You only know how good a product is when you have to use it in extreme circumstances. Most products you use straightaway, and you get some reassurance. Some…some, you hope never to have to use. It was ten years ago that I—or, I should say—the company of which I am the major shareholder—bought rubber-covered, steel-framed … Read more
Alice stepped on to the tube train. It was a new one. Without the usual jostling of people and fug of cigarette smoke, she noticed the varnished floors, stylish lights, grab handles and cushioned seating covered in brightly patterned fabric. At Embankment Station, she hurried up the steps into London’s dirty air. The late summer … Read more
Here I come! Floating down aimlessly. You think I’m a white blob because I’m touching other water crystals. Light reflects off us to make you think that. But we are all transparent, and all unique! It’s a miracle enough that we have formed this far south. The right combination of bitter cold and water vapour … Read more
This item was written for a writing workshop in Marlow library. We had a selection of photos to choose from. We had to choose three and weave them together into the opening of a novel. See if you can guess what my three photos were! : She had been dreading it. But she had promised, … Read more
: Seaman John Norris staggered along the stony track that led home, but he was still only on the first leg of his journey. Dark clouds had rolled in, throwing down persistent rain. Daylight was fading, and his backpack was heavy. John stumbled and cursed. As he righted himself, he noticed a faint flicker through … Read more
When I was visiting my cousin in Edinburgh a few years ago, she told me about the unusual swan behaviour on the local pond. I was immediately hooked on the swan saga of Craiglockhart Pond! This story is based on the true story of Brighid, one of the Craiglockhart swans. With thanks to The Friends … Read more
“What a wonderful view!” they gush. They always gush. And then they wonder. “Why are you selling?” When they say that, I hear a demonic cackle from the bay window, which, despite being newly-glazed, leaks, as does the new door. They can’t hear it, and they can’t hear the walls and floors and roof taunting … Read more
“Never too late! Never say never! There are so many rays of sunshine from the positive thinkers on social media,” Don mused as he munched his toast and jam. “Bless them.” He sighed. He had been feeling very lonely since the untimely death of his wife of thirty-four years. Not that they had been the … Read more
We were mellow after our early evening drinks and light meal in the soft warmth of Sue’s sitting room. Everything about it cooed “cosy”. “Now, my darlings! I want to hear your resolutions!” it was like a brick shattering a stained-glass window. Chitter-chatter ceased, nervous glances were exchanged and mouths opened in dismay. Sue noted … Read more
