We arrive. First impressions.

Well here we are. We have arrived in a heatwave, a sweltering 100 degrees, with 85% humidity.

What do we do? Being mad dogs and Englishmen, we explore our new surroundings on foot. We are the only ones outside! The streets are completely deserted. It's like being in a western just before the shoot out, when everyone has gone inside.

The town is very small, but not at all twee, which I thought it might be. Quite a few houses are shabby and run down. There is a so called 'rougher side of town', making it much more interesting.

The university is very attractive. It sits on a hill overlooking the town, with imposing classical and 'historic' (a much used word) buildings. The Christopher Wren church looks impressive and benefits from the uncluttered position.

Tonight we meet the great and the good of the university at a welcoming dinner. It has been stressed it is casual and will be outside!! So first impressions will be sweaty.