1745 Coaching Stone - Original 18th Century GPS!

Sutton: 18th Century Coaching-Stone – the Original GPS! (13.4.2026)

I may well have written about the old coaching-stones scattered around Sutton and Cheam – I now of two – but was unaware of the date they were established. Basically, these devices informed travellers on foot, horse, or carriage – how many miles it was from where they were to the centre of London. Coachmen could either read the inscription engraved on the stone – or was taught what the stone said and remembered where it was when driving on the road – either way – these coaching-stones served as the original GPS system for travel. I think the Roman established something similar thousands of years ago – so the concept was not new in 1745. What I did not realise is that these stones have now received official recognition of being historically important monuments worthy of preservation and protection. The iron-bars and plaque are the new editions which I only saw when taking a rare walk through Sutton.

Brixham Down Wind Mill Road!

Brixham: A Photographic Strole Down “Windmill Hill”! (3.4.2026)

Gee had to park the car at the top of Wind Mill Hill – as that was the only place a parking-space was available not patrolled by militant locals who still seem to think WWII is ongoing. I jest – but one or two were a little bit prickly – commenting about “Townies” and “City-Dwellers” with “their big cars”! And so on. Still, at the end of the day, we are the visitors and we will be gone tomorrow. After carrying-out my duty – and visiting my various family relatives – I thought it would be a good idea to make a record of the journey down the hill from the parking-spot to the rented house. The view was quite beautiful and I hope I have captured our journey on foot down a steep Brixham hill – although we could not actually find a “Wind Mill”! Come to think of it – we are supposed to be near the Brixham Army Cadet Centre – but we never found this place either!

Sutton (South London) - Full Monn - January 5th 2026!

Sutton: Full Moon – January! (5.1.2026)

Not quite the Arctic Tundra – but nevertheless -3 – and abit parky (brass monkeys) as we say in England. There has been a slight scattering of snow in the South – but up North it has been quite bad. There is talk of more snow in London – but talk is cheap! I went running with a 56 lbs pack today – wearing my old sturdy boots – and had tp tread carefully between the fluffy and charming snow and the nasty (hidden) black-ice. I do not fancy taking a tumble at 58-years old. Mind you – I find the cold air bracing and invigorating. Also, I wanted to set an example for Mei-An – my oldest daughter – who had to walk through the ice to school today, the first day back at school in our area.

Technology has become an invaluable partner for athletes and individuals with disabilities at China's 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games

China: CPC Empowers People with Disabilities Using New Technology! (14.12.2025)

Zheng Qihao, a Games official from Guangzhou, said smart, barrier-free modules were installed across various venues. These include emergency help buttons, accessible query platforms, smart service pillars and online sign language translation machines, all connected to the venue’s central control system.

A technology exhibition at the main media centre showcased products such as AI-powered accessibility systems, guide dog robots and advanced all-terrain wheelchairs, all of which generated significant interest from visitors.

“These products are equipped with advanced balance control algorithms and reliable mechanical structures, ensuring stability and user safety on various terrains,” said Liu Yi’an, an employee from a smart wheelchair manufacturer.

Stain-Glass Window Exhibition - 2025

Sutton: St Nicholas Church – Stones & Stained Glass Exhibition! (8.9.2025)

Sutton is now part of Greater (South-West) London (formerly East Surrey) – and Churches are viewed (rightly or wrongly) as a type of museum, although I think St Nicholas is still in use despite Church attendance being very small across the UK. Our view (as non-Christians) is that these places should be properly and respectfully preserved – and the faithful be allowed to worship in them. On the other hand, as the Church of England is funded through general taxation (regardless as to whether the worker is Christian or not) – ALL people (providing the behave) should be able to frequent the building. We also love the squirrels, pigeons, rats, and mice which live in the graveyard.

Social Purification Creates a Clear Mind!

DPRK: Pyongyang Gives Beautiful Face-Lift to Streets and Villages! (12.8.2025)

Pyongyang, August 11 (KCNA) — The work to improve the environment of the streets and villages is progressing apace in the districts of Pyongyang, the capital city of the DPRK, according to Rodong Sinmun.

Rangnang District paved hundreds of meters of roads started from under the Jongbaek Bridge, created 18 000 square meters of green land in Tongsan-dong No. 2 and improved roads along railways.
Taedonggang District paved the road in Thapje Street, erected new lamp pillars and gave a face-lifting to houses and public buildings.

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