This year we experienced summer at Easter !! With the weather being exceptionally kind to us for the entire weekend - sunshine and warmth all the way!! Our French friends arrived from Newhaven on the Saturday lunchtime, having taken the early ferry from Dieppe. The afternoon was spent with the host families before the evening buffet and barn dance at Catherington Church Hall.  With so many of the instructions in French (promenade, dos -a -dos etc) and their passion for dancing, our French friends had no hesitation in joining in and mastering the art of the barn dance.
The next day, Easter Sunday, our coach took us to Hampton Court.  We expected the roads to be busy and Hampton Court to be packed, but the journey was easy and at Hampton Court we were able to move around quite freely and enjoy the palace and grounds in comfort.  The French guide gave a very thorough talk and made several references to French history and art which was greatly appreciated by the French.   As the weather was so good, we were able to enjoy the gardens, the maze and outside features as well as the picnic lunch.
On Easter Monday, we were able to have lunch outside at the Memorial Hall for the farewell event before the French left for Newhaven and their crossing back to France.  Another very enjoyable weekend!!