Out And About With . . . Fiction Ed Lucy


out and about

We’ve had a lovely spell of spring weather lately, here in Dundee. So I’ve been out and about!

I’m very fortunate to live close to the water, and a short ten-minute walk takes me down to the River Tay.

On the way is Dawson Park. When this photo was taken, the flowering cherries were just coming into bloom — aren’t they lovely?

A few minutes more and you cross a tiny railway bridge. The railway station at Broughty Ferry, just along the road, is the oldest still in operation in Scotland.

A pedestrian pathway takes you all the way along the “front”, from the pebbly beach at one end, to the sandy beach further along at the mouth of the Tay Estuary.

out and about

Photograph by Lucy Crichton.

Along the way, you pass Broughty Ferry Lifeboat Station. It was the first inshore lifeboat station in Scotland. Over the years, crews have been awarded no fewer than seven medals for gallantry.

On the 8th of December, 1959, a gale in the Firth of Tay led to an emergency call from the North Carr Lightship, which was adrift in the North Sea. All hands on board the Royal National Lifeboat “Mona” were lost attempting a rescue.

A plaque on the Lifeboat building remembers their bravery, and their sacrifice.

out and about

Photograph by Lucy Crichton.

Just over the road is The Ship Inn, where we’ve celebrated many a family birthday, while enjoying the view!

One thing we’re looking forward to

A little way along, past the swans, is Broughty Castle.

When the castle’s open again, you can climb to the top and take in the view. Sometimes you can see dolphins from here.

out and about

Photograph by Lucy Crichton.

On the way home, we’d usually visit Visocchi’s, our favourite ice-cream emporium, for a “99”. Or maybe even a double nugget!

We’re still locked down at the minute, but that’s one thing we’re looking forward to once this is over.


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Lucy Crichton

Fiction Editor Lucy is always on the look-out for the very best short stories, poems and pocket novels. As well as sourcing enjoyable content, she enjoys working with our established contributors, encouraging new talent, and celebrating 155 years of 'Friend' fiction!