2nd November

I attended the Chartwell end of season meeting in Sevenoaks this morning. By all accounts it's been a very positive year with 222,000 people through the gates and all of the property's business targets being met or exceeded. I went along to confirm that I was leaving the National Trust and say my goodbyes. I had told myself earlier on in the year that I wanted my fourth season to be my last and stand by that decision. Ultimately, there would be . The Trust has been a big part of my life over the past five years and it feels strange to be leaving it behind, but the time is right.

I was also saddened to hear that one of our colleagues, Ian, passed away last night. I didn't know Ian well but worked with him on a number of occasions and he provided a friendly, supportive presence down in the studio. He was very well liked among the team and greatly dedicated to the Chartwell cause over three years of volunteering in a variety of different roles. He will be hugely missed.

It put me a sombre mood for a few hours today. On a good day, I can convince myself that 27 is a young age and there should still be so many wonderful things for me to experience in life. On the bad days, I recognise that time is short and can sense it all getting away from me. Either way, I best get on with it.

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