We headed North with trepidation on Friday as we considered the weather and also the away record of my favourite football team. Our planned stop at the Fairburn Ings  a RSPB reserve was under water. So we moved on to Rievaulx Abbey on the edge of the North York Moors-our breath was taken away by the stunning ruins in a beautiful wooded valley. Saturday saw us visit RSPB Saltholme -an impressive reserve and lovely helpful staff. Obviously the weather made it difficult for any self respecting bird to be out in the open but we were rewarded by great views of a Water Rail and a reed Bunting from the shelter of a Hide. Later I spotted a female Goldeneye.

Saturday afternoon was at Middlesborough Football Club and I know this hard to believe but surprisingly we won! Up the Hatters!!!!!! Now hope is kindled which is dangerous!

Visited Hardwick Hall a National Trust property.

Finally been working on my “Pig the Legend” story set in Gloucester (a time shifting story)- not sure about that title-will work on it!