A PERFECT DAY AT HYLANDS - DAGENHAM GIRL PIPER ESTHER

What a superb day for the girls of Essex (and their families) at Hylands on Saturday! I've said I can't be impressed, but this building has changed my mind. It's wonderful. Vice Lord Lieutenant George Courtauld and Daphne Field's team of ESSEX WOMEN'S ADVISORY GROUP were truly professional in each and every aspect of their organisation and the day was unforgettable. Our Essex Olympiad Fatima Whitbread came along with her son, Ryan and presented the art prize. The Girl Guides - perfect as always - showed us what they are up to these days (they are celebrating their 100th year). Young Essex models strutted their stuff in the most breathtaking clothes and hats, the stalls were full of amazing products set out among Donna's gorgeous flowers. The hot air balloon took to the skies as did the helicopters. My fellow authors (pictured here Clare Mulley, Dee Gordon, yours truly, Sarah Banham and Karen Bowman) enjoyed the coolness of the elegant room off the sumptuous entrance hall, where we were able to meet our readers and visitors who wanted to learn more about the books of Essex.

A huge treat was listening to some of the Veterans from the Dagenham Girl Pipers who came along. They are very such an epitome of the Essex Girl. What a treat also to listen to Ester who played the bagpipes so memorably. She is such a great ambassador for the Dagenham Girl Pipers and someone I simply must interview. http://www.suite101.com/profile.cfm/sylviakent