When you enter a competition, you secretly hope to win, although realistically you know your chances may be very slim. So, it was a lovely surprise to be told I had won the Spa Day with Afternoon Tea at The Retreat, Elcot Park in the Penny Post competition earlier this year.

We took full advantage of our three hours in the spa. We swam in the outdoor pool – a short swim because it was an overcast, slightly cooler day – and warmed up in the wood-fired jacuzzi, which was a new experience for us. Indoors we used the hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room and relaxed on the loungers. Afternoon tea in the beautiful dining room was a delight, with savoury tarts and sandwiches, scones and cakes. We were unable to eat it all but were given the remainder to take home.

From our arrival to our departure, we were looked after very well by the friendly staff. Thank you to Penny Post and The Retreat at Elcot Park for a most enjoyable afternoon.