h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

On a whim, I decided not to do the usual and stop at Oxford services for lunch whilst on my way to Sheffield to watch the game against Boro. No, I decided to see if that Half Moon pub was finally open. And yes it was

£6.50 is a bit pricey for ham & mustard sarnie and a pint of Brakspear bitter. But I suppose the beer was good and the landlord's dog was friendly, so that's all right then.

And then as I was on my way out I recognised Brian. He's looking very well.

What a great whim

I think the pub has changed hands pretty recently and I have not been in there since I moved away. I miss it but I think I miss the sense of community and the people more. Its was (when we all used to go there a lot and it was a locals pub too) a great place to go and chill out and chat to people, and not just those you already know. As a lone female that is not something you can do many places!

It does sounds a bit expensive but I am glad you had a good time.

Did you see the cottage while you were there?

Did Brian recognise you? He turned up on the doorstep here not that long ago - totally unannounced! He was lucky to find us home considering he had driven for over an hour ... He had been having a tough time when we saw him - familiy ilnesses etc but himself was well.

I still miss the old village - a must nicer place than here but life moves on. Apart from getting there I miss Brighton sometimes too

Are your travels likely to bring you our way? If you are it would be great to catch up - there are some good pubs and places to get coffee or eat round here ... I would love to hear all your news

Brian didn't recognise me at first, but then I do have substantially shorter hair than I did 4 years ago. To me he looked very fit and healthy, though that could be all the time outdoors etc etc.

The pub seemed a bit pokey to me. Lots of corners and alcoves and stuff. It's also done out very much like a restaurant. And it's NON SMOKING!

I did go past your house, but as I said, it's been four years; I was doing about 30 and had my eyes mostly on the road, so I wasn't going to take in too many details. As far as I could see I think they've repainted the house - it looks brighter than I recall. The driveway is now gravel. And I think that they've got rid of the asbestos shed.

I'm heading past your way on the 28th. It's the day of our home game against Chelsea. It's an early kick-off (12:45), so I'd be heading back past your way sometime between 5 and 6 that afternoon, traffic willing.

It always was a small pub - the main bar area with two small areas coming off it. I guess the smoking thing has changed.

I am off on holidays this weekend and a much needed rest but am back by 28th. I know my Geography is c**p but I did not think we were between Chealsea and Chez Desk Will however check out my diary but am sure we can make something work if then is good for you as they say

Who are they by the way?

OK - diary checked and I could do the evening ... drop me an eamil (name and initial at search engine mail account please!)

Look forward to hearing from you

Oh b*lls, I missed your reply

With less than 48 hours to go I guess it's way too late to set anything up, but I'll have a bash none the less ...

Well it all worked out in the end - even if it was the 5 Bells and not the White Horse