DAY FIFTEEN  Celebration Day in Chichester

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A celebration day - really a chance to relax and spend time together having achieved our aim, before going our separate ways and back to our normal lives tomorrow. Rather like a rest day, but I don't think anyone was bothering to look for laundrettes.

I went swimming at the local sports centre, really an excuse to gain access to the luxury of a shower. I won't say how long it is since we had one, but you can look back through the website reports for clues.

Others also enjoyed water, by hiring rowing boats on the canal. However, as the water was rather a strange colour, it was agreed in advance that no-one would "fall in", accidentally or otherwise.

Later in the afternoon, Kevin organised some football. Pictured are Mike and John.

Now that one pilgrimage is completed, our thoughts turn to the next, for which planning will begin in September. Possible outline routes were discussed, with the aid of Clare's bed spread, which, conveniently, depicts a map of the British Isles.

In the evening, we all gathered together for our celebration meal, prepared by Frances.

After the meal, gifts were presented to various pilgrims with specific responsibilities, who have worked hard for us during our two weeks together and, in some cases, for many months before.

Our fire and safety officer, Peter, was presented with a new uniform - possibly bought from the Early Learning Centre. (Don't worry - he got a "proper" present, as well.)

Bruce, our coordinator, was presented with a copy of the St Richard icon as a thank you for fulfilling what must be the hardest and most stressful job of all. He assured us he would hang it somewhere where it could be appreciated by the Elders of his evangelical church.

And now, we are finished.

Tomorrow, I will post a brief report as we say our goodbyes and make our various ways to our homes and attempt to readjust to normal life, where we have to make our own decisions and there are no orange arrows to follow.

Bur first, one final photo.

As the main photographer for this year's website, not many shots are taken of me and those which have been taken by others I have had the opportunity to edit out.

I have been instructed to include this one, taken at our celebration meal, of me reprising my melon man act from last year (don't ask!).

This photo is dedicated, with thanks, to Mike and Jonny, whose company and friendship during this pilgrimage was appreciated than they will ever know.

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