We’re away for a few days not far from Eastbourne and very close to Beachy Head, which of course was used as the cover location of Throbbing Gristle’s 20 Jazz Funk Greats and the red and white striped lighthouse below there featured as Schnipps’ rocket that was to be launched against London in The Prisoner (“The Girl Who Was Death” episode.)

The last few days we’ve been wandering to Beachy Head using different routes on the South Down’s way, getting to know the shoreline and just enjoying the chilled vibes and good weather. Rain is sadly forecast for tomorrow.

On every walk this week we’ve bumped into a friendly older man with a tooth missing, in walking boots, carrying a rucksack either sitting on the many benches there having a rest or just passing by on his way to some place.

Today it came as no surprise we bumped into him again, this time idling about on a coastal route. We bid him good day and smiled to ourselves that we crossed paths again and he asked us “Do you want to know a secret?” ”Yes” of course we replied!

He then spent ten minutes telling us that the undulations in the earth below us were filled in trenches from the First World War. Then he chatted about Ancient Tumuli now hidden on a nearby golf course. An Ordinance survey map was pulled from his rucksack to be added as evidence and lots of local knowledge were imparted within the short meeting.

We at Weeds love meeting these characters on holiday and a fun filled conversation would be guaranteed if a couple of pints were shared with them. The alternatives so far in the pubs have been barflies talking very loudly about their luxury 5 star holidays to Dubai or their jury service experiences “I 100% knew he was guilty but the judge obviously didn’t”.

We here prefer people who spill local secrets on hilltop footpaths. Here’s to the great characters you meet when you’re away from home!