Queens and Quids

When I spot a letter my first thought is "where is my camera", especially if it is one of those tricky ones towards the end of the alphabet. These big Qs were irresistible especially as behind the gates was a lovely building in Tudor Gothic style and a berried Rowan tree. Founded as the Chester School for Girls in 1878 it changed its name in 1882 when Queen Victoria became its patron and they moved here and became, the Queens School. The building stands by City Walls Rd (on the site of what was the old City Gaol and House of Correction) and was built between 1881-1883. The architect, EA Ould (1852-1909), was a pupil of John Douglas whose style influenced Ould's early buildings like these. He would become an expert on half timbered houses and indeed jointly authored a book on the subject. The building is constructed of Ruabon brick when that area of Wales was at the hight of production employing thousands of people.  With the high quality Etruria Marl clay the area also made Ruabon quarry tiles (and still does).  I wonder if there any of those inside?

The Queens School is an fee-paying independent school for girls of 4-18 and  its most recognisable ex pupil is the Gymnastic World Champion gold medallist and Olympian Beth Tweddle.

Opposite the school is the Chester Racecourse

where I hung over the low wall and took this picture of people waiting for the last race of the day.  Under the umbrellas are the bookies and small queues of people placing their last bet. some may have even made a profit on the day but one thing I can guarantee is that the bookies will be quids in.

An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet sojourning this week at Q