The Queen's Bloomers

A crowd of over 30 walkers were lucky enough to benefit from the marvellously knowledgeable and self-confessed "Regency Man" Professor Boffin last Sunday when he led one of the walking festival walks.

Fresh from the signing tour of his latest book, "Pipes, sewers and drainage of the late 18th Century" the Professor made a rare departure from his regency specialism to provide an entertaining and informative tour; "The Queen's Bloomers", loosely based on Island 2000's "Boat Trail".

The walk highlighted the Victorian heritage of Cowes and East Cowes, particularly all the connections with Queen Victoria and her residence at Osborne House.

Following the walk, the Professor commented, "A splendid occasion. Wonderful people, the Islanders - got some very good friends in Seaview myself. My wife put me up for this - she's very keen on 'causes' - does a lot of work for charity and all that kind of caper. Anyway, must dash, I'm due up at Osborne House to investigate some of Victoria's pipework. Cheerio!"