The Scattering and more Family fun

Today was an important day for our UK Trip. Christine and Tricia's Mum had requested that some of her Ashes be scattered on Stinchcombe Hill in Dursley. So we arrived in the UK with an official box and paperwork for ashes for both Mum and Dad. Cousin Colin had requested to join us as he had fond memories of the girl’s Mum when he was a child. Stepanie, Mo and Mike also came along. The day was a bit grey and misty, which added to the occasion. We drove in convoy up to the top of Stinchcombe Hill. Locating a secluded path - away from the golf course - Christine and Tricia scattered the ashes into a grassy area with a great view of the surrounding countryside. Tricia recited a poem, and Christine sang a waiata (in te reo Māori). We then returned to the rest of the group. All very moving.

We returned to the St Bartholomews church just down the road from our house, where several extended family members had been buried. Sadly, some were buried in unmarked graves, so we only had an approximate location. But we have now visited and that’s all good.

We then drove to a celebratory lunch at the Tudor Arms in nearby Slimbridge. The food and company were great. Thanks, Colin, much appreciated.

We went for a quick walk to see the nearby canal, which had real longboats and a road bridge that swung away from it while we were there.

We said our goodbyes and left, although we will bother Colin and Stephanie again in a few days.Read more