Was asked by Rotary Battersea if we could help at an event in Lambeth Palace, aimed at raising funds towards the annual old people's Christmas Day lunch that we volunteered at last year – so Janine and I tootled along yesterday to help out.
And out came those delightful Rotary volunteer yellow tops and caps – my god we looked like total chuggers as we lurked not at all subtly in the grounds of Lambeth Palace, trying to encourage the normal guests, who'd only come along to see the gardens, to head for the Rotary marquee and the chance to splurge on some tea, egg mayo sardines, quiches, jams, homemade cakes and the obligatory raffle with shocking prizes (large bottle of Amontillado anyone?).
Actually quite a nice chance to have a squizz around a palace I've never seen before – apparently it covers 11 acres, which is weirdly massive, given its very central location along the Embankment, just down the other side of the river from he Houses of Parliament.
And very mercifully for me at least, there was only one internal palace room open, the Great Hall, so it was a quick nip round there to show willing – and actually the ancient books were bloody impressive, even for a culture desert like I am when it comes to old British buildings and their dusty contents.
Coughed up for a slice of mushroom quiche and a mini pork pie, so Rotary got their few quid from us too. Apparently there were about 200-250 visitors and they get the entrance fee of a fiver, plus all the profits from the marquee, so hopefully a good wedge of cash towards the big Christmas Day event.
And home in time for a quick afternoon kip before dog walk and then drinks/dinner out with Mr H last night – not a bad day all round x