plumbers’ Liverymen and friends come together on the island for fun and fellowship over 3 sunny days. An epic record of the event has been captured by Master David Adams for each of the excursions, day by day, starting here with 18th June:
HOVERCRAFT EXPERIENCE, lunchtime
After a light lunch in the Solent Room at the Hovercraft Centre of Excellence, overlooking the Ryde Hoverport, we experienced an amazing private 20-minute ‘flight’ when the captain and the crew put the craft through its versatile paces.
When we returned, the crew took our questions in a very informative session about this incredible machine.
QUARR ABBEY, afternoon
The “Abbey of our Lady of Quarr” is home to a small group of monks. It was built in 1907 for French Benedictines of Solesmes, exiled on the IOW. At this most tranquil place, we enjoyed a private tour of the unique church and crypt, following an introduction by Abbot Xavier, the leader of this community.
We were then lucky enough to hear our Clerk, Adrian Mumford, play the organ for about 10 minutes, most beautifully. He is familiar with this top-quality instrument having acted as organ consultant to Quarr a few years ago. Our tour was followed by delicious tea and cakes in the gardens. We then had time to explore the grounds and the visitor centre, and to meet the Quarr pigs (and piglets!)
LAKESIDE PARK HOTEL & SPA and FIRST NIGHT DINNER, evening
After everyone had checked into our hotel, the Lakeside Park, beside the tidal lake of Wootton Creek, we enjoyed a private drinks reception in the Oyster Room, looking over the creek, followed by an informal first night dinner.
We were joined by a special guest, Richard Smout, the former IOW Heritage Services Manager, who recounted a few humorous and well-informed stories about the Island, with a focus on water and sanitation. He remembered David’s late father, Bob Adams, with fondness, as one of small group of accomplished IOW local historians.
