It is always difficult moving to a new home in a place we do not know. In my case this was particularly hard as I had moved to Godmanchester after living abroad for a couple of years. Why Godmanchester? We had a small boat and thought it "looked nice" when viewed from our trips on the Great Ouse.

What, in my particular case, made it more difficult was that fact that my age begins with a number 5 (and I am not at infant school), my children are married, my husband works abroad and I was (due to fact that I had been living abroad) unemployed. It was also winter - not the time for people to start a conversation and too late to join the evening classes which are promoted in the area. What had I done - I need people, if only to pass the time of day.

Christmas came and went - still I did not know a soul. My neighbour (who is lovely) was not in residence at the time so I did not even have an "over the garden wall" chat. Depression was imminent. Through my door came a notice - the AGM of the Godmanchester Community Association. Shall I go? Why not? Nothing to lose.

I was made to feel welcome. Why not go to a future meeting? Why not indeed. So I did. Being inclined to open my mouth before my brain gets working, I was determined to keep my mouth shut. Well it almost worked! Unfortunately last Christmas there was a Christmas meeting during which the red wine ran fairly freely and I now find I "volunteered" (or so I am told) to take over the circulation of the Bridge magazine, the AGM etc. I have now found parts of Godmanchester I did not know existed but have also found a lot of super people who are prepared to give up their time to distribute the magazine - my heartfelt thanks to you all.

May I say to any of you who are new to Godmanchester, as I was just over twelve months ago, we get out what we put in. The people of the town are happy to welcome us. Basically, we need them more than they need us. Read the magazine and join in with anything that interests you, there is plenty there for all tastes - be it sport, religion, women's groups, or the local hostelry - give it a go. There is a lot to commend this small town with the big heart - but it has to be said I do still miss the sun of Portugal!

Nina Collier

© 2000 Godmanchester Community Association