Sunny but chilly day in Manchester, trains being obedient. Got out of the house at least, even if it wasn’t a very profound change of scene. However, some very good travel news received today — looks like in two months’ time I will be in Japan for the first time in my life, a long-cherished dream destination.
Doubtless there is a parent just out of shot waiting to make the strategic grab if necessary, but at some point in the future these two will be going through their big scary doors all by themselves. Good luck to them. Pictured at Manchester Victoria station, as I ventured there purely for shopping purposes — the return to work can wait another 36 hours or so.
Still hot — and still schlepping into Manchester most of the week on non-air-conditioned trains. The summer holiday approaches, but it’s not here yet.
Manchester Victoria station is much improved by the recent renovations, but actually this picture is taken in the non-reconstructed part; squatting under the [insert name of current corporate sposnor] Arena, this was a rare burst of light. Nicely illuminated these guys waiting for the 12:whatever to Wigan, though. And was I arriving in the city late, or going home early? I’m not saying, Possibly both…
I wasn’t taking a photo of this guy, but just of the scene. He then stopped walking, turned straight into the shot and lit his cigarette. Sometimes it just works out.
Ilias is the son of Marilena (behind), who works for me despite living in Corfu — but that’s the online world for you. This was his first visit to England, we met them for lunch in Manchester, and he got to show that he has adopted certain local customs even at his young age. Yia mas!
(Obligatory child protection note: he didn’t drink it, you know.)
The refurbishment of Manchester Victoria station must be nearly complete, but while half of it has now been opened up dramatically, the other half (platforms 3-6) remain, and probably always will remain, stuck under the Arena which squats over it like the corporate edifice that it is. And yes, I know that 2.10pm is rather early to be heading home, but I have marking to do.
I’ve been in Manchester most of the week, although this hasn’t been apparent from the pictures. Victoria station, after years of being a rather dowdy old hag, is starting to recover from her major surgery and looking rather promising with it. Compare this picture to the last shot of platform 1: the light wasn’t as good today, but overall, it’s a big improvement. (Having inserted that link I note that shot was taken exactly 400 days ago, day 931.)
So what’s in the carrying case? Inquiring minds want to know.
“…we are installing automated ticket barriers at Manchester Victoria station. They’re not working yet, but when they are, we’re confident that all you regular station users will agree they will improve the ambience and flow of the early morning rush-hour no end. Hands up those of you who believe that. Anyone? Any takers?”
Being 42 