DERBYSHIRE TRAVEL UPS AND DOWNS

I was about to walk to the station at Warwick when Marko said he would drive me. He was so helpful. Treated me like his favourite Aunty. Helped me get my ticket at the station, carried my suitcases to the platform and gave me a big hug before leaving. That bit of the trip was great.

Marko

I arrived by train at Matlock station.

Matlock station

 My plan was to get a taxi to my b and b. Saw the taxi rank – no cabs. Evidently they don't stop there anyway as there is only one train each hour. Luckily there was a little shop and information centre at the station. Got a card with the taxi's number on it but I couldn't use my phone. No local sim! Following directions, I walked – and walked with my two suitcases. About half an hour later I found my lodgings.

I ordered a rental car for the weekend so I could visit some churches and cemeteries. Friday afternoon, after about ¾ hour wait, I was about to phone when my driver arrived. A delightful young man – Scott Gregory. Because he was so late picking me up he stopped at the Car Phone warehouse when we got to Chesterfield so I could get a sim card for my phone.

Carphone Warehouse

Off we went to get my rental car. It was upgraded from a B to a D which was a Vauxhall Astra. A nice size but of course it was manual. Not my favourite way to drive. Got a satnav and found my way back to Matlock

Vauxhall Astra

After the weekend I used the satnav to guide me back to the rental depot at Chesterfield. When I got close I entered a large roundabout that had 10 entry and exit points and also had lights. I was directed to go off the 5^th exit. I was in the wrong lane and went off another one and ended up at a large Sainsbury store. Decided I needed a wee break so I went in to get something to eat before attempting that roundabout again. This time I made sure I got off at the 5^th exit. Soon arrived at my destination according to the little voice. Only problem was – there was no Enterprise rental cars in sight.

The thought of going around that roundabout again was rather daunting. Luckily I now had my phone so I called up and my charming angel, Scott answered the phone. He kindly came to where I was and I followed him back. We could see the roof of the Enterprise building from where I was. By now it was now very late and the office was very busy. They cover a large area and have a pick up and delivery service for their customers. Eventually Scott drove myself and another lady home. She lived at Darley Dale so I got to see a bit more of the countryside. When I got back to Matlock, Scott opened the car door for me and gave me a big hug goodbye. Love this service these Brits have been giving me!