I DON T think there is anything quite as uplifting as the spring sunshine. It really does lift the mood and give us all a bit of an energy boost…and it means we can dry the washing outside! I hate to dent that view that some readers may have of me as an i

I DON'T think there is anything quite as uplifting as the spring sunshine. It really does lift the mood and give us all a bit of an energy boost...and it means we can dry the washing outside! I hate to dent that view that some readers may have of me as an independent, sassy working mum, but I have to admit there are few things in life more satisfying than the smell of newly dried washing! It always looks so unsightly hanging around the house on the clothes airier and however hard you try, you are always left with a rather sweaty, stale smell. And, if I'm honest, it's not just the smell but a strange sense of satisfaction about hanging out the washing that brings a weird sense of pride that I just can't fathom. Maybe I just need to get out more.

On Sunday, I did get out, I walked around Ely and there seemed to be a fair few people about enjoying the sunshine. It was really nice to see tables and chairs outside various cafes and people embracing that caf� style culture that seems to be taken for granted elsewhere. But what struck me most was that we have this huge space on the Market Square, that apart from the Thursday and Saturday markets and a few events throughout the year that never gets used unless you want to take a shortcut to Fore Hill. It seems to be a terrible waste of a huge open space in the middle of the city that could be used for something, to not only attract local people and tourists, but also keep them here a bit longer. If you have any ideas about what this space could be used for, please let me know as I would like to pass on some ideas to interested parties.

Email: debbie.davies@archant.co.uk

I said a couple of weeks ago that I was running the Race for Life in June and I have decided to take the preparation a bit more seriously. I haven't exactly got a personal trainer, but I have managed to find 'a lady who runs' who is willing to give me a few pointers. I do consider myself to be reasonable fit, but I have got myself into a swim/yoga routine and not much else, so I think even with a reasonable basic fitness I am going to find it difficult to run five miles. I will let you know how it goes. I am raising money for Cancer Research in memory of my friend Rose Davies who died of pancreatic cancer last year. I have a collection tin in reception at the Ely Standard for spare change, but if you can spare a bit more, go to: www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/debbiedavies5

Thought Of The Week

I know I have the body of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of England too, Queen Elizabeth 1.