On the day we invited Joan to The Old Railway Line garden centre (she doesn’t like “Three Cocks” as a name!).  Arrived early as you do, but the place was packed.  “Breakfast with Santa” was the draw, and kids everywhere being mostly naughty rather than nice, and adults tucking in to the “Signalman’s Special”

The old man can be seen in the background.  Someone asked him what he did for a living; he responded “I put children on my knee, and have photographs taken).  So much for political awareness in Powys.

On the way out, Santa wished everyone the seasons greetings, and put his hand on Joan’s shoulder and gave it a squeeze.  “Ho, Ho, and a merry Christmas to you” he said.  Some time later, she commented on the presence that she still felt there.  And said it again later.  More like the second coming.  She was truly touched.