I still have fond memories of our summer holidays at the cottage in Allendale all those years ago.
Remember the time Nev, when we rode our bikes to Newcastle station and took the train to Hexam and peddled on to Allendale with big haversacks on our backs.
That was quite the feat for two young lads and was not to be repeated on the return. We begged your uncle Jack to take the bikes back in his car when he and aunt Connie came to visit.
We used to daily walk through the fields from Keenley to Catton, to swim under the cool shadow of the bridge and tickling the odd trout for tea, ending with the winding walk along the river to Allendale for sweets before the long trek back to Keenley.
Some days I don't remember what I did yesterday. Our childhood in Kibblesworth and all the things we got up to, like playing tallyho with the base in the old village square , sledging at the pit steps in winter and playing on the swing over the Dean is still so vivid .
Time to say goodbye Neville, so keep an eye out for me coming and the pints on you.
From your short trousered mate .
Richard Watson , Mill Bay, Victoria B.C Canada.
Richard Watson
15/01/2020
