The sea was right up onto the shingle beach, a few steps from the promenade. The water was clear and a beautiful temperate, so we went straight in, instantly bathing away the warm, close day. The water was deep after two strokes and swimming was a delight as the warm breeze skimmed the top of the wavelets. The gentle breaking of the tiny waves against the shingle soothed the hum of the motorway and we were transported back to childhood.

Swimming was easy and fast, well out from the shore and there was nothing to stop us just reaching out ahead. As we swam, the river of sunlight picked up the top of the water like a golden band for a queen.

Under the surface there were darker overtones and as the sunlight faded, the whole body of liquid became deep green and purple. Small strands of seaweed swept past the body- sweet green, soft and delicate.

Movement was so free and the perfect antidote to driving, putting up the tent and shopping for food. Forward, back and over….

Sitting on the shingle was so relaxing, letting the breeze dry the body and that whisper of wind across the skin means summer is here…

The sea looks like molten silver in the evening light. A baptism in a silver vat that sets me striking out on the gleaming pathway…