What a wonderful photo of one of Campbells Sailings Paddle Steamers which I think may be the "Bristol Queen" This was one of a number of paddle steamers that sailed the channel between Cardiff, Weston Super Mare and Ilfracombe for many many years before and after the last war.

It brings back many fond memories for me and if I had a pound for every trip I did to Weston on these steamers I would be a very rich man today. I had a grandmother who lived in Weston and my parents would take me on these wonderful boats across the Bristol channel for annual holidays and even on day trips along with thousands of other holiday makers.

There was another paddle steamer named the "Cardiff Queen" and others, the name which I have forgotten.

The return fare from Cardiff to Weston back then was five shillings, 25p in today's funny money. Can you believe that? From Tylorstown ( Rhondda Fach ) to Cardiff on the bus used to cost 2/6d or half a crown. about 13p. where the excitement would grow more and more intense as we neared the boat tied up at Cardiff Docks.

What a wonderful trip it would be, taking 1 and 1/4 hours landing at the "Old Pier" Weston - Super -Mare to start our holiday.

Thankyou for the wonderful photo which gave me so many fond memories of my childhood. Loved it.

Cymro.