OH I DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE …

We couldn't be much further from the sea living in Leicester. Evington is on the right side of town for heading out to the east coast. Familiar resorts like Skegness in Lincolnshire, and Hunstanton in north Norfolk are about the closest seaside resorts to Leicester. And don't we feel better after filling our lungs with fresh, salty sea air and tucking into a bag of fish and chips?

Give a regal wave to HM as you pass Sandringham! See bright purple fields oozing the sweet smell of lavender and, as you drive into Hunstanton, there it is! The North Sea. On a sunny day it gleams like the Mediterranean, on a dismal day it's grey and sombre.

Hunstanton is a favourite resort for families with young children. There's a lovely sandy beach, a seal hospital, a swimming pool, and amusements. It's also an excellent base for golfers, walkers, and bird-watchers. If you remember from your geography lessons that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, how come you can see beautiful sunsets over the sea at Hunstanton? It's because Hunstanton, although on the east coast, faces west!!

The North Norfolk Coast Path starts at Holme next the Sea, 3 miles east of Hunstanton. 30 miles later it ends at Cromer. This is rightfully designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The coast is awash with wild flowers, brilliant bird life, and seals. In the next Echo we'll walk the coast path! Useful website: www.visitnorfolk.co.uk

by Sue Massey