NUMBER 651

BENCHMARKS continued

With morale high, M.C. went on to score a hat-trick when he bagged this one on the south side of Bloomfield Avenue in Donnybrook, Dublin.

Below: The 'mark on Bloomfield Avenue in Donnybrook.

 

 Above: Looking west on Bloomfield Avenue with the 'mark at left.

NUMBER 650

BENCHMARKS continued

It was on familiar territory that M.C. spotted this one – near the bus-stop on the Stillorgan Road just across from the national broadcaster. It's on a gate pillar at the entrance to the school there.

Below: The 'mark on Stillorgan Road in Dublin.

 

 Above: Looking north on Stillorgan Road with the 'mark at bottom left.

NUMBER 649

BENCHMARKS continued

Perhaps inspired after attending a production of 'Cornerstones', M.C. suggested taking another look at a few of those locations which formerly had proved unfruitful. And so, with Benchmarker in the death seat, the automobile was guided south. First stop was at the Beggars Bush, a drinking den with which Benchmarker grew over-familiar in younger times. It appeared that little had changed there since those halcyon nights shooting for the treble-twenty. And just to show how good his aim is, M.C. scored a bulls-eye by unerringly zeroing-in on the 'mark on the perimeter wall of the Barracks.

Below: The 'mark on the perimeter wall of Beggars Bush Barracks, Haddington Road in Dublin.

 

 Above: Looking east on Haddington Road with the 'mark at bottom right.

NUMBER 648

BENCHMARKS continued

This year for a short winter break, Benchmarker eschewed Juan les Pins and opted instead for Ballybunion. For those who only know this north Kerry town for its high-summer revelry, the winter months provide a surprising contrast. A magical tranquillity descends. At first glance all seems to be a-slumber. Soon however, as one languorously strolls around its placid streets and environs, the town gradually begins to reveal its many secrets. Amongst these – the shrieking fulmars tumbling above a rumbling protean surf; the pellucid depths of the legendary cove wherein nuns are reputed to bathe; the gastronomic delights and surprises of the Coast Cafe; and, the hospitality and warmth of Sandhill Park. What more could a happy benchmark hunter need? Why to find a benchmark, of course! And Ballybunion duly delivered, with this one located at the elbow of Church Road.

Below: The 'mark on Church Road in BallyBunion, County Kerry.

 

Above: Looking north on Church Road with the 'mark on the gate pillar at right.