Grotto Turns Grotty
Education took on a frosty reality in the New Forest. Children were suddenly faced with the fact that all that is promised can fall short in reality. A visit to the New Forest Lapland and the promise of Reindeer, Dog sleighs, and Christmas shops turned out to be a marquee in a muddy field and some Husky dogs in kennels.
About as far from reality you can get this expensive venture for visiting families, charged around £30 a head to see the most disappointing display imaginable. The only sound advice came for a security guard; desperately seeking something positive to say he suggested that the place looks a whole lot better at night -presumably when the mud takes on an enchanted look.
Disappointed, out of pocket and frustrated a group of children have learnt a valuable practical lesson. There are some shysters around in this big wide world and best to always be on our guard. It’s a pity the lesson cost £30 but it could save a fortune with decisions made later in life.
Alistair Owens keen2learn
