Saw lots of army vehicles plus 160 army motor bikes (trying to beat the Guinness Book of Records) all lined up on the beach

Lesley's D Day visit to Normandy, based at Le Gaudin

Just back from France for the D Day celebrations at Normandy with my son Mark, where we stayed with my friends Denny & Clive who have a Guest House just outside Caen. It's called 'Le Gaudin' and it's really lovely.

We had a great time, talking to lots of Veterans - they are so proud. One was showing me his photos of when he was in the army and pictures of his family. Such a lovely man. 

Saw lots of army vehicles plus 160 army motor bikes (trying to beat the Guinness Book of Records) all lined up on the beach.  Ceremonies going on all day and the sun was shinning - it was really lovely.  We missed Gordon Brown! We were at Arromanches on the Saturday in the morning, but left about 3pm before the Dignitaries arrived so watched that on the TV back at our base. It was pouring with rain by then so we were lucky.

On Sunday we went to St Mere-Eglise. That's were the US parachutist. Private John Steele. got caught on the Church Steeple. There was a film about it 'The Longest Day'.

On Sunday we went to St Mere-Eglise. That's were the US parachutist. Private John Steele. got caught on the Church Steeple. There was a film about it 'The Longest Day'.  They were having a festival in the square; stalls, BBQs, music, a lovely atmosphere.  A big museum there too.  Lots of planes going over, 10 at one time all dropping about 10 parachutes each, a wonderful sight.

On the Ferry back home spoke to another Veteran, George Cross, 100 years old and it was his first time back. Another lovely man with lots of stories to tell about his experiences.  There was an article about him in the Daily paper which I was reading the next day!

'Le Gaudin' is about 10 minutes from the cemetery, at Tilly-Sur-Seulles where my uncle is buried. He was my Mum's brother, Fred Skinner. He went over on D-Day and was killed in August.  We have visited his grave.

I am going back again 1st July for Denny's daughter's (my god daughter's) wedding.  What a lovely setting Le Gaudin will be for a wedding. I am going with my daughter Lorraine, as hubby working.

Will be in touch soon

Love Lesley x