It was by Westminster Bridge. A small seemingly lifeless shape just riding the waves. Then a spluttering sound combined with an out-stretched hand made me look closer and it was then that I realised, this was Wenlock, of London 2012 fame.
How did he end up here? It was only a few weeks ago that he stood on top of the world. State dignatories waited in line to shake his hand, but now just a short while later he lay discarded in the river that had shone so brightly with olympic fire and hopes.
I pulled Wenlock aboard and ferried him back to Cremorne. He wasn’t bitter, he understood that the flame of celebrity is but a fleeting spark in the story of human endeavour, besides, he said he was made of plastic and it would take a gazillion years for him to perish. I feel, personally, that it was only his strength and fitness that saved him. The second photo shows how keen he was to demonstrate his prowess with a quick succession of press-ups, attaboy!
Wenlock is currently lodging at Cremorne and is already helping out on beginner courses. Best wishes Big W…..where was Mandeville when you needed him/her ?
trivia: Wenlock was born in China, it says so on his bum.
