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LCC XMAS PADDLE 11TH DECEMBER 2022 by Paul Goetzee

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A group of people in kayaks on a lake Description automatically generated with low confidence

LIVERPOOL CANOE CLUB CHRISTMAS PADDLE 11.12.22 A SHORT FILM

Director: Brian Green. Script: Paul Goetzee. Cast: Thousands.

FADE IN :

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EXT. A55 – MORNING

A winter wonderland of white fields and snow-laden trees and occasional freezing fog. Five V-shaped squadrons of Canada geese flying in from the colder north: Scandanavia, Russia, Canada even? Not much traffic. It’s Sunday 7.30am.

Cut to:

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EXT. CAR PARK, CONWY – MORNING

Bitterly cold, as paddlers unpack and unload playboats, paddle boards, sea kayaks and an open canoe. As they zip themselves (and others) into dry suits and pull-on gloves or pogies, the air is filled with laughter and chat. All set for a gentle meander with an incoming spring tide up the River Conwy some ways. A brief briefing from Keith and they’re away in groups of five or six, the sun just starting to break through the grey.

Cut to:

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EXT. RIVER CONWY – DAY

Out comes the sunshine. No sign of snow now except on the distant mountains of … Snowdonia? Clwyd? Geography never was my strong point. But still a bit chilly. Gradually though everyone warms up and one paddler even regrets he didn’t bring eye protection:

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PADDLER: I wish I’d brought me sunnies now!

We stop on the river bank for a light lunch as the tide turns (12.20). Much chat and laughter, even a spontaneous conga, seemingly initiated by one Dorin Wang. Then it’s back in the water, pogies stowed as hands are now ice-free, gliding back to Conwy on a fast-moving current. Who needs paddles?

INT. GEORE HOTEL, LLANDUDNO – EVENING

In the Victorian splendour of a seafront hotel, the paddlers sit down to dine. A pleasant meal, friendly service and very little alcohol consumed as there was a 70 plus mile drive home to Liverpool and beyond. Still, chat and laughter grow in volume and everyone seems to have a good time. No speeches? Did someone forget their script? Probably just as well…

INT. CAR, EVENING.

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Back home along the A55, this time under a clear sky with a big waning yellow ‘Cold’ moon overhead. Minus one on the dashboard thermometer … Hope all got back safely.

FADE OUT.

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Our thanks to director Brian Green for organising the shoot and to the cast of thousands for acting with professional skill and impeccable timing. Remember there’s no such thing as a small part, just big paddlers … and ‘boarders.

Click for more Photographs…….