Castle of Mey

To Dunert head which is really the most northerly point of the mainland. Misty and wet. To the gardens and castle of Mey. We were shown round by Nancy whose father, husband and now sons look after the Queen Mother's cattle. She was excellent and it was just like the dear Queen Mum had just left - her hat and coat and clothes. How she coped at 101 with the winding stairs and she insisted on going to church every Sunday! Princess Margaret never slept in the special bedroom for her - typical but the house must be cold. In the dining room fireplace is a fine memorial to George VI by Martin Charteris. The carpet was given by Queen Mary and frayed but could not be thrown out as you never do that to something your mother-in-law gave you! The electrolux fridge is ancient but still works! Even pictures from the previous owners were still kept up! Nancy said the saddest she ever saw the Queen Mother was when Diana and Charles split up. It was an intimate and delightful tour. The Christmas cards sent to Nancy and her family are on display - a unique collection. Loved the animal farm too. Tea at the Tea Cosy nearby and sampled oatcakes and cheese. Eventually found the Wick heritage centre - what a treasure trove! Glenn Gunn centre about the Gunn clan very well presented as was the Neil Gunn (local author) display at Dunbeath - interesting material about the crash which killed the Duke of Kent in the war. Helmsdale b and b - difficult to park in front of the turret which housed our spa bath! Excellent fish and chips at La Mirage restaurant.
One of the happiest days of my life was singing on Horse Guards parade for the 90th birthday of the Queen Mother. John Scott conducted and the sun came out as she arrived! What a wonderful woman!