During lock down I took to sorting out my paper work and came across a Visitors Book, which we had when we lived in Bath and quite unexpected found ourselves hosting Students from abroad, who had come to England to learn English. Turning the pages brought back so many happy memories, then I came upon a piece that was written by a young German man called Karsten Moritz, it made me laugh so much I thought I would share it with you. He writes in his own Words:-

"It took a lot til I could read the weather map of BBC Breakfast News. 'Shining White Clouds' ment to pull on the raincoat 'Shining Black Clouds' ment to take with some dry clothes to change. 'Black Clouds without Shining' must be horrible. Even more I'll miss the weather forecast from Gordon 'About midday it'll clear up' He always said while he looked at the hail or the showered cat, then he took loving care of my saddle by drying it with a towel.

At first I still believed him til the day Maureen offered me gloves 'Aha' I thought the wet season is changing to the wet cold season. I refused the gloves because I just had seen the inhabitants with short 'arms) (HE MEANT SHORT SLEEVES) This country produces real heroes I thought, by intensive study of the local catering trade now I know they are warmed by the rest alcohol from the day before.

But the biggest danger for continentals is 'Not to die by influenza or to freeze to death - no - it's the damned left track. Mostly I took the correct one but if not I was as astonished about the kindness of my opposite as he about me, especially junction and roundabouts - stand for a high grade of difficulty for continentals particular if your glasses are steamed up'

This was a particularly happy time of our lives for Gordon and myself as we hosted students - both children and adults from Japan, Russia, France, Germany, Sweden, Spain and Italy.

I used to write a piece every month as headed above for a local magazine and I thought perhaps I should try it again. If liked. Maureen Shaw.