Today we returned to England and took a pleasant drive south stopping first at the affluent market town of Morpeth. Like many it also has an old castle.

We enjoyed a pleasant walk around the grounds of the former castle that circle the town.

Our nights stay was in Derwent Manor just outside Consett which was set in several acres and provided us an ideal dog walk and views across the hills.

Xmas sculptures

After a quick change, we headed out to a party at Barnard Castle, not to test our eyesight (!) but for friend’s 25th wedding anniversary.

Arriving at a hotel just outside Barnard Castle, we met up with friends Julie, James, Alan and Catherine who we have know for many years and got married around the same time in the late 1990’s.

The girls went to school together and have been friends for over 40yrs.

It was great to meet up with Wendy & Michael, who we hadn’t seen for a number of years and celebrate with them, as well as enjoy a bit of dancing!

We had a great evening with old friends and getting to meet Wendy & Michaels children & extended family.

After a few last dances we headed back to Consett at midnight and stuck into the hotel for an impressive 1.15am finish. We still have it!