Joining TOM JACKSON to discuss the postcards from her past – in our new, streamlined format – is writer LUCY LETHBRIDGE (Servants, Tourists: How the British Went Abroad to Find Themselves). Together we put on our patented sunset spectacles and consider impulsive trips abroad prompted by postcards, how to plan for the wrestling and the joys of a good shower of British seaside rain. Plus collapsible travelling bathtubs and – is 45p a good price for a troll called Heather? Wish you were here?
Youth Hostel, “Fiesole”, Bathwick Hill, Bath, 4 September 1975. “DEAR PAUL, HAD A VERY EASY & QUICK JOURNEY HERE, ONLY 56 MILES, ARRIVED NICE & EARLY. MADE UP MY BED BED & HAD A BIG TEA, EGG, BEANS, BREAD & JAM & POTS OF TEA. TOMORROW I GO TO CHEDDAR GORGE & THEN ON TO MINEHEAD. WHEN YOU SWITCH ON TV FOR YOUR WRESTLING, PUSH IN THE TOP BUTTON, FOR ITV PROGRAMME, THIS ONE. REMEMBER TO GET YOUR MEAT OUT OF THE FRIDGE THE NIGHT BEFORE YOU NEED IT, SO IT CAN THAW OUT. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
LOVE SYLVIA”
Meudon Vean Hotel, Falmouth, Cornwall, A study in Comfort, Falmouth. “ Still hoping to hear from you soon, H.Pilgrim”
Lucy’s postcard of the beach near Aldeburgh, Suffolk, showing Maggie Hambling’s sculpture in tribute to Benjamin Britten: a giant scallop shell rises up from the shingle.
Fernhill Lane, New Milton, 27 July, 1971. “Dear Mummy and Daddy, I hope you do not mind I have bought myself a troll called Heather costing 45p. If it does not rain we are going to Bournemouth this afternoon. love Elizabeth X”
Some sunset postcards.
Lucy’s postcard of the Greek island of Sifnos. When she received it, it inspired her to head off there for three months to finish her book.
A musical postcard.