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Mid July and of course it rains.

The Kentish coast has all but been erased

Beneath the sea mist which rolls in again

Despite the days of heat which sought to raise

Our hopes, only to sluice them all away

In squalls and chilly drizzle from the west.

If there are tourists, or the occasional day

Tripper, they're hiding or doing their best

To amuse the children who have had enough

Of slot machines and pleasure parks which fill

The gaps but can't make up for the real stuff

Of holidays - sun and warmth to instil

           A feeling that we have enjoyed the hours

          We spent in Southend, in spite of all the showers.

Brian Hick July 2011

©copyright Sally Hick 8.9.23