Maybe it's got something to do with the nature of our local history that makes the West Wight good at keeping secrets. The long history of Smuggling gave up few secrets, in Chale for example, whole conversations could be had on one level- that had 'secret codes' in a local patua only understood by those in the trade.
Queen Victoria came and went- un-noticed in a Brougham and walked about the High Down with Tennyson according to Harold Nicholson.
Last week the legendary Robert Plant was quietly shown Julia Margaret Cameron original photographs and was able to do so without fuss or fawning.
So when news of Benedict Cumberbatch and Sophie Hunter's desire to have a quiet wedding at Mottistone reached our ears- we managed to keep mum.
How lovely for them both- Ben a modern day figure akin to Lawrence Olivier or Richard Burton in both fame and standing as an actor, and Sophie as a descendent of a historically important Island family- the Seely's.
It's refreshing to see people's wishes being granted in such a frenzied media-circus age.
Everyone kept quiet. As the ferries filled with well-dressed guests, and Mottistone prepared for a visit not seen since Garibaldi in the 1860s- the George hotel welcomed the Grooms party, and Island businesses quietly delivered food and marquees to Mottistone, a good example of West-Wight politesse follows.
A friend who works at the Yacht Club was approached by a journalist- "What do you know about the wedding here today?" "What wedding?" as Mr Cumberbatch was quietly being served at the Deli opposite.
Helicopters came and went- smart cars carried wardrobes of clothes, and Saturday continued as normal around it all.
Only when the wedding was over, did facebook and twitter contain news of congratulations etc.
Another reason I love it here dear Em, on the whole we know our etiquette.
GiGi knew young Ben as a neighbour in our former home in Kensington. The Cumberbatches lived on the top floor, and we lived on the bottom- next door to the flamboyant George. Though Tim and Wanda (Ben's mum and dad) - who were successful actors themselves, of Carry-On fame amongst their credits, George's behaviour was often a tad alarming to the quiet family. It is amazing to see the little Ben I remember's great success over the years.
As of Mr Plant- well GiGi's manners haven't been impeccable Em I must admit. He has been an idol of mine since I was thirteen, and when a friend invited him secretly to my party back in 2005- I did not show such good restraint.
My jaw dropped, and I walked around murmuring "Robert Plant is at my party" ad-infinitum.
He sat- Lancelot-like amongst friends in the conservatory, surrounded by Julia Margaret Cameron prints. A pre-raphaelite-esque tableau for my eyes.
No photos though Em, it would have spoiled the evening.
Lovely memory though- the picture is in my head.
Looking forwards to your visit very soon, give Annabel a big hug from me, and of course one for you too,
Your ever-loving Grandmother,
GiGi xxx
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