We have thought about it many times over the past 34 years, but thinking about Jerry's current marathon walks has reminded us once again of a walk Gail and I shared with Jerry and Neil some 34 years ago.
We know it was 34 years ago - May 1982 - it's significant because Gail was expecting Kate, whose birthday is on June 22nd. This particular walk was on the second bank holiday Sunday in May 1982. Jerry was spending the weekend in Portreath with Neil, and we all met at the Pandora Inn, near Falmouth for lunch and a few pints.
Whether it was a result of the few pints, or the pleasant weather, we decided to take a stroll along the footpath that follows Restronguet Creek from the Pandora. After a leisurely and enjoyable thirty minute stroll, Neil and Mike had the bright idea of just us two heading back to the Pandora to collect the car, rather than everyone having to trudge back the same way. Our particular concern was Gail, who was after all eight months pregnant! The plan was to meet in Mylor for an ice cream.
So after another good half hour, the car was parked and we walked into the cafe at Mylor. Where were they all? Maybe there was another cafe? Maybe a shop? Had the exertion of the walk put Gail into labour, forcing Jerry to learn another new skill. And then the realisation! Now, both Neil and Mike should have known this, having lived in the area for many years, but we had left the main group including Jerry and Gail before they reached Mylor Bridge. Neil and Mike were at Mylor Harbour! We had probably left everyone else with about another two miles to walk. We jumped back in the car, and soon after saw everyone still walking. Gail asked what on earth had kept us? But at the same time reassured us that she was ok - particularly as Jerry had kept checking that she was ok every few minutes! There have been constant reminders over the years that Jerry was very thoughtful for Gail's well-being on that day. It probably goes without saying - more thoughtful than Mike or Neil! But all ended well - Kate was born just a few weeks later - healthy and strong - maybe as a result of Gail's unplanned extra walk!
We now know that the total distance from the Pandora Inn to Mylor Harbour, following the footpath next to the water, is 3.75 miles. If you want to give it a try, here is the walk:
Pandora to Mylor Harbour Walk
