In August 2023 we had a family trip up north to Middlesbrough. Mum and dad both come from there, and the weekend was to visit family and to see some places from their youth, although I think things have changed since the 1800s. I thought it was all coal mines and steel plants up north. Apparently that was a few years ago. Now it is all closed coal mines and closed steel mills.

For those in any doubt, that was a joke. The north is a wonderful place and all the locals are friendly. At least, I think they are. To be honest, I can’t understand them half the time. I just nod and smile, and that seems to satisfy them.

When we got to Middlesbrough, the first thing I did was make mum and dad take me to see my friends Miles and Tigger. I’m not sure Tigger was happy to see me. But that is typical. He isn’t always the good natured bouncy character that people think. He can be a grumpy so and so.

The following day we went out with the rest of the family to see Ormesby Hall. This is a big house on the outskirts of Middlesbrough. I was quite amazed that on the way there, we drove past Stewart Park. Why would they name a local park after the cruise line cabin staff? I will investigate that in the future. Next time I go on a cruise I will ask my Stewart if he has ever been to Middlesbrough.

Ormesby Hall was very interesting. You can see me posing with mum and Flo. Flo is mum’s sister, and is owned by Miles. She lives nearby but still joined us staying in the hotel so that she could really enjoy herself.

The final day of the weekend was spent at Barnard Castle. This was a town where dad’s family spent a lot of time when he was young. We walked up the high street and then up to the castle. That was a steep hill, but I have found that I can always get a lift in a pocket, so the hills don’t bother me. As we were walking through the town we passed Specsavers, and there was a lot of laughing and joviality. Apparently Barnard Castle is world famous for performing eye tests. Who would have thought it?