Stubborn clematis

I inherited this clematis when I moved in way back in 2008. I made a huge mistake when I was tidying the bed, and trying to reduce the quantities of rampant mint. I severed the stem ! I bought a new one but it didn’t survive. The following year, I realised that the original clematis was coming back. 

The original frame to support it was rotten. I keep intending to replan this area (and to treat the clematis with the respect it deserves.) 

Meanwhile, it surprises (and delights) me every year.

Finally, the health club has reopened after the fire. My morning swim has never felt better…..