This is why I was ten minutes late for my opticians appointment this afternoon! Not because I was travelling by punt, I should add, but because on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Summer, Cambridge is busy busy busy. Vast groups of language students from all over the world and coaches of tourists on day trips from London all come to join the fun - on top of the usual crowds doing their regular shopping errands. The bridge over the river was so congested I had to get off and push my bike to weave through the crowds - and the river itself is much the same - bustling with boats - mainly punts. They are always fun to watch as people try to propel themselves along and steer with the unwieldy poles - it is often a scene of chaos- but fun too- there is always a lot of laughter - especially if someone falls in! Under the bridge you can just see a guy in a rather spiffing white Captain sort of outfit in an orange dinghy - he is a River Patrol - trying to keep some sort of order!
Just checking to see if i know somebody lol. We use to go punting years ago along by Granchester. I have to say my punting skills are mainly zig zagging across the river, and trying to balance on a slippery surface often ended in me falling into the river. Many happy memories so thanks for sharing this pic.
OH...I ADORE this, Helen!
I love your little story...I love the lazy Saturday ( despite the congestion ) that your picture invokes, and I especially like the river patrol guy, particularly thinking of him trying to maintain some kind of order.
I had no idea your little corner of the world would be so congested! The river is amazing...I assume the rides are just for pleasure? Good luck to that captain in the middle of the chaos!
Helen thanks for leaving me a message. My family and I love geocaching and there are so many around now we are spoilt for some great walks and photo opportunities. Your photos are great and this one in particular is brilliant. Ive not been to Cambridge for a while to walk the river which just has to be done in the Summer :)
Love this photo AND your commentary about Cambridge.. sounds like a most interesting place to live...and so cosmopolitan with all the tourists as well as locals...I never hard of a "punt" but it sure looks like a fun way to travel down the river...I am guessing it must not be too deep...hmmm...but those sticks sure look pretty long....?
I love your little story...I love the lazy Saturday ( despite the congestion ) that your picture invokes, and I especially like the river patrol guy, particularly thinking of him trying to maintain some kind of order.