MAY - The day started with pleasant sunshine but strong winds made it a little uncomfortable. A coach took members to the British Library where after a coffee break they were met by a Blue Badge Guide who led the party on an interesting and informative tour of St Pancras Station. Pausing by a statue of John Betjeman we learned that he was a most energetic figure who, in the 1960s, fought against the destruction of St Pancras. It is hard to believe that anybody could have contemplated demolishing George Gilbert Scott's marvellously elaborate neo-Gothic station buildings and the old Midland Grand Hotel (currently being restored to its former glory). Andrew Motion, one of Betjeman's successors as poet laureate, commented: "He didn't save it singlehandedly, but it certainly wouldn't have happened without him."  We also learned about the magnificent nine-metre high, 20 tonne bronze statue named "The Meeting Place" designed by British artist Paul Day, whose aim was to evoke the romance of travel. The group's next stop was for lunch in Kensington High Street and then a visit and tour of Kensington Palace and Princess Margaret's apartments in which was a fascinating exhibition of debutante's memorabilia. (Report and Pictures: Brian Leith)