8.30 am saw a group of intrepid Senior Tigers set off from the MKM Stadium for another of Barbara’s fantastic days out. Our first stop was at the Tropical World Centre in Roundhay Park, Leeds, where we saw a wide variety of creatures great and small, including butterflies, birds, monkeys and fish. The stars of the show, however, were the Meerkats, and we were fortunate enough to arrive as they were about to be fed. They all gathered at the edge of the enclosure, standing on hind legs, as they saw the keeper arrive, eagerly awaiting what appeared to be the most unappetising food, which they appeared to love. For anyone planning a visit to the Tropical Centre, be warned that the hot air does nothing for your Paris hairdo! We had time for a walk around the gardens and, in my case, an ice cream before setting off for Hebden Bridge. On arrival, those of us going on the canal boat trip went straight to the Stubbing Wharf public house, ideally placed by the canal. Barbara had arranged for three separate trips, and we took the first one to allow us time for lunch and a walk afterwards. We clambered aboard a narrow boat and set off along what is part of the Rochdale Canal, which was opened in 1804, and is a real feat of engineering. As well as seeing some stunning scenery and enjoying the peace and quiet, we also had an interesting talk giving details about the canal’s build and its usage over the years. Hebden Bridge is a beautiful town, and we’ll definitely go back and spend a weekend there to do some more exploring. Many thanks to Barbara for planning the day and to our favourite coach driver, Ollie, who still looks like a teenager but is soon to be a dad!
Rob and Nina Slightam
