After a long journey to the West Country, courtesy of Gordon Hamilton, whose round trip clocked up nearly 600 miles, Magnus and Rugie spent their first day relaxing in St Ives with Janet O’Shea, followed by a fish and chips supper watching the football match between England and DR Congo – which, until Harry Kane scored, was far less relaxing!

The next day, Thursday, Janet arranged a visit and lunch with Redruth Baptist Church, home to a number of Sierra Leone Mission (SLM) supporters, where Magnus and Rugie were made to feel extremely welcome.

An informal church family barbecue was organised for the evening, where they spent time with folk from Zion Community Church, and visiting friends from Countess Free Church, Ely.

The weekend, which was spent at the Sheldon Retreat Centre near Exeter, was hugely enjoyable for all. It offered a chance for the SLM committee to come together with Magnus for valuable discussion, facilitated by Connexion Trustee, Ben Quant. On Sunday, Magnus led the morning service and administered communion for the group, followed by a light lunch before returning to St Ives.

The next couple of days (Monday and Tuesday) allowed Magnus and Rugie to have a much-needed period of rest and relaxation, plus an opportunity to enjoy more of Cornwall and its beautiful scenery, seascapes and fishing villages. They spent time at Newlyn Harbour and Mousehole, before heading to Lands End and a taste of Cornish pasties, which thankfully were not swiped by any sea gulls!

All in all, a fabulous time for Magnus and Rugie, blessed by lovely friends, blue skies and seemingly endless sunshine!