So long Stroud... (From Stroud News and Journal)

So long Stroud...

WELL Stroud, like my predecessors before me, it's time for me to bid adieu as I move on to pastures new.

My time as a reporter at the SNJ has been short but definitely sweet and over the last year I've had the pleasure of meeting some of the most interesting, extraordinary and dedicated Five Valleys folk.

From learning to play polo at the prestigious Beaufort Polo Club to keeping the town tidy with street-cleaner Keith, in the name of journalism I've done it.

Having barely set foot in Stroud before starting the job over the last year I've learnt what a fascinating and varied place this area really is.

From Nailsworth's quaint boutiques and lovely restaurants, Minchinhampton's beautiful listed buildings and royal connections to Stroud's alternative healing therapists and campaigning hippies, the Five Valleys has an identity all of its own and I shall miss coming here every day.

As I move on to what I hope is bigger and better things I will always remember where I started out and thank you all for the memories.