Group relax on slow boat among broads wildlife and windmills

Members filled their lungs with fresh, country air as they enjoyed a week floating along the rivers in the Norfolk Broads. Twelve of the social group hired two motor cruiser boats and voyaged along a host of rivers from Great Yarmouth and Breydon Water, through to Beccles and Norwich. All found their sea legs as they gently travelled along the waters for four to seven hours a day, enjoying pass­ing windmills and spotting wildlife some had never seen. Herons, marsh harriers and Egyptian geese pa­trolled the waters through the countryside that led them to one of many chances for "shore leave". An afternoon spent in the city of Norwich was followed by a trip to the seaside resort of Great Yarmouth, before "'moving on to the nature reserve at Ranworth. Member Francesca Bar­clay said: "I enjoyed the opportunities to steer the boat, moor up and cast off. "On a holiday like this there are so many different places to go and see." The group spent evenings moored near riverside vil­lages and pubs in areas such as Horning, Reedham and Ludham. The trip was just one of many activities organised for members, who will enjoy a cheese and wine evening on Saturday. Redbridge 18 Plus meet most Fridays at Central Li­brary, Clements Road, Ilford from 8.30pm. For informa­tion contact Trevor Eley on 020 8553 0947, or visit www.redbridgel8plus.org.uk.