I think every town or village has their own characters that everyone knows of, even if they don’t know them personally. Up until the end of last year, our town had two that fell into that category.
Old Reg had been about for years, he was always seen with his head in a book, taking notes. In the morning, this would be in the library, then he moved to the café while he had his lunch and then the pub for the afternoon (outside, unless it was really bad weather). Monday evening, quiz night, he was in the pub, and everyone wanted him on their team. So long as the question was not on pop music or reality TV, Reg knew the answer. When the question “Who was the 5th person to walk on the moon?” was asked, Reg put their name, age at the time, plus the date they did it. He knew the detail as well as the facts.
Space Hopper Man (nobody seems to know his real name) appeared after lockdown ended. He was always seen in a bright orange top (either a hoodie or a T Shirt) that had the iconic retro space hopper face on it. I assume he had a sense of humour as his physique completed the look. He was also a keen pub-goer (presumably the reason for his physique) and often seen standing outside waiting for it to open. He seemed to be single-handedly trying to keep the Public Houses and brewing industry afloat. With a pint in hand, he sat outside the pub (all weathers) watching the world go by. If anyone went passed him, either while he was walking, or outside the pub, he smiled and with a hand on the brim of his baseball cap gave them a nod.
Sadly Reg died in December and I was surprised to hear he was in his 90’s, probably 20 years older than he looked. He will be missed by a lot of people.
Space Hopper Man was then also noticeable by his absence. There were rumours that he had died too which was also quite upsetting as although nobody seemed to know him personally, his warm and friendly smile was nice to see.
Recently he was sighted walking about, still nodding and smiling at people but without he trade-make orange tops.
At the weekend, I saw him too, he was walking about 20 paces then doing about 5 slow jog steps, then back to a walk. He looks to be putting everything into those 5 steps, a fantastic effort.
I spoke to a friend of mine today and she said she had heard he has lost 3 stone this year and has given up drink. I don't think he will be starting the C25K any time soon, but definitely putting in the work. In a world were everything seems to be turning to doom and gloom, it is nice to see he that firstly he is alive, and secondly that he is making quite some effort into getting fitter. I wish him luck with his endeavour, and I am sure a lot of people in my area do too. I also think he will need a new name soon.
I know this post is not about C25K, (yet!!) but I wanted to somehow acknowledge his efforts.
W9R2 with a minute of madness :O
New Job, New House, New Hubby, New Name
The pantomime season is definitely here!
Feeling so sad.... 
