We were part of quite a large group (about 40) and the other chaps were a bit worried that they were the only English present. I think they were quite relieved that they were with me, a French bear.
The adventure started with a steam train ride, rather ironically back to St Valery where we had set out from. This might seem a bit back to front, but the times of the trains meant we had to do it this way round.
The line we travelled on was the Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme (Somme Bay Railway). It was small, but perfectly formed and we had the best carriage on the train reserved for our party. It was all wood and a lovely bit of history; they don't make them like this nowadays.
Although it was before midday when the train departed for St Valery, we were all encouraged to get out our picnics and start eating. This was because there wouldn't be many opportunities for sitting down and relaxing once we started our marathon crossing of the bay. If we'd thought to take pictures of our fellow travellers lunches, we could have done a 'What's in my lunchbox?' special, as the French really do do picnics in style. Whole (cooked) chickens were being produced, eggs were being peeled and there was a very jovial atmosphere.
I felt really at home, being back in my native country, amongst my fellow countrymen, although sadly, there wasn't another French bear in sight. I was very thankful for English bears at this point.
Lots of love Gilbert and the promenading party xxx
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