The Friends of Romsey Abbey embarked on their annual boat trip on the River Thames recently.

This year's vessel was the MV Hibernia, a luxury boat from the renowned Hobbs & Sons boatyard. The cruise began in Henley, journeyed downstream to Hurley, and then returned.

Before the cruise, on the same day, the Friends toured the River and Rowing Museum along the riverbank in Henley.

The museum houses several exhibitions, including a display covering the history of life along the Thames spanning thousands of years.

By general agreement, the most loved exhibit was a walk-through gallery reflecting characters and scenes from Kenneth Grahame's 'The Wind in the Willows'. The Friends enjoyed excellent weather and were treated to a tasty lunch by the boat's caterers.

Their annual trip reaffirms their fondness for river excursions, echoing Ratty's comment to Mole in 'The Wind in the Willows': "Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing - absolutely nothing - half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats".

Information about The Friends of Romsey Abbey or how to become a member is accessible on their website www.romseyabbeyfriends.org, or physical leaflets available at the Abbey, Church Rooms or the Library.