Last week, I went for a trip on an eight-wheeler grab lorry, the venerable Volvo FM GK12 SJX. As I haven't quite managed to get round to getting an HGV licence yet, it was skillfully and safely driven by John.

We first went to Sevenoaks to load seven bags of rootzone and 14 bags of compost. Then a quick look at the traffic to work out the best route to our first discharging point - Lords Cricket Ground, near Regent's Park. Dartford and Blackwall tunnels were absolutely chocka, and the A2 looked equally grim. So we decided to go round the M25 and come in from the West via the M40/A40. It did take a while...

Eventually, we found Gate 6, which was very firmly closed. After some discussion with Security and the staff of our customer, Frosts Landscapes, the bolt was pulled and we could reverse in. This involved a nice S-bend with less than a foot on either side of the lorry... I was rather glad not to have to do that one. But then, I could be let loose with my camera - only, we were at the back of the stands at Lords and there was no chance of getting any iconic views. I did get a lot of photos though and will post them somewhere when my blogging skills improve. The seven bags of rootzone were unloaded and then we set off down Edgware Road and Park Lane to our next goal.

Here's Lindsey and Drew looking their best at Futurescape!

It was a good show, with attendance building up as the day went on, and quite a few enquiries, interesting conversations, old acquaintances and new friends. The stand looked good and we definitely have the best sample containers in the industry! The mugs and notepads disappeared quickly - I am sure at least some people will think kindly about Bourne Amenity in the future as a result. A corner stand is a must. We were possibly facing the wrong way (having one side open towards the main entrance might have been better) but I don't think many exhibitors will have failed to see us.

The exhibition halls at Sandown Park have fairly low ceilings and can be a little bit depressing in their own right. However, when filled with people and bright stands, things liven up and of course, it is a good, easily accessible location. If only it wasn't for the dreaded M25... it took Lindsey and me nearly 2 1/2 hours to get back to Newenden, a stretch which can comfortably be done in half the time on a good day.

The organisation was very good (and I do know something about fairs organising) and we were well looked after by Eljays44 and their staff. Free coffee for exhibitors is always a winner!